A wine-tastings list that will put you in a romantic mood

By Mark Fisher | Friday, February 3, 2012, 07:39 AM

If you want a smile — or perhaps a smirk — take a look at the wines on the tasting bar at the Wine Gallery on Feb. 8. How do they get AWAY with those names?? Thanks to the Dayton-based wine listserv that compiles this amazing list week in and week out and shares it with Uncorked.

Jay’s Kitchen Door 225 E. Sixth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District, RSVP Events (937) 2222892 http://www.jays.com Friday, Feb 3, 2012 4-8 pm 2009 Pierre Andre Meursault, 2009 Argiolas Korem Grenache 2009 MF Alexander Valley Cabernet 2006 Chateau Larmande 2007 Chateau Grand Barrail Lamarzelle Figeac

Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 1-6 pm NV Veuve Clicquot 2008 Domaine Georges Mugneret 2007 Chateau Le Boscq Saint- Estephe 2007 Ciacci Piccolomini Fadius

Thursday, February 9, 2012 6:30PM $40 Weyerbacher Beer Dinner Seared Sea Scallop with Julienne of Vegetables Verboten Mini Lobster Rueben Merry Monks Grilled Chicken Breast on Bastami Rice with Thai Peanut Sauce Blithering Idiot Yuzu Wasabi Steak, Charred and served on Grilled Fresh Pineapple Double Simco IPA Mocha Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream Tiny

Saturday February 25, 201212:30PM 36th Anniversary Wine Luncheon $65 King Crabcake with Old Bay Slaw and Remoulade 2009 Pouilly Fuisse, Mommessin Hawaiian Hearts of Palm Salad with Oregon Pink Shrimp and Goddess Dressing 2008 Verdicchio Fontevecchia, Casalfarneto Shredded Duck Confit Tart with Cherry Gastrique 2008 Cotes du Rhone, Kermit Lynch Cuvee Seared Filet of Beef with Madeira Sauce topped with Artichoke Heart, Blue Crab and Hollandaise sauce, served with Tarragon Mashed Potatoes 2009 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Les Corbeaux, Dom. Lucien Boillot & Fils Key Lime Cheesecake

Thursday March 8, 2012 6:30PM $40 Belgian Beer Dinner

Arrow Far Hills - Kettering 2950 Far Hills Ave. 9372981456 http://www.arrowwineandspirits.com Friday Feb 3, 2012 4pm to 7pm

Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 11 - 4 pm 2010 Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer 2010 Saladini Pilastri Falerio 2008 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Chardonnay 2009 Cameron Hughes Pinot Noir Lot 266 2009 Frunza Merlot 2009 Cameron Hughes Cabernet Sauivgnon Lot 247 2005 Le Logge di Pietranera Toscana Rosso

Daily Tastings Monday - Friday 9am - 9pm

BIG RED TASTING NOTE: Time Change Sunday February 12, 2012 6:30-8:30 $30 40 + Red Wines Catering by Christophers Open to the first 125 pre-paid reservations

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH 5PM - 8PM MEET WINEMAKER JIM ANDERSON FROM PATRICIA GREEN CELLARS

Dorothy Lane Markets (DLM) Dorothy Lane Market Oakwood Friday, Feb 3, 2012 5-8 pm Elizabeth Spencer ’10 Sauvignon Blanc Ferrari Carano ’09 Chardonnay Morot Beaune Bressandes Premier Cru ‘09 Borsao ’08 Berola Red Wine Langmeil ’08 Hangin Snakes The Wolftrap ’10 Red Wine Brown Bag

Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 2-6 pm Geil ’09 Riesling Kabinett Stag’s Leap ’10 Chardonnay Planeta ’09 La Segreta Benegas ’05 Finca Libertad Brazin ’09 Lodi OV Zinfandel Hillaire ’06 CNDP Bonus Bottle Beer TBA

DLM Washington Square Thursday, Feb 2, 2012 5-8 pm Pfeffinger Riesling Dry 2010 Manu Pinot Gris 2009 Faiveley Bourgogne Rouge 2009 Manero Toscana 2009 Big Red TBD

Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 12-5 pm L de Lyeth Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Botari Moscatel Seco 2008 Cupido Toscana 2010 Lust Full Marriage 2007 Alisa Malbec 2010 Hendry Vineyard Napa Red 2007 Beers

Wednesday, Feb 8, 2012 4 - 7 pm Wine Down Wednesday and 3-6 pm Oysters!

Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, Feb 3, 2012, 3-7 pm 2010 Guy Allion Sauvignon 2010 Scott Family Pinot Noir 2009 La Posta Cocina Blend 2007 Chateau Cantenac 2004 Phillip Togni Cabernet Sauvignon

Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 12-5 pm 2010 Ferrari Carano Fume Blanc 2009 Boyer-Martenot Meursault 2009 Este 2007 Crasto Douro 2008 Chateau la Grand Roche Bonus Bottle

Wednesday, Feb 8, 2012 3:00 to 6:00. Oysters paired with beer and wine!

Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 8482161 Current Wines Le Claux Delorme Valencay Blanc Alfredo Roca Unoaked Cahrdonnay Spann Bordeaux Blend Merum Monastrell Branham Resolution Cabernet Sauvignon

Wines beginning Feb 7 2010 Pesquie Viognier 2009 Palazzone Dubini Bianco 2010 Bishop’s Peak Pinot Noir 2009 Pala Cannonau 2009 Michael Fritz Cabernet Sauvignon

Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville (937) 433-6778 www.arrowwineandspirits.com Beer Tastings every Friday from 5-7 pm Taste 5 unique beers each week Sam Adams Winter Classic Mix Pack Black & Brew(5.8% ABV) Boston Lager(4.9% ABV) Chocolate Bock(5.8% ABV) Holiday Porter(5.8% ABV) Old Fezziwig(5.9% ABV) Winter Lager(5.5% ABV)

Saturday Feb 4, 2012 11-5 pm 2010 Salvard Cheverny… 2010 Catena Chardonnay… 2005 Chateau de Fontenay… 2007 Fattoria di Faltognano Chianti… 2010 Penfolds Thomas Hyland Shiraz… 2006 St. Supery Dollarhide Cabernet Sauvignon … Montaribaldi Birbet

Rue Dumaine 1061 Miamisburg Centerville Road (937) 610-1061 www.ruedumainerestaurant.com Tuesday, Feb 7, 2012 5 - 7 pm Wine tasting! Pinots! 2009 Drouhin Chorey-les-Beaune 2009 Chauvenet Chopin Bourgogne 2009 Beaux Freres Belle Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2009 Beaux Freres Les Cousins

The Wine Gallery 5 West Monument Ave Dayton Ohio 45402 9372249463 Wednesday, Feb 8, 2012 5:30 - 8:30 pm Pre-Valentine’s Day Wine Tasting NV Sex by Mawby sparkling rose, Michigan 2009 Lovers Leap Vineyards, Sloppy Seconds, Kentucky 2009 Menage a Trois Red, California 2009 Ball Buster Shiraz, Australia 2009 Lustful Marriage Red Blend, California

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 from 11am to 10pm Special glass pour of NV Chocolate Shop or NV Strawberry Chocolate Shop Red wine

Deaf Monty’s Wine at Inn Port D’Vino 22 Brown Street in the Oregon District, 937-225-9463 www.daytonwinebar.com 4-8pm Wednesday through Saturday Corte Alla Flora Vino Nobile di Montepulciano; Clos Du Val Cabernet; Sperona Bardolino Superiore; Evodia Garnacha; Hess Select Chardonnay; Monmousseau Vouvray; Maui Splash; Graham’s Six Grapes Port; Huber Winery Blueberry; Innkeeper’s choice red and white.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012 Heart & Sol Wine Tasting 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Schuster Center - NCR Donor Lounges Cost: $65 (Includes Tax, Tip and Parking) RSVP to Eric Heilman, eric.heilman@victoriatheatre.com Taste wines with heavy hors d’ oeuvres, carving, and dessert

A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247.1120 www.atasteofwine.org Jezebel Blanc Elios Mediterranean White Errazuriz Wild Ferment Chardonnay Mustiguillo Mestis Tortoise Creek Merlot MF Cabernet Sauvignon

February 2 - 3 Wine Thursday Tasting. 7pm RSVPs helpful February 23 - Best of Show Wine Tasting March 7 - Tasting with winemaker Rich Parducci

Bruning’s Wine Cellar (937) 4264950 www.brunings.com 2467 Commons Blvd, Beavercreek. Saturday, February 4 from 2-5 PM: 2010 Novellum Chardonnay; 2010 Champault Sancerre ‘les Pierris’; 2010 Andezon Cotes du Rhone; 2010 Cercius Cotes du Rhone Villages; 2008 Roger Sabon Cahteauneuf du Pape Les Olivets; Traquair House Laird’s Legacy is the featured beer

Wednesday, February 8 from 5-8 PM: Beer Tasting: New seasonals and rarities from Dogfish Head, Shipyard, Breckenridge and Old Speckled Hen!

Rumbleseat Wine 5853 Far Hills Ave. Dayton, Ohio (937) 9389801 Wines available everyday including Saturday 10 - 8 pm Dutour Pouilly Fuisse William Hill Chardonnay Guenoc Sauvignon Blanc Zuazo Rioja Blanco Beckerman Riesling Auslese Giorgio Prima Montefusco Cabernet Evodia Grenache Parrone Malbac Lincourt Pinot Noir

Wednesday, Feb 8, 2012 Beer Tasting from 6-8p.m.

Wine class i “Begining Your Wine Adventure” $25 Tuesday, January 31, 2012 7:00 pm Experiments that explore the taste senses, experiments that help to understand how and why food effects wine. The class will also be tasting wine so the lessons can be put to use. Beginners level.

Rumbleseat Wine is sponsoring the Epilepsy Foundation’s Cars & Cabernet Event on March 10th. Call the store for more information! 937-938-9801

The Wine Loft 21 Greene Boulevard Beavercreek, OH 45440-1380 (937) 429-4424 www.thewineloftdayton.com/ Thursday in January 6-8 pm Daedalus Pinot Gris Jesebel Sauvignon Blanc Grochau Red Blend Pinot Project Pinot Noir The Reveler Red Blend

Kroger Centerville Market Place Friday, February 3rd 4pm to 7pm “Happy Hour” Matua Sauvignon Blanc Gabbiano Chianti Classico Layer Cake Malbec “The Show” Cabernet Sauvignon

Saturday, February 4th 1pm to 5pm Stags’ Leap Chardonnay “2010” Etude Pinot Noir “2009” Dona Paula Malbec “2007” Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet “2009”

Sunday,February 5th 2pm to 5pm Napa Cellars Sauvignon Blanc Campo Viejo Rioja Reserve Paul Newman Cabernet Greg Norman Shiraz/Cabernet

Miami Valley Wine Spirits 943 W. Main St. Tipp City (937) 6673614 Friday, Feb 3, 2012 Tasting 5-9 pm Special Lager Point Brewing Co. 4 C’s Pale Ale Brewkettle Brewing Co. Ruthless Rye IPA Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Chickory Stout Dogfish Head Brewing Co. 2X Stout Double Milk Stout Southern Tier Brewing Co. More Brown Than Black IPA Stone - Ninkasi - The Alchemist XXXX IPA Shipyard Brewing Co. Tequila Barrel Aged Ale (Barleywine) Cucapa Brewing Co.

