Thursday, February 28, 2013

2013 Foodways Texas Symposium - Our Barbecue, Ourselves - Austin, Texas



Our Barbecue, Ourselves
April 4-6, 2013
Austin, Texas

Our Barbecue, Ourselves, the 3rd Annual Foodways Texas symposium will explore the past, present, and potential of smoked meat in Texas and its intimate connections to Texas cultural history and identity. We'll consider what we can learn from barbecue as both meal and process. What can both the meat and the dishes served alongside it tell us about our history? How have traditions and techniques from diverse heritages intersected to create today's Texas barbecue? How is the way we consume barbecue and barbecue culture being affected by changing technologies and food ideologies? We'll tackle these questions and more as we feast on generous helpings of barbecue from around the state and beyond.


Ticket costs:

$250 (member)
$280 (general public)

Registration includes lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday as well as a welcome dinner on Thursday night. See schedule below.

Tickets are limited and on sale now.


Tuesday, February 26, 2013

JOIN US FOR A CRAWFISH COOKOUT!


RSVP at http://on.fb.me/UVjV2P. We look forward to eating crawfish with you!

Cheers!  
Austin Restaurant Week
April 7-10 & 14-17


Pinkberry Comes To Austin


Pinkberry, the world¹s leading yogurt retailer, announced today that it would open its first ever location in Austin, Texas in the late Spring of 2013. The newest Pinkberry is located in Westlake at the Westbank Market (3300 Bee Caves Road, Suite 640).

Pinkberry takes pride in serving the perfect cup of yogurt with a dedication to quality and freshness the residents of Austin will taste. Pinkberry's handcrafted yogurt bar offers a variety of irresistible yogurts expertly crafted to complement its thoughtfully selected toppings to create one-of-a-kind taste experiences.

Pinkberry frozen yogurt is the perfect treat. It¹s made with non-fat RBST milk and non-fat yogurt, it is light, refreshing with a clean finish and offers the truest taste of the flavor itself ­ for example Strawberry Pinkberry tastes like biting into an actual fresh strawberry. Flavors include tart and fruity flavors like pomegranate, strawberry, mango and more indulgent flavors like peanut butter, salted caramel and chocolate hazelnut. There are over 15 different flavors that rotate based on the season.

Ron Graves, Pinkberry CEO, says, "We're excited to introduce Pinkberry's high quality, unique yogurt experience to Austin and we couldn't have picked a better partner than Lone Star Swirls who are equally passionate about bringing the goodness of yogurt to their community and singularly focused on exceeding our customer expectations every day."

Fortunate for the community of Austin, a foodie city, there will be no wait for what's new to come from Pinkberry. The Austin location will be one of the first markets to debut Pinkberry's new product line in the late Spring offering new yogurt choices. The brand opens in Austin with a revamped menu offering even more choices of yogurt with delicious and culinary inspired experiences.

"We fell in love with Pinkberry when we were on a family vacation to New York City and knew that this type of yogurt ­ natural, fresh and tart would be a big hit in Central Texas," said Elisa Pederson, Co-Owner of Lone Star Swirls.  "We are excited to introduce a new level of quality to the yogurt experience here in Austin."

With a passion to help people discover new ways to enjoy yogurt in their daily routines, Pinkberry assists every customer in pairing yogurts with the perfect toppings, blending them into smoothies or creating delicious parfaits. The taste of Pinkberry's specialty yogurts is unbeatable when combined with selected toppings like fresh daily hand-cut fruit, never frozen or in syrup, natural granolas and nuts, specialty chocolates and sweets as well as finishers like cinnamon honey, vanilla agave and organic strawberry puree. Customers can choose from these groupings of toppings to personalize their yogurt experience from the only topping bar in the industry that is 100 percent free of transfats, hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup.

For more information, please visit: http://www.pinkberry.com/westlake or follow us on Twitter: @pinkberryATX and Instagram: pinkberryATX.   Pinkberry Westlake is also hiring, to inquire please email austinjobs@pinkberry.com

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Olive & June Sunday Dinner - Austin, Texas


olive & june
3411 Glenview Ave.
Austin, Texas 78703
512-467-9898


Mon - Thu: 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Fri - Sat: 4:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Sun: 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm




Sunday dinner at olive & june, February 24th

antipasti
roasted broccoli, carrot butter, hazelnut
&
zeppole, seaweed, anchovy, 

primi
romaine, dill, parmesan, spicy chickpeas
&
baked ziti, mozzarella, black olive, pomodoro

secondi
lamb shoulder, fava bean, mint, pecorino
with
leek gratinate, besciamella, breadcrumb

dolci
spice cake, lemon cream, ginger cookie crumble, lemon curd

$35 for adults, children under 12, gratis!

