Thursday, January 31, 2013

Winflo Osteria Opens in Clarksville, Menu Highlights Traditional Italian Staples - Austin, Texas



The newest addition to Austin’s Clarksville neighborhood, Winflo Osteria is an Italian restaurant and pizzeria where folks can enjoy handmade Neapolitan-style pizzas, professionals can mingle during happy hour and friends can gather on the deck for dinner, reveling under the restaurant’s gigantic oak tree covered in dazzling Christmas lights. Located at 1315 W. Sixth St., Winflo Osteria is a family-owned and operated restaurant that highlights simple, traditional Italian staples, savory specialties and Neapolitan-style pizzas, using locally sourced seasonal ingredients for featured daily specials. Located in a historic Clarksville home that has been tastefully updated yet retains its classic style, Winflo pays homage to its Austin roots and the true meaning of an Italian osteria.    

Truly a family affair, Winflo Osteria is owned and run by a newcomer on the restaurant scene, Michael Ryan Dickson; his sister, Megan Dickson-Pennington; and her husband, Chef John Pennington, both formerly of award-winning pizzeria Southside Flying Pizza in Austin; and longtime friend Chris Horne of Stratford Property Group.

The menu’s fare, created by the Penningtons, is modest but concise, taking full advantage of the restaurant’s 92-inch Forno Bravo wood-fired brick oven. The menu features eight Neapolitan-style pizza varieties made with hand-stretched dough, such as Margherita ($13), Salsiccia e Peperoni ($15) and Quattro Stagioni ($15); five pasta dishes, including Ricotta Gnocchi all’Amatriciana ($15) and Fettuccine al Pesto ($14); five traditional Italian entrĂ©es, such as Porchetta ($17) and Polpettone ($16) prepared with a modern twist; three salad selections and two soup varieties; as well as rotating special appetizers, entrĂ©es and pizzas, handmade pastas and ravioli, and classic desserts.

Many of the Winflo dishes are cooked in the brick oven, which can reach an astonishing 900 degrees and cook a thin, crispy-crust pizza in less than two minutes, and as many as 90 in an hour. The natural oak fire adds a signature flavor and consistency to each dish. In fact, Winflo Osteria has the goal of becoming the first Neapolitan-certified restaurant in Austin, a distinction given by Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, which insists on a variety of criteria, including specifically using a wood-burning oven; handmade mozzarella; “00” flour; San Marzano tomatoes; and hand-kneaded pizza dough, all culminating in a preparation specific to the Neapolitan tradition.

Even the restaurant’s full bar gives a nod to tradition, with offerings such as classic Italian cocktails including the Italian Mojito ($9), Sicilian Sour ($9), and the Godfather ($12) made with Macallan 12 year Single Malt Scotch and Disaronno, as well as DOC-, DOCG- and IGT-classified Italian wines.

Named for a neighboring Clarksville street and designed by architect Jamie Chioco of Chioco Design, Winflo Osteria offers the fine-dining experience of an Italian trattoria in a more casual, comfortable environment. Housed in a 3,700-square-foot two-story craftsman bungalow built in 1922, Winflo features a variety of dining and gathering spaces, including an extensive outdoor wooden deck, which seats 40 and is shaded by a 300-year-old live oak tree, bedecked in lights, that adds to the space’s charm. The cozy second-floor dining room, which seats 50, boasts a padded banquette that wraps around two interior walls and a massive copper bar, from which diners can peer into the kitchen as their meals are prepared. A hallway floor-to-ceiling mural provides an enchanting interpretation of the sky outlined through tree branches. Many fixtures throughout the space are custom made from copper plumbing pipes, which provide a contemporary feel while honoring historical style.

The proprietors took pains to maintain as much of the historical house as possible during renovations. The original fireplace was preserved and provides a cozy space for gathering during happy hour. The original interior wood walls have been exposed, and the existing floors were beautifully refinished. Original bookcases and cabinetry remain, as do the original doors and hardware. The reclaimed wood flooring that was removed from the kitchen will be reused to build the performance stage downstairs in Winflo’s Listening Room, an intimate space that, in the future, will be utilized for private and special events, as well as once-a-week acoustical performances from local and traveling musicians. Downstairs also houses the Winflo catering kitchen, which will augment Winflo’s massive mobile catering trailer outfitted with a wood-burning pizza oven.    

Winflo Osteria is located at 1315 W. Sixth St., in the historic Clarksville neighborhood of Austin. Winflo opens at 4 p.m., for nightly dinner service and happy hour, though the restaurant plans to eventually open for lunch service and Sunday brunch. Onsite parking is available, and patrons may use the parking lot across the street form the restaurant after 5 p.m. Valet service will also be available in the near future. For more information about Winflo Osteria, call (512) 582-1027, or visit www.WinfloOsteria.com.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

As Time Goes By- World War II era -Valentine Dinner Dance - Austin, Texas



Saturday, February 9, 2013 from  6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Austin, Texas

Camp Mabry
2200 W. 35th St.
Austin, TX 78789
512-782-5659

Cost: $75 per person

As Time Goes By is a 1940s themed dinner dance benefiting the Texas Military Forces Museum and its foundation. The Sentimental Journey Orchestra will transport you back in time to World War II. Dancing, a superb dinner by Austin Catering, silent auction, and a host of other amenities will make this the perfect way for you to celebrate Valentines Day! Seating limited to 300. Tickets are $75 each and may be purchased at the museum, by mail or online at our website.Vintage dress encouraged but NOT required.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

7-Layer Dip


INGREDIENTS

  • 1 can (10 oz each) diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained, liquid reserved
  • 1 can (16 oz each) refried beans
  • 1 container (12 oz each) refrigerated guacamole
  • 1 container (16 oz each) sour cream
  • 1 pkg (1.25 oz each) taco seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
  • 1 can (2.25 oz each) sliced ripe olives, drained
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • Tortilla chips, optional


DIRECTIONS

  1. Reserve 1/2 cup drained tomatoes; set aside. Blend remaining tomatoes and reserved liquid with beans in medium bowl.
  2. Spread bean mixture in 8x8-inch glass baking dish or round casserole dish. Top with guacamole.
  3. Blend together sour cream and seasoning mix in small bowl. Spread over guacamole. Top evenly with layers of cheese, olives, green onions and reserved tomatoes. Chill 2 hours prior to serving. Serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

Monday, January 28, 2013

The Food Lab at UT Presents LongHouse Food Revival - Austin, Texas



Friday, February 1, 2013 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Austin, Texas


Pine Street Station
1101 E 5th St
Austin, Texas 78702


WHAT
An intimate gathering of some of the nation's food thought leaders dedicated to exploring media and food stories. Produced in collaboration with The Food Lab at UT's “Food, the City and Innovation” conference, the Austin LongHouse Food Revival spotlights THE BUSINESS OF TELLING FOOD STORIES and includes a Pop-Up Food Magazine, a series of multimedia presentations featuring video documentary, radio interview, photography, traditional print media, books and of course, a Live Fire Feast designed to spark imagination & the entrepreneurial spirit.

