Past Events

Savor Dallas will be held from March 06 to March 07 at 5:00 pm at Downtown Dallas in Dallas, TX. The 5th annual Savor Dallas returns Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7, 2009 with renewed flair and exciting new events. North Texas’ international experience of wine, food, spirits and the arts brings consumers the ultimate tasting experience with cuisine from over 50 of the area's top restaurants and ultra-premium wines and spirits - with the special opportunity to interact one-on-one with internationally acclaimed experts in exciting venues. Savor Dallas also generously supports local charities, including the North Texas Food Bank, Greater Dallas Restaurant Association Culinary Scholarship Fund, and the Arts Magnet Building Campaign for Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Get tickets and the complete schedule at www.SavorDallas.com or call 866-277-7920. Admission is $50 - $450. For information, call Ellen Hartline at 866-277-7920, e-mail ellen@savordallas.com or visit http://www.savordallas.com.

Colio Wine & Food Pairing - Spring into the Exotic will be held April 6 at Colio Estate Winery in Harrow, Ontario. Wine & Food Pairing featuring cuisine from Caldwell's Grant Restaurant. Laura Giberson, (Caldwell's owner and chef ) will be with us to talk about their cuisine. To see the menu visit our website. Admission is $25 pp. For information, call Jennifer Ring at 1.800-265.1322, e-mail jenniferr@coliowinery.com or visit http://www.coliowinery.com.

Salut! will be held April 10 at 6:00 PM at Restaurant International/Algonquin College in Ottawa, ON. Champions For Children Foundation, wine & food matching event, Salut! is sponsored by MBNA Canada, Bank of America and Algonquin College to help fund the Dare to Dream Bursary program for youth in the care of the Children's Aid Society of Ottawa. An intimate evening that will enrich your palate, your knowledge, and a deserving youth's educational future. Admission is $125 per ticket. Proceeds go to Champions For Children Foundation. This event benefits deserving and qualified youth who will be or are attending Algonquin College. For information, call Zoe Mackenzie at 613-745-1893 x 1, e-mail championsforchildren@gmail.com.

Enviro-Chic Fair will be held from April 11 to April 13 at the LCBO at 275 Rideau Street in Ottawa, Ontario. Come sample about 18 different alternatively packaged beverage alcohol products. ZenKitchen and Bgoods Bakery will be providing food samples. First 100 people each day will take home an ISO glass etched with Enviro-Chic and a re-usable wine bag. Admission is Free. For information, call Michelle Millette at 613-789-5226, e-mail michelle.millette@lcbo.com.

Test your Tastebuds - a blind wine tasting will be held April 12 at 7 pm at Nicholas Hoare Bookstore, 419 Sussex Drive in Ottawa, ON. Join accredited sommeliers Debbie Trenholm & Susan Desjardins as they lead you through an interactive wine tasting that will test your palate. The name of each wine will be hidden giving you the opportunity to identify (or guess) the grape variety of each of the wines in the selection. Admission is $70 includes tax, $60 for Designated Drivers. All proceeds from this event will contribute to the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment that is used in the diagnosis of breast cancer. One of the Queensway-Carleton Hospital surgeons who will be using this life saving equipment, Neoprobe Bluetooth, will be at the event to answer your questions. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-851-1785, e-mail debbie@thesavvygrapes.com or visit http://www.thesavvygrapes.com.

Prince Edward County Wine Dinner Series will be held from April 14 to May 12 at 7:00 p.m. at Le Chien Noir Bistro in Kingston, Ontario. Three wine dinners featuring Huff Estates and The Grange of Prince Edward on April 14, Norman Hardie Winery & Vineyard and Black Price Winery on April 28 and Sandbanks Estate Winery and Rosehall Run Vineyards on May 12. Five-course menu with paired wines, hosted by the winemakers. Admission is $75 per dinner $200 for all three. For information, call Tim Pater at 613-549-5635, e-mail chienn@bellnet.ca or visit http://www.lechiennoir.com.

Ottawa Chamber Music Society's Charity Wine Auction will be held April 15 from 6 pm - 10 pm at Christ Church Cathedral in Ottawa, ON. The OCMS is holding its annual fundraising wine auction which helps us to present world-class chamber music while keeping concerts accessible and affordable. Admittance to the auction is $50, which can be applied as a credit towards any wine purchase. Registration for the event is at 6 pm, providing an opportunity to enjoy a reception where one can mingle and peruse the live auction lots and participate in the silent auction. Live auction begins at 7 pm.
Further information and the auction catalogue will soon be available at www.chamberfest.com. Admission is $50. For information, call Karen St.aubin at 613-234-8008, e-mail events@chamberfest.com or visit http://www.chamberfest.com/english/events/wineauction.html.

The Canadian Opera Company's Fine Wine Auction will be held April 17 at 6 p.m. at Crush Wine Bar & Restaurant in Toronto, Ontario. Wine lovers can raise their glasses and bidding paddles at the Canadian Opera Company’s 9th Annual Fine Wine Auction on Thursday, April 17, 2008 at the newly-renovated Crush Wine Bar and Restaurant. Returning to lead the live auction is Auctioneer Stephen Ranger of Ritchie’s Auctioneers and Appraisers. The live auction encourages wine enthusiasts, fervent collectors and oenophiles to either add to their collection or start a new collection of some truly magnificent treasures. Guests can also bid in the silent auction that offers an assortment of unique and exciting items including dinner-for-two packages to some of Toronto’s renowned restaurants, as well as wine tours and tastings from Niagara Winery Tours. Admission is $35. All proceeds raised at the Fine Wine Auction are in support of the Canadian Opera Company. For information, call Canadian opera Company at 416-306 - 2305, e-mail media@coc.ca or visit http://www.coc.ca/giving/events_wine.html.

World Tour of Food & Wine will be held from April 19 to April 20 from 11:00 am-5:00 pm at Keuka Wine Trail in Hammondsport, New York. Join us on a tour along Charming Keuka Wine Trail. Each winery has selected a country or regional food to feature with some the finest wines of Keuka Lake. A wonderful event for those who truly love to try unique foods and wines. Admission is $310.00 per couple. For information, call Jim Havalack at 585-455-8294, e-mail qts@frontiernet.net.

A Taste of Hawk Hill will be held April 19 from 7 PM - 11:30 PM at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, PA. This tasting of signature foods and beverages from restaurants in the Philadelphia area is a fundraiser for scholarship money for students in Saint Joseph's University Executive Master's in Food Marketing program. Admission is $35 per person. For information, call Kathy Kennedy at 610-660-3152, e-mail kkennedy@sju.edu or visit http://foodmarketing.sju.edu/executive/hawk-hill-taste.

Culinary Getaway will be held from April 21 to April 25 in Paris, France. Explore the many culinary delights this city has to offer. We will cook together using the finest of local ingredients chosen each day from the neighborhood markets. We will enjoy cooking lessons from French chefs, dine in outstanding restaurants, learn about French cheeses, learn about French wines and how to pair them with foods, and taste many of the incredible chocolates and confections that are available in the delightful shops of Paris. Admission is $3000/person based on double lodging. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/paris/.

Chianti Classico & The Tuscan Nose will be held April 21 from 2:00 - 6:00 PM (Trade) / 6:00 - 8:00 PM (Consumer) at 583 Park Avenue in New York, NY. The Chianti Classico Wine Consortium will present an evocative tasting of over 200 Black Rooster wines produced in the Chianti region, kicked off by a sensory experience of Tuscany: 27 different aromas (“The Essence of Chianti Classico”) created by the award-winning Italian perfumer, Lorenzo Villoresi. There are two sessions, the first for the trade from 2:00 to 6:00, and the second for consumers from 6:00 to 8:00. Special educational seminars, one for the trade (2:30) and the other for consumers (6:30) will be conducted by author and sommelier, David Lynch. Admission is $40.00 (The consumers’ $40 entrance fee will be donated in its entirety to Slow Food USA. Proceeds go to The consumers’ $40 entrance fee will be donated in its entirety to Slow Food USA, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to taste education, sustainability and biodiversity. For information, call Seth Dranginis at 212-929-7700, e-mail seth@dunnrobbinsgroup.com or visit http://www.dunnrobbins.com/reg/cc_0408C/index.htm.