Walk the Red Carpet at J. BLACK'S Feel Good Kitchen & Lounge-Austin


Oscar Watch Party
A Live Telecast
Sunday walk the red carpet and enjoy Moët & Chandon Specials, Complimentary Popcorn, Cast Your Own Ballot & Oscar Bingo.

710-B West 6th Street, Austin, Texas 78701
512-433-6954

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Hartford Court Wine Dinner with Winemaker Jeff Stewart - Dallas, Texas



Monday, March 4, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Chef Kent Rathbun's Home
Park Lane
Dallas, Texas 75231
469-867-3681

Cost: $200 per person

Enjoy an amazing dinner at Chef Kent Rathbun's penthouse. You will enjoy dinner and wine, alongside Hartford Court Winemaker Jeff Stewart and Chef Rathbun.





Big Pours, Little Plates - Happy Hour - Florence, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Florence, Texas


The Vineyard at Florence
8711 W FM 487
Florence, Texas 76527
254.793.3363

Cost: Free to attend, food and wine specials


Come enjoy the scenic views and great wine happy hour!

$5 Sangria

50% bottles of Estate wine

$5 special appetizer plate



Sample Wine Class with Dilek Caner: Sparkling and Sweet wines - Dallas, Texas



Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Classic Wine Storage
14372 Proton
Dallas, Texas 75244
917-957-8529

Cost: $50


The class on February 27 focuses on sparkling and sweet wines.

If you are considering a comprehensive wine course and would like a sneak preview to what it will be like, consider one of these sample classes. These sessions will give you an idea of what will be covered in class and the types of wines are tasted.

Fees: $50 includes all wines to be tasted. Your payment can be applied as credit to any WSET class in which you enroll after your sample class.

Please note that one person may register for only one sample class. It is not possible to register for sample classes as a series.

Location:
Classic Wine Storage
14372 Proton
Dallas, TX 75244



Celebrate Texas Independence Day with Pedernales Cellars - Stonewall, Texas



Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Stonewall, Texas


Pedernales Cellars
2916 Upper Albert Rd.
Stonewall, Texas 78671
830-644-2037

Cost: Free admission, some activities are ticketed

Come celebrate Texas Independence Day with Pedernales Cellars!  There will activities all day, including live music, food, cooking demonstrations, and hay rides.  Admission is free and open to the public.  Some events such as the cooking demonstrations are ticketed, and wine club members have priority and complimentary access.  Bring the family and a picnic, and make a day of it!


Classic Cheese and Wine - Dallas, Texas



Friday, March 1, 2013 from 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Dallas, Texas


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

Cost: $30


Classic: (Klasik) - Adjective - Judged over a period of time to be of the highest quality and outstanding of its kind.

Sometimes nothing beats a classic. When it comes to cheese, there is sometimes nothing more comforting than a classic, like goat cheese from the Loire or a beautiful hard sheep cheese from Spain. Join us as we explore some of the original greats paired with classic wines!













Wine Tasting - San Antonio, Texas



Tuesday, February 26, 2013 - Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
San Antonio, Texas

SA Liquors-UTSA
5607 UTSA BLVD
San Antonio, Texas 78249
210-558-4399

Cost: Free


Daily Wine Tasting from 1-5 pm

Clos du Bois Merlot - Only $9.99

Clos du Bois Chardonnay - Only 6.99



Napa Cabernet Tasting - Plano, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Plano, Texas


Sip & Savor
3921 Coit Road
Plano, Texas 75093
972-318-9042

Cost: $20

We are pouring three great examples of Napa Valley cabernets, including Corison and Terra Valentine.


Churrascos Westchase Wine Dinner - Houston, Texas



Monday, March 4, 2013 from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Houston, Texas


Churrascos Westchase
9705 Westheimer
Houston, Texas 77042
713-952-1988

Cost: $65 per person


Wine Dinner
Monday, March 4, 2013

Featuring Ferrari-Carano WinesCalifornia

RED SNAPPER CEVICHE "DIRTY"

gin, red onion, cilantro, edamame & yuca chip

fume blanc, sonoma county

PLANTAIN CRUSTED CRAB FINGERS

corn smoked crab fingers, sweet potato puree

chardonnay, sonoma county

MAPLE BALSAMIC PORK LOIN

candied pecans, aji pepper mashed potato

merlot, sonoma county

STUFFED LAMB LOIN

spinach, goat cheese & portabello stuffing, caldoso cilantro rice

cabernet sauvignon, alexander valley

ROASTED PINEAPPLE TART

guava ice cream, almond tuile

fresh brewed coffee

$65 PER PERSON PLUS TAX & GRATUITY for reservations, please call 713.952.1988 churrascos westchase – 9705 westheimer

cordua.com


Taste Boutique Wines from Australia with Alan Lagarde from Old Bridge Cellars - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


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

Cost: $15

Come join us for an adventure in Australian wines Thursday February 28th from 7-9PM! Meet Alan from Old Bridge Cellars and taste some great wine. Some of our favorite wines will be showcased, and you can bet there will be a Shiraz or two! $15*plus tax and gratuity. Reservations recommended.