Bella Vino Wine Merchant Bar, Springboro, OH 45066 9377483807 www.bellavinomerchants.com Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Biltmore Estate. Century White (NV) USA. Riesling (NV) USA. White Zinfandel (NV) USA. Merlot (NV) USA. Cardinal’s Crest Red (NV) USA.

Thursday, Saturday - Zinfandel. Four Vines Maverick (2008) Amador County, California. Plungerhead (2009) Lodi, California. Maggio Old Vines (2008) Lodi, California. Federalist (2008) Dry Creek Valley, California. Graziano Coro (2005) Mendocino, California.

Next Week’s Tastings Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Grenache and Grenache Blends. Thursday, Saturday - Bordeaux.

Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 5139429463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Friday, Feb 3, 2012 4:30-7:30 pm and Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 3-6 pm Wines for your Valentine! Finca Pasion Mivida Chardonnay Finca Pasion Miamor Malbec Bloom Riesling Sly Dog Meritage Norman Vineyards The Vocation Ed Hardy Sparkling Diamond Rose

Jungle Jim’s 1.513.674.6000 contactus@junglejims.com http://www.junglejims.com/events Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 - 3:00pm - 5:00pm $30 Vintage Port and Sauternes Tastings

Permalink | | More: wine tastings & dinners

Author with Dayton roots coming to Books & Co.

By Mark Fisher | Tuesday, January 31, 2012, 06:51 AM

Joshua M. Bernstein — author of “Brewed Awakening: Behind the Beers and Brewers Leading the World’s the World’s Craft Brewing Revolution” (Sterling Epicure, $24.95) who grew up in Englewood and attended Northmont High School — will sign and discuss his new book at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 at Books & Co. at The Greene.

Described as the “ultimate beer geek’s companion,” the book chronicles the current American craft brewing craze and its latest trends and contains more than 150 reviews of craft beers and a list of brews that Bernstein recommends.

Bernstein, 33, lives in New York City, where he is a beer features writer for Imbibe magazine and for other New York-based publications and web sites. In an email, he said he moved to the Dayton area when he was 7 and lived here for 11 years until 1996. His parents still live in Englewood.

“Dayton, I’ve always believed, gave me a grounding and a great way to approach the world,” Bernstein said.

Bernstein also is scheduled to appear at a beer dinner and tasting at The Winds Cafe in Yellow Springs at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. The cost is $40. For more information or to make reservations for the beer dinner, call 937-767-9441.

For more information about the book-signing event at Books & Co., call Sharon Kelly Roth at 937-429-6302.

Permalink | | More: Beer

Warren County winery to start brewing beer, too

By Mark Fisher | Monday, January 30, 2012, 06:21 AM

Something’s brewing at Valley Vineyards.

The winery near Morrow will unveil its new lineup of Cellar Dwellers Brewery craft beers in late February or thereabouts, making it only the second winery in Ohio to add its own line of microbrews, according to Joe Schuchter, director of sales and marketing a third-generation member of the family that founded Valley Vineyards. Debonne Vineyards in Madison, Ohio, east of Cleveland, produces a line of beers from its Cellar Rats Brewery.

Schuchter’s uncle, Steve Shaw, has been brewing beer for 15 years and is overseeing the Cellar Dwellers craft-brewing venture, Schuchter said.

Valley Vineyards’ owners have come to recognize that their tasting-room beer menu that consisted of little more than Bud and Bud Light were not accommodating those groups of visitors that included both beer enthusiasts and wine lovers, Schuchter said. “We didn’t take the beer crowd seriously,” he said.

The Schuchters talked with Tony Debevc, owner of Debonne Vineyards, about his experience with adding a craft brewery to his winery. Debevc told his fellow winery owners the response to the new microbrews “has been amazing,” and the addition of beer did not adversely affect the wine end of the business, Schuchter said.

Visitors to Valley Vineyards weekend dinners will have the choice of two glasses of wine or two beers with their dinners, Schuchter said.

Plans call for producing a variety of brews, including Lager, IPA, American Pale Ale, English Pale Ale, Wheat Beer and a Port Barrel Ale that will be aged in the same casks that previously held Valley Vineyards Vintage Port.

Schuchter said the winery will start slowly, with a “soft opening” of sorts for its craft beers this spring until the Cellar Dwellers’ full unveiling at the winery’s annual festival, A Taste of Warren County, to be held June 2 at the winery.

Permalink | | More: Beer, Ohio wines

Fetish Playmates among the wines available in this rather provocative wine-tastings list

By Mark Fisher | Friday, January 27, 2012, 06:58 AM

Y’know, you learn a little something new every day when you read this wine-tastings list closely. For example, did you know there was a wine called Fetish Playmates?

Cold showers optional.

Jay’s Kitchen Door 225 E. Sixth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District, RSVP Events (937) 2222892 http://www.jays.com Friday, Jan 27, 2012 4-8 pm Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 1-6 pm

Arrow Far Hills - Kettering 2950 Far Hills Ave. 9372981456 http://www.arrowwineandspirits.com Friday Jan 27, 2012 4pm to 7pm Rouge Amber Ale Sam Adams Wee Heavy Grimbergen Blonde Ale Konig Ludwig Weissbier

Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 11 - 4 pm 2009 L’Ecole Semillon 2010 Guigal Cotes Du Rhone Blanc 2008 Stoller Pinot Noir 2009 Borsao Garnacha 2008 Luca Malbec 2008 Three Saints Cabernet 2001 Malleolus Tempranillo

Daily Tastings Monday - Friday 9am - 9pm

BIG RED TASTING NOTE: Time Change Sunday February 12, 2012 6:30-8:30 $30 40 + Red Wines Catering by Christophers Open to the first 125 pre-paid reservations

Dorothy Lane Markets (DLM) Dorothy Lane Market Oakwood Friday, Jan 27, 2012 5-8 pm Botani ‘09 Moscatel Seco Mommessin ‘09 Pouilly Fuisse Gonzaga ‘07 Terre di San Leonardo Red Wine Fetish ‘08 Playmates Branham ‘09 Resolution Cabernet Sauvignon Alto Moncayo ‘09 Brown Bag

Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 2-6 pm Darting ‘07 Durkheimer Michelsberg Riesling Kabinett Branham ‘09 RRV Chardonnay Van Duzer ‘08 Pinot Noir Chateau St. Jean ‘07 Merlot Plungerhead ‘08 OV Zinfandel Teso La Monja ‘07 Victorino Bonus Bottle Beer TBA

Wednesday, Feb 1, 2012 3:00 to 6:00. Oysters paired with beer and wine!

