Whooo's Better Than Wildlife In Crisis?

Whooo’s Better Than Wildlife In Crisis?

(Ran Sept. 3 in Westport News paper & appeared online)

By Mike Lauterborn

© 2010. All Rights Reserved.

8/31/10

Greenwich, CT – They’re among the hardest working people in the wild animal rescue business, they do it all on a volunteer basis and their greatest reward is to see their clients return to their natural habitats.

On Sunday, August 29, the non-profit Wildlife in Crisis (WIC) organization held its annual fundraising event at the Greenwich Audubon Center. The highlight was the release back into the wild of two Great Horned Owls that had been rescued and rehabilitated at the Weston-based clinic.

The event was supported by Westport’s Black Bear Wines and Spirits, which was conducting a tasting and planned to contribute a portion of any wine sales. “Animals’ fearlessness and resilience to injury is an inspiration,” said Black Bear spokesperson Denise Iulo. “It is so important to protect wildlife in our community and the environments in which they live.”

Besides the wine, supporters, numbering over 100, enjoyed bottled and draught beer, hors d’oeuvres and other food provided by WIC volunteers. Forty-two items ranging in value from $25 to $10,000 were also donated for a silent auction while another 40 items were contributed to a raffle.

Jeff Schultz, CT Wine Director for importer Vinifera, coordinated Black Bear’s tasting table, just outside Kiernan Hall in the Audubon facility’s Kimberline Nature Center. “It’s white wine weather,” he’d decided, referring to the day’s clear blue skies and temperatures in the 80s. To that regard, Schultz poured a Sant’ Elena Sauvignon Blanc, of which only 900 cases are made annually, along with two fine Italian red wines.

From the wine station, paw print stencils on the floor led into the hall where the event, co-chaired by WIC volunteers Amy Jenner and Janice Vitale, was mainly concentrated. Amongst the merchandise tables, WIC foundation co-leader Peter Reid manned the beer bar. He explained, “WIC has been serving Fairfield County since 1988. My wife Dara founded the organization. Now we treat over 5,000 wild animals each year – everything from hummingbirds to white-tailed deer. The area is an attractive habitat for wildlife – coyotes, turkeys, even moose. As such, there’s a lot of potential for human/wildlife contact. Birds hit windows, fawns are orphaned, animals are hit by cars. Our mission is to ameliorate human/wildlife contact.”

When there is a harmful interaction, WIC nurtures and rehabilitates animals back into the wild. Private citizens and local philanthropic groups provide all funding, which goes directly to caring for wild animals in need and maintaining the organization’s 10-acre plot adjacent to Weston’s Devil’s Den preserve. The group operates an animal hospital/clinic with flight cages for owls and hawks, others for songbirds. Volunteers are high school interns, college recruits and local people passionate about animals.

“When someone finds an injured animal,” explained Reid, “they bring it to us. We’re set up for minor surgical procedures but work closely with South Wilton Veterinary Group for advanced surgeries and splinting. Then the animals are brought back to the center for recovery. Many have to be rehabilitated for months.”

Dr. Nick Sitinas heads up the South Wilton facility and was in attendance with three of seven of his staff doctors -- Diana Chung, Clare Fahy and Louisa Martin. As to why WIC has partnered with their group, Sitinas explained, “We’re one of the only board certified avian specialists in the area trained to deal with a wide variety of species. Shortly after we were established in 1994, Dara began bringing cases to us.”

Andrew Pollino, 13, was sad that his summer term as WIC’s youngest volunteer had ended. “I thought they could use extra help and Amy said she’d be delighted to have me. My first task was to re-mulch a path. By the end of the summer, I was handling squirrels, feeding birds and cleaning cages. It’s been so much fun to work with animals and has given me the idea to become a veterinarian.”

WIC volunteers Kate Backel, 22, Julie Schmidt, 60, and Anna Clark, 24, displayed WIC-branded fleece jackets, tees, hats and totes. Clark mentioned an injured baby crow she nurtured back to health during her internship at the Center. “He was in really rough shape when he arrived at WIC, and after several months of rehabilitation we were able to release him.”

Founder Dara Reid was very pleased with the turnout. “I’m grateful to everyone that came out to support us,” she said, presenting certificates of recognition to a few select volunteers and the South Wilton Veterinary Group for their assistance. She then encouraged the gathering to join her at the back of the building for the owl release.

From a second floor balcony, Reid took the first owl, orphaned as a baby, and set it free. It spread its massive wings and soared away over a tree line. Then she released the second owl, which Jenner had nicknamed Oscar. It took off over a field of wild daisies in the direction of the setting sun.

Looking on, WIC intern Laura Cummins, 21, commented, “The work we do is so meaningful and important. But when you finally get to see a release like this, that’s the true benefit of all our time and energy. This program has been the most amazing of my life!” 