Brennan's Case of the Mondays - Wine Tasting: Pink Wines - Houston, Texas



Monday, March 4, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Brennan's of Houston
3300 Smith Street
Houston, Texas 77006
713-522-9711

Cost: $20


CASE OF THE MONDAYS - Monthly Wine Tasting Do you have a case of the Mondays?
Cure your Monday blues with our monthly "Case of the Mondays" wine tasting. Each class size is limited to 20 guest as we taste through an entire case of wine. Each case will feature different styles of wine and be lead by Wine Guy, Jason Sherman.



Silver Oak Wine Dinner - Colleyville, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Colleyville, Texas


Next Wood Fired Bistro & Vino Bar
5003 Colleyville Blvd.
Colleyville, Texas 76034
682-325-4046

Cost: $99 per person (exclusive of tax or gratuity).

Join us for a 4-course dinner featuring 4 different wines from Twomey and Silver Oak Cellars. Reservations are required.


Exclusive Williams Selyem Wine Dinner at Philippe Restaurant + Lounge - Houston, Texas



Sunday, March 3, 2013 from 5:30 PM - 8:15 PM
Houston, Texas


Philippe Restaurant + Lounge
1800 Post Oak Blvd
Houston, TX 77056
713-439-1000

Cost: $175


Join Phil’s Wine Lounge and Sommelier Vanessa Trevino Boyd for an exclusive wine dinner featuring Williams Selyem Winery of California.  Enjoy a sparkling wine reception, followed by a five-course menu with wine pairings.  Winemaker Bob Cabral, as part of his first-ever market visit to Texas, will be present to share insights and visions from his 15 years of winemaking.  Guests will get the rare opportunity to taste the newly released vintage Pinot Noir.  There will also be a special showing of two older wines from the Winery’s library, as well as a rare bottling of Brut Vintage Sparkling Blanc de Noirs.

About Williams Selyem Winery: Williams Selyem began as a simple dream of two friends, Ed Selyem and Burt Williams, who pursued weekend winemaking and made their first commercial vintage in 1981. In less than two decades, Burt and Ed created a cult-status winery of international acclaim. Together they set a new standard for Pinot Noir in the U.S., putting the Russian River Valley on the map with some of the best winegrowing regions of the world.  Their 'Westside Road' bottling won the "Reserve Best in Show" award in this year's "Rodeo Uncorked!" contest.  Winemaker Bob Cabral is heading into his 15th vintage at Williams Selyem, but his winemaking philosophy has not changed: “The key is to respect the vineyard and value the fruit. Working with some of the best growers and vineyards in the world allows us to farm to the highest possible standards and provides us with the finest fruit available.





Classic Cheese and Wine - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 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

Classic: (Klasik) - Adjective - Judged over a period of time to be of the highest quality and outstanding of its kind. Sometimes nothing beats a classic. When it comes to cheese, there is sometimes nothing more comforting than a classic, like goat cheese from the Loire or a beautiful hard sheep cheese from Spain. Join us as we explore some of the original greats paired with classic wines!


LaCenterra's Cheers! for Charity - Katy, Texas



Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Katy, Texas


LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard
Katy, Texas 77494
281-395-5533

Cost: $50 advance/$65 day of event


“Cheers!” Cheers! for Charity, that is! Join LaCenterra restaurants and community partners for an afternoon of sipping, samples, live entertainment and art – with heart. Proceeds benefit five local nonprofit organizations: American Red Cross, Citizens for Animal Protection, Katy Culture & Arts Alliance’s Katy Art Fund, Support the Girls and Katy Family YMCA.

LaCenterra’s Cheers! for Charity will feature over 100 wines from across the state and around the world, international beers, spirits and sake, Texas craft beers and spirits, food samples, pairing demonstrations, fine art from Katy area artists and more.

Tasting wristbands will be available the day of the event for $65, or you can purchase now and save $15! Ticket price includes access to the event and a souvenir tasting glass while supplies last. Advance tickets will be exchanged for tasting wristbands at the event. Proper ID is required for each ticket exchanged or wristband purchased.



Inwood Estates - "First Sunday Jazz" March 3rd - Florence, Texas



Sunday, March 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 7 Wines - $12; Military Discount 10%


Join Us for a RELAXING Sunday Afternoon!

                    With Great Wine......

                         And Great Jazz!


                "1st Sunday Jazz"

                         March 3rd,  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 March 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."



