Daily Loaf

Disclaimer: I am not a wine aficionado — I can be pretty picky, and I might have a bias against some styles. Don’t completely take my word for it here — get out there, try your own organic wines, and find your new favorites!

Being green doesn’t mean you have to give up your vices. Organic wines are growing in popularity, and that means there’s more variety for you to enjoy your sweet, sweet vino without feeling any green guilt.

The requirements for earning the title of “organic” differ from country to country, but here in the United States, it essentially means that no fertilizers or pesticides are used on the farmlands, and no sulfites have been added to preserve what’s inside the bottles.

The real fun is in wines produced through biodynamic farming. Based on the principles of the late Austrian scientist Rudolf Steiner, biodynamics use animals for pest control and fertilizer, just like with organic farming. But here, planting and harvesting are based around the moon cycles, as well. The Emiliana wine family took its three best vineyards and converted them to organic and biodynamic farming, and Emiliana Organico in Chile’s Valle Colchagua is a prime example of a biodynamic farm. Chickens eat bugs and crap out natural fertilizer. Ladybugs fly around to also control insect pests. Llamas and ducks even plod around the vineyard, chewing up weeds and providing yet more fertilizer. Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, Apr. 22: Cork and Olive
At the Single’s Sizzle and Swirl Cooking Class, learn how to create your own dish and pair wine with your new invention. $45. 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., 10019 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa (813-868-3733)

Thursday, Apr. 23: Kuba Cigars
At this wine tasting, sample dark chocolate, snacks and an assortment of cheeses. There will also be door prizes and a fine wine giveaway. $10. 7-9 p.m., 243 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa (813-258-8191)

Thursday, Apr. 23: Toasted Pheasant Bistro
Enjoy a four-course Chilean dinner complete with wine paired for each course. $45. 7-10 p.m., 14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa (813-265-6700)

Many more after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Typically, as Cheap Bastard, this would not be an event that I would attend since it is priced well outside my comfort zone. However, in true Cheap Bastard style, I scored a free ticket and the game was on.

I am no stranger to the juice. I love it so much, it is the one alcohol that I would keep if I were forced to choose only one type in some weird “Saw”-esqu nightmare (sorry beer & liquor). I have plenty of tastings under my belt and a more than cursory knowledge of grapes and styles, so I figured I was up for the challenge. In hindsight, I think I was wrong.

Read the rest of this entry »

In this week’s Nosh Pit food and drink podcast, Taylor and Brian invite Grayson, Chris and Alejandro of GNATV.com to stop by for some wine and conversation, then preview next week’s restaurant review (Pizzaiolo Bavaro, get it here first); discuss crafty ways to re-use wine bottles and corks; introduce a new food contributor (and her killer Key Lime Pie recipe); and talk about Taylor’s plan to Facebook and Tweet her way across China.

Next week on Nosh Pit: Zack and Jen Gross of Zurritos and Z Grille!

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Wednesday, Apr. 15: ABC Fine Wine and Spirits
Join wine lovers and experts at this tasting and sample from dozens of wine selections. Each guest will receive a souvenir wine glass and a coupon for $5 any purchase that night. $10. 1405 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813-685-4832)

Wednesday, Apr. 15: Whole Foods
Learn how to pair cheeses with different wines at this class and tasting. Free. 6-7 p.m., 1548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-874-9435)

Thursday, Apr. 16: “Beer Wars”
For one night only, seven local Tampa theaters will be playing this documentary, followed by a live discussion with brewers and beer experts. 8 p.m., click here for a list of theaters

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

I often think of sake as the forgotten wine.  We are often so preoccupied with fruit based wines that we ignore the shadow world of wines made by fermenting rice; and, of course, we stereotype all sake by the “jet fuel” tasting hot sake we order at sushi restaurants. Generally speaking, hot sake’s pecking order is akin to Budweiser and white zinfandel.

The next time you have sushi, challenge your palate and ask for the sake list. An entire world will be unveiled before your eyes, a world of ginjo, daiginjo, junmai and nigori.  Each of these types are fermented differently and offer their own characteristic aroma and taste.

Read the rest of this entry »

Taylor and Brian Nosh under the influence of Roederer Estate Sparkling Wine this week, and talk about David Miller’s new Cities Restaurant, The Lodge, Tacos and Tuscany.