6-7pm: Cocktails, Tamales and Really Smart Talk
Featuring Mexican pop, local brews and margaritas, along with fresh tamales to nibble on while you mix and mingle with the LongHouse speakers and guests.

7-8pm: Pop-Up Food Magazine
Original content on “the business of telling food stories.” This hour-long series of multimedia presentations will include insight from our speakers, video documentary, radio interview, photography, traditional print media, books, and more!

8-10pm: LongHouse Live-Fire Feast
Live-fire goat and beef roast…fiery sides and salsas…original desserts…wine and drinks…music…great company and conversation.

WHO
The Convening Brain Trust includes...
Gustavo Arellano, author of Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America, syndicated columnist ("Ask A Mexican!") and unrepentant contrarian and self-made media mogul.

Elissa Altman, director of cookbooks, Rodale Press, founder of PoorMansFeast.com, cookbook author, mistress of food prose & literary raconteur.

Melissa Guerra, founder of Melissa Guerra: Latin Kitchen Market, co-founder of Texas Foodways, author of two cookbooks including Dishes from the Wild Horse Desert: Norteno Cooking of South Texas, ranch born, bred and still wrangling pots, words and the occasional Longhorn.

Hilah Johnson, recipe diva, video blog entrepreneur and founder of HilahCooking.com.

Molly O'Neill, founder of Longhouse Food Revival and CookNScribble.com, author of One Big Table, The New York Cookbook and Mostly True: A Memoir of Food, Family & Baseball, the Damon Runyon of American food.

Rachel and Logan Cooper, Austin’s dynamic duo who traveled around the world, eating, writing and blogging away at bootsintheoven.com.

Beatriz Terrazas, Pulitzer prize winning photographer and indomitable story teller
...converging to create a multi-media Pop-Up Food Magazine that explores the story of the Mexican Diaspora and presents tales from the front lines of food start ups.

FOOD AND DRINK
The presentation is followed by BARBACOA TANGO MEXICANA FEAST, in which baby goat and big steer face off over live fire under the sure hand of artist and pit-master Kiko Geurra, who brings generations of Nortendo tradition to the wood and meat and Iliana de la Vega, owner of El Naranjo, whose Michelin-starred restaurant in Oaxaca established her as the High Priestess of Oaxacan cuisine, reigns over salsas and side dishes…with snazzy boutique brews, supple wine and artisanal firewater galore.

WHAT IS A LONGHOUSE FOOD REVIVAL?
Based on the 19th century American Chautauqua movement, LongHouse Food Revivals are a series of annual gatherings of thought leaders across the United States. The Revivals are designed to stretch the boundaries of how food stories are told, raise the bar on the nation’s food news agenda and, most of all, foster the community between generations, regions, cultures and media platforms that support innovative work of the highest quality. Produced by CookNScribble, the online educational resource and virtual editorial office for food writers, bloggers and producers, LongHouse Food Revivals are intimate gatherings that are large in vision. No two Revivals are alike. All are serious fun.

Visit www.cooknscribble.com/longhouse for more on the LongHouse Food Revival.
Click here for more on The Food Lab at UT's "Food, the City and Innovation" conference.
Food writers! We're also offering a CookNScribble Food Writing Seminar in Austin on Saturday, February 2, 2013. The LongHouse Food Revival and Food Writing Seminar can be bought as a package at a discounted price. Seminar info and more details here.




Saturday, January 26, 2013

Rumbullion Mondays: Featured guest bartender Carly Boord - Dallas, Texas



Monday, February 4, 2013 from 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Sunset Lounge
3030 Ross Ave
Dallas, Texas 75206
214-566-4834

Cost: $5 We call it tiki, you drink it tiki! $3 Red Stripes till midnight.


What: Carly Boord behind the wood at Sunset Lounge for Rumbullion Mondays.
Why: Because Carly Boord is inspiring and talented.
When: February 4th, 8-10pm
Where: Sunset Lounge, 3030 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75204



Cooking Class With Chef Scott Gottlich - Dallas, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Bijoux Restaurant
5450 West Lovers Lane Suite 225
Dallas, Texas 75209
214-350-6100

Cost: $50


HOW TO PREPARE A ROMANTIC VALENTINES DAY DINNER
PAIRED WITH: CHAMPAGNE

Need to brush up on your cooking skills for the holidays? Or just want to gain some new expertise in the kitchen? Bijoux has you covered. Chef Scott Gottlich is launching a series of 5 cooking classes that will feature interactive demonstrations on favorites like thanksgiving side dishes and how to make a romantic valentine’s dinner. Each class will go over ingredients, techniques and methods of creating detailed dishes. In addition to sampling all the delicious products, each pupil will also be treated to a beverage that will be paired with each specific class. Space is limited and reservations are required.




CrossRoads Winery Frisco Live Music Fridays - Frisco, Texas



Friday, February 1, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Frisco, Texas


CrossRoads Winery
15222 King Rd.
Frisco, Texas 75034
972-294-4144

Cost: No Cover


CrossRoads Winery is a "grape to glass" winery in northwest Frisco.  We currently feature 14 wines on our menu and great music every Friday night that starts around 7:30pm.  Happy hour starts at 5:00 and we close at 11pm.  This Friday’s feature: Monroe & Company

Reservations@CRwineryFrisco.com  Must be 21 or older.  No Children.

We are also open Saturday and Sunday for tastings from 1-6pm.

We rent out our space for your events the rest of the week. Check out our website for directions and loads of more information and Special Events. www.CRwineryFrisco.com


Coquerel Family Wine Estates Dinner at Shinsei Restaurant - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, January 31, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Shinsei Restaurant
7713 Inwood Road
Dallas, Texas 75209
214-352-0005

Cost: $95 per person, plus tax & gratuity


On Thursday, January 31, Shinsei will host a special dinner featuring Coquerel Family Wine Estates. Proprietors and Dallas natives Brenda and Clay Cockerell will be in attendance to pair wines with five courses created by Chef de Cuisine T.J. Legnick. Menu highlights include fennel pollen crusted scallops, roasted buffalo strip with pumpkin jam and carrot cake and gingerbread spring roll.

Dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is priced at $95 per person. Reservations can be made by calling 214.352.0005.

Coquerel Family Wine Estates began as a dream to produce a superb sauvignon blanc in the Napa Valley modeled on the best traditions of the incredible Bordeaux blancs of France. Located in Calistoga, Calif., the estate vineyard is owned by Brenda and Clay Cockerell of Dallas, Texas. The winemaker, Christine Barbe, was born and raised in Bordeaux, France, and offers extensive expertise in enology and viticulture, as well as a passion for creating exquisite wines. The vineyard’s first estate-grown wine, 2008’s sauvignon blanc, Terroir Coquerel, won numerous awards and favor from wine critics and connoisseurs alike. Learn more about Coquerel Wines at www.coquerelwines.com.