ViniPortugal will be held April 22 at Palace Hotel, 2 New Montgomery St. in San Francisco, CA. More than 30 Portuguese wine producers will be at the event: from 2:00 - 5:30 for a complimentary trade tasting; and 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. for a consumer tasting. Sample more than 300 new wines. Admission is $40: the suggested donation for public portion of event with proceeds go to Project Open Hand, which provides food and nourishment to improve the quality of life for the men, women and children it serves. For information, call Carissa Remitz at 415-274-2510, e-mail carissa@wagstaffworldwide.com.

A Wild Night in Sonoma at Olives will be held April 23 6:30 PM at Olives Restaurant, World Center Building, 16000K St. NW in Washington, D.C.. Join St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Chief Executive Officer Christopher Silva for a “Succulent Springtime Supper” at the Olives Restaurant in Washington, D.C. featuring Wild Oak wines and a menu created by Chef Todd English.

DINNER & GIFT! Domaine Carneros Sparkling Rosé reception, followed by a four-course dinner specially designed by Chef Todd English to pair with St. Francis’ new Wild Oak wines. The ticket price includes a gift: a bottle of the coveted Wild Oak Syrah, signed by winemaker Tom Mackey, an elegant champagne stopper and a coy of Chef Todd’s latest cookbook “A Wild Night in Sonoma at Olives” A Wild Oak dinner at Olives Restaurant. Admission is $180 per person. For information, call Suzie Kukic at 800-KOBRAND, e-mail skukic@kobrand.com or visit http://www.kobrandevents.com/wildoak/index.php.

A Wild Night in Sonoma at Olives will be held April 24 6:30 PM at Olives Restaurant, The W Hotel, 201 Park Ave. South in New York, NY. Join St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Chief Executive Officer Christopher Silva for a “Succulent Springtime Supper” at the Olives Restaurant in New York, N.Y. featuring Wild Oak wines and a menu created by Chef Todd English.

DINNER & GIFT! Domaine Carneros Sparkling Rosé reception, followed by a four-course dinner specially designed by Chef Todd English to pair with St. Francis’ new Wild Oak wines. The ticket price includes a gift: a bottle of the coveted Wild Oak Syrah, signed by winemaker Tom Mackey, an elegant champagne stopper and a coy of Chef Todd’s latest cookbook “A Wild Night in Sonoma at Olives” A Wild Oak dinner at Olives Restaurant. Admission is $180 Per Person. For information, call Suzie Kukic at 800 -KOBRAND, e-mail skukic@kobrand.com or visit http://www.kobrandevents.com/wildoak/index.php.

A Wild Night in Sonoma at Olives will be held April 24 at 6:30 PM at Olives Restaurant, The W Hotel, 201 Park Ave. South in New York, NY. Join St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Chief Executive Officer Christopher Silva for a “Succulent Springtime Supper” at the Olives Restaurant in New York, N.Y. featuring Wild Oak wines and a menu created by Chef Todd English. Admission is $180 Per Person. For information, call Suzie Kukic at 800-KOBRAND, e-mail skukic@kobrand.com or visit http://www.kobrandevents.com/wildoak/index.php.

Savvy Supper Series will be held April 24 at 6:30 pm at TRIO Restaurant at Novotel Ottawa Hotel in Ottawa, ON. The Savvy Grapes invite you to the first ‘Savvy Supper Series’ showcasing Canadian winemakers and their wines. At each event, you will meet and mingle with the people devoted to making premium wines. During supper, they will share stories and secrets about their winery, winemaking techniques, and their vineyard. Wines will be paired with a new gourmet tasting menu that includes a series of tasting plates featuring items from TRIO’s menu that changes with each season. During the evening, the featured winemaker, TRIO’s Executive Chef and Sommeliers from The Savvy Grapes will visit your table to answer any wine and food questions. Savvy Supper Series dates: April 24 – Featherstone Estates Winery; June 19 – Huff Estates Winery; and September 11 – Colio Estates Wines. Admission is $85 per person or designated driver $80. Ticket prices include gratuities & taxes. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-851-1785, e-mail debbie@thesavvygrapes.com or visit http://www.thesavvygrapes.com/supperseries.htm.

St. Michaels Food & Wine Festival will be held from April 24-27 at The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland. The 6th annual festival includes presentations by food and wine experts, recipe demonstrations, wine tastings, culinary and wine seminars, book signings and cuisine, wines and spirits from chefs and sommeliers pairing with chefs at local restaurants. Highlights include a VIP charity reception featuring special guest, Michel Richard (Citronelle, Washington D.C) with proceeds going to the following charities: Community Food Bank, Chesapeake Culinary Center, Chesapeake Maritime Museum, FreshFarm Markets, Pickering Creek Audobon Center and Easton High School Culinary Program. Admission is $130 for weekend pass; $45-65 for day pass. For information, call Lucy Parkinson at 646-624-2885, e-mail lparkinson@colangelopr.com or visit http://www.stmichaelsfoodandwinefestival.com.

The California Wine Fair will be held April 24 7-9:30 pm at The Westin Hotel Ottawa in Ottawa, ON. The largest California wine tasting in Canada. Sample more than 400 wines from over 100 California wineries. Admission is $60. For information, call Paula Oreskovich at 905-336-8932, e-mail paula@praxispr.ca or visit http://www.calwine.ca.

Adirondack Festival of Food and Wine will be held from April 24 to April 27 in Lake Placid, New York. The Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa's Festival of Food and Wine brings together top chefs and vintners for a series of wine seminars, cooking demonstrations and more. This year there will be an added focus on organic and artisanal foods as well as organic and biodynamic wines. Come meet top food and wine professionals in an elegant and intimate setting - attendance is limited to 120 people. Admission is $699 US per person and includes 3-night stay and entry to all events. For information, call Linda O'leary at 518-523-2544, e-mail linda@inphorminc.com or visit http://www.MirrorLakeInn.com/dining-festival.cfm.

A Wild Night in Sonoma at Olives will be held April 25 at 6:30 PM at Olives Restaurant, 10 City Square in Charlestown, MA. Join St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Chief Executive Officer Christopher Silva for a “Succulent Springtime Supper” at the Olives Restaurant in Boston, M.A. featuring Wild Oak wines and a menu created by Chef Todd English. For information, call Suzie Kukic at 800-KOBRAND, e-mail skukic@kobrand.com or visit http://www.kobrandevents.com/wildoak/index.php.

The Indiana Wine Fair will be held April 27 from 1:00 - 8:00 p.m. at The Story Inn in Story, Indiana. Indiana vintners pour their wines for sampling. Judges will present awards in the following categories: dry white; sweet white; dry red; sweet red; dessert; sparkling; dessert; and non-grape. Admission is $15. For information, call Allen dale Olson at 800-881-1183, e-mail olsonallen@msn.com or visit http://www.storyinn.com.

Northern Michigan Wine Summit will be held April 28 1pm-4pm at Park Place Hotel in Traverse City, Michigan. The wineries of both Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsula collaborate to increase the awareness and quality of their industry. Admission is free. For information, call Kristin Karam at 231-944-1255, e-mail kkaram@blackstarfarms.com.

Wine dinner will be held April 30 at 6 pm at Ambiente restaurant in Ottawa, Ontario. Italian wine and cuisine. A five-course dinner will be paired with wines supplied by Rob Elvy of Small Winemakers. Rob will be on hand to talk about the wines and those who produce them. Admission is $95. For information, call Michael Guy at 613-744-6509, e-mail info@ambientefood.com.

