Mara at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis Elevates Its Wine Experiences with The Mara Cellar Series and New Sommelier-Led Programming

Mara, the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant led by James Beard Award–winning Chef Gavin Kaysen at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, announces new experiences for wine lovers. Guided by Sommelier Mary Kennedy, Mara is expanding its wine programming to include The Mara Cellar Series, a collaborative dinner series with world-class vineyards. The team is also planning The Sommelier Wine Wall Sessions and The Sommelier’s Table, two new experiences launching in 2026.

“The wine scene in Minneapolis has evolved over the past few years and through these new experiences at Mara we want to make wine feel more personal. We want to connect our guests to the winemakers and their stories,” says Chef Gavin Kaysen. “Each wine event is an opportunity to gather, learn and celebrate the beauty of wine and food coming together.”

The Mara Cellar Series

Debuting this December 2025, The Mara Cellar Series begins with a four-course dinner with Hirsch Vineyards, the oldest premium Pinot Noir vineyard on California’s Sonoma Coast. Guests will be guided through a tasting by Hirsch Vineyards, with pours including the Estate Chardonnay, a side-by-side comparison of the West Ridge and East Ridge Pinot Noirs, and a special aged Reserve bottling. Chef Kaysen and the Mara culinary team will craft a menu that celebrates the harmony between cuisine and terroir. The Hirsch Vineyards Dinner will take place on December 11, 2025. Reservations can be made on OpenTable.

In early 2026, the series continues with a special dinner hosted by Pressoir, the New York City wine company that unites wine experts and enthusiasts with experiences led by leading sommeliers and producers. The dinner, A Journey Through France, will spotlight the great wine regions of Burgundy and Champagne, taking a deep dive into terroir, tradition, and the stories behind these great wine regions. The dinner will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Additional details will be announced soon along with dinners that will take place in April and June 2026.

A Destination for Wine in Minneapolis

Mara’s wine program encapsulates a desire to showcase the finest Mediterranean wines while embracing the top from the world of classic wines. To introduce guests to new wines, Kennedy features Sommelier Selects on the menu to share her current favourites, introducing guests to new vineyards and styles. Adding an element of discovery, Mara now features large-format bottles opened monthly and available by the glass. These Jeroboams, equivalent to four standard bottles, include vintages such as Drappier Carte d’Or and Champagne Ayala Brut Majeur, poured tableside for an experience that’s both celebratory and educational.

The Sommelier Wine Wall Sessions

Beginning in 2026, Mara invites guests to deepen their appreciation for wine through two new immersive programs guided by Kennedy. In The Sommelier Wine Wall Sessions, named for Mara’s distinct wine wall and collection, the bi-monthly master classes held in the intimate setting of Marisol will explore the world of wine through themed tastings and pairings. From foundational lessons such as French Wine 101 to deep dives into varietals and regions, these monthly events are designed for both enthusiasts and the wine-curious, each session celebrates the beauty, nuance, and joy of discovery.

The Sommelier’s Table

For guests seeking a more social experience, The Sommelier’s Table will transform Marisol into a destination for connection and discovery. Hosted by Kennedy, these bi-monthly intimate dinners will spotlight rare and seasonal wines paired with dishes from Chef Kaysen and the culinary team. The series will create an evening that blends food, wine, and community. More details on The Sommelier Sessions and The Sommelier’s Table will be announced soon.

“Mara is the place for wine experiences you can’t find anywhere else,” says Kennedy. “We want to give guests something new to explore each time they visit; whether it’s a large format pour, a master class, or a dinner that feels like dining in the south of France

With a wine list recognized by Wine Spectator and programming that invites engagement, learning, and delight, Mara continues to set the standard for wine hospitality in Minneapolis.

For details and reservations, please visit https://www.mararestaurantandbar.com and follow @marabygk for upcoming announcements