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Brian and Taylor bust out the mics for some old fashioned talkin’ and drinkin’. This week they dish Taco Tournament Readers’ Poll, Gina Gallo, Burger King Burger Bar, Sayroo Bakery, Culinary Sherpas, and the beef baby food/White Castle phenomena.

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Wednesday, Mar. 18: Whole Foods Market
Every Wednesday in March, stop by Whole Foods for the Wine Down Wednesday tasting. Free. 4-6 p.m., 1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435)

Wednesday, Mar. 18: Whole Foods Market
Join the specialty cheese buyer at Whole Foods for a British Isles class and tasting, paired with some wines from the store. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., 1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435)

Wednesday, Mar. 18: Culinary World Tour
Join in on this cooking discussion group at the Tarpon Springs Public Library, where the focus is on foods and cooking styles from various countries. This month’s country is Greenland. Free. 7 p.m., 138 E Lemon St, Tarpon Springs (727-943-4922)

Thursday, Mar. 19: Whole Foods Market
Join Dr. JE Williams for Health Happy Hour and learn about important supplements for your body and products from the store that emphasize vegetarian eating. Afterward, the Prime Time Sisters Program will be hosted. Free. 6-8 p.m.,1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435)

More upcoming events after the break:

Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, Mar. 17: Vino 100 Brandon
Learn about the elegant white wines of Germany – like Riesling – at The Wines of Germany class. $20 per person, $35 per couple. 6- 7:30 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466).

Wednesday, Mar. 18: Whole Foods Market
Every Wednesday in March, stop by Whole Foods for the Wine Down Wednesday tasting. Free. 4-6 p.m., 1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435)

Wednesday, Mar. 18: Whole Foods Market
Join the specialty cheese buyer at Whole Foods for a British Isles class and tasting, paired with some wines from the store. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., 1548 N Dale Mabry Rd, Tampa (813-874-9435) Read the rest of this entry »

Shit, people will be here in an hour, and I still haven’t showered. The husband is mesmerized by Battlestar Galactica and probably wouldn’t be much help anyway. This in-home wine tasting will be the death of me, but I always seem to have fun … probably too much fun actually, since tomorrow will likely hurt. But with more water and more food tonight, here’s hoping.

Glasses out? Check. They don’t match but does anyone really care about that kind of thing anymore? Certainly my friends won’t notice. We break the nice matching glasses as fast as I buy them and the cheap glasses printed with various logos are indestructible. Hey, if I use those I don’t have to pull out the wine charms to keep track of glasses. Cool. There’s one with the Einstein on Wine logo, Paso Robles Wine Festival, Oregon Pinot Noir Festival. Yeah, that works. Makes me look worldly and experienced. Or like a lush? Read the rest of this entry »

Monday, Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23: Uncorked
This is the first of four courses at the Uncorked Wine Academy. Learn about wine making techniques, how to read wine labels, and food and wine pairings. $50 for four classes. 7-9 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Wednesday, Mar. 4: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Sample from dozens of wine selections at the Brandon store. Chat with wine experts and indulge in gourmet hors d’oeuvres. Each guest will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $5 off any purchase that night. $10. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1405 E Brandon Blvd, Brandon (813-685-4832)

Thursday, Mar. 5: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Wine tasting at the Treasure Island location. Guests will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $3 off a purchase of the night. $5. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 204 107th Ave, Treasure Island (727-360-6153)

Friday, Mar. 6: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Join Dr. Julie Gatza at the “Five Secrets to Looking and Feeling Younger” seminar and learn how to eat and live healthy. Free. 6 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Friday, Mar. 6: Andrea’s Sip for Life Wine Tasting
Sample tapas from The Columbia Restaurant and over 250 wines from Spain, California and South America at the third annual Sip For Life tasting. Proceeds from the event at the Tampa Bay History Center go to support finding a cure for pediatric sarcoma. $100 donation. 7-10 p.m., 801 Old Water Street, Tampa (813-248-3000)