Call It a Night: Dining Out in Fairfield

Call It a Night: Dining Out in Fairfield

By Mike Lauterborn

(For Fairfield Sun front page Aug 26 issue)

8/13/10

As full of activities and goings-on as Fairfield is during the day, the town has a thumping pulse at night as well. But what really attracts people to the area is the host of evening dining experiences one can enjoy, from casual to dressy and everything in between. Here’s just a sampling of Fairfield’s prime time culinary sensations…

Go Casual

An institution in Fairfield, Archie Moore’s at 48 Sanford Street has been catering to the masses since the early 90s. There’s a fuzzy “Cheers”-like vibe here that instantly proclaims neighborhood bar and restaurant.

Perhaps it’s the low-key décor that pulls in the crowds – ceiling fans, wood beams and paneling, big screen TVs showing sports and tap standards like Sam Adams.

Or maybe it’s the pub-style food, which includes a range of appetizers like chicken fingers, quesadillas and fried calamari; nachos and salad; burgers and wraps; and tasty sandwiches.

Or just maybe it’s the stupendous buffalo wings, voted “Best in Connecticut” and available in quantities from seven to 49 pieces with celery and hearty bleu cheese dressing on the side.

“The wings are just great,” bartender Jim O’Neil says. “And Monday to Friday, they’re half price. During football season, it’s unbelievable how busy we are for take-out. On Super Bowl Sunday, we sold 32,000 wings out of here alone. That’s a lot of chicken!”

Added O’Neil, “Archie’s is not only a place to sit and watch the game, but a family place. The location is perfect… commuters come off the train after work for a beer… and the prices are very reasonable.”

A hungry quintet of teens enjoying a 21-wing appetizer, which they planned to follow with burgers, echoed O’Neil’s thoughts on the chicken delights. Schoolmates Tommy McGrath, 14 (Fairfield), Ben Capasso, 15 (Fairfield), Yohan Kim, 15 (New Haven), Owen Prum, 15 (New Haven) and Ben Kazer, 15 (New Haven) declared collectively, “Wings are our favorite.”

The five, who hadn’t seen each other in a while, claimed that this was “our spot.” Added McGrath, “Sometimes we like to walk over to Dairy Queen and Robek’s after, for dessert.”

Around the corner and up the block, newbie eatery Colony Grill, opened recently at 1520 Post Road, is enjoying similar success with its one-of-a-kind thin-crust pizza. The pizza and the kitchen were modeled on the original Stamford-based Colony Grill, founded in 1935.

Explained one of the four partners, Cody Lee, “We (the collective owners) were Little League teammates in elementary school in Trumbull and won the Little League World Series in 1989. We stayed friends and would meet at the old Colony to talk and dream about opening a restaurant/bar together. We decided to replicate Colony’s formula, got the endorsement of the owners and took painstaking lengths to make sure the food was the same: simple and tasty.”

NHL superstar Chris Drury is one of the other owners and drops in on occasion to say hello to fans and patrons alike. The latter are a mixed set, from families, couples and business people to seniors, Little Leaguers and enjoyers of the original Colony Grill.

A foursome of workmates that had been busy with Congressman Jim Himes’ campaign efforts, relaxed here recently enjoying a large hot oil pie.

“We knew it just opened and thought it would be a good place to hang out,” said Peter Yazbak, 24, from Bridgeport.

“I really like the spicy pizza and relaxed atmosphere,” said Tamara Soraluz, 23, from Greenwich.

“I went to Southern in New Haven, so I know pizza. And this is good pizza!” said Shante Hanks.

While a hot destination for the pizza, Colony’s got a great late night scene as Hostess Caroline Williams, 19, from Easton, was quick to point out. “Nights are crazy here. We’re family friendly to be sure, but there’s a huge bar biz too. We’re open until 1a.m. Monday to Thursday and until 2 on Friday and Saturday.”

Wine & Dine

Located near the train station at 55 Miller Street off the Post Road, 55 Wine Bar and Restaurant has been a popular stop for the past 2 ½ years. Says bartender Kleber Siguenza, 33, from Norwalk, “People come for the atmosphere… and Mario, the owner. He’s a good guy.”

Indeed, the environment is a soothing one with high wooden stools, stone-tiled floors, large windows allowing ambient light, recessed pinspots, a brick back wall and candles along the bartop. And Mario is a friendly caretaker.

But the wines and drink creations are a strong draw as well. “We serve a lot of red and white wines, as well as cocktail creations like the Watermelon Mojito and Mangopolitan,” said Siguenza. Beers on tap include Stella Artois, Palm, Captain Lawrence Pale Ale and Hoegaarden.

Sara Camarro, 31, from Fairfield, who was enjoying a vodka martini and waiting on friends coming off the train, said about 55, “I like it because it’s quiet, the music’s not overpowering, the menu looks good and I could find a seat at the bar!” 

Patrons, primarily ages 25-55, typically come for dinner first, then stay for the bar said Siguenza. They can choose from antipasti dishes like eggplant parm, mussels and oysters, varied fresh salads, house-made pasta and “secondo” dishes that include veal, salmon, sirloin and chicken.

