Wine Shows Cork Open Success

There is something to be said for not just tasting wine but for learning about it—a lot about it actually. And that is exactly what happens at the monthly wine show hosted by the .

Three long tables consisting of a very large crowd of about 139 wine lovers gathered on May 12 at 6:30 p.m. for the popular monthly Wine Show. "A Taste Of Italy" was the theme for the most recent show. Attendees not only got the opportunity to taste seven different wines of Italy, they also learned all about the region and climate they came from and foods each bottle can be paired with, which were made my and served with every wine tasting.

Taught by Dave Birkenmeier, CSW, known as "Dave, the Wine Guy" and Mike Ward, CSW, CWE, CSS, known as "Ward on Wine" for more than three years, this is one wine show in which everyone got an education on wine. For instance, it was explained that white wines are made from purple grapes with the skins removed.

Anne Birkenmeier was a guest presenter taking classes with Birkenmeier on her way to become a CSW or Certified Specialist of Wine. She gave a special presentation, sharing many special facts on Chianti. One such fact was that this popular type of Italian wine was listed as a white wine from the 13th Century till the 1930s.

Ward stated he is most passionate about Italian wines, and enjoys teaching classes to offer an educational experience, not just a tasting. "I want to teach people how to taste better, what temperature to store, how to let wine breathe," he said.

Birkenmeier is the store manager at the Lindbergh , and also teaches the class alongside Ward. Dave said, "Wine is meant to be paired with food, to compliment a meal."

Both of these individuals were committed to educating people simply for the love, passion and enjoyment of wine.

The seven Italian selections in the May wine and food pairing class were Cupcake Prosecco, Ruffino Orvieto Classico, Cupcake Pino Grigio, Ruffino Aziano Chianti Classico, Amano Primitivo, Ruffino IL Ducale, and Marco Negri Moscato d'Asti.

Along with the wine tasting, there also was a demonstration of a 900-year-old tradition called "Cracking the Parm," in which an 80-pound wheel of Parmigiano cheese was cracked open and served. This is a rare opportunity to see unless you visit the five provinces of Italy where Parmigiano Reggiano is produced.

Local Wildwood residents, Bill and Maxine Hepper, were among the attendees. "We love this event, we have been four times already this year," said Maxine.

The next covers summer wines and takes place on June 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Call Schnucks at 636-458-5544 or stop by the courtesy counter to sign up.