Friday, Mar. 6: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Friday wine Happy Hours at Belleair continue this week. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Saturday, Mar. 7: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Chef Debby DeGraaff will host the “Wonderful Wild Rice” cooking class, featuring a wild rice and vegetable salad paired with wild rice with mushrooms and tofu. Free. 11 a.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Saturday, Mar. 7: Abilities Wine Tasting
Enjoy hundreds of wines, live entertainment and food from gourmet restaurants at Tropicana Field’s 20th annual tasting. $50 – $125. 6-9 p.m., 1 Tropicana Dr, St. Petersburg (727-538-7370 ext. 345)

Saturday, Mar. 7: Vino 100 Brandon/Valrico
Explore the effects of environment on wine with Vino 100 by sampling a slew of Australian wines. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Saturday, Mar. 7: Chez Bryce
Enjoy a three-course lunch with Tatiana Rugers, a Tampa Bay mural and decorative artist, at Chez Bryce restaurant. $15. 12-2 p.m., 238 E Davis Isle, Tampa (813-258-8100)

Sunday, Mar. 8: Tampa Rotary Pig Roast
Come see if Team “Sir Pigs A Lot” will take top honors for the fourth year in a row in this whole-pig roasting competition to benefit local charities. $25. 2-5 p.m., St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa (813-765-0707)

Sunday, Mar. 8: The Best Florida Beer Championship
The championship ends with the Brewers Ball at Skipper’s Smokehouse. Celebrate with food, music and beer – gold-medal winning beers from the championship will be featured – while the winners of the Professional and Homebrew competitions are announced. $25. 12-5 p.m., 910 Skipper Rd, Tampa (813-220-1086)

Tuesday, Mar. 10: FOODMATTERS Film Showing
This provocative film at The Long Center is back by popular demand. Whole Foods Market will provide snacks. $5. 7 p.m., 1501 N Belcher Rd, Clearwater

Wednesday, Mar. 11: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Explore ways to cope with your physical, mental or emotional challenges at Dr. Anthony Calandro’s seminar “Creating a Health Body through Cultivating a Positive Mind.” Free. 6:30 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Wednesday, Mar. 11: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Enjoy another ABC wine tasting, this time at the Wesley Chapel store. Guest will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $5 off a purchase of the night. 1845 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Wesley Chapel (813-782-1389)

Thursday, Mar. 12: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Sample wine selections from around the world and hors d’oeuvres at this Seffner wine tasting. Each guest will receive a free wine glass and a coupon for $3 off a purchase of the night. $5. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 507 W MLK Blvd, Seffner (813-681-7979)

Thursday, Mar. 12: The Grape
The Tampa Alumnae Panhellenic Association hosts the 6th annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, featuring gourmet food, wine and music. $25 advanced, $35 at the door. 6-8 p.m., 2223 N. Westshore Blvd. Suite B217, Tampa (239-272-8281)

Thursday, Mar. 12: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
In the “Gut Connection” seminar, Dr. George Springer will explain how imbalances in the body’s digestive system can cause health problems. Free. 6:30 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Thursday, Mar. 12: Vino 100 St. Petersburg
Sample wines from Australia at this St. Pete wine tasting. Free. 5-8 p.m., 5056 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-522-8466)

Thursday, Mar. 12 & Friday, Mar. 13: Fleming’s Steakhouse and Wine Bar
Enjoy great music, fine wines and a three-course meal at the Vintage Rock Dinner. $55. 6:30 p.m. 2001 Siesta Dr, Sarasota (941-358-9463)

Friday, Mar. 13: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
Nutritionist Barbara Lee will explain how to get all you can for your health dollar in the “Spending Money Wisely on Health” seminar. Free. 6 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Friday, Mar. 13: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Weekly Friday wine Happy Hour at Belleair. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Friday, Mar. 13: Uncorked
Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day at Uncorked with McBeer and Mead, snacks and dancing. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Friday-Sunday, Mar. 13-15: Cajun Zydeco Crawfish Festival
Cajun invasion begins with this 9th annual festival of all things Louisiana. $35 for three days. Friday 4:30-10 p.m., Saturday noon-10 p.m., Sunday noon-8 p.m., Vinoy Park, Downtown St. Pete (727-892-5798)