Super Bowl Stock-Up Tasting - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, January 31, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Winetastic
4140 Lemmon Ave Suite 130
Dallas, Texas 75219
214-559-8910

Cost: $15

Whether you’re watching the game from the couch or from the back of the pickup, it may be time to rethink your big game party's food and drink menu. You don't have to think of the Super Bowl as a beer-only occasion. More and more people prefer to sip wine on the sidelines. Many people are starting to discover that wine is a real crowd-pleaser - and it's very versatile. Wine goes just as well with chips and dip at a lively Super Bowl party as it does with beef tenderloin at a sit-down dinner. This year we have put together a list of wines that will pair well with your favorite Super Bowl Party menu. Bring your team spirits, Thursday January 31st, 2013 from 7-10PM and taste our favorites. Wines will be specially priced for the Super Bowl Weekend. Don’t fumble and let this pass. Price: $15 *plus tax and gratuity


Texas Terroir - Wine Class by Kyle Hermes - Florence, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Florence, Texas


The Vineyard at Florence
8711 W FM 487
Florence, Texas 76527
254-793-3363

Cost: $20


Wine Tasting and light food pairings are included
Reservations Recommended

Texas Terroir

Did you know Texas is the fifth largest wine producing state in the USA? Or that wine has been made in Texas for well over a hundred years? Please join me in a class dedicated to understanding Texas wines! We’ll cover some of the history of the Texas wine industry (including how we saved France’s wine vines), what makes Texas’ soils great for wine growing, some techniques required for making world class wines in Texas, and the key grapes of the Texas wine scene. Of course we’ll also be drinking some great Texas wines, so come prepared to enjoy the fruits of our great state!



The Blues (Only offered once a year!) - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, January 31, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Scardello Artisan Cheese
3511 Oak Lawn Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75219
214-219-1300

Cost: $30

Blue, green and in-between! Those lovely veins running through blue cheese make the mouth tingle in anticipation. Learn about these wonders of the cheese world. Taste examples from mild to strong, creamy to crumbly and one or two that feel like a good old-fashioned kick in the teeth! Of course we pair these delights with near-perfect libations. Reservations required.


Wine Education Class - Stonewall, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 10:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Stonewall, Texas


Pedernales Cellars
2916 Upper Albert Rd.
Stonewall, Texas 78671
830.644.2037

Cost: $25 for individuals ($20 for wine club members)

Our Wine Education class will be conducted by a local sommelier from Vinuously Speaking. She will be teaching the basics, intermediate and advanced techniques of wine and wine tasting through a blind wine tasting. The cost is $25.00 per person and RSVP is required.


Bridlewood Winery Wine Dinner - Arlington, Texas



Wednesday, January 30, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Arlington, Texas


Olenjack's Grille
770 Road To Six Flags East, Suite 100 (in Lincoln Square)
Arlington, Texas 76011
817-226-2600

Cost: $65 per person

Have a great start to 2013 with one of Central Coast's most sought-after artisan wines, paired with Chef Olenjack's mouthwatering 4-course creation!


Mounts Family Winery Tasting - Tomball, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tomball, Texas


The Empty Glass
104 Market Street
Tomball, Texas 77375
832-698-4722

Cost: $10 Tasting


One of our most favorite wineries to visit in Healdsburg, CA - we know you're gonna LOVE these wines too!!

This family owned boutique winery has been producing premium wine grapes for over 60 years in the Dry Creek Valley area of Sonoma. From their website, "Every block design brings together the unique orientation of hillside exposure, soil type and depth. With each of these factors we determine our variety, the appropriate clone and the most favorable root-stock. The careful planning and consideration that goes in to developing our vineyards allows the vine to grow to its full potential for vine health and balanced canopy growth. From them, we achieve the greatest possible expression of fruit character balance and structure in all of our wines."



Barley Wine Wednesdays - Dallas, Texas



Wednesday, January 30, 2013 from 5:00 PM - 11:45 PM
Dallas, Texas


Meddlesome Moth
1621 Oak Lawn Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75207
214-628-7900

Cost: no admission, beer and food prices vary

The final Barley Wine Wednesday tapping at Meddlesome Moth will be on Wednesday, Jan. 30, and the featured brew will be North Coast Old Stock 2010.


L'Olivier Restaurant Hosts O'Brien Estate Wine Dinner - Houston, Texas



Friday, February 1, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Houston, Texas


L'Olivier Restaurant
240 Westheimer
Houston, Texas 77006
713-360-6313

Cost: $99 per person. Includes four course menu and wine pairings.


Join L’Olivier Restaurant for a four-course wine dinner featuring the wines of O’Brien Estate Winery in Napa Valley.  Menu includes:

Ceviche – mĂ©lange of fresh seafood, pineapple, yuzu and mint
                                2011 Estate Chardonnay

Quail Salad – stuffed with apple, cardamom nest on a garden salad dressed in merlot vinaigrette
                                2010 Merlot

Roasted Pork Loin – with caramelized fig sauce
                                2009 Seduction Bordeaux Blend

Tournedo of Beef with Morel Sauce – grilled tournedo, potato cake, morel sauce
                                2009 Passion of the Soul, Cabernet Sauvignon

About O’Brien Estate Winery: First built in 1980, the O’Brien Estate Winery is one of the earlier wineries in Napa Valley.  The winery specializes in single vineyard grown, estate-bottled wines.  Owned by Bart and Barb O’Brien, it started as a shared dream of theirs over 20 years ago.



Wine Pairing Dinner at FT33 - Dallas, Texas



Tuesday, January 29, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


FT33
1617 Hi Line Drive
Dallas, Texas 75207
917-957-8529

Cost: $90 + tax and tip


Join our group of wine enthusiasts in discovering exceptional wine lists among Dallas' best restaurants.  We start with a wine pairing dinner at FT33 on January 29th.

This is the first of our wine dinner series to discover Dallas restaurants with exceptional wine lists.

I am posting the menu for the FT33 dinner below but please note that there may be some minor changes on the evening of the dinner as they use only what's in season and change their menu items quite frequently.  Sommelier Ryan Tedder will pair each course with a different wine for us.

The price for the dinner including the wine is $90 + tax and tip.  If you are joining us, please RSVP on our website, send me an email at dilek@tastingworld.com with your and your guests' full name and your phone number.  Your seat will be guaranteed only after I confirm with you personally. Ryan has very kindly agreed to let us pay at the restaurant after the dinner instead of taking advance reservations so please make sure to let me know if your plans change.