DLM Washington Square Thursday, Jan 12, 2012 5-8 pm Contrato Brut 2007 Molly Dooker The Violinist Verdelho 2011 Cellar 8 Cabernet 2009 Carlo Guerrier Gonzaga Red 2007 Paisajes Rioja 2001 La Petazzine Rosso di Montalcino 2009

Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 12-5 pm Albert Bichot Chablis 2009 Meli Reisling 2010, Central Valley, Chile Solence “les 3 pères” Côte du Ventoux 2008 Matthew Fritz Cabernet Sonoma 2009 Stepping Stone Cabernet Franc 2008 Col dei Venti Barbaresco 2007 Beers

Wednesday, Feb 1, 2012 4 - 7 pm Wine Down Wednesday and 3-6 pm Oysters!

Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, Jan 27, 2012, 3-7 pm 2009 Melville Chardonnay 2007 Bachelet-Monnot Maranges Premier Cru “La Fussiere” 2009 Castano Monastrell 2007 Haywood “Rocky Terrace” Zinfandel 2008 Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 12-5 pm 2010 Presqu’ile Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Bouchard Beaune Clos Saint-Landry 2009 Montaribaldi Dolcetto d”Alba 2007 Van Duzer Pinot Noir 2010 Alamos Red Blend 2005 Peter Franus Napa Valley Red Wine Bonus Bottle

Wednesday, Feb 1, 2012 3:00 to 6:00. Oysters paired with beer and wine!

Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 8482161 Current Wines 2010 Charles Smith Vino Pinot Grigio 2010 Dreaming Tree Chardonnay 2010 Sean Minor Pinot Noir 2010 Santa Julia Malbec 2009 Bodegas Barco de Piedra Beer: Magic Hat Howl

Wines beginning Jan 31 Le Claux Delorme Valencay Blanc Alfredo Roca Unoaked Cahrdonnay Spann Bordeaux Blend Merum Monastrell Branham Resolution Cabernet Sauvignon

Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville (937) 433-6778 www.arrowwineandspirits.com Beer Tastings every Friday from 5-7 pm Taste 5 unique beers each week Brew Kettle 4 C’s Pale Ale(6%ABV) Great Divide Hoss Rye Lager(6.2%ABV) Lump Of Coal Dark Holiday Stout(8%ABV) Newcastle Founders Ale(4.8%ABV) Widmer Brothers Pitch Black IPA(6.5%ABV)

Saturday Jan 28, 2012 11-5 pm Twenty Great Valid Wines Beth, Lisa, Jason, and Charlie each select five of their favorite wines under $20.00.

Rue Dumaine 1061 Miamisburg Centerville Road (937) 610-1061 www.ruedumainerestaurant.com Tuesday, Jan 31, 2012 5 - 7 pm Wine tasting! Stronghold Mandala Red Table Wine 2010 Stronghold Mandala White Table Wine 2010

The Wine Gallery 5 West Monument Ave Dayton Ohio 45402 9372249463 Wednesday, Feb 1, 2012 5:30 - 8:30 pm 2010 Le Claux Delorme Valencay, Sauvignon Blanc, France 2009 Le Claux Delorme Valencay, Red Blend, France 2010 Bishop’s Peak Pinot Noir, California 2009 Lagier-Meredith Syrah, Mt. Veeeder, California 2009 Turley Zinfandel, California

Deaf Monty’s Wine at Inn Port D’Vino 22 Brown Street in the Oregon District, 937-225-9463 www.daytonwinebar.com 4-8pm Wednesday through Saturday Vina Alarba Grenache; Matthew Fritz Pinot Noir; Montenevoso Montepulciano D’Abruzzo; High Note Malbec; Hess Select Chardonnay; Monmousseau Vouvray; Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc; Graham’s Six Grapes Port; Huber Winery Blueberry and Raspberry, Innkeeper’s choice red and white

A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247.1120 www.atasteofwine.org Pelee Island Semi Sweet Pinot Grigio Zocker Gruner Veltliner Davis Bynum Chardonnay Conundrum Red Drops of Jupiter Petit Sirah Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon Brewer-Clifton Pinot Noir

January 30 - ITALIAN MONDAYS - 3 tastes of Italian wine January 26 - ROGUE Beer Tasting details to follow February 2 - 3 Wine Thursday Tasting. 7pm RSVPs helpful

Bruning’s Wine Cellar (937) 4264950 www.brunings.com 2467 Commons Blvd, Beavercreek. January 28 from 2-5 PM: 2009 Merryvale Chardonnay Carneros; 2009 Merryvale Pinot Noir Carneros; 2007 Merryvale Merlot Napa Valley; 2007 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley; Schneider-Brooklyner Hopfen-Weisse is the featured beer

Wednesday, February 1 from 5-8 PM & Saturday, February 4 from 5-8 PM: 2010 Novellum Chardonnay; 2010 Roger Champault Sancerre les Pierris; 2010 Andezon Cotes-du-Rhone; 2010 Cercius Cotes-du-Rhone VV; 2008 Roger Sabon Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Olivets; Traquair House Laird’s Legacy is the featured beer

Rumbleseat Wine 5853 Far Hills Ave. Dayton, Ohio (937) 9389801 Wines available everyday including Saturday 10 - 8 pm Mathew Fritz Russian River Chardonnay Buena Vista Carneros Chardonnay Malvire Arneis Goulaine Muscadet Merkelbach Riesling Spatlese Clos Du Val Napa Valley cabernet Rock and Vine Three Ranches Cabernet Montefusco Syrah Le Logge Toscano Sebastiani Sonoma County Merlot

Wednesday, Feb 1, 2012 Beer Tasting from 6-8p.m.