An added plus is live musical entertainment – typically jazz and pop rock – offered on Fridays and Saturdays from 10pm-1a.m.

Since its opening in September 2009, Molto at 1215 Post Road has quickly taken its place as a favorite destination. Designed to effect the feeling of “Italy meets Manhattan in the 50s,” as partner Nick Racanelli described it, the venue features ceramic tiled flooring, projected Fellini films, a 40-foot Carrera marble bar, a funky soundtrack and booths, tables and an outdoor patio to accommodate diners. The appeal is to the 25-60 set, who come from a 20-mile radius to enjoy Molto’s mozzarella varieties, tapas, sandwiches, specialty pizza, pasta, salads, homemade breads and desserts, and reserve wine list.

The Lipper family of Fairfield was on hand one recent evening, enjoying a Romano pizza in the comfort of a private booth. “We’ve been here 20 times since it opened,” said Ari Lipper, 46. “We moved up from New York. Molto has a little more vibe than other restaurants in the area.” Ari’s wife, Joanna, 44, added, “The food is outstanding. Everything we’ve ordered has been great.” With a laugh, Ari chimed in, “If you can tell by my girlish figure, I appreciate food.” 

The Lippers also enjoy coming for brunch, when they “don’t want the scene” or “for a football Sunday to watch the game. It’s nice and mellow then,” said Joanna, helping her daughter, Bari, 10, to another slice of thin-crust goodness.

“Of course, there are those other times when we want and enjoy all the noise and activity. We even double-date here,” concluded Ari.

Dress to Impress

The Gray Goose, opened in mid-July 2010 at 246 Old Post Road in Southport, has been gaining quite a buzz among the well-heeled “beautiful” crowd. Co-owner Tommy Febbraio, 56, described this newcomer as a wine bar with a value-based contemporary menu, with “nothing over $19.95 and leaning to the healthy side.” Patrons can choose from “little plates” that include calamari, yellow fin tuna and spring rolls, grilled flatbread salads, sandwiches and burgers and main plates like salmon, scallops, chicken and rigatoni.

“You can go to Darien, New Canaan, Greenwich and they would charge $30 for meals like our scallops,” Febbraio remarked, drawing a comparison between the Goose’s pricing and that of competitors in this category.

 The design concept here was “old meets new, European cottage feel.” The wood accents and wide-plank flooring came from a 100-year-old barn in Virginia and were blended with a thick granite topped bar, stone fireplaces, custom lighting and candle sconces.

The crowd -- chatty and bubbly hipsters – tends to be locally based, though recent happy hour visitors Pete Johnson, 52, and Ken Bernheim, 34, hailed from New Canaan and Norwalk respectively. Catching a drink after work, Johnson said, “I’d heard good things about the place and have been impressed with the quality and ambiance.” Added Bernheim, “It’s a vibrant crowd… a good mix of people.”   

A French-American bistro and bar opened at 2316 Post Road in early 2009, Martel offers a range of fare for hungry diners. On the inexpensive side, one can enjoy sandwiches like sliced lamb, braised beef and grilled applewood ham & cheese or warm king crab rolls and crusty fried sole for $11-$16. Entrees range from $16-$24 and include everything from Martel meat loaf to lobster risotto and roasted cod.

Mirroring in feel New York’s Balthazar, the venue has an inviting atmosphere with yellow pastel walls, red leather benches trimmed in gold metal studs, weathered wood, stone tiled floors and abstract paintings created by Vermont artist Robyn Whitney Fairclough.

General Manager Eric Sierra, 45, described patrons as hovering in the late 30s-50s age range, who also come to enjoy the stately beveled stone and dark black wood bar in the entry area.

A pair of regulars, Shannon Riley, 43, and Ed Adams, 55, both Fairfielders, said they like Martel for a variety of reasons. Remarked Adams, “We enjoy the atmosphere, people and definitely the food. The staff also makes you feel like friends, greet you by name and make you feel at home. Other customers are friendly and the owner Marty (Levine) is great.” Added Riley, “We love it here. We really do.”

[SIDEBAR]

Family Pit Stops

There are a wide number of family dining experiences to enjoy in Fairfield. Two eateries in particular have been receiving kudos and deserve a mention.

Near the center of downtown, Kiraku Japanese Asian Grill, at 1795 Post Road, is one family favorite.

Exclaimed patron Carl Speck, 39, who was seated at the sushi bar one recent evening, “I used to go to Sakura but this is more child-friendly, which was important in terms of dining with my children.”

Menu innovation is another differentiator. Manager Helen Chan, 30, travels into Manhattan once a week to make the rounds of other Asian restaurants and spot new food sensations to incorporate into Kiraku’s menu.

“The owner (Jimmy Pan, 35, from Colchester) originally wanted to do only sushi, but customers began asking for Thai, Malaysian and other Asian styles. So we expanded the menu. There’s a lot of area competition but we feel we have unique, Manhattan-style selections,” said Chan.