Saturday, Mar. 14: Vino 100 Brandon
Sippin Saturday tasting at the Brandon store. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Tuesday, Mar. 17: Vino 100 Brandon
Learn about the elegant white wines of Germany – like Riesling – at The Wines of Germany class. $20 per person, $35 per couple. 6- 7:30 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Friday, Mar. 20: Uncorked
At the Oregon Wine Tasting, sample different wines from the region – like Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris – and discover unique food pairings. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Friday, Mar. 20: Belleair Wine and Grill Bar
Weekly Friday wine Happy Hour at Belleair. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Saturday, Mar. 21: Toast Fine Wine & Cigars
Listen to some of your favorite records while drinking fabulous wines at Toast’s Vine and Vinyl event. Free. 6-9 p.m., 14921 Bruce B. Downs, Tampa (813-632-3105)

Saturday, Mar. 21: Sweetwater Organic Workshop
Listen to Sweetwater founder and director Rick Martinez discuss the most common weeds and pests in the area, and how to keep them out of your garden. $15 (or volunteer). 2-3 p.m., 6842 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa (813-887-4066)

Saturday, Mar. 21: Vino 100 Brandon
Join Vino as they take a tour of the old country, and sample wine from some of the greatest wine regions in the world: Chianti, Tuscany Piedmont, Bordeaux and Loire. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Saturday, Mar. 21: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
At “Living Foods Made Easy,” Chef Joseph Custer will teach guests how to prepare puddings and creams from raw foods. Free. 11 a.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Sunday, Mar. 22: Sweetwater Organic Workshop
This workshop covers how to handle stress and depression with herbal medicine, featuring herbalist Bob Linde. $10. 3-4 p.m., 6842 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa (813-887-4066)

Thursday, Mar. 26: Italian Club of Tampa
Join the Italian Club for the Wines of Italy, featuring 65 wines from different regions in Italy, Italian antipasta and desserts. $45 before Mar. 20. 6-9 p.m., 1731 E. 7th Ave., Tampa (813-248-3316)

Mar. 26-28: International Rum Festival
The largest rum festival in the U.S. will feature three days of tastings, dinners and festive events in Ybor.

Friday, Mar. 27: Toast Fine Wine & Cigars
Toast’s monthly wine tasting will offer 17 wine selections and appetizers. Free. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 14921 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa (813-632-3105)

Friday, Mar. 27: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Weekly Friday wine Happy Hour. Free. 5-8 p.m., 1575 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater (727-449-2988)

Friday, Mar. 27: Uncorked
At the Big Three Wine Tasting, sample wines from popular regions in France, Italy and Spain. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Saturday, Mar. 28: Polished Palate International Rum Festival
Come to the Ritz Ybor to sample dozens of rums from around the world and rum-infused treats. A silent auction and various seminars by rum aficionados will also take place. $50 VIP, $40 general. 7-10 p.m., 1503 E. 7th Ave., Tampa (727-947-3522)

Saturday, Mar. 28: Vino 100 Brandon
Vino’s Sippin Saturday wine tasting at the Brandon store. Free. 12-5 p.m., 1038 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813-654-8466)

Sunday, Mar. 29: Sweetwater Organic Workshop
Julie Barreda Bruyn will show kids and parents the basics of cooking, using crops fresh from Sweetwater’s fields. Ages 9 and up. $10. 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., 6842 W. Comanche Ave., Tampa (813-887-4066)

Tuesday, Mar. 31: The Wine Shop of St. Pete Beach
In this “Health by Numbers” seminar, Susan Bucci will talk about body statistics we need to know in order to achieve optimum health. Free. 6:15 p.m., 401 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach (727-363-9463)

Apr. 3-5: Cajun Cafe on the Bayou Crawfish Festival
Lots of music, lots of crawfish, lots of people saying “suck the head!” 8101 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park (727-546-6732)

Friday-Monday, Apr. 17-20: Bern’s 12th Annual Winefest Weekend
Bern’s big annual event includes tastings, dinners, seminars and more. Check the event website for full details.

