The Black Dress Traveler

Beauty in a Glass: Champagne Pol Roger

"I cannot live without Champagne. In victory, I deserve it, and in defeat, I need it."
Sir Winston Churchill


A flight of Pol Roger Champagne - a thing of beauty! 

Fine Champagne's flirty bubbles, seductive aroma, and sublime flavor force you to stop and count your blessings - it is truly the taste of the good life! Who knew we had anything in common but like Sir Winston Churchill, I find that a glass of bubbly makes a good day excellent and a bad day better. His preferred Champagne was Pol Roger and after attending a tasting hosted by Frederick Wildman & Sons Importers in NYC at the Four Seasons Restaurant, I know why!

Pol Roger made headlines last year when their Brut Reserve was served at the Royal Wedding of Will and Kate but this fine Champagne is no bubbly come lately. Founded in 1849, Pol Roger is one of only a few Grande Marque Champagne houses that remains family owned and operated. Pol Roger Champagnes earn consistently high marks and here are four of their beautiful bubblies that are sure to captivate you. 

Champagne Pol Roger Brut Reserve "White Foil" NV
$39.95
It is often said that the true quality of a Champagne house is best judged by the consistency and quality of their non-vintage wine and Pol Roger's Brut Reserve captures their house style brilliantly. Pol Roger Brut Reserve is traditionally a blend of equal parts Pinot Noir (body and depth), Pinot Meunier (freshness and vigorous fruit) and Chardonnay (elegance and finesse). Subtle notes of citrus with hints of pear and a mellow minerality make this a perfect pairing with caviar and raw oysters.

Pol Roger Brut Blanc de Blancs 2000
$145
Only released in the finest of vintages, Blanc de Blancs is 100% Chardonnay and a powerful reminder of the essence of champagne - tiny bubbles and complex notes that come together to create a balanced beauty. Rich fruits and minerality fill the mouth without overwhelming the palate.

 

Pol Roger Brut Rosé 2002
$110
Rosé adds to Champagne's considerable charms by capturing the eye with a lovely shade of pink and treating the tastebuds to vibrant red fruit flavors. Pol Roger only produces Brut Rosé in vintage years and the 2002 is vibrant and plummy with beautiful berry and cherry flavors balanced by a refreshing minerality. A delicate and sexy wine.



Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1999
$250
The friendship between Champagne Pol Roger and Sir Winston Churchill dates back to the 1928 vintage and he called Pol Roger "the world's most drinkable address." The exact blend of the Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is a family secret but sources say Pinot Noir is probably the dominant grape. Rich, bold, and balanced - this Champagne tastes like power!

 

Take Me Away: ESPA at D-Hotel Maris in Turkey

Listen up spa lovers: ESPA has opened a brand new and super luxurious spa at D-Hotel Maris in Turkey. Set on a hillside in the Datca Peninsula nature preserve, the peaceful enclave is surrounded by pine forests, natural private beaches, small islands, and volcanic mountains with spectacular views of both the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Famous for having the third highest concentration level of oxygen in the world, the Datca Peninsula is said to have natural healing properties that date back to the 12^th Century BC and was once a sacred place of pilgrimage to the legendary Aphrodite of Knidos.


Set in the resort gardens, ESPA at D-Hotel Maris offers signature treatments, seven spa rooms, private spa suite, and heat experiences (including a vitality pool), contemporary indoor pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation lounge. Relaxing at a Hammam (Turkish Bath/Steam Bath) is an essential part of a visit to Turkey and ESPA Hammam rituals include a warming steam prior to treatments like the Indulgence Hammam Ritual (a total body experience that caresses the skin and revitalizes the body). Signature treatments include the Sea Salt & Oil Scrub with Aegean Sea Shell Massage, the Purva Karma Four Handed Massage, and the Active Hydration Facial.


D-Hotel Maris has 200 luxurious and elegantly appointed rooms, all with exceptional mountain or sea views and most Deluxe rooms feature a bathtub on the balcony. The Presidential Suite has a roof sauna and the Exclusive Villa has its own private Hammam. There are four gourmet restaurants and seven cocktail or wine bars from which to choose.  Transfers to the hotel are available through the hotel’s chauffeured limousines, private helicopter or luxury seaplane.  