The environment here is also an attraction: colorful, warm and custom blue, yellow and red lighting, wood block flooring, pastel peach walls, long benches, dark woods and a sushi bar accommodating eight.

“I usually eat sashimi in Asian eateries but I experiment more here,” said Speck. “The snow white rolls are really nice, prices are very good and service is fast and accommodating.

The Shack Hometown Grill at 2070 Post Road is another winner with the family set. Opened in March 2010 after a 3-month renovation, the venue is described by General Manager/Partner David Cervero, 31, as a “place you can take the family for dinner as well as a place for the adults to return later to catch a band.” (Live music is featured on Fridays and Saturdays from 10-1).

But the true draw of this 4,500-square-foot hometown-style restaurant is the very reasonably priced, casual, American pub food: flat bread pizza, calamari, corn dogs, shakes, shack burgers, sandwiches, salads and burritos.

Patron Samantha Bernstein, 44, of Fairfield, said enthusiastically, “It’s a good family place. My husband and I come with our kids. The waitresses and owners are so nice to them. They let them pour their own drinks and make their own desserts. You can come here with a family of five or six and not break the bank. The Shack is easy, welcoming and fun.” 

Green Gourmet Gallops Into Black Rock

Green Gourmet Gallops Into Black Rock

By Mike Lauterborn

© 2010. All Rights Reserved.

8/11/10

FOR SEPT/OCT 2010 ISSUE OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY WOMAN MAGAZINE (below Mike Lauterborn’s profile)

Bridgeport, CT – “Food you can feel good about” is the tagline for GreenGourmetToGo, a new woman-owned business in the trendy heart of the Black Rock section of Bridgeport. It’s an apt summary for a unique shop that offers the local community inspired vegetarian, organic, locally sourced food for take-out.

Linda Soper-Kolton, a self-described “lifelong foodie”, married mother of two and Fairfield resident, is the proprietor and opened the business here back in March 2010. She was previously employed by Save the Children, handling communications and fundraising for the most part over the past 11 years. In this new endeavor, the tall and lean blue-eyed blonde sought to relieve accumulated work stress, pursue a passion and start a new trend in the area. Black Rock seemed the perfect setting, more intimate than Westport or Fairfield, allowing her to have a more personal connection with her clientele.

“I like this neighborhood because of its social consciousness and nice mix of people and ideas. As you move up this way, there are fewer healthy eating options… and people are looking for them. They tell me ‘Thank God you’re here.’”

The 425-square-foot shop was vacant when she found it and needed to be renovated and outfitted to meet her needs. “Just like cooking, I like to start from scratch,” joked the chef/owner. Now the space is inviting with light green pastel colored walls, paintings of flowers, potted herbs and a stone-tiled floor. Behind these homey accents is the equipment of her trade: a stainless steel refrigerated display case for grab-and-go’s, a 32,000 BTU six-burner stove and 3-door stainless steel refrigerator.

While Soper has “always cooked and is fascinated by the possibilities of food,” she required more formal training to prepare for this undertaking. As such, she enrolled in a chef’s training internship program at the Natural Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts in Manhattan and achieved a chef’s diploma a year later.

“It’s been a healthy evolution. The more you learn, the more you incorporate it into what you do. School also helped expose me to some new areas. And I always believed that people should be cooking their own food,” said Soper. While that would be ideal, she also realizes that they don’t necessarily have the time, so her to-go offerings are ideal.

While her menu changes weekly, some mainstays include wheatberry and quinoa salad, tofu and peanut salad, wraps, lots of vegan options, gluten-free choices and baked goods including muffins, cookies, blondies and granola.

Soper believes that people should eat food grown as closely to the source as possible for several reasons: (1) It’s undoubtedly fresher, with more retained nutrients. (2) People should eat what’s in season in their area. (3) We should be supporting local agricultural systems and move away from the industrial agricultural systems that are not sustainable. “Centralized food production is a scary thing,” she opines. “And dangerous. Did you notice how the recent E Coli breakout became a national issue? The food is distributed widely from a central point.”

Soper is also very “green” movement supportive as her business name suggests. This incorporation is about the environmental impact of eating a vegetarian diet. “It’s better for people and the world. You can feed more people on the planet with a vegetarian-based diet than meat-based. The products I use are made from sustainable resources. And I do my best to lessen the impact of my output.”

As to the “Gourmet” aspect of the business, this refers to the quality, preparation and planning of her food as well as a love of food and good ingredients. She strives to create interesting and inspired ways to bring ingredients together.

Of course, the “To Go” element of the shop is all about giving people quick, healthy food options. But Soper offers much more than that to the diverse segment she serves, who have varied needs. “I have the nicest customers in the world. A mix of working people, young couples, moms with kids… predominantly female. My customers range from people with very specific dietary issues to others that just want to eat a little more healthy.” Besides healthy food options, Soper encourages people to cook and loans them cookbooks and other resources to help educate them about healthy foods. She adds that she hopes to sell topical books and other items in the near future.