Course 1
duck ham salad, egg, endive, aioli, local potato
and
smoked potatoes, maitake mushrooms, chile kewpie mayo, savory herbs

Course 2
local chinese celery soup, barley soil, turnip, hay oil
or
smoked trout, frisee, celery root, caraway, dill

Course 3
3rd coast catch, exotic citrus, mint, carrot, daikon, vadouvan yogurt
or
general tso’s duck, lemongrass sausage, kimchi, fried wheatberries, bok choy
or
short rib, vanilla-lemon polenta, candied citrus, kale, fennel
or
vegetarian vegan entrée

Course 4
chocolate, banana, mango, wild rice
or
cheesecake, coconut, lime, verbena, cilantro

If you'd like to see a recent review of FT33 on Dallas Morning News, please go to: http://www.dallasnews.com/entertainment/restaurants/restaurant-reviews/20121219-restaurant-review-at-ft33-matt-mccallister-takes-diners-on-a-wild-wonderful-ride.ece

You can also see my review of the wine list and some information about the sommelier Ryan Tedder and a few individual wines on the list by going to:

http://www.examiner.com/article/dallas-wine-lists-ft33

For full disclosure, I would like you to know that I will be paying the same price as everybody else and I receive no compensation in any form from this restaurant for organizing this dinner.

Dilek Cane



Domaine Faverot Wine Dinner with Francois and Sally Faverot de Kerbrech - Houston, Texas



Thursday, January 31, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Haven Restaurant
2502 Algerian Way
Houston, Texas 77098
713-581-6101

Cost: $85 plus tax and gratutity


The domaine was established in 1920 and thoroughly renovated and restored in 1999.  It is located in the sunny hills of the Luberon valley southeast of Avignon.  The property consists of 7 hectares (17 acres) planted in Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Mourvèdre for the red wines and Grenache Gris, Rolle and Roussanne for the whites.  They produce about 22,000 bottles of wine each year.

First Course From the kitchen of Cove -
PNWS ~ quick-cured salmon/ lemon-lime zest/ brown sugar/
caperberry salt/ chiles/ candied hoja santa
CĂ´tes du Luberon Blanc ‘08   Second Course pork belly pastor sope, salsa verde, cilantro, onion, caramelized pineapple
CĂ´tes du Luberon RosĂ© ‘08   Third Course gulf fish, butternut-bacon puree, pecan brown butter
Le Mazet Rouge ‘08   Fourth Course smoked lamb, heirloom hominy, foraged mushrooms
CuvĂ©e du GĂ©nĂ©ral ‘04   Fifth Course poppy seed cake, strawberry, meringue
Bernardine Muscat ‘11



Inwood Estates - "First Sunday Jazz" Feb. 3 - Florence, Texas



Sunday, February 3, 2013 from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Florence, Texas


Inwood Estates Tasting Room at The Vineyard at Florence
100 Via Francesco, 8711 W. FM 487
Florence, Texas 76527
254-793-3114

Cost: Tasting of 8 Wines - $12; Military Discount 10%


Join Us for a RELAXING Sunday Afternoon!

                    With Great Wine......

                         And Great Jazz!


                "1st Sunday Jazz"

                             February 3,  2 - 5 p.m.

        Featuring the Golden Era of Jazz & Blues
                                  Performed By

          Cassandra Taylor Jazz Trio

            Gran Reserva Wine Club Members
       Are Welcomed to Pick Up The January Shipment,
         if haven't already done so.

       Enjoy Complimentary Light Tapas!
               

   "Cassandra  has a genuine  affection for the golden era of jazz, and long cherished  popular  standards, as well as the blues, which she is inspired to share  with audiences equally enthusiastic about these great old classics.   Her  belief that  "anything worth doing is worth doing with passionate  intensity," is evident in her soulful song stylings."




Cooking in the Country - Fulshear, Texas




Thursday, January 31, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Fulshear, Texas


Ray's Grill 8502 FM 359
8502 FM 359
Fulshear, Texas 77441
281-533-0099

Cost: $40


Move over Paula Deen and Emeril Lagasse! Are you ready for Cooking in the Country?

Our cooking class gives you a first hand look at Chef Denver's skills in the kitchen. Chef Denver is one of the masterminds behind this neighborhood grill and bar's most popular dishes. With menu items like Chicken Fried Ostrich and Raspberry White Chocolate Cheesecake, you never know what to expect.

This is a great option for date night or girls night out.





Valentine Wine & Dine at the Vineyard - Marble Falls, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Marble Falls, Texas


Flat Creek Estate Vineyard & Winery
24912 Singleton Bend East
Marble Falls, Texas 78654
512-267-6310

Cost: $150/Couple


Treat your Valentine to a unique wine and food experience at Flat Creek Estate!
Your afternoon will begin with a private group (limited to 6 couples) barrel tasting with Owner Rick Naber. After the barrel tasting you will be treated to an intimate 3-Course Paired Wine Lunch with your Valentine.

Package is limited to 6 couples per session…Purchase your tickets online today!

www.FlatCreekEstate.com > Upcoming Events

Barrel Tasting w/ Owner Rick Naber – 12:00PM
3-Course Paired Wine Lunch w/ Your Valentine – 12:30PM
~OR~
Barrel Tasting w/ Owner Rick Naber – 2:00PM
3-Course Paired Wine Lunch w/ Your Valentine – 2:30PM



Caymus Vineyards Wine Dinner at Hawthorn - Houston, Texas



Wednesday, January 30, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Houston, Texas


Hawthorn Restaurant
3200 Kirby Drive
Houston, Texas 77098
713-523-3600

Cost: $150 per person plus tax and gratuity


Please join us Wednesday, January 30, at 7pm for an extraordinary wine dinner highlighting the culinary creations of Chef Riccardo Palazzo-Giorgio, along with perfectly paired world-class Caymus Vineyards wines from the heart of Napa Valley, as selected by Sommelier Cory Graff.

First Course
Carpaccio of sea scallop with golden trout roe
1) Mer Soleil Silver Unoaked Chardonnay 2011

Second Course
Roasted darne of salmon with braised fennel
2) Mer Soleil Chardonnay 2010

Third Course
Grilled Quail with potato and leek galette
3) Belle Glos Las Alturas Pinot Noir 2011

Fourth Course
Braised short ribs of beef with woodland mushroom risotto
4) Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

Dessert
Baked pear tart with marzipan and toasted almonds
5) Mer Soleil Viognier Late Harvest 2004

$150 per person plus tax and gratuity. 



International Wine Guild - Open House - Austin, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Austin, Texas


The Wine & Food Foundation of Texas
2121 East 6th St. Suite 102
Austin, Texas
1.866.WINE.EDU

Cost: Free


International Wine Guild - Named a top five wine school in the country by the Wall Street Journal and Food & Wine Magazine. Is having an open house on February 2nd, 2013 and is scheduled for an upcoming L1 Wine Seminar on February 9th-10th, 2013.

Register @ www.internationalwineguild.com/texas-wine-school

This open house is intended to provide insight on the International Wine Guild, it's courses and approach to wine education.