Wine class i “Begining Your Wine Adventure” $25 Tuesday, January 31, 2012 7:00 pm Experiments that explore the taste senses, experiments that help to understand how and why food effects wine. The class will also be tasting wine so the lessons can be put to use. Beginers level.

The Wine Loft 21 Greene Boulevard Beavercreek, OH 45440-1380 (937) 429-4424 www.thewineloftdayton.com/ Thursday in January 6-8 pm Daedalus Pinot Gris Jesebel Sauvignon Blanc Grochau Red Blend Pinot Project Pinot Noir The Reveler Red Blend

Kroger Centerville Market Place Friday, January 27th 4pm to 7pm “Happy Hour” Sebastiani Chardonnay Rancho Zabaco Zinfandel Columbia Crest Grand Estates Armitage Red Blend Avalon Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Saturday, January28th 2pm to 5pm Cuvaison Chardonnay “2010” Sequana Pinot Noir “2009” Bone Dance Merlot “2007” Wild Oak Cabernet Sauvignon “2005’’

Lofino’s MARKETPLACE Friday 01/27/12 Wine tasting 5pm-8pm Rosemount Estates Family wines - Australia Cabernet Chardonnay Cabernet-Merlot-Plump Shiraz Shiraz-Cabernet Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio Italian Wine

Bella Vino Wine Merchant Bar, Springboro, OH 45066 9377483807 www.bellavinomerchants.com Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Organic Wines. Masciarelli (2010) Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, Italy. Domaine de Pajot (2009) Cotes de Gascogne, France. Venta Morales Tempranillo (2009) La Mancha, Spain. Live-a-Little Red (NV) Western Cape, South Africa. Stellar Cabernet Sauvignon (2011) Western Cape, South Africa.

Thursday, Saturday - Spain’s Rioja Region. Ergo (2008). Lorinon Crianza (2008). Zuazo Gaston Crianza (2008). Altun Reserva (2003). Remirez de Gaston Reserva (2002).

Surprise Cellar Room tastings every Saturday at 3:00.

Week of 30 January Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Biltmore Estate. Thursday, Saturday - Zinfandel.

Miami Valley Wine Spirits 943 W. Main St. Tipp City (937) 6673614 Friday, Jan 27, 2012 Tasting 6-9 pm Ravenswood Winery Ravenswood Vinter’s Blend of Chardonnay Zinfandel Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Petite Sirah

Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 5139429463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Friday, Jan 27, 2012 4:30-7:30 pm and Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 3-6 pm Cantine Volpetti “Campo Alle Rose” Frascati Superiore (Lazio) Cantine Volpetti “Campo Alle Rose” Cesanese (Lazio) Panzanello Le Piazzole (Toscana) Taurino Salice Salentino Riserva (Puglia) Il Poggione Rosso de Montalcino

Jungle Jim’s 1.513.674.6000 contactus@junglejims.com http://www.junglejims.com/events Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 - 3:00pm - 5:00pm $10 A Walkabout of Values

Permalink | | More: wine tastings & dinners

‘Aging to Perfection’: The Boonshoft Museum explores the ‘Science of Wine’

By Mark Fisher | Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 07:16 AM

DAYTON — The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, will host “The Science of Wine: Aging to Perfection” from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. this Saturday, Jan. 28.

Tickets are $75, or $100 for a VIP package that includes a broader wine and food selections. Included in the ticket price are heavy hors d’oeuvres, a selection of 24 wines available for sampling, a full open bar, presentations by wine specialists on stemware and wine cellaring, live music and laser shows. Proceeds benefit the Boonshoft Museum’s science, math, technology and engineering programs.

Reservations are encouraged and are available online at BoonshoftMuseum.org, or by phone at (937) 275-7431, ext. 144.

Permalink | | More: Local wine news

Who says there ain’t no cure for the January blues? This wine-tastings list will do just that

By Mark Fisher | Friday, January 20, 2012, 01:38 PM

Snow? Freezing rain? Posh. It will all be gone in a blink of an eye in this see-saw winter. And if the temperate temps aren’t chasing away those January blues, this enticing list of wine tastings, beer tastings, wine dinners, and other events, all compiled with love and care by a Dayton-based listserv, certainly will. Delicious!

Miami University Performing Arts Benefit Wine Tasting Saturday Jan 21st Millett Hall Oxford, OH

Over 200 wines, more than 40 premium pours from collectors, Silent Auction, Glorious Food from Kona Bistro, Music and fun. $59 Special Raffle of 2 tickets to Cirque de Soleil new show, Michael Jackson Forever in Cincinnati to all who pre order tickets from the Box office. 513 529 3200 http://arts.muohio.edu/performing-arts-series/annual-wine-tasting

Jay’s Kitchen Door 225 E. Sixth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District, RSVP Events (937) 2222892 http://www.jays.com Friday, Jan 20, 2012 4-8 pm 2008 Louis Latour Goutte Meursault 2010 Siduri Russian River Pinot Noir 2007 Chateau Blason d’Issan 2007 Conterno Riva Bric Brunello 2007 Conterno Ginestra Brunello

Saturday, Jan 21, 2012 1-6 pm 2006 Chateau Carbonnieux Blanc 2006 Clos Puy Arnauld 2006 Chateau Pey Latour Reserve 2005 Aromes de Pavie