Soper is also introducing a “Kids Healthy Lunch Program” wherein she will design a healthy lunch program for school-aged children. Interested parents will pre-pay a weekly fee and Soper will have freshly prepared selections waiting for them for pick-up each school morning. 

Get inspired about healthy eating options. Visit GreenGourmetToGo today!

GreenGourmetToGo is located at 2984 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, CT. 203-873-0057. www.GreenGourmetToGo.com

Mike Lauterborn, Seasoned Marketer

FOR SEPT/OCT 2010 ISSUE OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY WOMAN MAGAZINE

Mike Lauterborn, Seasoned Marketer:

Fairfield Beach Area Professional Offers Multi-Tier Talents

Sweepstakes. Product sampling programs. Media campaigns. Consumer and trade events. Added value. Media kits. Public relations. Sales collateral. Direct mail. Newsletters. Viral marketing. Cause marketing. Sales incentives. If you are a business or service provider and need a seasoned marketing consultant (who can copywrite as well!), Mike Lauterborn can help.

Lauterborn, 45, a Fairfield Beach Area resident, has held senior and executive account management positions in the publishing, entertainment, advertising and sales promotion worlds for the past 25 years. Copywriting has been a common thread and he has rolled up his sleeves to craft all types of print and promotional communications. Clients have ranged from small independent “mom and pop” businesses and non-profit organizations to major corporations and brands like HBO, NBC/Universal, Nabisco, SOBE, Bacardi and more.

“I like to learn all I can about a business, understand its particular marketing and communication challenges and help its leaders develop the most effective and targeted programs and messaging to maintain existing business and attract new customers,” said Lauterborn. “And unlike other account management people, I’ve got a creative flair and will help craft and guide the production of all deliverables. My clients like this 2-in-1 capability.”

Midas Touch, a Fairfield-based jeweler and Fairfield County Woman advertiser, is a client (see article and display ad in this issue). So is Green Gourmet To Go, about which Lauterborn has written below and with which he is in the early stages of consulting on print advertising, email marketing and event strategies.

Tap him for a free initial consultation today. He will evaluate your needs and provide an immediate estimate for his services. For more information on Lauterborn’s capabilities and background, visit www.MikeLauterborn.com and/or call him to discuss your project at 203-243-7182. You can also reach him by email at bornies@optonline.net.

A Da-lectable Time at DaPietro's

A Da-lectable Time at DaPietro’s

By Mike Lauterborn

© 2010. All Rights Reserved.

8/10/10

Westport, CT – What better way to cap a steamy August day than to gather in an intimate friendly setting, sample fine wines and enjoy heavenly food?

This was the endeavor pursued by 25 local individuals who had registered for an exclusive wine dinner held Monday evening, August 9th at DaPietro’s Restaurant. The eatery, at 36 Riverside Avenue, which has been a Westport mainstay since 1987, was happy to accommodate the group. Attendees were recruited through the combined efforts of hosts Black Bear Wines & Spirits (also of Westport) and Ronkonkoma, NY-based Vinifera Imports.

Gerard Iulo, the sole proprietor of Black Bear since Fall 2008, and wife Denise were on hand for the event. It was a welcome break from a renovation project at their 221 Post Road West shop, in which they were now nearing the homestretch. As Denise described it, “We started the renovation early to mid summer, but the true transformation began about a month ago. We went from 3,600 to 2,400 square feet. The old store was very spread out and overwhelming. We’ve now created a cozier space with an exclusive wine section, organized from white to red, and by region. The result is an easier shopping experience.”

Black Bear invited Jeff Schultz, CT Wine Director for Vinifera, to showcase a variety of the brands that the company imports and which Black Bear embraces in its store. Vinifera is the pre-eminent importer of premium Italian wines in America. Founded in 1979 by Dominic Nocerino, Vinifera now includes a national distribution network serving retail shops and restaurants in all major commercial markets.

Their collaboration for this event and its staging at this particular restaurant was highly appropriate on two levels. For one, Dominic Nocerino and DaPietro’s Chef Pietro Scotti had played soccer together in Campania in the late 60s/early 70s, so have been “connected” for over 40 years. Second, both the importer and wine store are very selective about the brands they choose to represent and strive to educate wine enjoyers. Says Denise, “We really like varietals that are unique. And we taste and do research on every bottle of wine that comes in. We place tasting cards with each wine, with background and ratings, to inform our customers and enhance their palate.”

The atmosphere at DaPietro’s can best be described as cozy and jewel-like, with plush paisley-patterned banquets and framed Hermes scarves. Exposed beams protruding from whitewashed walls lend a European feel while a ceiling fan pushes down refreshing cool air.