Girl's Night Out - Santa Fe, Texas



Friday, March 1, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Santa Fe, Texas


Haak Vineyards & Winery
6310 Ave T
Santa Fe, Texas 77510
409-925-1401

Cost: $35.00 per person


Girls, Gals, Lassies and Ladies all just want to have fun!

We invite you to enjoy an evening with your best of friends, sisters and moms from 6:30 to 10 pm.

Dinner will be served from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Desserts 9 to 10 pm

Entertainment and Dancing with Prime Time Live Band begins at 7 pm.

Tickets are $35 available online until noon February 28, $40 at the door on March 1.

Dinner Buffet (Included with ticket purchase)

Fried Fish Soft Tacos- Delicate white fish in light corn meal batter topped with homemade Cole slaw with choice of corn or flour tortillas

OR

Chicken Fajitas-Grilled Chicken Breast thinly sliced topped with sautéed bell peppers and onions with choice of corn or flour tortillas

**Both entrees include Scratch made Refried Beans, Fresh Tortilla Chips, Homemade Salsa, Cheese, lettuce, Sour cream, and Guacamole

Dessert

Margarita Cupcakes- Fresh lime cupcake topped with a Tequila-Lime Swiss buttercream, garnished with lime zest

Special Cocktail -one serving included with ticket purchase

Wine-a-Rita- Blanc du Bois Semi-sweet, and Blanc-du-Bois Port mixed with our special wine-a-rita mix and fresh squeezed lime.

Please visit www.haakwine.com for reservations and more information


The Georgetown Swirl...Sip, Savor, Shop and Swirl around the Square - Georgetown, Texas



Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Georgetown, Texas


The Georgetown Square
710 S. Main St.
Georgetown, Texas 78626
512-930-2027

Cost: $30 each


Mark your calendars for this year’s Swirl…Saturday, March 2!  The Georgetown Swirl is winner of the Texas Downtown Association 2012 President’s Award for Best Promotional Event.
Enjoy an evening of downtown shopping while sampling Texas’s top wines and dining on local restaurants’ savory bites on the Georgetown Square from 6-9 p.m. on Saturday, March 2.  Live jazz music will help set the fun and festive mood.

Judy and Len Lester, downtown property and business owners of The Escape Fine Crafts & Gifts, will serve as the 2013 Swirl honorary event chairs. The Escape Fine Crafts & Gifts was also a finalist for the Texas Downtown Association 2012 President’s Award for Best Downtown Business.  Please join them in supporting this annual downtown fundraising event!

A total of 400 event tickets are only available for purchase online starting in December at Swirl.Georgetown.org for $30 each.  The 2013 Swirl poster will also be for sale for $10 each and can be signed by Graphic Artist Joe Cuniff in the Williamson County Courthouse.  Georgetown Swirl event proceeds will help provide funding for the Georgetown Main Street Program’s Façade & Sign Grant Program. Through this program, building and business owners may obtain matching grants for the improvement of downtown signage and facades, while keeping the building’s historical integrity.

Shoppers can also buy opportunities to win several groupings out of 200 favorite wines by purchasing Swirl Wine Auction tickets the night of the event or in advance at the Visitor Info Center, 103 W. 7th St., or at the Williamson Museum, 716 S. Austin Ave., for $5 each or 5/$20.  Wine auction proceeds benefit the Main Street Facade & Sign Grant Program and the Williamson Museum.

All Things Kids, 703 S. Main St., will have licensed child care providers on staff throughout The Georgetown Swirl.  Check your children into their Play Zone for hours of fun and educational projects and games. This drop-in service is available exclusively to Swirl Ticket Holders for $5 per hour.  Call 512/868-2659 to save your space in advance.

For more event information, please contact the Main Street program office at 512/930-2027 or mainstreet@georgetown.org .



Italian Wine Dinner at Valentino - Houston, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Houston, Texas


Valentino Vin Bar at Hotel Derek
2525 West Loop South
Houston, Texas 77027
713-297-4327

Cost: $69 per person (includes valet)


Hotel Derek's Valentino restaurant will host a family-style wine dinner featuring some of Italy's premium wines paired with the country's signature culinary entrees on Thursday, February 28 from 6-8 p.m. The wines presented at the dinner, along with other Italian specialty vintages, will be auctioned off during the course of the evening.

Cost is $69 per person and includes valet. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/TheHotelDerek or call to book directly at 713-297-4327.


San Gabriel Wine Trail - Central Texas - 6 Wineries - Georgetown, Texas



Saturday, March 2, 2013 - Sunday, March 3, 2013 from 12:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Georgetown, Texas


Williamson County - San Gabriel Wine Trail
715 S. Main St
Georgetown, Texas 78626
512-869-8600

Cost: $30


Enjoy visiting 6 wineries in Central Texas all within a 30 minute drive from each other.   Cost is $30 which includes 3 tastings at each winery, a souviner glass and small muchies at each winery.  The trail is offered for 2 days so you can either use your tickets for Saturday or Sunday.  Sunday is shorter times open than on Saturday.