Sunday, Apr. 19: B-21 Fine Wine & Spirits
Join B-21 for their annual Bordeaux vs. Cabernet wine tasting and sale. $25 before Apr. 17, $30 at the door. 2-5 p.m., 43380 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-937-5049)

Saturday, Apr. 25: Uncorked
Join Uncorked for their British Isles & Ireland Beer Event, where they will serve diverse brews from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Reservations required. $20. 7-9 p.m., 2706 4th St N, St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

Friday-Saturday, May 15-16: Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival
This event at the Don Cesar Resort will feature wine and food tastings, seminars by celebrity chefs and live performances. $75, 1-4 p.m., 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach (813-258-5858)

Sunday, Jun. 14: B-21 Fine Wine & Spirits
B-21’s Tour of Italy tasting and sale will feature Italian wines such as Barolo, Chianti Classico and Supertuscans. $25 before Jun. 12, $30 at the door. 2-5 p.m., 43380 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-937-5049)

Saturday, Aug. 8: Vino, Java and Jazz
This event at the Florida Aquarium will feature wine samplings, special dishes, desserts, coffee and jazz music. Proceeds from a silent auction will go toward the Tampa Bay Region of the Easter Seals Florida organization. $65 in advance, $80 at the door. 7-11 p.m., 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa (813-769-5915)

Sunday, Aug. 16: B-21 Fine Wine & Spirits
Celebrate selections of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at the Best of Burgundy and Beyond tasting and Sale. $25 before Aug. 14, $30 at the door. 2-5 p.m., 43380 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-937-5049)

Thursday, Feb. 26: Mise En Place
Monthly meetings at Mise En Place include seminars, demonstrations and tastings that feature light appetizers and cocktails. This month’s cocktail is the Manhattan. $35. 6-8 p.m., 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813) 961-8388

Thursday, Feb. 26: L’Eden
Stop by L’Eden for a tasting tour through the Mediterranean, featuring food and wine from France, Italy and Spain. $25. 6-8 p.m., 500 N. Tampa St., Tampa (813-221-4795)

Thursday, Feb. 26: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
Women on Course is hosting a happy hour inspired by the golf lifestyle. The event offers networking oppurtunities, food, wine and tips on how to select the perfect wine. $25 for guests, $10 for members. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 4322 West Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa (703-268-5078)

Thursday, Feb. 26: Bern’s Fine Wines
This six-course wine dinner features Terra Valentine Winery from Napa, with winemaker Sam Baxter on hand to discuss his creations. $125. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave, Tampa (813-250-9463)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, Feb. 25: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Enjoy a five-course meal paired with select wines at the Legends of Sonoma and Napa event. Featured Merlots, Chardonnays and Cabernets come from Arrowood Vineyards, Freemark Abbey and Matanzas Creek. Reservations required. $65. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 1575 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater (727-449-2988)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Thursday, Feb. 19: St. Petersburg Wine and Food Festival
Stroll through downtown St. Pete and experience fine wines and spirits, food samplings and jazz music. $75 VIP, $50 general. 5:30-9:30 p.m. (727-347-6133)

Thursday, Feb. 19: Vino 100 St. Pete
Hosted by Vino 100, Massage Envy and Let’s Eat, “Ladies Night Out” is designed to pamper guests with wine, massages and delicious cuisine. Free. 5-8 p.m., 5056 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-522-8466)

Friday, Feb. 20: Bern’s Fine Wine & Spirits
Come to Bern’s for Crush Hour, featuring seven different Japanese sakes paired with small, Japanese-inspired side dishes. $25. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

These days everyone is looking for the next health gimmick/trend — any way that we can become healthier, lighter and smaller without starving or cravings. More sensible meat options are part of that — one good example is buffalo. And, although ostrich might be a stretch for most folks, it may be a stretch worth enduring.

Ostriches are classified as ratites and their wings serve only as running aids and for changing direction. They can run fast: up to 30 mph sustained and up to 43 mph bursts. A bird that can do that has gotta have some lean, tasty meat.

Ostrich meat is lower in calories and fat than chicken, turkey, pork or beef and Read the rest of this entry »

It’s been a busy week, folks, so here’s an easy list of all the top stories in CL’s food and drink coverage. Eat it up!

Nosh Pit Episode 4 is up!
Corkscrew covers wine and chocolate.
Ocean Prime and Restaurant BT build better cocktails.