Jeff got the evening started with some brief background about the first libation: Soligo Prosecco Brut VSAQ. Chosen to cleanse the palate, this prosecco hails from the winery Colli del Soligo, a small producer in northern Veneto. The grapes grow in the Treviso hills and are processed and fermented for more than a month to provide a delicate flavor with notes of dry fruit and mangoes. Fewer than 2,000 cases are produced per year. “Salute!” Jeff exclaimed, raising a glass.

“I really like the prosecco and I’m not normally a huge fan,” said attendee and Norwalk resident Peggy Schroeder, alternating between sips and nibbling on a piping hot bread roll which had quickly absorbed little pads of butter. “Prosecco and Moscato are very popular in America right now,” added Jeff.

The prosecco opened the door to a 2009 Zeni Pinot Grigio Ramato, highly unique in that it is pink in color. “This is the traditional old world way to make Pinot Grigio,” Jeff explained. “The pink color comes from the pink grape. Most Pinot makers remove the skin. This brand incorporates the skin. You don’t see this a lot. The producer, from Verona, has been making this for decades and has won Three Glasses honors eight times.” Said a new fan in attendance, “I love the Pinko Grigio!”, giving the brand a more memorable title.

A 2009 Pra Soave Classico was also introduced to the mix, to accompany a dish called Agnelotti alla Toscana. This consisted of wild mushroom, ricotta and parmesan stuffed pasta with a clear tomato basil broth. Peggy appreciated the Soave as well: “It’s very full flavored… and complements the pasta.” Seated beside her, Kathleen Davidson, a Westport resident and loyal Black Bear customer for years, echoed Peggy’s comments: “It’s got a nice blend, a little floral and a subtle minerally taste. You want to have a sip and another sip. An unanticipated taste.” Indeed, the vintage was truly light in presentation but featured a marked, definitive taste. “Very surprising,” Peggy concluded.

A couple from Westport (declined to give names), relocating soon to Norwalk, were enjoying the proceedings thus far. “We have gone to Black Bear for the past 4-5 years, get the newsletter, and saw this mentioned. We went to another Black Bear hosted wine dinner a couple weeks ago and got hooked.”

A fine looking pyramid of Insalata Rucola showed itself. The arugula salad incorporated Granny Smith apples, Asian pears, Roquefort cheese and honey Dijon dressing. This dish was accompanied by a 1999 Sant’Elena Merlot Isonzo and a 2008 Brigaldara Valpolicella Classico.

Ethan Epstein, Black Bear’s young manager, who had been left to close up the store, and girlfriend Claire Van Brunt, made a mid-evening entrance. “Roll up your sleeves and grab a glass of Val,” someone suggested. Ethan worked with Vinifera’s Schultz to determine the event’s wine pairings.

Kathy decided the Valpolicella had “a nice nose…” then added, “and so do I”, referring to the ruby red coloring of the brand and, no doubt, her increasing rouge-like glow. “That’s in your cellar, I know it,” remarked Jeff, overhearing Kathy. The Westporter acknowledged that that was so and explained her and Peggy’s purchasing strategy: “We both are one-person families, so we have to be discerning. When we find something we like, we buy it.”

In advance of the Cernia al Fona, a poached grouper au gratin dish, Jeff presented a 2007 Chionetti Dolcetto di Dogliani “Briccolero” and a 2007 Dante Rivetti Barbera D’Alba. About the first selection, Jeff mentioned, “Dolcetto means ‘little sweet one’…but there’s nothing small and sweet about the wine. Many refer to this wine as a benchmark… it’s very complex. Rich fruit, strong tannins.”

Claire made up her own mind about the Dante Rivetti. “The Barbera is wonderful. It’s blissful… It’s surprising because it’s so light… and it’s such an apt pairing with the fish.”

As the evening, now two hours along, began to draw to a close, the concept emerged about drawn-out dining and the European way of enjoying a meal. “Americans eat, Europeans dine,” said the Westport relocators. Indeed, meals are occasions in Europe – drawn out, discussed, enjoyed. Multiple courses, multiple bottles of wine. Certainly this occasion qualified.

Like the actor Cary Grant, to whom some had begun comparing Schultz, the importer took the spotlight to share a most wonderful 1997 Pertinace Barbaresco. “1997 is epic and legendary in terms of winemaking. The Barbaresco is very much ready to drink but it’s also ok to buy it and stick it in your cellar for another 20 years. It will be in its peak for a long while to come.”

“Wow!” was the collective comment all around as eyes rolled back into heads and this tan, well-heeled group imbibed the latest offering. As with previous pairings, it was an apt match with a second entrée: Costelette di Agnello Arrosto, a tender rack of lamb with garlic, rosemary, white wine and ratatouille.

The final coupe de grace for the evening was an Icardi Brachetto “Suri Vigin”, a sweet dessert wine with 5% alcohol content, served with a chocolate almond tort, fresh blueberries and a pod of vanilla ice cream.

Jeff explained that dessert wines are usually higher alcohol content. “This selection allows you to talk and enjoy… and I hope you talk about these wines a lot.” It was a good suggestion and this crowd was already abuzz with enthusiasm.