Toast will be held May 1 at 6:00 p.m. at Distillery District - Fermenting Cellar in Toronto, Ontario. The Canadian Cancer Society would like to invite you to raise a glass and toast to finding a cure. Ticket purchase includes the following: sample wines, beer and spirits; taste delicious international foods; enjoy live musical entertainment; bid on great silent auction items. Admission is $75 in advance/$85 at the door. The Canadian Cancer Society is a national, community-based organization of volunteers, whose mission is the eradication of cancer and the enhancement of the quality of life of people living with cancer. For information, call Helen Karpouzos at 416-431-1800, e-mail hkarpouzos@ontario.cancer.ca.

Nova Scotia Lobster Festival will be held from May 1 to June 30 at DesBarres Manor Inn in Guysborough, Nova Scotia. This two-day Lobster Festival Package includes a lobster cooking class in the Manor kitchen with special tips and recipes from Executive Chef Shaun Zwarun, a trip to the wharf with the Chef to meet the lobster boat to select a lobster for your evening dinner, a three course seafood dinner and a traditional Maritime lobster dinner. The lobster getaway package also includes two gourmet breakfasts, gratuities and a host of additional five star amenities. Admission is $319 per person, double occupancy. For information, call Audrey Firth at 902-533-2099, e-mail reservations@desbarresmanor.com or visit http://www.desbarresmanor.com/packages/index.html.

California-Style Launch Event will be held May 2 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the LCBO at Brookfield Place, 161-181 Bay Street in Toronto, ON. You’re cordially invited to attend a California-inspired Malibu poolside party starring the wines, food and music from the Golden State. Join radio personality Maureen Holloway to dish the dish on the latest gossip from Hollywood. Admission is free. For further information, contact LCBO Infoline at 416 365-5900 or 1-800-ONT-LCBO (668-5226).

Wine & Herb Festival will be held from May 3 to May 25 in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Discover the wonderful connection between wine and herbs during this annual spring celebration throughout the first four weekends in May. Tour the 18 wineries of Niagara-on-the Lake where each stop will feature a different herb-themed food pairing matched to a premium VQA wine selected to highlight the flavour and aroma of the herb. Each passport holder is entitled to one wine and food pairing at each of the 18 member wineries and is valid for four weekends in May. Admission is $25 before April 30th or $30 after May 1st. For information, call Janelle Donn at 905-468-1950, e-mail janelle.donn@andrewpeller.com or visit http://www.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com/events.php#herb.

Art and Wine on the Haw River Wine Trail will be held from May 3 to May 4 in Graham, NC. Travel the four wineries on the Haw River Wine Trail and experience the best of local art and wine. Area artists will be displaying and selling their wares on the vineyard grounds of the wineries--all kinds of fine art including pottery, woodworking, oils, pastels, watercolors, fiber art, jewelry, and more. Admission is free. For information, call Nancy Zeman at 336-376-1080, e-mail benjaminwines@cs.com or visit http://www.hawriverwinetrail.com.

Cooking Demo will be held May 04 1-4pm at Martha Clara Vineyards in Riverhead, NY. Cooking Demo with Q Restaurant Admission is Free. For information, call Kylie Hirsch at 631-298-0075, e-mail info@marthaclaravineyards.com or visit http://.

The First Annual Green Wine Competition will be held May 5 at Fountain Grove Hotel in Santa Rosa, CA. Enter online at www.greenwinecomp.info. Admission is $95 per entry. For information, call Judith Openheimer at 707-568-3900, e-mail jkoanson@gmail.com.

DiVino Wine Studio's Enoteca, a modern Italian wine bar, at 225 Preston Street, in Ottawa, Ontario features an open kitchen, a private room for corporate events, and a wine tasting educational area as well as wine and food pairing seminars, themed dinners, cooking classes and wine and culinary tours of Italy. Contact Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit www.divinowinestudio.com.

Live Mic Night will be held from May 06 to May 27 at 7-11pm at Martha Clara Vineyards in Riverhead, NY. Live Mic Night-
All talents welcome, all age groups.
Admission is Free. For information, call Kylie Hirsch at 631-298-0075, e-mail info@marthaclaravineyards.com or visit http://www.marthaclaravineyards.com.

Germany - Wines with Jazz will be held May 6 at 7:00 p.m. at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto, Ontario. The German Consulate and German Wine Institute present 18th annual tasting of over 100 German wines many presented by winemakers and winery principals. Setting includes live piano jazz and light foods to match the wines. Draw for Lufthansa travel for two to Germany. Admission is $45 any wine/food club member. Proceeds from the tasting benefit the staging of the diverse array of talent offered on the stages of Roy Thomson and Massey Hall. For information, call Ron Fiorelli at 905-815 1581, e-mail rfiorelli@sympatico.ca or visit http://www.GermanWineCanada.org.

Calling Art and Wine Enthusiasts will be held May 6 from 6:30pm - 9:30pm at Hambleton Gallery in Kelowna, British Columbia. Hambleton Gallery owner, Stewart Turcotte, along with art consultant Judy Burns will share the fundamentals of collecting art. Karin of Wine Occasions will conduct a tutored tasting featuring a selection of award winning Okanagan Valley wines. Finger foods will be served. Admission is $80. For information, call Karin Vermassen at 250-215-1368, e-mail karin@wineoccasions.ca or visit http://www.wineoccasions.ca/festivals.php.

New Zealand Wine Fair will be held May 6 from 7:00pm-9:30pm at Fairmont Waterfront, 900 Canada Place in Vancouver, British Columbia. The New Zealand Consul General and New Zealand Winegrowers invite you to join us for this annual wine tasting event featuring over 135 wines from 32 wineries. Discover the pure, intense and diverse flavours of our most recent vintages, complemented by a sampling of fine food and cheese. Admission is Admission is $50.00. For information, call Joanne Harricks at 888-993-9927, e-mail jharricks@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

CIM Uncorked! will be held May 6 at 6 p.m. at Windows on the River, 2000 Sycamore in Cleveland, OH. Enjoy performances by Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) world-class students and faculty, wines from more than 20 wineries, samples from more than a dozen restaurants and a silent auction. Admission is $75; $125 patrons. All proceeds benefit the CIM Annual Fund supporting student scholarships, free concerts and outreach programs at the Cleveland Institute of Music. For information, call Elizabeth Mull at 216-791-5000, e-mail marketing@cim.edu or visit http://www.cim.edu.

Charlotte Wine & Food Weekend will be held from May 7 to May 10 in Charlotte, NC. Since its inception in 1990, the Charlotte Wine & Food Weekend has grown into one of the Southeast's largest wine events and has raised over $2.7 million for local charities. Held in the spring of every even-numbered year, the weekend draws notable winemakers from around the world and pairs them with Charlotte's top chefs for four days of fun and educational events. Events include Vintner Dinners at the city's top restaurants,a 1000 Point Tasting, Big Bottles & Blues, Wine 101 and the Grand Live Auction & Gala. Admission is costs vary. Proceeds go to Hospitality House: Since it’s opening in 1985, the mission of Hospitality House is to provide a "home away from home" for out-of-town family members of patients in local hospitals. For information, call Missy Mandel at 704-338-9463, e-mail cltwineandfoodweekend@gmail.com or visit http://www.charlottewineandfood.com.

The Art of Cookbook Writing will be held from May 7 to June 4 on a weekly basis from 7-9 pm at Book Passage bookstore in Corte Madera, California. This course introduces you to the pleasures of cookbook writing, whether for yourself, your family or publication. Over the course of five weeks, you will develop your cookbook idea, focusing on shape and structure, how to write with a distinct voice, and how to write headnotes and successful recipes. Each class begins with a short workshop, where students review homework assignments, such as writing a recipe. Admission is $240. For information, call Dianne Jacob at 510-923-1770, e-mail dj@diannej.com or visit http://www.bookpassage.com/class_detailed.php?id=257.