Restaurant News: Bern’s and Zack Gross of Z Grille make Beard Awards semifinals, the horror and delight of Sam’s Club pizza, waiter rant, Mr. Dunderbak’s re-opens, Cilantro Indian Cuisine owner being deported, $10 bottles of wine at Ruby Tuesday, The Table loses its chef, free bread at the chains

Drinks: Beer Review: Nogne O Brown, Total Wine coupon, tickets on sale for Spring wine events, Beer Review: Petrus Oud Bruin, Wine Review: Brandal 2007 Albarino, Spanish love at B-21

Cooking and Recipes, Food News after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Thursday, Feb. 12-Friday, Feb. 13: PRP Wines International
Take advantage of this Valentine’s Warehouse Sale — PRP is opening its warehouse to the public for the first of only four times this year. Stock up on their all-natural, no added sulfite wines in time for Valentine’s Day. Free. 5-9 p.m., 5910 Breckenridge Pkwy Suite F, Tampa (813-621-1911 ext 2017)

Thursday, Feb. 12-Saturday, Feb. 14: Avenue Cellars
Spend Valentine’s Day weekend at the Pre-Valentine’s Love Fest Wine Tasting. The event will feature several wines Thursday and Friday in preparation for Saturday, when Avenue Cellars invites you to share a romantic bottle of wine with your date. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., 9662 Linebaugh Ave, Tampa (813-920-9991)

Friday, Feb. 13: South Florida Museum
Celebrate food and drink from around the world at the third annual Vinology 3-Epicure Tour. Enjoy fine wines and accompanying tasting menus, food, beer, cooking demonstrations and wine seminars. $75 (includes all food, wine, beer, seminars and a souvenir glass). 6-11 p.m., 201 10th St. W., Bradenton (941-746-4131 ext. 11)

Friday, Feb. 13: Vintage Wine Cellars
Sample 10 specialty red blends from around the world, along with bread and cheeses. $10. 7-9 p.m., 3629 Henderson Blvd, Tampa (813-879-2931)

Friday, Feb. 13: Uncorked
Uncorked will uncork a selection of luscious red wines for this Valentine’s weekend tastin, including Petite Sirah, Zin and Syrah. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-892-9463)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Sunday was a day that reminds us all why we live in Florida. The slight breeze and bountiful sunshine motivated me to endure a very lengthy drive to Tarpon Springs where the large wine retailer B-21 hosted a seminar on Spanish wines.

I had never been to B-21 (queue appalled gasps from my fellow wine enthusiasts), but as I navigated the congested rows of bottles ranging from the coveted to jug varieties – and seemingly everything in between – I understood why I’d heard so much about this place.

From the outside it appears like any dated spirits store, and well, from the inside, the decor harkens its 50’s heyday as well. Read the rest of this entry »

We were busy this week. Check out what the CL food and wine blogs served up.

James raved about BJ’s Alabama Barbecue.

Taylor’s got the goods on a prix-fixe deal at Gallagher’s Steakhouse and how to win dinner for two at Toasted Pheasant, reveals the demise on A&L Fine Wines in Palm Harbor, and talks about how the recession is affecting the wine business.

Brian writes about designer eggs from Disney, Target winning best coffeemaker from Consumer Reports, gives a sneak peak of Datz’s Deli, provides a discourse on vanilla beans, talks about how much stimulus money goes towards food, and where Chef Domenica Macchia has landed. Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, Feb. 4: ABC Fine Wines and Spirits Largo
Sample from dozens of wine selections, with free hors d’oeuvres. $10. 1603 N. Missouri Ave., Largo (727-581-4642)

Thursday, Feb. 5: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
4 course Spanish wine dinner featuring importer David Bernard of Vinamericas. $49. 6:30-9 p.m., 1575 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater (727-449-2988 or belleairgrill.com)

Thursday, Feb. 5: Whole Foods
This tasting class will cover reds, whites and sparkling wines. Registration required. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., 1548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-874-9435)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Besides a cool name, Bodacious bears a boatload of juicy, easy-drinking fruit. 100 percent cabernet sauvignon, this wine has silky tannins, fragrant, violet-infused black cherry, blackberry, vanilla and an aroma you want to live in. It’s easily worth twice the price because of its quality (retail around $45).

Toad Hall Cellars is a partnership between John Komes from Napa’s Flora Springs Winery and Bob Bettencourt, a 25-year wine industry veteran and former Tampa Bay resident.

