Calendar of Events
A chance to sample 50 Michigan wines and 2 dozen Michigan-brewed beers. Also, a wide sampling of Michigan foods selected by Common Grill chef Craig Common. A benefit for the summertime Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights programs and the July 25-27 Sounds & Sights Festival. 6-9 p.m., Common Grill, 112 S. Main. $50 in advance & at the door. 475-0470. [map]
[add a comment]
It wasn't long ago that Spanish wines were seldom considered classy wines to bring to our table (with a few notable exceptions), often because some of the wines made in Spain had been manufactured with antiquated methods and in a style which consumers often found dismaying. These days, the wines of Spain are everywhere in the United States, frequently invading shelves in a saturating and exponential manner. Every week I taste dozens of wines from this Iberian country, only finding 5 or 6 that I want to bring forth onto my space for customer consumption, and that's an improvement. I want to show you 5 of these examples with Tempranillo being the only obligatory appearance. I will choose from Bobal, Carinena (aka Samso, Carignan), Garnacha (Grenache), Graciano, Mencia, and Monastrell (Mourvedre). Join me in this exploration of what Spaniards call vino tinto. Register online 48 hours in advance at www.annarborcooks.com Ann Arbor Cooks!, 5060 Jackson Road. $50/person. 734-645-1030. www.annarborcooks.com [map]
Ahhhh... Spring is here! And that means artichokes! Are you intimidated by this formidable looking vegetable? Conquer your fear and join us for an evening learning all the ins and outs of artichokes and some delicious ways to prepare them. When you leave this class, there will be no questions left regarding what to do with that peculiar, prickly, but gorgeous vegetable! Full participation. Menu: Artichoke Hearts stuffed with Ground Veal, Pancetta, Breadcrumbs, Nutmeg & Fresh Herbs; Artichoke au Gratin; Artichoke Frittatas. Register online 48 hours in advance at www.annarborcooks.com Ann Arbor Cooks!, 5060 Jackson Road. $75/person. 734-645-1030. www.annarborcooks.com [map]
Every Thurs. Whole Foods staffers discuss wine. Tastings with cheese and appetizers. Topics include “Italian Wines for Spring” (May 2), “American White Blends” (May 9), “South American Reds” (May 16), “American Red Blends for Summer” (May 23), and “Grilling Wines” (May 30). 5-8:30 p.m., Whole Foods wine bar, 990 W. Eisenhower, Cranbrook Village shopping center. $17. 997-7500. [map]
All invited for dinner, preceded by a brief Shabbat observance with songs, candle lighting, wine and challah, and discussion on a theme TBA. Children welcome. 6:30-9 p.m., Jewish Community Center, 2935 Birch Hollow Dr. (off Stone School Rd. south of Packard). $10 (family, $25). Reservations required at jewishculturalsociety.org. 975-9872. [map]
A Special Event at Ann Arbor Cooks! Instead of making your usual weekend restaurant reservations, join us for a different experience -- an interactive evening where we do the cooking right in front of you with the area's finest local ingredients -- sourced from our local farms and markets. You get to relax, socialize with fellow foodies, and watch as we prepare and serve your entire meal. Throughout the evening you will be at arms length of the chef and interaction is highly encouraged! You will receive a recipe packet to take home with you detailing the evening's entire menu. So come yourself, with a friend, or a group for a great evening of food, conversation, and so much more...MENU Local Asparagus Grilled Cheese with a Poached Egg & Fresh Baby Greens, Seared Diver Scallops with Lemon Gnocchi, Morels & Favas, Lemon, Poppy and Chevre Cheesecake with Rhubarb & Almond Streusel. *BYOB - You are welcome to bring wine to enjoy with your meal. Register online 48 hours in advance. Ann Arbor Cooks!, 5060 Jackson Road. $65/person. 734-645-1030. www.annarborcooks.com [map]