Mother's Day Culinary Getaway will be held from May 8 to May 11 in Napa Valley, CA. Join Sherry Page for a Mother's Day Culinary Getaway in Napa Valley where we will cook together using the finest local, seasonal ingredients, explore sea salts, chocolate and artisan cheeses, taste local wines, tour edible gardens, dine in spectacular private settings and local restaurants, tour a local olive mill, shop together and explore the culture in this beautiful location. Groups are kept small to ensure unique, personalized experiences. Admission is $1800/person based on double-occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/?g=napaMothersDay.

Cuisine & Cuvée will be held May 8 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm at On the Park in Toronto, Ontario. Sample wines, food, gourmet cheeses, live music, and the silent and fine wine auctions, featuring 6 bottles of the 2000 Petrus with an appraised value of $52,560. This will not be a sit-down dinner – you will have the freedom to mix and mingle. Admission is $150 per ticket. Proceeds go to Providence Healthcare Foundation: a leading Toronto health care facility, specializing in rehabilitation for patients who have experienced strokes, orthopaedic surgery, or lower limb amputation, or who require specialized geriatric rehabilitation, assessment and treatment. We also provide complex continuing care, long-term care and community outreach with a particular focus on addressing the medical, physical, spiritual and emotional needs of individuals with geriatric conditions. For information, call Nellie Simtikidis at 416-285-3666 x 4231, e-mail nsimtiki@providence.on.ca or visit http://www.providence.on.ca/provhealth_events_view.asp?id=135.

New Zealand Wine Fair will be held May 8 from 7:00pm-9:30pm at Hotel Arts, 119-12 Ave. S.W. in Calgary, Alberta. The New Zealand Consul General and New Zealand Winegrowers invite you to join us for this annual wine tasting event featuring over 100 wines from 24 wineries.
Discover the pure, intense and diverse flavours of our most recent vintages, complemented by a sampling of fine food and cheese. Admission is Admission $50.00. For information, call Joanne Harricks at 888-993-9927, e-mail jharricks@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

Wine Tasting will be held May 8 from 5:00pm - 8:0pm at Nicollet Island Pavilion in Minneapolis, Minnestoa. Enjoy an evening enjoy an evening of wine, food, and music while viewing the city and river panorama from Nicollet Island Pavilion. Over 200 wines offered, and for the beer enthusiast we offer a selection of microbrews. The Silent Auction offers a large assortment of items for all budgets. Admission is $40 advance, $50 door. Proceeds go to Annual benefit for East Side Neighborhood Services. ESNS provides basic needs resources and social services to individuals, families and neighborhoods Northeast and Southeast Minneapolis. For information, call Martha Krueger at 612-781-6011, e-mail ms.krueger@hotmail.com or visit http://www.esns.org.

The Secret Cellar Wineapalooza will be held May 10 from 5:30-8:00pm at The Secret Cellar Wine Boutique in Shueyville, IA. Taste dozens of local and international wines. Enjoy live music and sample delicious appetizers. Register to win door prizes and take advantage of case discounts on the wine you buy. Admission is $15 in advance/ $20 at the door. For information, call Lauren Chalupsky-cannon at 319-841-2172, e-mail wineladylauren@yahoo.com or visit http://www.secretcellarwines.com.

Cooking Demo will be held May 10 1-4pm at Martha Clara Vineyards in Riverhead, NY. Cooking Demo with Spinach Sensations Admission is Free. For information, call Kylie Hirsch at 631-298-0075, e-mail info@marthaclaravineyards.com or visit http://www.marthaclaravineyards.com.

Mother's Day at Martha Clara Vineyards will be held May 11 12-4pm at Martha Clara Vineyards in Riverhead, NY. Enjoy Mother's Day at Martha Clara Vineyards with cooking demos and beauty seminar's while enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. Admission is free. For information, call Kylie Hirsch at 631-298-0075, e-mail info@marthaclaravineyards.com or visit http://www.marthaclaravineyards.com.

Italy Tour 2008 will be held starting May 11 for 7 days in San Gusme, Tuscany. Arrive at the beautiful estate of San Gusme. Unpack, unwind and get ready for an exciting week of cooking, touring and tasting! We will be visiting the estates of Carpineto, Castello di Gabbiano, Antinori, Vignamaggio, Volpaia, Tolaini, Frescobaldi, Sassicaia and more. Email julie@willowpark.net. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Nederburg Lyric Launch Party will be held May 12 4 pm - 8 pm at Xai Xai South African Wine Bar in New York, New York. Come celebrate South African Style. Join Nederburg Winery, Dreyfus Ashby & Co. & Lauber Imports for a fun filled night of South African wine, authentic South African delights and live African music at Manhattan’s South African Wine Bar - Xai Xai – 369 W. 51st Street, between 8th & 9th Aves. Here is your opportunity to have one of the first 2008 vintage wines available. Lyric is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc (51%), Chenin Blanc (26%) & Chardonnay (23%). Admission is free. For information, call Joanne Newborn at 914-642-9200 x 16, e-mail jnewborn@distellusa.com or visit http://www.localwineevents.com/New-York-City-Wine/event-175560.html.

Ontario Wine Society 6th Annual New Kids on the Block tasting will be held May 12 at 6pm at University of Toronto Faculty Club, 41 Willcocks Street in Toronto, Ontario. Ten wines from 6 of Ontario's newest wineries all under one roof including Alvento Winery, Cattail Creek Estate Winery, Cornerstone Estate Winery, The Organized Crime Winery, Riverview Cellars Winery and Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. Admission is $38 for Members ($48 for Non-Members) of the OWS. For information, call Patricia Dinsmore at 416-9219798, e-mail patricia.dinsmore@sympatico.ca or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com/upcoming/wine_tasting_events.htm.

New Zealand Wine Fair will be held May 13 from 7:00pm-9:30pm at Government Conference Centre, 2 Rideau Street in Ottawa, Ontario. The New Zealand Consul General and New Zealand Winegrowers invite you to join us for this annual wine tasting event featuring over 115 wines from 29 wineries. Discover the pure, intense and diverse flavours of our most recent vintages, complemented by a sampling of fine food and cheese. Admission is Admission is $50.00. For information, call Joanne Harricks at 888-993-9927, e-mail jharricks@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

New Zealand Wine Fair will be held May 15 from 7:00pm-9:30pm at Design Exchange, 235 Bay Street in Toronto, Ontario. The New Zealand Consul General and New Zealand Winegrowers invite you to join us for this annual wine tasting event featuring over 165 wines from 42 wineries. Discover the pure, intense and diverse flavours of our most recent vintages, complemented by a sampling of fine food and cheese. Admission is Admission is $55.00. For information, call Joanne Harricks at 888-993-9927, e-mail jharricks@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

Rías Baixas Albariño Wines San Francisco Grand Tasting will be held May 15 from 2:30-6:00 pm at The Waterfront Restaurant in San Francisco, CA. This event is open to only the press and trade. Featured Wines include As Laxas, Condes de Albarei, Maior de Mendoza, Fulget, Marqués de Vizhoja, Senor da Folle Verde, Martín Códax, Burgans, Dona Rosa, Alba Rosa, Palacio de Fefiñanes, Pazo de Señoráns, Pazo San Mauro, and others. Admission is free. For information, call Tristan Carpenter at 212-605-0370, e-mail tcarpenter@cornerstonepr.com or visit http://www.riasbaixaswines.com.

Martin & Weyrich Winery Spanish Fiesta Dinner will be held May 16 at 6:30pm at 2610 Buena Vista Drive in Paso Robles, CA. Catered by the 10th Street Vineyard Cafe from San Miguel. Traditional Spanish-Basque multi-course dinner to include items such as: Homemade Bread, Pickled Vegetables, Stuffed Mushrooms, Albacore Fish Cakes, Tomato Bisque Soup and Salad, Potatoes, Cabbage & Fennel, Paella, Moscato Sorbet. Admission is $55/person for club members, $65/person regular. For information, call Maura Osbourn at 805-238.2520, e-mail mosbourn@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.martinweyrich.com.

Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival will be held from May 16 to May 18 in Anderson Valley, Mendocino County in Philo, CA. Enjoy wines, local culinary delights and engaging local artists and entertainers. Pinot Noir: learn from the experts how to grow it, how to make it, how to taste it, and how to sell it. Tentative List of Speakers Includes: Glenn McGourty: Welcome and Overview, John Haegar : “A review of his updated book North American Pinot Noir”, Ginny Lambert: “Pinot noir in the vineyard”, Jessica Cortellj: “Vigor in the vineyard” , Marketing prospective panel: “Distinctive qualities of Anderson valley Pinot Noir” , Annie Bones, Wine Institute: “Update about direct shipping regulations”. Come visit local winery tasting rooms on Sunday, for open houses, including food and wine pairings, vineyard tours, seminars, tastings and more. Admission varies by event. Proceeds from the Festival are distributed to local AV non-profits that provide essential services to those AV residents in most need. For information, call Jim Gaines at 707-895, e-mail stay@highlandranch.com or visit http://www.avwines.com/store.

ZinFest Wine Festival will be held from May 17 to May 18 from 12 noon to 7 pm at Lodi Lake in Lodi, CA. ZinFest features 50 Lodi wineries, food, live music, artisen crafters, plus other activities. Noted wine experts and chefs will demonstrate at the Wine & Cooking School. Learn how to be a winemaker at the 'Blend Your Own Zin' tent. ZinFest artist, Vince McIndoe, will be available to sign commemorative posters. On Sunday, Lodi wineries will be hosting open houses allowing festival attendees to taste their complete line of wines. Admission is $35 in advance or $45 at the gate. Proceeds go to California Wine Education Foundation for various charities within the Lodi community. For information, call Anna Goehring at 209-367-4727, e-mail anna@lodiwine.com or visit http://www.zinfest.com.

Martin & Weyrich Winery Tuscan Italian Dinner will be held May 17 at 6:30pm at Villa Toscana - 4230 Buena Vista Drive in Paso Robles, CA. Featuring Café Roma of San Luis Obispo, California. Traditional Italian Family Style Dinner in the Villa Toscana courtyard. Menu to include: Caesar, Mixed Green, Seafood, Artichoke, Pasta & Caponata Salads. Roasted Chicken Breast in Rosemary Lemon Sauce, Tuscan Style Braised Lamb Osso Buco, Rigatoni Pasta in Parmesan Cream Sauce Penne Pasta in Tomato Sauce. Central Coast Farmer’s Market Fresh Vegetables, Assorted Cheeses, Fruits & Cookies. Live Music by Guitarist, Doc Stoltey. Admission is $80/person for wine club members, $95/person regular. For information, call Maura Osbourn at 805-238.2520, e-mail mosbourn@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.martinweyrich.com.

International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event will be held from May 19 to May 20 from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. The new Trade-Only, International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event is the first forum focusing exclusively on restaurant and hospitality beverage alcohol sales. IWSB will take place with the National Restaurant Show, the world's largest restaurant and hospitality event, May 17-20. Admission is $135 until April 11; $195 after April 11. The National Restaurant Association, founded in 1919, is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which is comprised of 945,000 restaurant and food service outlets and a work force of 13.1 million employees. Along with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, the Association works to represent, educate and promote the rapidly growing industry. For information, call Greg Kirrish at 312-853-2525, e-mail gkirrish@restaurant.org or visit http://www.winespiritsbeer.org.

Schramsberg Vineyards and Cellars Wine Dinner with Hugh Davies will be held May 20 from 5-10 pm at Cafe Atlantico in Washington, DC. A selection of wines from Schramsberg paired with the cuisine of Chef Katsuya Fukushima. Hosted by Sommelier/Beverage Director Jill Zimorski with guest Hugh Davies, winemaker and president of Schramsberg Vineyards. Admission is $125. For information, call Alexa Antonuk at 202-393-0812, e-mail aantonuk@yahoo.com or visit http://www.cafeatlantico.com/calendar.htm.

New Orleans Wine and Food Experience will be held from May 20 to May 24 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE), one of the most prestigious
festivals of its kind, celebrates 17 years of wine and food with a five-day extravaganza. The 2008 event brings together world-renowned winemakers, celebrated chefs and industry insiders in a showcase of signature events. Proceeds from the 2007 event benefited the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s School-to-Career Program, The University of New Orleans School of Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism, The Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, Delgado Community College Culinary Arts
Program, New Orleans Firefighter’s Fund, The Deuce McAllister's Catch 22 Foundation, The Broadmoor Improvement Association, Inc, and the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. For information, call Elizabeth Goliwas at 504-583-5550, e-mail egoliwas@bellsouth.net or visit http://www.nowfe.com.

Reds, Whites & BBQ Blues Fest will be held May 24 1-4pm at Martha Clara Vineyards in Riverhead, NY. Music by Kerry Kearney
BBQ by Maple Tree Caterers
Food and drink additional
Please RSVP by 5/16/08 631-298-0075 or info@marthaclaravineyards.com Admission is $10pp + tax. For information, call Kylie Hirsch at 631-298-0075, e-mail info@marthaclaravineyards.com or visit http://www.marthaclaravineyards.com.

Uncorked will be held from May 27 to May 28 at Niagara College in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Wine industry professionals and academics from North America and around the world will tackle the challenges that face the grape growers and winemakers today and as they plan for the future. Topics covered: ecology, viticulture, marketing. Find out what's new and what can help you prepare for the evolution of your vineyard or winery. For information, call Sandra Ozkur at 905-641-2252 ext 4471, e-mail sozkur@niagarac.on.ca or visit http://www.uncorked.info.

Montfort Hospital Foundation 6th Annual Wine Auction will be held May 29 at 6 p.m. at Hampton Inn & Conference Centre in Ottawa, Ontario. Featuring a 140-year-old cognac. This Cognac Hardy Perfection, bottled in a Daum crystal carafe, comes with four crystal glasses, a colour lithograph and a certificate of authenticity. Several bottles of a Pomerol, Le Pin, and more. Admission is $40 (refundable with any purchase). Proceeds support of the New Montfort Hospital. For information, call Julie Briand at 613-746-4621, ext. 2009, e-mail jbriand@montfort.on.ca or visit http://www.fondationmontfort.ca.

Australian Wine Festival will be held May 30 at 7 pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Australian vineyards are spread throughout 63 designated wine regions. Admission is $40. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 221, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Ontario Consumers Riesling Challenge will be held May 31 from 11:30 am to 4:00pm at LCBO Store at 615 Scottsdale Drive in Guelph, Ontario. Come meet up to 14 Ontario riesling producers. Coffee, organic cheeses, local breads, local preserves and spreads. Admission is $10 for six samples. Proceeds go to a local doctor who is trying to raise $1 million for an AIDS clinic in South Africa. For information, call Orest Poluch at 519 -823-5080, e-mail orest.poluch@lcbo.com.

Keller Estate. Understanding Pinot Noir Clones will be held May 31 11am - 1pm at 5875 Lakeville Hwy in Petaluma, California. In 2005 we bottled individually 6 different Pinot Noir Clones from our El Coro Block. Our winemake will guide you through a tasting of each clones and explain what each brings to our 2005 Pinot Noir. Limited to 15 guests. Complimentary Club Members. Admission is $20 per person. For information, call Scott Jordan at 707-7652117, e-mail sjordan@kellerestate.com or visit http://www.kellerestate.com/events/index.htm.