Georgetown Winery, Grapecreek Winery (Georgetown Location), Salado Creek Winery, Rising Star Vineyards (Salado Location), Dancing Bee Winery & Lakeview Winery



Spirit Roundtable: Fortified Wines - Houston, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Houston, Texas


Brennan's of Houston
3300 Smith Street
Houston, Texas 77006
713-522-9711

Cost: $15


At Brennan's, we hold monthly monthly wine/spirit seminars breaking down the difference in the featured spirit, learn their history and taste what makes each of them special. Light bites available.

This month we'll focus on Fortified Wines
(Port, Sherry, Vermouth)

"Sipping cocktails while learning? Definitely sounds like my kind of educational experience."
Davon D.E. Hatchett of CultureMap.



First Saturday Wine Dinner - Marble Falls, Texas



Saturday, March 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


Haven Wine Dinner - Houston, Texas



Wednesday, February 27, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Haven
2502 Algerian Way (near 59 & Kirby), Houston, TX.
Houston, Texas 77098
713-581-6101

Cost: $125 per person (public) $100 per person (Cornerstone Cellars Wine Club Members)* *Wine Club members contact director of sales Alex Crown to make reservations: alexc@cornerstonecellars.com


Haven Presents 

- Cornerstone Cellars Wine Dinner - 
with founder Dr. Michael Dragutsky

First

Oktapodi Krasato
marinated young octopus, olive oil, red wine vinegar, thyme, oregano
Stepping Stone North Coast White Rocks! ‘11

Second

Gulf fish, celeriac puree, fennel slaw
Cornerstone Cellars Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc ‘10

Third

Grilled quail, roasted brussel sprouts, marcona almonds, duck bacon
Cornerstone Oregon Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ‘09

Fourth

44 farms smoked new york strip, caramelized maduros, chimichurri
Stepping Stone Napa Valley Cabernet Franc‘09

Fifth

Fudge cake, candied beet powder, saba caramel
Cornerstone Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ‘09

$125 per person (public)
$100 per person (Cornerstone Cellars Wine Club Members)*

*Wine Club members contact director of sales Alex Crown to make reservations: alexc@cornerstonecellars.com





Five Course Chandon Wine Dinner at Finn & Porter - Austin, Texas



Thursday, February 28, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Austin, Texas


Finn & Porter Restaurant
500 East 4th Street
Austin, Texas 78701
512-493-4900

Cost: $89 per person plus tax & gratuity.


Finn & Porter is partnering with Chandon for a fantastic 5 course wine dinner.  Chef Peter Maffei has created a menu that will be paired with both sparkling and still wines from the Chandon house.  Tuna Foie Gras and Braised Short Ribs are just two of the creative dishes that he has in store for you.

Discounted valet parking through the Hilton hotel or you may receive complementary parking in the hotels self parking lot.  All subject to availability



Crown Royal whiskey dinner at Ruth's Chris Steak House - Houston, Texas



Wednesday, February 27, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Ruth's Chris Steak House
6213 Richmond Avenue
Houston, Texas 77057
713-789-2333

Cost: $70 per person (plus tax and gratuity)


Join us for an evening of exceptional food and
award winning whiskey from

Crown Royal

February 27th, 2013 at 7:00pm
$70 per person
(plus tax and gratuity)

First Course
Blackened Scallops with Parsley Pesto Butter
Paired with Crown Royal Crusta

Second Course
Applewood Smoked Bacon over Arugula
with Sweet Maple and Mustard Sauce
Paired with Crown Royal Flight

Third Course
6 oz. Filet Mignon & Grilled Shrimp
Served with Mashed Potatoes & Creamed Spinach
Paired with Crown Royal Reserve Old Fashion

Fourth Course
Traditional Bread Pudding with Maple Crown Sauce
Paired with Crown Royal XR Neat

RSVP to 713.789.2333

 February 27th, 2013 at 7:00pm





TX Sake Dinner: 5 Paired Courses - A Driskill Academy Interactive Event - Austin, Texas



Wednesday, February 27, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Austin, Texas


The Driskill Grill
604 Brazos Street
Austin, Texas 78701
512-391-7039

Cost: $75 per person


FIVE COURSES & YOUR OWN TEXAS SAKE GUIDE.

Wednesday, February 27th - 7:00p - 10:00p

Join hte culinary & vino masterminds at The Driskill Grill for our informal monthly event celebrating good food, good wine & good company -- the convivial atmosphere introduces fun & offbeat inventive paitings, along with teaching you a thing or two and opening up the conversation at communcal dining tables.