Some Sweet Ways to Meet

Some Sweet Ways to Meet
By Mike Lauterborn
(For Single & Smart Magazine “Going Out” section)
© 2010. All rights reserved.
8/5/10

There are many great social networking groups for singles and the “newly single” to enjoy in Westchester and the New York Metro area. Below is a small sampling…

Meet Up!
Meetup promotes itself as “the world’s largest network of local groups.” The online service makes it very simple for anyone to organize a local group around his or her personal interest/s or to join one of the thousands of groups already meeting up in person. According to the site, more than 2,000 groups get together in local communities each day. It’s a great way for single and newly single people to narrow their search for a mate to those with common interests, while widening one’s social circle at the same time. The service boasts 7.2 million members and claims 250,000 monthly meetups. For info, go to: www.meetup.com

Wine & Dine!
Local Wine Events is a free online service that notifies subscribers of local food and wine events – great opportunities to meet friends and potential love interests with a discerning palate and passion for good taste. It was founded and developed by Eric V. Orange, who has distinguished himself in the wine industry for the past 20 years. Site users can plug in their specific region of interest by name or zip code and see a list of wine events by date, with event details, cost and location included. For info, visit www.localwineevents.com

Get Going!
Singles On The Go is a tremendous online resource that allows singles to find groups and activities by state, city or even territory. Links are provided to a very broad range of to-do’s including speed dating, mixers, social networking, dining groups, wine tasting, dance groups, religious groups, volunteer teams, civic organizations and clubs – all dedicated to singles. For more information, go to: www.singlesonthego.com

Make A Date!
Single America is billed as “the most complete and up-to-date American singles and dating guide” online. Featured on its site are complete listings of singles parties, events, clubs and speed dating. There’s more: reviews of online dating sites, dating tips, advice, safe dating, gay and lesbian dating, religious and ethnic dating and more. This resource is essentially a portal to meeting new people, making friends and finding that certain special someone. Go to: www.Single-America.com

Socialize!
Social Circles was founded a dozen years ago by professionals who’d grown weary of “the same old social scene.” Their aim was to get busy people like themselves to interact with their surroundings while making new and solid social connections. The service relies on a diverse calendar of events to act as a driver of “meet ups”. Activities include nightlife, arts, outdoor adventure and travel and are centered in and around New York City. There is a nominal membership fee, though the first month is free. For info: www.socialcircles.com

Be A Gourmand!
The Single Gourmet is one of the most established singles groups, known for its integrity and elegance. It was founded 25+ years ago and has chapters nationwide. It offers sophisticated single men and women a relaxed, easy way to meet other successful singles. The group hosts fine culinary events in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam and Fairfield Counties, as well as NYC and Long Island. To learn more and see lists of events, photos and travel plans, go to: www.singlegourmet-metrony.com

Red Hot Fare at Blue Lemon

Red Hot Fare at Blue Lemon:

Wine Dinner Wows Discerning Palates

By Mike Lauterborn

© 2010. All Rights Reserved.

7/23/10

Westport, CT – Friendly chatter. White tablecloths. Nicely dressed crowd. Bouncing reggae music in the background. Pastel walls adorned with playful artwork… A fine setting for “A Night with The Blue Lemon” as this Westport-based wine dinner was billed.

Set at Blue Lemon Restaurant at 7 Sconset Square in downtown Westport, the evening promised fine wines paired with fine foods.

“We’re going to go on a culinary and wine journey to Southern Australia,” said Tony Reynolds, a representative of 2FlyWines, CT-based distributors of the wines that were to be enjoyed during the event. Co-hosting the evening was Black Bear Wine and Spirits of Westport, devoted carriers of the 2Fly brands.

“We’re here to have a good time. Let’s consider ourselves starting,” announced Reynolds, officially commencing the festivities.

Reynolds was the lone salesman for 2Fly when the company was founded and had initiated the planning of the evening. He first heard of Black Bear through an area friend who urged him to pay a visit to the shop. He did and met Ethan Epstein, the manager, who, in turn, introduced him to Black Bear’s owner, Gerard Iulo.

“I was impressed by Tony’s knowledge and professionalism… He’s very fluent in the wines,” said Iulo.

“2Fly is very boutique-like and its owner, Chris Didden, is very hands-on. We started tasting -- and liking -- the wine and now we stock up to 10 brands. I also like how the brands incorporate grapes from other countries.”

As an example of the latter, Epstein cited Black Minnow, a Sangiovese Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec from Minnow Creek Wines. Reynolds explained, “It uses the Sangiovese grape, Cabernet and Malbec, giving it the sweetness of the ‘Sanj’, backbone of the Cab and a rounded finish from the Malbec. And what a reasonable price.”

Tonight’s experience was custom created to form a marriage between the cuisine and wine. “Ethan and I picked out the wines, I sent them to chef/owner Bryan Malcarney and he created the meals to match,” said Reynolds.

