For those lucky librarians that live in the New Haven, CT area, we have a wonderful event to announce.  Joe Bastianich, wine expert, restaurateur, son of a culinary legend, and author of Vino Italiano: The Ultimate Quick Reference to the Great Wines of Italy will be the guest of honor at a Wine Dinner hosted by Zinc Restaurant.

On November 12, 2008 at 6pm, a 4-course dinner, prepared by Zinc Chef Denise Appel will accompany wines from the Bastianich Wine Portfolio.  The cost is $125 per person, all-inclusive and seating is limited.  For info on how to buy tickets, go HERE.  Zinc is a fabulous restaurant, we recently celebrated my sister’s birthday there (the local corn spoon bread is delish!)  If you’re not in the area, or the price tag is too rich for your blood, grab a copy of the Vino Italiano buying guide (newly revised and updated), one of Joe’s mom’s cookbooks and host a little wine dinner of your own. 

–Jen

For an inspiring and engagingly browsable book about food, you will delight in the fact-filled descriptions and culinary history / trivia offered in 1001 Foods You Must Taste Before You Die.  I’ve had fun with the fruit section, so far, but I’m really looking forward to perusing the dairy entries!

Also newly released: 1001 Wines You Must Taste Before You Die.  My advice – pace yourselves!  These delectable tomes offer many wonders for your palate.

-Erica