If you have questions about professional courses this will be a great opportunity to get them answered and to meet the instructor for the course.

A wine school open house wouldn't be complete without wine; so we will be tasting a 2007 Joseph Phelps Insignia.

The open house is FREE to attend but registration is required.

Agenda:

1:15pm- About The Guild

2:00pm - Wine Tasting

2:30 - About the Guild (repeat)

Register @ www.internationalwineguild.com/texas-wine-school


Le Ragnaie Wine Dinner - Houston, Texas



Tuesday, January 29, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Houston, Texas


Underbelly
1100 Westheimer Road
Houston, Texas 77006
713-528-9800

Cost: $135

Underbelly, the “new Southern Creole” restaurant by Chris Shepherd, known for its unconventional take on Southern fare, is hosting a wine dinner to feature Riccardo Campinoti, owner of Le Ragnaie in Tuscany, and Ronnie Sanders, owner of Vine Street Imports. As a wine creator and a wine importer, these two were moved to work together on a new project, Poggio Anima. Poggio Anima is “a fresh, new concept in Italian wines.” As their website states, “Poggio Anima translates to ‘Hill of Soul.’ Going back to the concept of Poggio Anima we wanted to capture the ‘soul’ of each vineyard and grape. No manipulation, no water, sugar, etc. Just the pure expression of the fruit and site. I would argue that many wines have a ‘soul,’ but very few weeknight wines share this. Poggio Anima has come along to change this.”


First Saturday Wine Dinner - Marble Falls, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Marble Falls, Texas


Flat Creek Estate Vineyard & Winery
24912 Singleton Bend East
Marble Falls, Texas 78654
512-267-6310

Cost: $65/Person : $60/Estate Club Member


First Saturday Wine Dinner at Flat Creek Estate is your opportunity to experience new food and make new friends!  Each dinner features four amazing courses paired with new and past vintage Flat Creek Estate wines (some featured wines may only be available at the dinner).  Flat Creek Estate is a relaxing scenic drive from two popular tourist destinations (Fredericksburg, TX and Austin, TX).  Take a break to join us for “Fine Food in the Texas Hill Country”!

Limited Seating…Purchase your tickets online today!

www.FlatCreekEstate.com > Upcoming Events


Champagne & Sparkling Wine Tasting - Houston, Texas




Tuesday, January 29, 2013 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Houston, Texas


TOOTSIES
2601 Westheimer
Houston, Texas 77098
713-532-6907

Cost: $35 for WOW members, $55 for non-members

"Sparkling New Beginnings for Women," a walk-around Champagne and sparkling wine tasting at TOOTSIES. Ticket proceeds benefit the Houston Area Women's Center (HAWC). TOOTSIES is donating 10% of store sales during the event to HAWC.


Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, Wine & Chocolate Trail: Feb. 2-3 & 9-10, 2013 - Montgomery, Texas



Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Montgomery, Texas


The Nine Member Wineries Along the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, just about one hour NW of Houston
14343 Liberty Street
Montgomery, Texas 77356

Cost: Single Ticket: $25 or Ticket for Two, $45: Save 10% when you buy one Ticket for Two (TICKETS VALID ALL DATES)

The Wine & Chocolate Trail is a wonderful way to celebrate Valentine's Day. For four days on the first two weekends in February 2013, your trail ticket allows you to sample two wine tastings paired with a wonderful chocolate delicacy at each of the NINE member wineries along the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail.


Your Single ticket is priced at $25 plus handling fees and tax, or save 10% when you purchase a Ticket-for-Two-is priced at $45 plus handling fees and tax. Your ticket purchased for this event is good February 2-3 & 9-10, 2013, regardless of your purchase date. Here's what our guest on the Holiday Crystal Wine Trail had to say.
"This was my first Wine Trail event and I absolutely loved it…All in all I had an absolutely wonderful time, made friends along the way, I can’t wait for the Feb. Chocolate tour and the April Cheese tour!!!"
“We had out-of-town guests and went both days (we live in Katy) and thoroughly enjoyed the outing as we are fans of Napa & Sonoma.”
“I brought a new group of friends and as always we had a fabulous time. They were unaware we had so many wineries so close to home. I see many day trips to go back and spend more time at our favorites.”



Monthly Blind Tasting - Houston, Texas



Tuesday, January 29, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Houston, Texas


Vintners Own Winery
3482 W. 12th Street, Suite A
Houston, Texas 77008
800-561-4811

Cost: $30 online - $40 @ the door


This tasting group is open to ANYONE who wants to expand and test their palate.

This is intended to be a professional and regularly accuring tasting group. The idea is to have wine professional and enthusiasts get together to evaluate wines and to create a sense of community amongst wine lovers in Houston.

The objective for each tasting is to determine 5 components using technical, comparative and deductive evaluation. This is a blind tasting to determine...

Country
Region
Varietal
Vintage +/- 2yrs.
Production Technique

This will be a great opportunity to taste several wines from world class growing areas, network with other Austin professionals/enthusiasts and expand your palate. There is a minimum of 6 wines poured and each each tasting is lead by a GUSTO Sommelier. We are limited to 25 guests so don't wait to RSVP...

$30online
$40 at the door if there is space. RSVP in advance, we can't guarantee your spot if you dont!

If you have any questions you can contact GUSTO directly @ Tastings@Gustotastings.com



Eaglefire Sangiovese Bottling Party - Houston, Texas



Friday, February 1, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Caldwell Family Winery / Vintners Own Winery
3482 W. 12th St.
Houston, Texas 77008
832-366-7121

Cost: FREE; Bottled Wine Only $10


Eaglefire Sangiovese Bottling Party

You're invited to join us for our first bottling party of year! On Friday, February 1, we'll be bottling the first lot of our 2010 Eaglefire Sangiovese, a 100% Texas Sangiovese produced with fruit from the famed Reddy Vineyards in the Texas High Plains. Whether you want to help us on the bottling line, take a tour of the winery, or just sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy the surroundings, it will definitely be an experience to remember!

There will be free tastings of the bottled wine, a 25% discount on all Eaglefire wine, and other goodies for those in attendance. You'll also have an opportunity purchase the bottled wine at a special pre-release price of $10.

Hope to see you there!



Friday, January 25, 2013

Cooking with Blanca! - San Antonio, Texas


Saturday, January 26, 2013 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
San Antonio, Texas


Aldaco's (Stone Oak Location)
20079 Stone Oak Parkway
San Antonio, Texas 78258


Learn the art of making:

* Traditional Chile Relleno
* Jalapeno Pesto
* Arroz Rojo
* La Bonita Margarita

Class includes welcome Margarita, hands-on demonstratiion, complete lunch of Chile Relleno, Pastel Tres Leches and the art of making a Margarita.
Only 18 spots available. Your payment is your reservation.
$55.00 per person inclusive of sales tax and gratuity. Contact Lola at Lola@aldacos-stoneoak.com for more info or to book your reservation direct. (210)494-0561


Valentine's Day and Weekly Live Music at Sobani - Lakeway, Texas



Sobani Restaurant, serving American comfort food with Japanese inspired dishes in Lakeway, celebrates the day of romance with live music and a menu custom built to win the heart and taste buds. The neighborhood restaurant recently reopened with a new menu, updated interiors, patio and a full bar.  In early February, Sobani will add live local music to the mix every Wednesday and Friday evening.