Read the rest of this entry »

Thursday, Jan. 29: All Children’s Hospital
This class is designed to teach parents and kids how to cook healthy foods. Free. 6:30-8 p.m., All Children’s Hospital Education Center, 701 4th St., St. Petersburg (allkids.org)

Thursday, Jan. 29: Cork & Olive Palm Harbor
Sip and dip night with eight red and white wines and olive oil. Free. 6-8 p.m., 4978 Ridgemoor Blvd., Palm Harbor (727-781-9463 or corkandolive.com)

Upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, Jan. 28: Cork & Olive Carrolwood
Wine 101 class that’ll teach you how to taste. $10 (applied to purchase). 6:30-8 p.m., 10019 N.Dale Mabry Hwy., Carrolwood (813-868-3733 or corkandolivecarrolwood.com)

Upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

In episode 2, Brian and Taylor discuss the fine art of fooling your friends with box wine, how food critic Laura Reiley jumped the gun, why you may be spreading mercury on your PB&J and the reasons real men drink rose wine during the Superbowl.

Download.

Player below the jump… Read the rest of this entry »

In the inaugural episode of Nosh Pit, CL food editor Brian Ries and Cl wine editor Taylor Eason talk about Barack Obama’s first meal as president, plus new restaurant openings in the bay area and the worst of the worst chain restaurants:

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Evan Sung for the New York Times

The best of the best food sections, all organized into one place.

St. Pete Times:

Janet Keeler gives her take on Chef Tom Pritchard’s Roast (read ours) and provides a recipe for roasted vegetable mac & cheese

Laura Reiley reviews Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill in St. Pete and Ybor City’s Teatro on Seventh.

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Friday, Jan. 23: Vintage Wine Cellars
Hoppy beers will be on tap. $10. 7-9 p.m., 3629 Henderson Blvd., Tampa (813-879-2931 or vintagewinecellars.net)

Friday, Jan. 23: Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits
Continuing the January Crush Hour series, Bern’s will feature Oregon Pinot Noirs. $25. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463 or bernssteakhouse.com)

Friday, Jan. 23: Kuba Cigars
Hit Kuba for wines from Argentina, Spain and more. Free. 7-9 p.m., 243 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa (813-258-8191 or kubacigars.com)

Friday, Jan. 23: Cork & Olive Palm Harbor
Wine and cheese social with eight red and white wines, cheese and olive oil. Free. 6-8 p.m., 4978 Ridgemoor Blvd., Palm Harbor (727-781-9463 or corkandolive.com)

Friday, Jan. 23: Uncorked
Weekly tasting features Argentinean wines. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-892-9463 or uncorkedwines.com)

Friday, Jan. 23: Cork & Olive Carrolwood
Learn how to pair cigars with wine, with a cigar roller on hand from Serafin Cigars. Free. 6-8 p.m., 10019 N.Dale Mabry Hwy., Carrolwood (813-868-3733 or corkandolivecarrolwood.com)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Just in case you missed it, here are the top Food & Drink stories of the day:

• Top Chef recap: “Restaurant Wars“
• Fleming’s three-course prix fixe returns
• New restaurant preview: AquaKnox
• Bourdain calls Alice Waters “very Khmer Rouge”

And some more from around the web:

• Cooking with apples: Pink Lady’s the choice
• How much does it cost to feed a CEO? About $240k if you’re HP’s Mark Hurd
• Store-bought chicken stocks, reviewed: Which are the best?
• Wines of the times – South African wines step onto the stage
• St. Pete Times reviews Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill
• TBO reviews Weck’s Deli

Thursday, Jan. 22: Winemall
Tampa Bay Lightning wine tasting featuring Lightning Girls and benefitting the Lightning Foundation. Free. 6-8 p.m., 11246 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa (813-855-7711 or winemall.com)

Thursday, Jan. 22: Toasted Pheasant Bistro
Tuscan wine dinner with wine expert Massimiliano Boscaino and food from Chef Peter Leonavicius. $54.95. 7-9:30 p.m., 14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-265-6700 or toastedpheasant.com)

More upcoming events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

The St. Pete Times has a great rundown of Florida’s biggest wine and food events coming up in 2009. Writes John Bancroft:

Two of Europe’s remaining crowned heads, a platoon of celebrity chefs and a gaggle of gregarious winemakers headline food and wine festivals from Safety Harbor to Miami’s South Beach in the coming months.