Make new friends, drink, dine and learn a little something!

February’s Driskill Academy event introduces New American pairings for a creative spin on what to serve with traditional Japanese & Texas-crafted sake:
Not just for Sushi anymore, Y’all.

Featuring Special Guest Speaker Toji Yoed Anis of Texas Sake Company & the masterful Driskill culinary team, five courses are presented in a  Seating is available for individuals at communal tables, or, reservations can be made for parties up to 8.



Tuesday, February 19, 2013

HERB GARDEN WORKSHOP... it's kind of a big dill!



A celebration of gardening, cooking, and community

WHEN: Saturday, February 23 | 11:00- 1:00
WHERE: Contigo Austin | 2027 Anchor Lane

GARDEN: Learn how to plant and maintain your own herb garden with tips and tricks from Sam Thorp of Johnson's Backyard Garden. Put your new skills to the test and get your hands dirty planting Contigo's herb garden.

EAT: Enjoy a casual lunch prepared by Executive Chef, Andrew Wiseheart, and students from the Culinary program at Travis High.

CONNECT: Mix and mingle with other amazing community members. Share your talents. Meet students from the culinary program at Travis High School. Feel what it's like to make a difference.

Your ticket will help us build a garden at Travis High School! Space is limited!

Monday, February 18, 2013

Celebrate National Margarita Day at Jack Allen's Kitchen

February 18th - February 22nd

Celebrate National Margarita Day at Jack Allen's Kitchen.

Although National Margarita Day is February 22nd, Jack Allen's Kitchen is celebrating all week long starting on February 18th.


7720 Highway 71 West, Austin, Texas | 512.852.8558
2500 Hoppe Trail, Round Rock, Texas 78681 | 512.215.0372

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Cellar 17 French Wine Tasting with Moxy Castro - Houston, Texas



Tuesday, February 19, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Cellar 17 Wine Bar
6608 FM 1960 W, Suite C
Houston, Texas 77069
281-893-6400

Cost: $15.00 per person


Moxy Castro from Espirit du Vin, will be here to lead
us through this tasting of 6 different wines from around France.

It is a great way to to learn
about French wine making and several regions.

$15 Per person, Tax and Gratuity not included.



Live Music - The Vineyard at Florence - The Jimi Lee Acoustic Show - Florence, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Florence, Texas


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

Cost: Free to Attend


Jimi Lee will charm you with his harmonica! Always a good time!

Wine & food always available.



Murder Mystery Dinner at CrossRoads Winery - Frisco, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Frisco, Texas


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

Cost: $50 all inclusive


A tantalizing night in Tinseltown filled with twists and terror.

After a night of accolades at the Academy Awards Show, you will attend the A-list after-party hosted by millionaire Vanity Affair. While socializing and schmoozing with Hollywood’s elite, careers will be made, secrets will be revealed, scandals will be broken and a homicide will happen.

With a V.I.P. victim and the celebrities all suspect, you will be called upon to find the criminal by cracking this red carpet caper.Will it be an aspiring actress, tired of living in the shadows? A livid lover who has been pushed too far? Or possibly the teen starlet trying to attract a more mature audience?

As the night unfolds, so will a web of lies and scandals intricately woven to point you to a killer. It is up to you to uncover the clues or the culprit will remain concealed.

Come walk the blood red carpet and enjoy a night of secrets, celebrities & scandal.



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



Saturday, February 23, 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 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!



Sample Wine Class with Dilek Caner: Italy and Spain - Dallas, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 12:15 PM - 2:15 PM
Dallas, Texas


Classic Wine Storage
14372 Proton
Dallas, Texas 75244
917-957-8529

Cost: $50


The class on February 25th focuses on Italy and Spain.

If you are considering a comprehensive wine course and would like a sneak preview to what it will be like, consider one of these sample classes. These sessions will give you an idea of what will be covered in class and the types of wines are tasted.

Your payment of $50 can be applied as credit to any WSET class in which you enroll after your sample class.
Please note that one person may register for only one sample class. It is not possible to register for sample classes as a series.

Location:
Classic Wine Storage
14372 Proton
Dallas, TX 75244





Big Pours, Little Plates - Happy Hour - Florence, Texas



Thursday, February 21, 2013 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Florence, Texas


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

Cost: Free to attend, food and wine specials


Come enjoy the scenic views and great wine happy hour!

$5 Sangria

50% bottles of Estate wine

$5 special appetizer plate



Sample Wine Class with Dilek Caner: Syrah, Grenache and Riesling - Dallas, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Classic Wine Storage
14372 Proton
Dallas, Texas 75244
917-957-8529

Cost: $50


The class on February 20th focuses on Grenache, Syrah and Riesling.