January 21st, 12:30 pm - $65 Paul Russell’s Memorial Luncheon featuring Bordeaux and Sauternes

Little Neck Clams with spinach crabmeat stuffing topped with hollandaise sauce and bacon bits 2009 Grand Cuvee Blanc

Slider Duo - one with blue cheese and caramelized onions the other with brie and pepper jam 2006 Pont Rouge De Paviel

Sliced grilled duck breast on garlic rosemary potatoes with cassis demi 2006 Ch Pey Latour Reserve

Swordfish Cassoulet with creamy St Andre polenta 2005 Aromes de Pavie

Sweet Banana Crisp with Fudge Drizzle 2005 Le Tertre Du Lys D’Or Sauterne

Arrow Far Hills - Kettering 2950 Far Hills Ave. 9372981456 http://www.arrowwineandspirits.com Friday Jan 20, 2012 4pm to 7pm Lakefront New Grist Bard’s Tale Redbridge New Planet Raspberry Ale New Planet Tread Lightly Ale New Planet Off Grid Pale Ale

Saturday, Jan 21, 2012 11 - 4 pm 2010 Le Canon Dom Cazes Muscat Viognier 2010 Kinkead Ridge Viognier Roussanne 2009 Manzone Dolcetto D Alba 2008 Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2009 Stump Jump GSM 2008 Tierra Divina Old Vine Malbec 2008 Clio

Daily Tastings Monday - Friday 9am - 9pm

BIG RED TASTING NOTE: Time Change Sunday February 12, 2012 6:30-8:30 $30 40 + Red Wines Catering by Christophers Open to the first 125 pre-paid reservations

Dorothy Lane Markets (DLM) Dorothy Lane Market Oakwood Friday, Jan 20, 2012 5-8 pm Cupcake ’11 Sauvignon Blanc Chateau Souverain ’10 Chardonnay Vinaceous ’07 “Red Right Hand” Coriole ’08 Redstone Shiraz Colores del Sol ’10 Malbec Juan Gil ’08 Jumilla Brown Bag

Saturday, Jan 21, 2012 2-6 pm Grgich Hills ’07 Fume Blanc Hess ’09 Napa Chardonnay Rocca delle Macie ’06 Roccato Catena ’09 Malbec BV Rutherford ’08 Cabernet Lagier Meredith ’09 Syrah Bonus Bottle Beer TBA

Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012 3:00 to 6:00. Oysters paired with beer and wine!

DLM Washington Square Thursday, Jan 12, 2012 5-8 pm Marc Tempe Pinot Blanc 2006 Thevenet Macon-Piereclos 2009 Morlet Coteau Nobles Pinot Noir 2008 Albert Morot Sauvigny-les-Beaune 2009 Barco de Piedra Ribera del Duero 2009 Podere IL Palazzino Chianti Classico 2005

Saturday, Jan 21, 2012 12-5 pm Piper Sonoma brut Dreaming tree chardonnay Dreaming tree red blend Drops of Jupiter High note malbec Sierra sol tempranillo Santa ema reserve Kaesler

Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012 4 - 7 pm Wine Down Wednesday and 3-6 pm Oysters!

Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, Jan 20, 2012, 3-7 pm 2009 Branham Chardonnay 2009 Branham Pinot Noir 2009 Branham Zinfandel 2009 Branham Resolution Cabernet 2009 Jouannet Anjou

Saturday, Jan 21, 2012 12-5 pm 2009 Martenut Meursault 2010 Stags Leap Winery Chardonnay 2009 Allora Revenge Red 2010 Mollydooker Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz Bonus Bottle

Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012 3:00 to 6:00. Oysters paired with beer and wine!

Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 8482161 Current Wines Matthew Fritz Chardonnay 2010 Sean Minor Sauvignon Blanc Matthew Fritz Pinot Noir 2008 Greg Norman Shiraz 2008 The Federalist Zinfandel Beer: Magic Hat Howl

Wines beginning Jan 31 2010 Charles Smith Vino Pinot Grigio 2010 Dreaming Tree Chardonnay 2010 Sean Minor Pinot Noir 2010 Santa Julia Malbec 2009 Bodegas Barco de Piedra Beer: Magic Hat Howl

Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville (937) 433-6778 www.arrowwineandspirits.com Beer Tastings every Friday from 5-7 pm Taste 5 unique beers each week Alesmith Horny Devil Belgian Style Ale(11% ABV) Alesmith X(Extra Pale Ale)(5% ABV) Duvel(8.5% ABV) Green Flash Le Freak(9.2% ABV) Sloeber(7.5% ABV)

Saturday Jan 21, 2012 1-5 pm 2009 Richter Estate Riesling 2010 Giesen Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Terra Rosa Malbec 2009 Owen Roe Sharecropper Pinot Noir 2006 St. Supery Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon R. L. Buller Fine Muscat

Rue Dumaine 1061 Miamisburg Centerville Road (937) 610-1061 www.ruedumainerestaurant.com Tuesday, Jan 24, 2012 5 - 7 pm Kentucky Bourbon Tasting!!! Note: Due to Restaurant Week, Rue Dumaine will NOT be having a wine tasting Tuesday, January 24th, 2012.

The Wine Gallery 5 West Monument Ave Dayton Ohio 45402 9372249463 Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Deaf Monty’s Wine at Inn Port D’Vino 22 Brown Street in the Oregon District, 937-225-9463 www.daytonwinebar.com 4-8 pm Wednesday through Friday Textbook Cabernet Napa Valley; Cercius Cotes du Rhone; Guenoc Victorian Claret; Ervacio Tempranillo; Chateaux Lamothe de Haux White Bordeaux; Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc; Castoro Cellars Muscat Canelli Innkeeper’s choice red and white.