The Valentine’s menu will be available Thursday the 14th through Saturday the 16th.  Highlights include:

·         Lobster bisque with shrimp toast for $7.95

·         Strawberry-avocado salad with citrus-vinaigrette dressing for $7.95

·         Seared diver scallops with sweet pea risotto for $19.95

·         Steak Oscar with bacon hollandaise and au gratin potatoes for $33.95

·         Chocolate molten cake with Amy’s Mexican vanilla ice cream for $7.95

Swing Blade, an Austin-based string jazz quartet, will enhance the romantic atmosphere along with Sobani’s intimate patio seating if weather permits. Reservations are recommended by calling (512) 266-3900.

Sobani serves modern American comfort fare with Japanese touches for lunch and dinner along with a full bar and daily happy hour. Located at 1700 RR 620 North in Lakeway, Texas, the restaurant takes reservations for parties of six or more and can host private functions for a range of sizes and occasions. Sobani also features al fresco dining on its tree-lined patio. Open Monday through Thursday from 11am-10pm and Friday and Saturday from 11am-12am. The restaurant earned the 2011-2012 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. For up to date information, follow Sobani on Facebook and Twitter.  Visit sobani620.com or call (512) 266-3900.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Turkey Chili


INGREDIENTS

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 (28 ounce) can canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (16 ounce) can canned kidney beans - drained, rinsed, and mashed
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper


DIRECTIONS

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Place turkey in the pot, and cook until evenly brown. Stir in onion, and cook until tender.
  2. Pour water into the pot. Mix in tomatoes, kidney beans, and garlic. Season chili powder, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes.

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Winning Super Bowl Recipes: Brisket Stuffed Mushrooms, Chile Salsa, Brisket Jalapeno Poppers


Chips, dip, and buffalo wings. We are all familiar with the standard game day fare.

With the Super Bowl fast approaching, there is no better way to impress your friends than with a spread of delicious food inspired by the legendary Texas BBQ joint “The Salt Lick”. Here are some great recipes that fit the bill for any Super Bowl get together.

In addition to the recipes below, other Salt Lick game day dishes include: Venison Black Bean Chili, Salt Lick Potato Salad, and Brisket Jalapeno Poppers.

These recipes can also be found in The Salt Lick Cookbook: A Story of Land, Family, and Love, written by Salt Lick pit master Scott Roberts. Having appeared on a host of national programs ranging from The Chew to Top Chef Scott Roberts is also available for cooking segments and interviews.
Brisket-Stuffed Mushrooms
2 chopped briskets (half loin, half deckle)
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1⁄2 cup panko bread crumbs
4 ounces Salt Lick Lauren’s Spicy Recipe Bar-B-Que Sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
30 large white mushrooms, stemmed
1 bunch flat leaf parsley for garnish, chopped
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine first 6 ingredients in large bowl and stuff spoonful of mixture into each mushroom cap. Place 12 mushroom caps on baking sheet, and top each with small dollop of Lauren’s Spicy Recipe sauce. Bake 10 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Continue with remaining caps. Garnish with chopped parsley, and serve.
Lupe’s Chile Piquin Salsa
1 serrano
3 chile piquins
1⁄4 white onion, chopped
1⁄2 ripe tomato, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Salt Lick Beef Ribs
1 rack beef back ribs
1 bottle favorite dry rub
1 bottle favorite barbecue basting sauce (one without tomatoes in it)

Heat smoker to 225 degrees. Remove skin from back of bone side of ribs and dis- card. Rub each rack of ribs with dry rub for a moderately heavy coating. Place ribs meat-side down on rack of closed smoker midway from the main heat source. Cook 1⁄2 hour. Lightly baste each rack with Salt Lick BBQ Sauce, then turn over and baste meat side. Let temperature of smoker cool to 180 degrees. Baste every 11⁄2 hours for a total cook time of 61⁄2 hours. Check internal temperature of ribs in center of rack, making sure thermometer is not touching bone. If temperature is 160 degrees, ribs are ready for removal. If not, monitor temperature every 15 minutes, until ribs have reached 160 degrees. Remove to wire cooling rack on flat sheet pan. Baste ribs once more, and separate individual ribs with sharp knife. Serve immediately.

Fonda San Miguel to Host Tequila-Pairing Dinner - Austin, Texas



Fonda San Miguel, known for its incomparable interior Mexican cuisine, is bringing another highly regarded Mexican classic to Austin. Fonda San Miguel will host a Tapatio and Ocho tequila-pairing dinner event on Feb. 5, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Featuring special guests Tomas Estes, Mexico’s official tequila ambassador, and Master Distiller Carlos Camarena of the renowned La Alteña Distillery, this one-one-a-kind three-course tasting ($45 per person) will include Fonda dishes inspired by La Alteña tequilas and created especially for the event. The dinner will showcase La Alteña’s Tequila Ocho, a single-ranch tequila, and Tapatio, a 75-year-old icon of a tequila brand that has just recently become available in the United States for the first time.

This exclusive pairing event will begin with a reception featuring passed hors d’oeuvres and a Viva La Alteña Punch comprised of Tapatio Blanco, Valdespino Dry Amontillado Sherry, ruby red grapefruit juice, lemon juice, oleo saccharum and Champagne. The appetizer course will include Tapatio Salmon Tostaditas paired with a tequila flight highlighting Tapatio Blanco, Tapatio Reposado and Tapatio Añejo. The entrĂ©e meal, which will continue to demonstrate how beautifully La Alteña tequilas marry with Fonda’s cuisine, includes Camarones con Naranja y Tapatio, sautĂ©ed gulf shrimp with orange zest, onion, chipotle, cilantro and Tapatio tequila. This course will be paired with Chef on the Beach, a spirited cocktail of Tapatio Reposado, Cardamaro, ginger syrup, lime juice and seltzer created by Chris Bostick. The dessert course features Mangos con Helado paired with CafĂ© con Amigos, a smooth digestif of Ocho Añejo, piloncillo syrup, coffee bean-infused Barolo Chinato and cream.        

