Hi, we’re Sheana & Ben
Sheana Davis, a renowned cheesemaker from Sonoma Valley, brings a wealth of experience as a culinary educator and is the creative force behind The Epicurean Connection. With a dedicated passion for over 25 years, she has been a strong advocate for the artisanal and farmstead cheese movement.
Born and raised in the scenic regions of Napa and Sonoma, Ben Sessions is deeply rooted in the wine country. Naturally drawn to this world, he has embraced his role as The Epicurean Connection’s wine educator, expertly guiding our cheese classes. Don’t forget to inquire about his acclaimed creation, the Brie Brûlée, which showcases his distinctive touch.
Sheana and Ben, with their vast expertise and deep passion, offer captivating cooking and cheesemaking classes in Wine County that are equally engaging in-person and online. In addition — their corporate team-building sessions have garnered acclaim as a delightful way for groups to foster connections while indulging in culinary delights. Sheana is often invited as a celebrated chef to make guest appearances at local and national culinary events.
In their free time, they immerse themselves in their passion for travel, particularly drawn to the vibrant city of New Orleans. They find joy in exploring its lively streets and embracing its unique culture.
Through our cheese classes, catering services, retail shop, and consulting programs, we aim to create extraordinary food experiences for our customers while also giving back to our community. We are proud to donate a portion of our weekly proceeds to Farm to Pantry, providing nutritious meals for food-insecure seniors. Sheana and Ben call Sonoma home, where they reside with their cherished pets, Melbi the dog and Spicoli the cat.
About Karina Davis
Sheana’s daughter, Karina, resides in Berkeley and recently completed her studies at UCSC. She has also collaborated with Sheana Davis as a co-author of the book Buttermonger.
Karina inherited her love of cheese from her mother. As a professional cheesemaker, she writes her own recipes and hosts classes on the versatility of butter and cheese. She worked as a cheesemonger at The Pasta Shop in Oakland and for the California Milk Advisory Board, where she assisted with culinary coursework and taught American cheesemaking. She has also participated in discussions with the U.S. Dairy Export Council on agribusiness and global trade.
Currently, Karina works as a cheesemaker and educator for The Epicurean Connection and just started her Master’s Degree at UC Berkeley. She and her mother have enjoyed many cheesy adventures together, from tasting cheeses in China to making cheese in California.
About the Epicurean Connection
In line with our mission of diversity, fairness, and sustainability, we carefully source all of our ingredients from local producers, ensuring that our products are of the highest quality and support our local economy. We believe in creating a positive impact on both people and the planet, so we operate as a zero-waste company and strive to uphold sustainable practices in all aspects of our business.
Please register for one of our upcoming cheese classes, get more details about upcoming events, or learn more about our Wine Country catering services, Sonoma retail shop, and consulting programs by connecting directly with The Epicurean Connection.
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“Being actively engaged in and supporting our community is not just a part of what we do, it’s who we are. We wholeheartedly support and collaborate with the following organizations. We are so honored to have received the Slow Food Award.” – Sheana Davis