Discover the vineyard of Vaucluse will be held from June 1 to September 30 in the southern Rhone Valley in Avignon , France. Wine cooperative cellars of Vaucluse (South Rhône Valley and Provence) invite you to discover vineyards and villages in Côtes du Rhône, Luberon and Ventoux, famous Châteauneuf du Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Beaumes de Venise. Meet their winegrowers (visits, accommodation…) and experience Provence gastronomy, wine tasting, festivals, and many other leisure activities. Admission is free. For information, call Diane Caillard at 0033-+4 90840828, e-mail diane.caillard@wanadoo.fr or visit http://www.vigneronscooperateurs-84.fr/fcvcv/index.htm.

A Celebration of Wine will be held June 1 from 3-6 pm at Rancho Vista del Rio (Borba Family Ranch) in Madera, California. In its 26th year, A Celebration of Wine is the major fundraiser for the CSUF Viticulture & Enology Department of Fresno State University. Approximately 100 west coast wineries and 40 restaurants sample wine & food to a maximum of 2500 attendees. The event features Central California's most prestigious Silent Wine Auction during the tasting with Coffee & Desserts and live music and dancing post-event. Admission is $70. For information, call Jan Boling at 559-244-5741, e-mail jan@acelebrationofwine.com or visit http://www.acelebrationofwine.com.

Chateau Beychevelle Wine dinner will be held June 1 at 5:30 PM at Minneapolis Marquette hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Bordeaux Medoc Grand Cru Chateau Beychevelle Manager will export special wines excuslively for this wine dinner and will talk about them during the dinner. Executive chef Mark Stankey will be in charge of the menu. For information, call Gerard Viardin at 612-333-4545, e-mail gerard.viardin@hilton.com or visit http://www.basilsminneapolis.com.

Interwine China 2008 will be held from June 3 to June 5 at China Foreign Trade Center, Liuhua Complex, Guangzhou, China in Guangzhou, China. With the area of 15,000 sqm, 234 exhibitors, over 9,000 professional visitors and grape wines, Vodka, tequila, fruit wines, sake from 13countries: China, Spain, Italy, France, Mexico, Chile, Korea, Australia, Japan, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland and Malaysi involving in Interwine China 2007, Interwine China 2008 will surely offer you a good opportunity of exchange, promotion and cooperation, and build a large platform for wine & spirits companies between domestic and overseas. Exhibitors and visitors from the world can release each unique wine & spirits information and meet your importers, distributors in Guangzhou in order to access into Chinese alcoholic drinks market. For information, call Kay Zhang at 86-020-34072596, e-mail market@faircanton.com or visit http://www.faircanton.com.

Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival will be held from June 6 to June 8 at Lake Skinner in Winchester east of Temecula in Winchester, CA. The 25th Anniversary of the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival features wine tasting from more than 21 Temecula Valley Wineries, cooking demonstrations with wine and food pairing, dawn hot air balloon launches and rides, Friday and Saturday evening hot air balloon glows, an arts and crafts fair, kids fair and top concerts on two stages. Friday features Blake Shelton and John Waite in concert, Saturday Kenny Loggins, and Sunday Ambrosia. Also on Sunday is a free-style super moto cross stunt show. For information, call Melody Brunsting at 951-676-6713, e-mail melody@temeculacalifornia.com or visit http://www.tvbfw.com.

The 6th Annual Tofino Food and Wine Festival will be held June 7 from 1 pm - 4pm at Tofino Botanical Gardens in Tofino, BC. An outdoor food and wine tasting event showcasing local culinary talent, BC wines, live music, Traditional Grape Stomping, silent auction fundraiser and more.... Admission is $75. Fundraiser benefits the Community Children's Centre. For information, call Kira Rogers at 250-266 0724, e-mail kira@seaviewcable.net or visit http://www.tofinofoodandwinefestival.com.

A special Evening with guest Christopher Barefoot of Robert Mondavi Winery June 12 at 7 PM at Mrs K's Restaurant at 9201 Colesville Rd. in Silver Spring, Maryland. The dinner will feature a selection of Robert Mondavi Napa Valley wines and reserve wines paired with Executive Chef Maurisee Upshur's cuisine. In addition, guest will also be treated to a special surprise selection brought by Christopher Barefoot from the cellars of the winery. Admission is $75 per person excluding tax and gratuity. For information, call Heather Freeman at 301-589-3500, e-mail heather@heatherfreeman.com or visit http://www.mrsks.com.

Southern Foods Getaway will be held from June 13 to June 15 in Napa Valley, CA. Sherry Page grew up in the south and often has requests for southern-focused events. Join her for a Southern Foods Culinary Getaway in Napa Valley where we will cook a Southern menu together using the finest local, seasonal ingredients, explore sea salts, taste local wines, dine on Southern-style foods in spectacular private settings and local restaurants and explore the culture in this beautiful location. Groups are kept small to ensure unique, personalized experiences. Admission is $1200/person based on double occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/?g=napaSouthernWeekend.

Importing Wine For Pleasure & Profit will be held June 14 from 9:30 am - 4:00 pm at The Old Mill Inn & Spa in Toronto, Ontario. Led by C. Steven Trenholme, a 28-year veteran of the Canadian beverage alcohol industry, with details on how to import wine, spirits and beer into the Ontario marketplace. Pre-Registration required. The cost is $295. For information, call C. steven Trenholme at 416-883-3580, e-mail cstrenholme@sympatico.

Eno-Versity will be held June 18 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. in Chicago, IL. Dusted Valley Vintners winemaker Corey Braunel will visit ENO, the wine, cheese, and chocolate lounge in the InterContinental Hotel Chicago, for a night of wine tastings, stories behind the wines and discussion of the Walla Walla Valley in Washington. Guests will mingle with Braunel, sipping wine by the glass or flight and enjoying the cheese and chocolate flights arranged by ENO Wine Directors Scott Harney and Jennifer Koch. Admission is $25 per person. For information, call Jaime Tunge at 312-321-8738, e-mail jaime@wagstaffworldwide.com or visit http://enowinerooms.com/enoversity.

Saab Vine Dining 2008 will be held June 22 from 1 pm - 5 pm at Vineland Estates Winery in Vineland , Ontario. Theatre Aquarius, Hamilton’s Regional Professional Theatre, is celebrating the 16th anniversary of its annual fundraiser, Saab Vine Dining which has sold out every year for the past nine years. Saab Vine Dining is an unsurpassed gourmet feast and strolling picnic that takes guests though the picturesque vineyard and woods at Vineland Estates Winery. Leading chefs and caterers set up kitchens along the route and are interspersed among wineries who offer samples of their best wines, many not available at the LCBO. Admission is $125 (tax receipt portion of $75). The monies raised play an important role in preserving and improving the programs of distinction at Theatre Aquarius, the regional professional theatre; these much needed funds go towards the theatre's many programs including the Mainstage series, the all-Canadin Stage Write series, the Performing Arts Programme and Directions In Education. For information, call Phyllis Bendig at 905-522-7815 x 237, e-mail pbendig@theatreaquarius.org or visit http://www.theatreaquarius.org.

Cooking, Wine & Volcanoes in Sicily's Mount Etna and Island of Stromboli will be held from June 22 to June 28 in Sicily, Italy. Discover sea and mountain cuisines and wines with a cast of fun loving Sicilians in the exotic Mount Etna area and the beautiful Aeolian island of Stromboli in north east Sicily. Learn chefs' secrets in three cooking classes with two restaurant chefs and one great home cook. Admission is 2380 Euros per person, about $3880 Cdn. For information, call Margaret Cowan at 800-557-0370, e-mail margaret@italycookingschools.com or visit http://www.italycookingschools.com/sicily.html.

Keller Estate. Understanding how a blend is made will be held June 27 2pm - 4pm at 5875 Lakeville Hwy in Petaluma, CA. By tasting a new barrel versus a one year old barrel, you will be able to see for yourself what barrels bring to a wine. We will also venture into the world of barrel producers as we taste through different producers. Your guide will be Michael McNeill, our winemaker Admission is $20 per person. Complimentary Club Members. For information, call Scott Jordan at 707-7652117, e-mail sjordan@kellerestate.com or visit http://www.kellerestate.com.