Throughout this special dinner event, Tequila Ambassador Estes and third-generation Master Distiller Camarena will speak about the history of tequila in Mexico, and the La Alteña Distillery specifically. The Camarena family is the most influential family in the tequila industry, having distilled tequila since the early 1800s. Camarena’s grandfather, Don Felipe, opened La Alteña—the most well-known and respected distillery in Mexico—in the mountainous region of Jalisco, Mexico, in 1937. The Camarena family owns 1.5 million agave plants grown on numerous ranches throughout Arandas, and takes great pains to ensure La Alteña tequilas impart specific terrior, expressing different flavors based on the ranches where the agave was harvested. La Alteña uses wild yeasts, tahona and traditional methods to create the most authentic tequilas in the world, including Tequila Ocho, a single-ranch tequila Estes and Camarena make together that showcases the flavors of each individual ranch from which it was produced; El Tesoro, an incredibly popular brand that changed the world’s understanding of what tequila can be; and Tapatio, the 75-year-old brand that, until recently, was not available in the U.S., and was often smuggled into the country by bartenders and travelers to Mexico.

Fonda San Miguel, located at 2330 W. North Loop, is widely recognized as one of the finest interior Mexican restaurants in the country. For more information about Fonda San Miguel and to make reservations for the exclusive La Alteña tequila-pairing dinner, please call (512) 459-4121, or visit www.FondaSanMiguel.com.

Bittersweet Chocolate & Walnut Brownies


INGREDIENTS

  • 2 oz. finely chopped unsweetened chocolate
  • 2 oz. finely chopped semisweet chocolate
  • 3 oz. unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (6 tablespoon or 1 stick)
  • 1 large egg and 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup(s) sugar
  • 1/4 cup(s) firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup(s) all-purpose flour
  • 3 Tbsp. cocoa powder
  • .1 tsp. fine-grained kosher or sea salt
  • 2/3 cup(s) walnuts, coarsely chopped


DIRECTIONS

  1. Center a rack in the oven and preheat to 350°F. Spray the inside of an 8-cavity, 2-inch heart-shaped silicone pan with non-stick cooking spray and place on a baking sheet.
  2. Place chocolate and butter in a bowl and melt in microwave on low power for 30-second bursts. Stir after each burst.
  3. Use an electric mixer to beat the egg and yolk in a bowl until frothy. Add the sugars and whip until very thick and pale colored, about 5 minutes. Add the melted chocolate mixture and blend completely.
  4. Sift together the flour and cocoa powder; add the salt. Add flour mixture to chocolate mixture in 3 stages, blending well after each addition. Stir in the walnuts.
  5. Divide batter evenly among cavities in the pan. Bake 35 minutes, or until a tester comes out slightly moist. Remove from the oven and cool the pan on a rack. Turn the pan upside-down and gently peel away from the brownies. Then turn brownies topside up.
  6. Store in a single layer in a tightly sealed container, or covered with foil at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Monday, January 21, 2013

Simple and Tasty Guacamole



INGREDIENTS

  • 3 ripe avocados, pitted, peeled and mashed
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies (10 ounce), drained
  • 3/4 cup(s) chopped onion
  • 1 tsp. lemon or lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • ground pepper and tortilla chips, optional


DIRECTIONS

  1. Mix avocados, drained tomatoes, onion, lemon juice and salt in medium bowl until well blended. Season with pepper to taste.
  2. Serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Orange-Mint Tea


INGREDIENTS 

  • 2 qt. Iced Tea
  • 1 bunch fresh mint
  • 3 Navel oranges, sliced

DIRECTIONS

  1. Add mint leaves and orange slices to tea and let sit overnight.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

The Grapes Less Travelled - Granbury, Texas



Sunday, January 27, 2013 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Granbury, Texas


Dora Lee Langdon Center Concert Hall
308 E. Bridge St.
Granbury, Texas 76048
817-579-1518

Cost: $50/person


Please join us Sunday, January 27th, 2013 for the first wine class of the New Year...

“The Grapes Less Travelled”

It’s a New Year ~ Why not taste some new wine varietals?! Friulano? Verdicchio? Marselan? Ring a bell with you? me neither! So let’s try ‘em!

Those are just a few of the two white and three red wines, that certified sommelier, Ray Raney has chosen for us to sample...

All classes are $50 per person and include 5 wine tastings, appropriate food pairings, info packet, coffee & dessert. All classes are on Sundays from 2-4pm at the Langdon Center Concert Hall in Granbury unless otherwise noted. Please call (817) 579-1518 for reservations. (Reservations are required). Sign-up deadline is Jan.24th.



Singles Social Sunday at CrossRoads Winery Frisco - Frisco, Texas



Sunday, January 27, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Frisco, Texas


CrossRoads Winery
15222 King Rd.
Frisco, Texas 75034
972-294-4144

Cost: No Cover

Singles gather on this Sunday to meet and socialize at THE winery. From 1-4 we will have a special menu just for you so come out to the BEST HideOut HangOut in Texas to see why we say, Good Friends + Good Wine = a GREAT time at CrossRoads Winery.


Ricki Derek & the Trio of Three perform on January 26, 2013 - Dallas, Texas



Saturday, January 26, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Asador at the Renaissance Hotel Dallas
2222 Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75207
214-631-2222

Cost: Free admission, Beverages and Food not included

Guests will discover a new sound at The Renaissance Dallas Hotel as Renaissance Hotels’ RLife LIVE presents an inspiring performance by local crooner, Ricki Derek & the Trio of Three January 26 at 7 p.m. Asador Restaurant, located inside the hotel, will offer food and beverage specials for the event, including draft beer for $4, red and white sangria for $6 and a specialty cocktail named after Ricki Derek & The Trio of Three for $8. Food items include guacamole, chips and salsa, grilled cheese and a half dozen oysters priced at $6, $2, $6 and $6, respectively. For more information on the event, please call 214-631-2222.


Announcing Lunch at the backspace!! - Austin, Texas


Announcing lunch at the backspace starting
this Monday, January 21st!


the backspace
507 San Jacinto
Austin, Texas 78701
512-474-9899


Wine and BBQ Pairing - Wylie, Texas



Saturday, January 26, 2013 from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Wylie, Texas


96 West Winery Tasting Room
103 N. Ballard Avenue
Wylie, Texas 75098
972-442-7838

Cost: $25

At 96West Winery we love wine obviously, and we also love pairing it with food.  We are very excited about this pairing as it combines Texas wine and our favorite type of food; Texas style BBQ from Wylie’s own State Of Mind BBQ.  We will have smoked brisket, sausage, and chicken, including sauce, beans and potatoes, to sample with our wines.  Join us to find your favorite combination.   Don’t miss this one!




CrossRoads Winery Boomers Social Saturday - Frisco, Texas



Saturday, January 26, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Frisco, Texas


CrossRoads Winery
15222 King Rd.
Frisco, Texas 75034
972-294-4144

Cost: No Cover

Come out and meet other Boomers who love wine and people.  From 1-4 we will have a special menu for you and as always: Good Friends + Good Wine= a GREAT time at CrossRoads Winery.