If you are considering a comprehensive wine course and would like a sneak preview to what it will be like, consider one of these sample classes. These sessions will give you an idea of what will be covered in class and the types of wines are tasted.

Fees: $50 includes all wines to be tasted. Your payment can be applied as credit to any WSET class in which you enroll after your sample class. The credit is valid for 1 year following your sample class date.

Please note that one person may register for only one sample class. It is not possible to register for sample classes as a series.

Location:
Classic Wine Storage
14372 Proton
Dallas, TX 75244



Sip & Knit - Salado, Texas



Thursday, February 21, 2013 from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Salado, Texas 


Salado Wine Seller
841 N Main St
Salado, Texas 76571
254-947-8011

Cost: Admission is free, you can buy wine at $5 a glass.

Join Linda Woznica, from Salado Yarn Co. , for our first ever “Sip ‘n Knit”. Bring your favorite knitting project for a casual gathering of knitters (and crocheters) where everyone brings whatever they are working on and we sit around together and talk, share, help one another, and one other thing – We drink wine! $5 glass of wine will be available. All levels of knitters are welcome but please keep in mind there are no lessons. Linda will have supplies so you can knit a wine bottle scarf. What? You heard us right, you can make a scarf to keep your favorite bottle cozy. So don’t be shy, come on by!


Women Wine & Art - Hosted by Domaine Wine Company - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, February 21, 2013 from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


Domaine Wine Company
3610 Oak Lawn Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75219
214-219-3177

Cost: Complimentary Tasting


Join us for an evening of
Wine, Women, and Art

5:30 – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, February 21, 2013
Hosted by Domaine Wine Company, 3610 Oak Lawn Avenue

Featuring:
Wine-themed Works of Art by Jeanette Korab
Fine Wine and Champagne Tastings by Domaine Wine Company
Cheese Pairings by Scardello Artisan Cheese 

A portion of wine and art sales this evening will benefit The Dallas Woman’s Forum



Live Music-Food and Wine Pairing Ragin Cajun! - Fredericksburg, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Fredericksburg, Texas


Rancho Ponte Vineyard
315 Ranch Road 1376
Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
830-990-8555

Cost: No cover charge. 10.00 wine tasting fee

Live Music-Food and Wine Pairing for our Ragin Cajun 290 Winetrail Weekend. Grab a glass of wine and pair it with our  hot Texas Jambalaya and stay awhile!


Cheese 101- Winner of D Magazine's Best of Big D! - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, February 21, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


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

Cost: $30

Join Scardello and nibble your way through the different cheese types. Experience comparative tastings of cheese and out-of-the-ordinary items that will help you focus on the distinct flavors of each cheese type. We will cover the basics on how cheese is made and answer questions about cheese pairing fundamentals. Of course, there will be soothing libations provided for enjoyment in the relaxing atmosphere of the shop! Reservations required.


Free Wine & Food Pairing at Vinously Speaking Wine Shop - San Antonio, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
San Antonio, Texas


Vinously Speaking - An Eclectic Wine Shop & Blog
7271 Wurzbach, Ste 117
San Antonio, Texas 78240
210-793-4078

Cost: Free

Every "Saturday Free Wine & Food Pairing" at Vinously Speaking Wine Shop has a theme. The theme for Feb 23rd is "The Oscar Awardsl!" We will be pairing 6 different wines with 6 different movie and 6 unique flavored popcorns! :) Join us anytime between 1p and 7p. Our shop is located on the corner of Wurzbach & Babcock in the business plaza behind McD's.


Pre-Oscar Party with Coppola Wines. Part of our Big Brands Re-Discovered - Dallas, Texas



Thursday, February 21, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


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

Cost: $15


Please join us in celebrating the most exciting night in Hollywood at our Pre-Oscar party with Coppola wines as part of our Big Brand Tasting series and poured by Jay Koeller from Coppola Winery. We have all kinds of “prizes” that will be given away including movies like the Godfather and will be pouring some wines you have never seen. Named after the version of a film which most reflects the director's vision, the Director's Cut wines represent our winemaker's vision of varietal wines. In addition, every bottle of Director's Cut pays homage to the history of filmmaking with its wraparound label designed after a Zoetrope strip, one of the earliest moving picture devices. Each Director’s Cut label is a replica of a strip from Francis’s personal Zoetrope collection.

Stop in and try these wines again. You might just be surprised. $15* plus tax and gratuity. 7-9PM - Reservations recommended.



