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February 23, 2005

Dinner at Ruth’s Chris in Birmingham, AL

What is special about going to a steakhouse like Ruth’s Chris? It’s nice as a business traveler to be able to go into a restaurant in a city that you have never been to and know just what you are going to get. The Ruth’s Chris in Birmingham is no exception. Mouth watering steak, polished service and terrific emphasis on wine makes this a comforting choice. Currently pouring Sokol Blosser Pinot Gris by the glass, we are proud to be featured at such a great spot. Thanks Ruth’s Chris! Look for Evolution by the glass nationwide at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouses across the country this spring! For reservations in Birmingham call (205) 879-9995.

February 22, 2005

Lunch at GianMarcos in Homewood, AL

Go see Giani! Matt and I stopped for a quick lunch and I found out that the Giani’s pasta is nothing to rush through. This was one bowl of GOOD pasta!! Giani lets you know he has Italian root with old world Italian ingredients, just like Mamma would make. I am coming back for dinner next time. Giani’s wine list is Italian inspired, but has some select bottle from elsewhere in the world. Sokol Blosser is coming to the list with Pinot Noir and Meditrina. What I found out from Giani is that he always has some special bottles that do not make it to the list. The insiders tip is to ask if he has anything special. The last special wines that were not on the list were Gaja and Sokol Blosser Watershed ’99. Try that at dinner with one of Giani’s veal chops! Make reservations tonight at (205) 871-9622.

Dinner at Prairie Fire Grille in Birmingham, AL

This casual, bistro inspired restaurant is putting fresh twists on dining classics. To understand better just try the Southwest Calamari with marinated red onions, garlic, tomatillos, roasted romas and citrus served with a red pepper aioli. When you do, you will know exactly what I am talking about, right down to the last bite. Open flame and roasted dish are a highlight here as well. Tuna, Pecan Crusted Salmon and Peppercorn, Blackened Rib Eye. My advice, go with friends who don’t mind sharing. Thanks Matt and Dave for being just those kinds of friends! Jessie Mund of the Prairie Fire took great care of us. These tasty creations were enjoyed with a bottle of Sokol Blosser Watershed Pinot Noir ’99. Need I say more? Well, I will. The Prairie Fire Grille is the kind of restaurant that makes wine lovers happy – Great selection at prices that do not make your wallet ache. So, go with some friend to the Prairie Fire and have a couple of bottles of Sokol Blosser. I am sure you will leave pleasantly full and happy. Reservations are available at (205) 991-1313.

Vintage Wine Shoppe brings "Oregon Pinot Camp" to Alabama

Patti Davidson, what a great idea! Invite 15 plus Oregon wineries to do seminars and a grand tasting of just Oregon wines for the great people of Birmingham, Alabama. Way to go Patti! There are a lot of Pinot Noir lovers in Alabama. The only thing better than drinking Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir, is sharing it with others! Thanks to you and your staff for putting on such a nice event and making us Oregonians feel so welcome. See what else the Vintage Wine Shoppe is up to

February 21, 2005

Dinner at Canoe in Atlanta, GA

This oasis on the Chattahoochee River, where Buckhead meets Vinings, is a must experience for anyone who enjoys inspired food and wonderful wine. Kevin Good is the driving force behind Canoe’s wine program and its success. Beautiful setting, polished and friendly staff made this an evening to remember. My venison entrée was one of the best I have ever had, but it was the appetizers that I remember. My friend Dave, his wife and I enjoyed oysters on the half shell and tuna, tuna, tuna (tuna done three different ways) with Sokol Blosser Pinot Gris. Pinot Gris and Oysters try it! Delicious. What a fabulous start to a wonderful evening. Thank you Canoe - you have a special place. Also, thank you to the Harmons for your company.

February 20, 2005

Atlanta Fine Wine Festival

800 people enjoyed a treat for the eyes and taste buds at the 1st annual Atlanta Fine Wine Festival. The tasting was held in a large art gallery on the edge of downtown Atlanta. What a place to enjoy art both on the walls and in the bottle. Sokol Blosser proudly poured, to great response, Willamette Pinot Noir ’01, Old Block Pinot Noir ’01 and Watershed Pinot Noir ’99. There is nothing like enjoying a good glass of Sokol Blosser Pinot while you’re drinking in beautiful artwork. Meditrina and Evolution fit in just fine with their fun and artful labels. Hats off to Michael Gillant for putting together such a nice event.

Dinner at Woodfire Grill in Atlanta, GA

Go to the Woodfire Grill! After a long day this truly hit the spot. The name suits this restaurant perfectly with skillfully prepared dishes cooked over an open flame for maximum flavor. Salmon, tuna, duck, rib eye – it’s all good. Woodfire uses organic meats and fresh local vegetables. This makes the people at Sokol Blosser, a "Good to the Earth" winery, happy. Ask for Andy McCoy or Greg Koetting, they will take good care of you. Don’t miss the selection of cheeses and Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir by the glass.