A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247.1120 www.atasteofwine.org Amberhill Secret Blend White Marde Vinas Albarino Ferrari- Carano Chardonnay Three Saints Pinot Noir Sasyr Sangiovese Syrah Portrait of a Mutt Zinfandel Parlay the Bookmaker Red Brochelle Cabernet Sauvignon

January 23,30 - ITALIAN MONDAYS - we will be offering 3 tastes of Italian wine January 26 - ROGUE Beer Tasting details to follow

Bruning’s Wine Cellar (937) 4264950 www.brunings.com 2467 Commons Blvd, Beavercreek. Saturday, January 21 from 2-5 PM: 2009 Vevi Rueda; 2010 Zuazo Gaston Rioja Blanco; 2010 Chais Saint Laurent Chinon; 2010 Moulin de Gassac Guilhem Rouge; 2008 Zuazo Gaston Rioja Crianza; 2008 Domaine du Cayron Gigondas; Lindemans Kriek Lambic is the featured beer

Wednesday, January 25 from 5-8 PM 2009 Merryvale Chardonnay Carneros; 2009 Merryvale Pinot Noir Carneros; 2007 Merryvale Merlot Napa Valley; 2007 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley; Schneider-Brooklyner Hopfen-Weisse is the featured beer

Rumbleseat Wine 5853 Far Hills Ave. Dayton, Ohio (937) 9389801 Wines available everyday including Saturday 10 - 8 pm Columbia Crest H3 Cabernet Sauvignon Conn Creek Herrick Red Clos Du Val Merlot Elio Altare Barbera Bila Haut Dierberg Chardonnay Cupcake Sauvignon Blanc Abymes Vin Du Savoie Erath Pinot Gris Douglass Hill Moscato

Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012 Beer Tasting from 6-8p.m.

Wine class I “Begining Your Wine Adventure” $25 Tuesday, January 31, 2012 7:00 pm Experiments that explore the taste senses, experiments that help to understand how and why food effects wine. The class will also be tasting wine so the lessons can be put to use. Beginers level.

The Wine Loft 21 Greene Boulevard Beavercreek, OH 45440-1380 (937) 429-4424 www.thewineloftdayton.com/ Thursday in January 6-8 pm Daedalus Pinot Gris Jesebel Sauvignon Blanc Grochau Red Blend Pinot Project Pinot Noir The Reveler Red Blend

Lofino’s MARKETPLACE Friday 01/20/12 Wine tasting 5pm-8pm Dynamite Merlot 2009 Estancia Chardonnay 2010 Central Coast California Simply Naked Unoaked Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

Bella Vino Wine Merchant Bar, Springboro, OH 45066 9377483807 www.bellavinomerchants.com Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Cabernets Outside California. Luna Benegas (2008) Mendoza, Argentina. Columbia Crest Grand Estates (2008) Columbia Valley, Washington. Excelsior (2009) Robertson, South Africa. Coriole Redstone (2008) McLaren Vale, Australia. John’s Blend (2003) Langhorne Creek, Australia.

Thursday, Saturday - New South African Wines. Fairvalley Sauvignon Blanc (2009) Coastal Region. Glen Carlou Grand Classique (2006) Paarl. Warwick Estate Reserve (2001) Simonsberg. Cederberg Shiraz (2005) Cederberg. Jam Jar Moscato (2011) Western Cape.

Special Cellar Room Tastings every Saturday at 3:00.

Week of January 23rd Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Organics. Thursday, Saturday - Rioja.

Miami Valley Wine Spirits 943 W. Main St. Tipp City (937) 6673614 Friday, Jan 20, 2012 Beer Tasting 5-9 pm Annual Hop-Head Tasting! Rayon Vert Belgian-style Pale Ale Green Flash Brewing Co. The Incredible Hop Imperial Belgian Style IPA The Fort Collins Brewery Imperial IPA Exponential Series Epic Brewing Co. (UT) Idiot IPA West Coast-style Double IPA Coronado Brewing Co. Disco Beer Vinous IPA aged in Chardonnay Barrels Evil Twin Brewing Co. Hopslam 2011 Double IPA brewed with Honey Bell’s Brewing Co. Hopslam 2012 Double IPA brewed with Honey Bell’s Brewing Co. Hop Dam Triple IPA Hoppin’ Frog Brewing Co.

Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 5139429463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Friday, Jan 20, 2012 4:30-7:30 pm and Saturday, Jan 21, 2012 3-6 pm Bosco Pinot Grigio Italy Aleramo Barbera d’Asti Italy Vina Borgia Spain Chateau Grand Rousseau France Lot 205 Petite Sirah Lodi, CA

La Petite France www.lapetitefrance.biz RSVP 513-733-8383 Friday, January 20, 2012 at 6:30 pm $65 Wine dinner tasting, “Ciao Italia” Menu and wine pairing details are available on our website at www.lapetitefrance.biz

Jungle Jim’s 1.513.674.6000 contactus@junglejims.com http://www.junglejims.com/events Friday, Jan 20, 2012 - 7 -9 pm Beer Tasting $30 Barrel Aged Tasting 20 different barrel aged beers

Saturday, Jan 28, 2012 - 3:00pm - 5:00pm $10 A Walkabout of Values

Permalink | | More: wine tastings & dinners

Record liquor sales reflect Ohio’s improving economy, state officials say

By Mark Fisher | Thursday, January 19, 2012, 04:13 PM

Here’s a copy of a story scheduled to run in Friday’s Dayton Daily News:

State officials say a boost in liquor sales to bars and restaurants in 2011 reflects a recovering economy in a year that Ohioans spent more on liquor than ever before.

Overall sales of liquor in Ohio in 2011 reached a record $793.7 million, up $40 million — or 5.3 percent — from 2010, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control announced Thursday. More importantly for Ohio’s economy, wholesale liquor sales to bars and restaurants — which had declined three out of the last four years as more Ohioans opted to drink at home during the recession — jumped 4.7 percent in 2011.