"Classic Wines" (Four-session class with tastings) - Houston, Texas



Monday, February 25, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Houston, Texas


Rice University - Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies
6100 Main St.
Houston, Texas 77005
713-348-4803

Cost: $295 for four-session course


Classic Wines
Four Mondays, February 11 and 25 and March 4 and 18, 2013, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Fee: $295   CEUs: 1.0   Limited enrollment

What makes a wine “a classic”? The answer can be found in wines from the great wine-growing regions of the old world and in the new world wines inspired by the great originals. Wine educator Bear Dalton will look first at the originals — classic wines from the best and best-known wine-growing regions in the world. He will guide the class through tasting and discussion of wines from these regions. Each week you will taste both white and red wines, with sparkling and dessert wines served in selected sessions. Ten wines and two appropriate cheeses will be served during each class.

Topics will include the following:
• Bordeaux
• Champagne and Burgundy
• Chianti, Rioja and Port
• The Rhineland and the Rhone
• The new classics

Instructor: Charles M. Bear Dalton, fine wine buyer for Spec’s Liquor Stores, has been involved in every facet of the wine business and is a wine consultant for a variety of area businesses. He teaches wine courses for local and regional restaurants and the Wine School at Alliance Française de Houston, and has also taught at the Conrad Hilton School of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. Mr. Dalton has regular contact with winemakers and winery owners from around the world and travels extensively in the wine regions of California, Europe, South America and Australia. He was instrumental in founding and has served as chair of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ Wine Competition Committee. Mr. Dalton is the recipient of My Table magazine’s 2008 Legend Award and has been teaching for the Glasscock School of Continuing Studies since 1988.



Meet, Greet, Drink & Eat with Spire Collection Wines - Colleyville, Texas



Wednesday, February 20, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Colleyville, Texas


Next Wood Fired Bistro & Vino Bar
5003 Colleyville Blvd.
Colleyville, TX 76034
682-325-4046

Cost: $40 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity)


Come to NEXT and sample of just some of the beautiful wines from the Spire Collection.

The Evening's Wine Lineup

  • 2011 Galerie Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
  • 2009 Maggy Hawk Hawk Jolie Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley 
  • 2009 Maggy Hawk Afleet Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley
  • 2009 Mt. Brave Cabernet, Mt. Veeder
  • 2004 La Jota Cabernet, Howell Mountain

Wines will be accompanied by cheese and salami selections and passed appetizers from the Chefs at NEXT.



Bridal Open House - Santa Fe, Texas



Sunday, February 24, 2013 from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Santa Fe, Texas


Haak Vineyards & Winery
6310 Ave T
Santa Fe, Texas 77510
409-925-1401

Cost: Free


Once you visit with our event team and chefs we are sure you will know this is the venue you have been searching for!

Various wedding business vendors will be on the property from 2 to 5 pm. There will be random door prizes drawings, a free glass of wine, tastings of our catering menu and cakes. Free to attend. RSVP’s requested.  Make Reservations at www.haakwine.com

Haak Vineyard and Winery is the first and only commercial vineyard and winery in the Galveston-Houston area. Our outdoor chapel sits among 3 acres of grape vines on the 12 acre estate.

We specialize in outdoor vineyard weddings/receptions that allow the couple to choose and create their unique style, allowing them to choose their own specialty vendors or simply be the DIY client.

Our only restriction is that all consumable goods must be provided by our chef and only  Haak award winning Texas wines processed and bottled at our facility can be served.

Our events and chef team are professional, courteous and flexible. Hosting over 25 weddings this last year and receiving high scoring reviews for our service.


Meet and Greet with Award Winning Winemaker Mel Master - Dallas, Texas



Tuesday, February 19, 2013 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dallas, Texas


MAX's Wine Dive
3600 McKinney Ave. Suite 100
Dallas, Texas 75204
214-559-3483

Cost: Free

Experience wine country right here in Dallas with winemaker Mel Master at MAX’s Wine Dive on February 19 at 7 p.m. The complimentary wine tasting will feature one-of-a-kind selections from MAX’s Discovery and Selections Wines, a collection of wines specifically blended for MAX’s Wine Dive, including Max et Jacques Chardonnay, Max et Jacques Pinot Noir, Chez Jerome Cab/Syrah, Chez Jerome Marsanne/Viognier and Tortoise Creek Rose.  Guests will have the opportunity to converse with Master as they enjoy his exquisite wines.


Wine & Fashion Pairing Luncheon - Houston, Texas



Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 11:30 AM - 1:30 AM
Houston, Texas


Braeburn Country Club
8101 Bissonnet Street
Houston, Texas 77074
703-268-5078

Cost: $28 WOC Members/$40 Guests

Women on Course pairs the cool chardonnays and bold reds of Wente Vineyards with the vibrant patterns of the new Sport Haley lifestyle apparel lines at this unique wine tasting trunk show.  Enjoy lunch, and meet women who share your interests in wine & golf!   You don't have to swing a club to enjoy the benefits of the golf lifestyle as we host women with al skill levels.  This is the prefect opportunity to see what the golf buzz is all about.   (ticket price includes: appetizers, lunch, wine, prizes & gift )