Girls Night Out - Flower Mound, Texas



Friday, January 25, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Flower Mound, Texas


Private Wine Services
3505 Yucca Drive
Flower Mound, Texas 75028
214-460-3742

Cost: Free


Get a sitter and bring your girlfriends for a night out designed Just For You!

Join me for a FREE wine tasting featuring:

Mommy's Time Out Moscato - A delicate and fruity white wine with a touch of sweetness.

Skinny Girl White Blend - Primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio this blend only has 100 calories per 5 ounce serving!

Bitch Grenache - Dark cherry and raspberry aromas, with spicy, peppery notes and hints of anise. Vibrant and juicy with a very soft, sweet-fruited palate structure.



Wine and Chocolate Pairings - Wylie, Texas



Friday, January 25, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wylie, Texas


96 West Winery Tasting Room
103 N. Ballard Avenue
Wylie, Texas 75098
972-442-7838

Cost: $25 for five wines and paired chocolates.


It’s Friday and it’s time for chocolate and wine.  We've paired several of our wines with the remarkably delicious chocolates made by Mountain Pleasant, TX chocolate maker Sweet Shop USA.  If you love light or dark, creamy or firm, dipped or filled, you will love the tastings we have paired for you.  If you can’t get enough of the sweet stuff, we will have plenty to purchase for later.

Come by after dinner to taste what many people believe is by far the best pairing of food and wine of all time.  Receive five wines and chocolate pairings for just $25.



CrossRoads Winery Live Music this Friday - Frisco, Texas




Friday, January 25, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Frisco, Texas



CrossRoads Winery
15222 King Rd.
Frisco, Texas 75034
972-294-4144

Cost: No Cover


CrossRoads Winery is a "grape to glass" winery in northwest Frisco.  We currently feature 14 wines on our menu and great music every Friday night that starts around 7:30pm.  Happy hour starts at 5:00 and we close at 11pm.  This Friday’s feature: JB Clark
Reservations@CRwineryFrisco.com  Must be 21 or older.  No Children.

We are also open Saturday and Sunday for tastings from 1-6pm.

We rent out our space for your events the rest of the week. Check out our website for directions and loads of more information and Special Events. www.CRwineryFrisco.com


Texas Terroir - Wine Class by Kyle Hermes - Florence, Texas



Saturday, January 26, 2013 from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Florence, Texas


The Vineyard at Florence
8711 W FM 487
Florence, Texas 76527
254-793-3363

Cost: $20


Wine Tasting & Light Food Pairing included
Reservations Recommended

Texas Terroir

Did you know Texas is the fifth largest wine producing state in the USA? Or that wine has been made in Texas for well over a hundred years? Please join me in a class dedicated to understanding Texas wines! We’ll cover some of the history of the Texas wine industry (including how we saved France’s wine vines), what makes Texas’ soils great for wine growing, some techniques required for making world class wines in Texas, and the key grapes of the Texas wine scene. Of course we’ll also be drinking some great Texas wines, so come prepared to enjoy the fruits of our great state!



The Grape's Come-As-You-Are Wine Dinner Features "A Sampling from Burgundy" - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, January 24, 2013 from 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


The Grape
2808 Greenville Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75204
214-828-1981

Cost: $48


The Grape’s first Chef’s Come-As-You-Are wine dinner of 2013 features “A Sampling from Burgundy,” Thursday, January 24.   Chef de Cuisine Danyele McPherson will feature a 3-course tasting menu to highlight the selected wines for the evening.  Guest host is Travis James of Favorite Brands.

The Grape's monthly wine dinner provides a fun, casual setting, that allows the guest to "come-as-they-are" and dine at their own pace, allowing for a more festive one-on-one format with the wine experts.  Themes include a wine expert/host for the evening who speaks to each individual table about the wines selected.

Reservations are recommended for this event and available from 5:30-9:00pm.  Cost is $48 per person exclusive of tax, gratuity and other beverages.  Located at 2808 Greenville Avenue, The Grape is open for dinner nightly at 5:30pm and Sunday Brunch.   For reservations call 214-828-1981 or visit the website at www.thegraperestaurant.com.  Complimentary valet parking always provided.


All-VINclusive Weekend at Messina Hof Winery - Bryan, Texas




Friday, January 25, 2013 - Sunday, January 27, 2013 from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Bryan, Texas


Messina Hof Winery
4545 Old Reliance Road
Bryan, Texas 77808
800-736-9463

Cost: Daytime packages are $100 per person; a complete package for two is $900;


Join the family for a weekend of tasting, specially prepared meals and wine-making tradition on January 25 – 27, 2013.

Events will take place in all areas of the resort grounds from the Vintage House Restaurant and Wine Bar to the Vineyard and Cellar Room.

The VINclusive weekend will kick off at 5 p.m. on Friday, January 25 as attendees arrive and check-in to Messina Hof’s Villa Bed and Breakfast. Guests are encouraged to relax and explore the property before attending a reception at the Wine Bar and “Chef’s Table” dinner at 6:30 p.m. Each dish from this exquisite four-course meal will be presented by the vineyard’s expert culinary team and paired with award-winning Messina Hof wines.

On Saturday morning, guests will enjoy a gourmet Champagne breakfast at 8 a.m. in the Villa, followed by a vine-pruning workshop at 10 a.m. in the vineyard. During this hands-on experience, the winemaker Paul Bonarrigo will illustrate the same steps used by professionals to prune the vines, a step that is imperative to the wine-making process for the coming harvest. After, guests are invited to sip on a cup of hot mulled wine.
The wine-centric afternoon continues at noon with a luncheon in the Vineyard Room followed by a wine-blending lesson with the winemaker in the Cellar Room at 2 p.m., where guests can enjoy the unique opportunity to taste hand-blended wines during the process of aging. Guests that are not able to stay overnight can participate in Saturday’s activities with the daytime package.

At the end of the day, guests will gather for a Wine Bar reception at 5 p.m. before moving to the Vineyard Room at 6:30 p.m. for a magnificent Winemaker's Feast. Dinner will feature a four-course Chef's menu paired with the best of Messina Hof wines. The weekend wraps up on Sunday morning with a Champagne breakfast at the Villa before guests check-out at 11 a.m.

From the curious novice to the connoisseur, all wine revelers will appreciate this VINclusive weekend of Messina Hof winemaking tradition. A complete package for two is $900; daytime packages are $100 per person. For more information or to make a reservation, please call (979) 778-9463 ext. 234 or visit www.MessinaHof.com.


After Hours Business Mixer - Frisco, Texas



Thursday, January 24, 2013 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Frisco, Texas


CrossRoads Winery
15222 King Rd.
Frisco, Texas 75034
972-294-4144

Cost: No Cover Charge


Trail Blazers
Business Mixer
“Making a Mark in North Texas”

Thursday January 24
5:30-7:30

CrossRoads Winery Frisco

 Guest Speaker: Fox4 Anchor - Richard Ray