The starter appetizer was a shrimp and scallop ceviche with fresh lime juice, plum tomato, Bermuda onion and avocado, with fried plantain chips on the side. It was paired with a 2009 Pertaringa “Scarecrow” Sauvignon Blanc. The brand featured a wonderful taste blend of Granny Smith applies, kiwi fruit and citrus blossoms, delivering intense tropical fruits, nuances of cut grass and complex minerals.

“I really like this… very refreshing,” said attendee Janice, an executive at a state-based bottled waters company.

“She usually likes a Chardonnay,” chimed in her sister, Beth Schneider, a CPA, who was sitting beside her.

The two are members of Black Bear’s Wine Club. Members receive three varying bottles of wine per month – “a nice surprise” commented Janice. “The goal of the Club,” said Epstein, “is to expand people’s palate.” With amusement, he added, “And members also get in-store purchase and wine dinner discounts by using our V.I.B. (Very Important Bear) card.”

Reynolds, dressed in khakis and blue dress shirt with a yellow patterned tie, rose to his feet again to signal the second course and pairing. The cuisine: poached monkfish over arugula and endive salad with homemade goat cheese and green apple vinaigrette. The wine: a 2008 Brookman’s Chenin Blanc. A crisp wine showing aromas of green apples, citrus blossoms, lychee and mango, the brand comes from a cool climate in which the grapes slow ripen and are hand-picked to deliver intense flavor.

The servings were driving away the tensions of the day, which included parkway traffic that Janice had experienced. However, the noise volume in the restaurant, as it tends to do at functions of this nature, was increasing as conversations erupted all around.

“We’re going to start donating to various charities a percentage of our first weekend sales every month,” announced Denise Iulo, wife of Black Bear’s owner, at the head table. The lean, stylish brunette, who was dressed in black, handles marketing for the wine shop, and the charity effort was her brainchild.

The lights dimmed as large glasses of 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon/Tempranillo were delivered. A rich wine with dominant plum jam and crushed blackcurrant flavors, the velvety Cab filled the palate with a savory earthiness and fruit-driven dark chocolate finish. The latter was paired with an empanada stuffed with braised lamb and Oaxacan red mole. Reynolds remarked that the empanada, which looked like a shepherd’s pie from his native Oxford, England, was a “street food hanging out in an upscale neighborhood.” No slight at all against the food, which was outstanding… just a keen observation.

“Excellent pairing!” remarked Denise aloud, nodding and sipping the Cab.

“Ladies and gentlemen and children of all ages,” interrupted Reynolds. He spoke about the wine and then the food selection – “really a Mexican Cornish Pastie,” he said, fine-tuning his earlier comparison.

The two dozen folks that were gathered in the room were looking a bit red-cheeked at this point, and highly anticipated the next course: grilled medallion of filet mignon with risotto of sweet corn and poblano pepper with port wine reduction. The wine: Brookman’s 2008 “Silver Block” Shiraz, a fine vintage from the McLaren Vale vineyard of southern Australia.

“Wow… unbelievable!” said Claire Van Brunt, with much delight after tasting the wine selection. A Tempe, AZ resident but currently residing in Bridgeport and assisting at a homeless shelter there, the brunette, in a white summer dress, was very excited about the event, which, unfortunately, was nearing a close.

Chef Malcarney busied himself in the kitchen preparing the last course of the evening: peach raspberry crisp with homemade almond ice cream. On square white plates lined up on a counter in the restaurant’s narrow kitchen, Malcarney carefully placed the crisp, added a scoop of the ice cream and topped it with mint leaves. He worked quickly and efficiently, demonstrating the formal training he had received at New York’s French Culinary Institute and showing why Blue Lemon had earned rave reviews from the press.

Credit Bryan’s wife, Tamsen, for enhancing the restaurant’s reputation – she designed the interior, with intimacy in mind, and curious blue sconces. One would think that the sconces were what inspired the restaurant name, but according to the Chef, the name was randomly suggested by Tamsen at a family brunch.

The wine pairing for this delectable dessert was a 2007 Two Gentlemens Grenache. With a bright ruby color, this revealing luscious red exhibited fruity tones of cherry, strawberry and raspberry as well as white peppery spice.

Reynolds generously poured at the head table, while taking a moment to be a self-described “wine geek.” He noted the Grenache’s “smooth legs”, which elicited titters from Beth and Janice, who were clearly enjoying themselves.

“Do not go away without realizing you’ve tasted some exceptional wines…” concluded Reynolds in his final address to the gathering, “in a place that you may not have known before. It’s been a great night!” Reynolds swirled the contents of his glass, held it aloft and was humbled by the warm – shall we say ‘True Blue’ – applause from thankful patrons.

Blue Lemon Restaurant is located at 7 Sconset Square, Westport, CT. For more information and details about “Anguilla Night”, a celebration of Caribbean cuisine to be held at Blue Lemon on August 17th, visit www.bluelemonrestaurant.com or call 203-226-2647.