Yep, their majesties King Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain will be slumming it with the likes of Paula Deen and Anthony Bourdain at the Food Network South Beach Food & Wine Festival next month. Maybe the $1,000 price tag for their shindig means that “slumming it” isn’t terribly apt. Royalty!

Read the rest of the Times event rundown here.

Sure, a plane crashes, a man gets ready for the biggest job in the land, and Gruden gets a pink slip. All big stories, but where’s the love for a pot of beans and greens, or a jab at Jasmine Thai? Here’s your chance to relive the week that was, without all that pesky news in the way:

• Creative Loafing debuts its new food section! World celebrates!
• Brian reviews Jasmine Thai’s new location and pronounces it “a safety date.”
• Taylor pens a sonnet of middling quality on the pros and cons of oak. She’s well versed on the subject.
• A waiter rants about customers — “If you were to say hello to me in your office I wouldn’t say: ‘pro forma balance sheet!’ or ‘digital rectal exam!’”
• Grapefruit Avocado Salad, plus more great grapefruit recipes.
• How do West Indian ex-pats spend a Christmas in Miami? Like everyone else, but with better food.
• Tampa wins caffeine trifecta — Most Caffeinated City, Least Addicted, Most Pain Killers!
• People get drunk at Tom Pritchard’s charity roast!
• Impromptu pasta: easy Spinach and Gorgonzola Pasta.
• North Coast Scrimshaw Pilsner helps a dark beer girl remember lighter days.
• Taco Bus to host cookbook author and Mexican food maven Diana Kennedy.
• White Bean and Kale Stew will, apparently, “warm your nubbies.”
• CL announces the first of many Monthly Recipe Contests.
• Capital Grille hires new sommelier.

Check out our full Food and Drink Events Listing for more upcoming events.

Wednesday, Jan. 14: Belleair Grill and Wine Bar
Four course wine dinner featuring Clos Pegase of Napa Valley. $47. 6:30 p.m., 1575 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater (727-449-2988 or belleairgrill.com)

Wednesday, Jan. 14: ABC Fine Wines & Spirits Wesley Chapel
Wine tasting and cigar smoker. $10. 1845 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Wesley Chapel (813-782-1389 or abcfws.com)

Check out our full Food and Drink Events Listing for more upcoming events.

Friday, Jan. 9: Uncorked Fine Wines
This weekly Friday tasting features new wines from Spain. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-892-9463 or uncorkedwines.com)

Friday, Jan. 9: Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits
Continuing the January Crush Hour series, Bern’s will be bringing in Dave Robert to talk about the grand appellations of Burgundy, with a tasting of the area’s most famous villages. $40. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463 or bernssteakhouse.com)

Friday, Jan. 9: CORK & OLIVE PALM HARBOR
Wine and cheese social featuring vino from Washington, California and Italy. Free. 6-8 p.m., Cork & Olive, 4978 Ridgemoor Blvd., Palm Harbor (727-781-9463 or corkandolive.com)

Friday, Jan. 9: CORK & OLIVE CARROLWOOD
Wine and cheese social featuring vino from Washington, California and Italy. Free. 6-8 p.m., Cork & Olive, 10019 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Carrolwood (813-868-3733 or corkandolive.com)

More events after the break:

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World of Wines
This Wine Down Wednesday tasting features Chilean wines and specialty beers. Free. 6-8 p.m., 3431 S. West Shore Blvd., Tampa (813-835-9463)

Cork and Olive Palm Harbor
Christine Chapot of jardin de Bacchus B&B in Tavel, France teaches tou how to cook the Provencal way. $35. 6:30-9 p.m., Cork & Olive, 4978 Ridgemoor Blvd., Palm Harbor (727-781-9463 or corkandolive.com)

Chefs on the Loose
“Rocket Fuel” teaches you how to fill up on healthy, energy-giving foods. $55. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 3401 Bay To Bay Blvd., Tampa (813-835-7300 or chefsontheloose.net)

Check out our full Food and Drink Events Listing for more upcoming events.