Hart Davis Hart Wine Company Auction will be held June 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tru Restaurant in Chicago, IL. Auction includes Bordeaux, Burgundy and Californian wines, including First Growth Bordeaux from the Cellar of Hockey Hall of Famer Mario Lemieux. The sale will offer a staggering selection of large format bottles including lot 93, an 18-liter Melchior of 1999 Château Cheval-Blanc. Highlights of the sale include lot 378 which features three bottles of 2000 Château Lafite-Rothschild, lot 377 which features three bottles of 2000 Château Haut-Brion, and lot 382 which features three bottles of 2000 Château La Mission-Haut-Brion. A five-year vertical of Philipponnat, Clos des Goisses from 1982, 1985, 1986, 1989 and 1990. The live auction will take place at Chicago’s restaurant Tru, beginning promptly at 9:00 a.m. (CST) on June 28th. Tru is located at 676 N. St. Clair Street in Chicago. Attendance is open to the public and free of charge. Reservations for lunch at Tru during the auction ($75) should be
made by calling Hart Davis Hart at 312.482.9996 or by emailing Maria Elgass, melgass@hdhwine.com. Admission is Auction is free to attend. Lunch at Tru is $75.. For information, call Carrie Gallun at 312-482.9996, e-mail carrie@jarviscommunications.com or visit http://www.hdhwine.com/content.cfm/auctions.

La Fiesta de Frida - Hands-on Cooking Class will be held July 5 from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Cook with Chef Maria Amalia Garza from the Cultural Kitchen in a celebration of famed Mexican painter Frida Kahlo's birthday. On the menu will be some of Frida's favourite dishes: Guacamole, Quesadillas de Hongos, Salsa de Tomatillo con Chile Seco, Chiles Rellenos de Picadillo en Salsa de Tomate con Chile Guajillo, and Flan de Chocolate con Kahlua. Admission is $95.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

All American Zin Day will be held July 5 from 11:00 am to 4:00pm at 1400 Lytton Springs Road in Healdsburg, CA. A $10 special logo glass, purchased at your first winery, is your ticket to fun for this progressive party. Your trip through the Valley will include tri tip, sausages hot off the grill, paired with a variety of award-winning Zins. Visit all four wineries and enter to win a Wine Country gift basket. Admission is $10.00. For information, call Royalene Mancini at 707-431-8159, e-mail royalene@mazzocco.com.

Cena e Cinema at DiVino Wine Studio will be held July 6 at 5:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. A sparkling wine reception, appetizers and screening of Italian movie "Roman Holiday" (in English). Reception: 5:30, Appetizers: 6:00, Movie: 7:00 to 9:00
Cash bar available throughout the evening. Cost includes: one glass of Prosecco, 4 appetizers and movie ticket. Admission is $45 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Cena e Cinema at DiVino Wine Studio will be held July 6 5:30 - 9 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. A sparkling reception, dinner and screening of Italian movie "Roman Holiday" (in English). Reception: 5:30, Appetizers: 6:00, Movie: 7:00 to 9:00. Cost includes: one glass of Prosecco, 4 appetizers and movie ticket. Cash bar available throughout the evening. Admission is $45.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Traveling the Wine Routes of Italy will be held July 9 from 5:00 - 6:30 pm at DiVino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. DiVino Wine Studio and Think Travel launch their Fall 2008 10-day wine tour of Tuscany and Piemonte. Enjoy a reception that will be held at Divino's new Enoteca on Preston St. Watch a slide show from previous tours, talk to the participants that did the tour in the past, and taste a selection of Italian wines from the Enoteca's cellar. Admission is $30.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Boys' Night Out will be held July 10 from 7 pm - 10 pm at Fermenting Cellar @ The Distillery in Toronto, Ontario. There will be fine wines, gourmet food, live music, BBQ, games, cigars, oysters, cars, door prizes, live auction and much more. Admission is $95. Proceeds go to prostate cancer research at Princess Margaret Hospital. For information, call Pauline Fortier at 416-466-7049, e-mail paulinefortier@sympatico.ca or visit http://www.liffordwine.com.

Understanding Pinot Noir Clones will be held July 12 11am - 1pm at 5875 Lakeville Hwy in Petaluma, California. In 2005 we bottles individually 6 different Pinot Noir Clones from our El Coro Block. Our winemaker will guide you through a tasting of each clones and explain what each brings to our 2005 Pinot Noir. Admission is $20 per person. For information, call Scott Jordan at 707-7652117, e-mail sjordan@kellerestate.com or visit http://www.kellerestate.com/events/index.htm.

The 2008 Riesling Experience will be held July 17 from 9:00-3:00 p.m. at Brock University in St. Catharines, ON. Olivier Humbrecht, a producer from Alsace, will be the keynote speaker giving a tutored tasting of four of his wines. Also featuring wines from Germany, Finger Lakes and Ontario. Admission is $75. For information, call Barb Tatarnic at 905-688-5550, e-mail ccovi@brocku.ca or visit http://www.rieslingexperience.com.

Taste3 will be held from July 17 to July 19 at COPIA in Napa, California. A three-day gathering of nimble minds, eclectic palates and provocative ideas. Join Margrit Mondavi and 300 chefs, sommeliers, artisans, authors, executives, journalists and thought leaders in wine, food and the arts for Robert Mondavi Winery’s third annual Taste3 Conference. Admission is $1950. For information, call Jill Greenwood at 707-967 3997, e-mail jill@taste3.com or visit http://www.taste3.com.

Fiesta Buckhorn will be held from July 18 to July 19 at Buckhorn Community Centre in Buckhorn, Ontario. One of the premier wine and cuisine tasting events featuring Ontario wines, Fieseta Buckhorn is a fundraising event for the Buckhorn Community Centre. More than 20 Ontario wineries attend. Discover something different in the Kawarthas. Admission is Friday - $10; Saturday - $12 adults/$10 seniors. Proceeds go to The Buckhorn Community Centre is the hub of this exciting community in the Kawarthas. For information, call Deb Crossen at 705-657-8833, e-mail dcrossen@nexicom.net or visit http://www.fiestabuckhorn.com.

The 2008 Food & Wine Celebration will be held July 19 from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Culinary Vegetable Institute in Milan, Ohio. The fund-raising event includes wine tastings from vineyards worldwide, and more than 30 food stations with creations by the nation's most renowned chefs. Meet Food Network Iron Chef Michael Symon and attend wine demos by Barry Wiss of Trinchero Family Estates. Admission is $165 per ticket. Veggie U is a non-profit children's health program offering healthy lifestyles to fourth-graders nationwide through a hands-on classroom curriculum. For information, call Roberta Redfern at 419-499-7500, e-mail robertar@chefs-garden.com or visit http://www.veggieu.org/assets/misc/fwc2008.htm.

Midsummer Magic, Music and Wine will be held July 19 at 6 pm at Mission Hill Family Estate Winery in Kelowna, BC. This is the Okanagan Symphony’s fundraising event of the season celebrating the best of the Okanagan and bringing world-class musicians and culinary creations paired with award-winning wines of Mission Hill Family Estate. Admission is $275 per person. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards educational program and delivering outstanding programming for the 2008/2009 concert season as the Symphony enters into their 49th season. For information, call Steph at 250-764-3075, e-mail steph@creatia.net.