“This is a positive indicator for Ohio’s economy, showing that Ohioans are again patronizing restaurants and entertainment businesses,” said David Goodman, director of the Ohio Department of Commerce.

In the Dayton area, the inaugural release of Buckeye Vodka buoyed sales: The Dayton-based spirit was the highest-selling liquor of any brand at Arrow Wine & Spirits’ Kettering store and its Centerville-area store during calendar year 2011, despite its absence for the first three months of the year, the managers of both Arrow stores said. Buckeye Vodka debuted in the market on April 1.

“Of course it has a local following, so customers are going to come in to try it,” said Mif Frank, who oversees Arrow’s Kettering store.. “But it speaks to the quality of the product that people are coming back and buying it again.”

Buckeye Vodka’s sales tripled its projections in the first six months after introduction, Buckeye Vodka’s chief executive, Jim Finke, said in November. The division of liquor control said Thursday that 2,824 cases of Buckeye vodka were sold statewide in 2011, for a total of $650,611.

Despite the strong local sales, Buckeye Vodka didn’t crack the top 10 best-selling liquor brands in Ohio, which contains four other vodkas and is topped by value-brand Kamchatka vodka.

The best-sellers list illustrates how amazingly brand-loyal the state’s spirits drinkers are: The 2011 top-10 list contained the same 10 brands as the 2010 list, although there was some shuffling in the middle as Smirnoff Vodka slipped two spots. The sales figures and top 10 rankings include only liquor containing more than 21 percent alcohol, or 42 proof, and excludes beer and wine.

But there are signs that Ohioans are drinking better. Dollar sales grew at a faster pace than consumption did in 2011, the division of liquor control reported. Volume sales rose 3.9 percent in 2011, lagging behind the 5.3 percent jump in dollar sales, suggesting some drinkers may be trading up — or returning to — more expensive brands.

“As consumer tastes become increasingly more sophisticated, they tend to buy more of the premium products,” Goodman said.

The Ohio Restaurant Association is also noticing the growth and the increasing interest in luxury brands.

“Whether linked to expanded happy hour offerings or a larger selection of flavored spirits, consumers appear to be enjoying more specialty drinks and pairing their meals with more sophisticated products,” Jarrod Clabaugh, director of communications for the Ohio Restaurant Association, said in a news release.

Top-selling liquor brands in Ohio

1. Kamchatka Vodka

2. Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey

3. Bacardi Superior Light Rum

4. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum

5. Absolut Vodka

6. Smirnoff Vodka

7. Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey

8. Jagermeister

9. Korski Vodka

10. Black Velvet Canadian Whiskey

Source: Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control

Permalink | | More: Spirits and liquor

Cincinnati winery makes ‘Top 10 Urban Wineries in America’ list

By Mark Fisher | Wednesday, January 18, 2012, 06:41 AM

CINCINNATI — Henke Winery at 3077 Harrison Ave. has scored some national attention by making the Top 10 Urban Wineries in America put together by FoodRepublic.com.

Henke was the only winery in the Midwest to make the list, and the web site couldn’t help but to take a bit of a swipe at the Queen City in its listing, which read in part:

Cincinnati may be the last place you’d expect to find a winery, but Henke has been around for more than a decade.

I heartily recommend that FoodRepublic brush up on its wine history, starting, perhaps, with Nicholas Longworth. In fact, wine grapes were planted in the Cincinnati area in the late 1700s, prior to Ohio becoming a state, and by 1859, Ohio had become the leading producer of wine in the nation. So no, Cincinnati is NOT the last place one would expect to find a winery. But hey, we’ll take what love we can get here in flyover country, even if it is tinged with a hint of condescension, right?

Henke Winery owner Joe Henke called the Top-10 mention “quite a tribute.

“I’m honored that we’ve been acknowledged among the best in the country,” Henke said.

Here’s what I wrote about Henke in 2010 in this Ohio Magazine story.

Joe Henke launched an urban winery before it was fashionable — and before most of us had even heard the term. Now that urban wineries have become all the rage, Henke figures that time just caught up with him. Henke started his namesake winery in 1996, when a day job made it impossible to even think of growing his own grapes while also making wines. Besides, there weren’t exactly acres of cheap vineyard land surrounding his Westwood winery. So Henke let others do the grape growing. Today, he makes wine from grapes grown in southern Ohio, northern Ohio and upstate New York, with a bit of California thrown in for good measure. Henke’s 2009 Vin de Rouge — a blend of red grapes Chambourcin, Chancellor and Chelois, all grown in southern Ohio — was named “Best of Show for Red Wines” at the 2010 Ohio Wine Competition, and retails for under $10. His 2009 Riesling ($14.50), made from New York state grapes, received a gold medal in the same competition; the previous vintage of riesling won overall best of show in the ’09 Ohio wine competition. Yet the focus at Henke isn’t entirely on wines. The winery is also home to a restaurant that offers everything from casual (pizzas) to gourmet (steamed mussels, filet mignon). And Henke books live music every Friday and Saturday night.

Henke bottles 15 varieties and more than 2,500 cases each year, using grapes from Northern Ohio, upstate New York and California. The winery is open Monday through Saturday. For more information, contact Henke Winery at (513) 662-9463.

Permalink | | More: Ohio wines

New law eases restrictions on Dayton-area microbreweries, craft distilleries

By Mark Fisher | Monday, January 16, 2012, 08:06 AM

Check out this story of mine that ran on today’s front page. Who knew that the Dayton area was such a hotbed for craft brewers and distilleries? And who knew that a whiff of common sense was blowing through Columbus, albeit briefly?

Hmmm. What OTHER laws affecting Ohio’s beer and wine industry could do with some tweaking?

Permalink | | More: Beer, Spirits and liquor