French Summer: Demo Cooking Class will be held July 21 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Learn from Chef Erick LePors, former Master Chef of Le Cordon Bleu, while he demonstrates this summer menu: Tomato terrine roasted pepper coulis, Rabbit with tapenade and roasted garlic sauce, Tagliatelle de légumes and for a sweet ending Charlotte aux fraises. Admission is $75 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Vegetarian Feasting: Demo Cooking Class at DiVino Wine Studio will be held July 26 10:30 am - 12:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Venture into gourmet nutrition with Nutrition and Wellness Educator and Coach Teri Gentes and discover how fast and fabulous plant-based menus are. On the menu: Nutty Raw Humus with Endive spears (vegan), Feta, Fig n’ Herb Foccacia on gluten free crust, Mediterranean Portobello Mignon with pesto over leafy greens, and Silken Lemon Berry Crème Parfait with Lemoncello drizzle (vegan). Admission is $75.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Crested Butte Land Trust Wine & Food Festival will be held July 26 from 4 - 7 p.m. in Crested Butte, Colorado. Enjoy more than 300 wines from around the world along with hors d'oeuvres from local restaurants. This is the main event of the Festival. Room & ticket packages available. Admission is $65 advance / $80 day of event. Proceeds go to Crested Butte Land Trust: an organization whose mission is to protect unrivaled views, provide trails, and preserve wildlife habitat. For information, call Margaret Ebeling at 303-809-0404, e-mail margaret@larimersquare.com or visit http://www.crestedbuttewine.com.

Cool Climate Maritime Wines Symposium will be held from August 5 to August 6 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Southampton, Long Island, New York. The Stony Brook University Center for Wine, Food and Culture will host a major international symposium titled "The Art of Balance: Cool Climate/Maritime Wines in a Global Context," at its Southampton campus on Long Island. The two-day symposium will feature advanced educational presentations and wine tastings led by prominent winemakers and vineyard managers from top wineries in cool climate/maritime winegrowing regions around the world. This event marks the 20-year anniversary of the first groundbreaking conference of its kind, “Maritime Climate Wine Growing: Bringing Bordeaux to Long Island,” which was staged in Riverhead in summer 1988 and drew participants from Chateau Margaux, Chateau Pichon-Lalande, and Institut Technique de la Vigne et du Vin, Montpelier. This new symposium for 2008 is the result of an innovative partnership between the host, Stony Brook University Center for Wine, Food, and Culture, the primary funding agency New York Wine and Grape Foundation, and the organizing committee Long Island Wine Council. For information, call Ginny Clancy at 631-632-9404, e-mail ginny.clancy@stonybrook.edu or visit http://www.stonybrook.edu/sb/winecenter/symposium2008.shtml.

Bordeaux Wine Dinner will be held August 5 at 7pm at Mandarin Oriental Hotel in San Francisco, CA. Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s Wine Director Nicole Kosta invites you to celebrate a night where we whisk you away to Bordeaux France to enjoy some amazing wine, paired with exciting new dishes from our summer menu, and discuss the hype about the 2005 vintage and more! Some surprise wines are in store. Admission is $195 per person. For information, call Nicole Kosta at 415-276-9787, e-mail nkosta@mohg.com.

Summer Wine Fest & Marketplace will be held August 10 from 12 noon to 5 pm at Columbia Winery in Woodinville, WA. Taste our lastest wine releases, shop from exclusive merchants and listen to the upbeat rhythms of Todo Es on the patio! Discounts will be offered in the wine shop during the event. Admission includes a logo glass. Admission is $10 plus tax. For information, call Diana Yeck at 425-482-7348, e-mail diana.yeck@ascentiawineestates.com or visit http://www.washingtoncellarclub.com.

The World of Olive Oil will be held August 14 6 - 7:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Come explore the world of olive oil with us. Did you know that Spain produces more olive oil than any other country in the world (about 40%), Greece has the highest per capita consumption of olive oil (26 litres per person) and Tuscany only produces about three percent of the olive oil produced in Italy? Learn how to taste olive oil and sample oils from Andalucia, Kalamata, Tuscany, California and elsewhere. Admission is $45.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Jazz at Jan's will be held from August 16 to September 26 from 6 pm - 9 pm every Saturday at 1305 13th Street Alley off 13th before Spring St. in Paso Robles, CA. Come listen to some hot jazz, blues and R&B will tasting the best wines of the Central Coast Wine Region. Visit our Tuscan Courtyard and experience music and wine under the stars. Admission is $5 cover/person. For information, call Jan Manni at 805-227-4107, e-mail jan@thewineattic.com or visit http://www.WineAttic.com.

Herbs and Flavours: Slow Food for a Tasty Summer will be held August 16 10:30 am - 1:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Join Peggy Hall from Slow Food Ottawa-Gatineau in this hands-on class. Enjoy the bounty of summer with these recipes: chilled Summer vegetable gazpacho, yellow and green bean salad with tarragon vinaigrette, focaccia with dry spice dip, pizzette with fresh tomato, basil, Pingue prosciutto and provolone, and raspberry Charlotte. Admission is $95.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com/special_events_camps.html.

Winemaker Dinner Featuring Fisher Vineyards & David Arthur Vineyards will be held August 21 at 6:30 PM at Westbank Grill at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole in Teton Village, Wyoming. Join Whitney Fisher, Winemaker of Fisher Vineyards, Nile Zackerle, Winemaker of David Arthur Vineyards and Four Seasons Executive Chef, Simon Purvis for this outstanding dinner as they share their passion for wine and food. Admission is $150.00. For information, call Michael Ploetz at 307-732-5620, e-mail michael.ploetz@fourseasons.com or visit http://www.fourseasons.com/jacksonhole/.

Feeling terroir. A surprise luncheon at El Coro Block will be held August 23 11am - 3pm at 5875 Lakeville Hwy in Petaluma, CA. Enjoy a fabulous luncheon at our star gazing site amidst El Coro Block, where we will be surrounded with our wines and a majestic view of The Petaluma Gap. Admission is $70. Club Member $60. For information, call Scott Jordan at 707-7652117, e-mail sjordan@kellerestate.com or visit http://www.kellerestate.com.

Cena e Cinema at DiVino Wine Studio will be held August 24 6 - 9 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. A sparkling reception, appetizers, and screening of Italian movie "Roman Holiday" with English subtitles. Reception starts at 6:00, appetizers at 6:30 and movie at 7 pm. Cash bar available throughout the evening. Admission is $25.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Sonoma Vineyard Walk will be held from August 24 to August 28 at 10:00 am in Santa Rosa, California. Five-day walking tour of Sonoma County vineyards including accommodations, meals, wine tastings, and inside access to key Sonoma grape growers and vintners. This is an excellent chance to enjoy beautiful Sonoma while staying active on vacation. Admission is $1900. For information, call Allan Wright at 888-758-8687, e-mail allan@zephyradventures.com or visit http://www.ZephyrAdventures.com/locations_Sonoma_Wine_Tour.htm.

Introduction to Wine Tasting Seminar will be held August 26 7-9 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Explore the world of wine in this beginner level tasting seminar.
Challenge your five senses. Taste and compare 6 wines. Seminar will cover: the process of making wine, colour, taste, tannins and sulphites, how to taste wine and what influences the pairing of wine and food. Admission is $45.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

World Sauvignon Congress 2008 will be held from August 26 to August 29 in Graz, Austria. Scientists and professionals from all over the world dedicating their expertise to the grape variety Sauvignon Blanc will come together to exchange their experiences and discuss the latest scientific findings. Some 25 top presenters will cover all aspects of the Sauvignon Blanc grape, for instance the influence of soil and climate (Mike Trought from the Marlborough Wine Research Centre), various viniculture methods for improving quality (Richard Smart, Australia), clone research (Laurent Audeguin, France), development of aroma (Denis Dubourdieu, Bordeaux University), volatile thiols (Chris Winefield, Lincoln University, New Zealand) as well the analysis of consumer trends in different parts of the world by leading wine critics. Admission is € 820 excl. VAT. For information, call Elisabeth Gruber at +43 -664 6025 961419, e-mail e.gruber@wine-partners.at or visit http://www.worldsauvignon.com.