Rooms start from; €360  (approximately $450 depending on the exchange rate) per night for the Deluxe sea view room, including breakfast and taxes and non residential guests are able to use the hotels facilities from their yachts - how chic!

Black Dress, Big City: Chic Looks for Sightseeing

From NYC to Paris, a little black dress and chic accessories are always in fashion. Here are a few elegant essentials that will keep you stylish anytime, anywhere.


  Angelique Drape Back Sleeveless Mini by ONNO
$109
You can never go wrong when you bring a little black dress on vacation. I love the versatility of this washable mini from ONNO - you can wear it as as a dress or a tunic. The draped silhouette skims the body without clinging. Wear it with flats and a cardigan for a day of sightseeing and add heels & bling for a night on the town.

Dooney & Bourke Florentine Toggle Crossbody Bag
$198
Keep your belongings secure in this snazzy Dooney & Bourke crossbody bag. It is roomy enough to hold your essentials without being overwhelming. Available in an array of colors from neutral to bold.



Kathmere Cat Eye Sunglasses by C. Wonder
$68
It never fails that I really miss my sunglasses when some weirdo on the subway stares me down! Block out creepy characters and sun rays with this fierce pair of C. Wonder cat eye shades.



Swatch Elegantly Framed Watch
$125
So many of us rely on our cell phones to keep track of the time but I always regret not wearing a good old-fashioned watch when I travel. This chic timepiece from Swatch delivers big style at a reasonable price.

Perfect Plate: Eric Ripert's Soft Shell Crabs & Crisp Strasserhof Kerner White Wine

Soft shell crabs have been on my mind way too much lately and I need to get them out of my dreams and onto my plate before they're gone! This seasonal seafood is only available for a few months of the year during that delicate window when the crabs molt their old exoskeleton and have yet to form their new hard shell. The end result is a delicious and easy to eat treasure from the sea. 

I've only had soft shell crabs in restaurants but this simple recipe from renowned Chef Eric Ripert (Le Bernardin) seems perfect for a fantastic dinner at home.


To make Eric Ripert's Sautéed Soft Shell Crabs you just need the crabs, a cast iron pan, canola oil, drawn butter, sea salt, pepper, flour, and lemon. Click here for the full recipe.


Of course, you need the perfect wine for this meal. I would pair the soft shell crabs with crisp and refreshing Strasserhof Kerner Valle Isarco DOC 2011 ($20.99). The Kerner grape originated as a cross between Riesling and Trollinger and produces a flavorful white wine. The Strasserhof Kerner is dry with a light minerality and subtle sweetness that would work brilliantly with the crab and other simple shellfish dishes. The Strasserhof winery is located in northeast Italy in the mountains of the Valle Isarco in the Alto Adige region.

Weekend Wish List: Sparkling Rosé, Chic Stripes and a Fun Tote

Really, I'm a simple girl. Give me some sunshine, good company, a cute dress, some tasty eats, a delicious glass of vino and I'm in heaven. Since the upcoming Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer, here are a few essential items on my weekend wish list.


Isabella Oliver Breton Zip Dress
$159
Of course, my perfect weekend starts with the right dress and this season I'm completely obsessed with navy blue and white stripes. This relaxed-fit frock from Isabella Oliver passes the test for effortless summer chic. This dress will look great at brunch in the city or sailing along the shore.

Vineyard Vines Palm Tree Beach Tote
$165
The tropics are always at your fingertips when you carry this playful Vineyard Vines tote. This sturdy cotton canvas bag is perfect for city streets and sandy beaches. You gotta love preppy chic!
 

Lamberti Rosé Spumante Veneto VSAQ NV
$13.99
Toast the start of summer with a juicy and refreshing glass of rosé wine -  the captivating color reels you in and the seductive taste brings you back for more. Lamberti Rosé NV Spumante Veneto is a winning blend of Pinot Bianco, Pinot Nero, and Raboso grapes. Awarded 89 points by Wine & Spirits, this beautiful sparkling wine is fruity but not too sweet and balanced by hints of citrus. Established in 1964, the house of Lamberti stands on the shores of Lake Garda in the famed Veneto region of northern Italy. Molto bene!

Coming Soon! Sophisticated Cocktails at SoBou in New Orleans

Cocktail Goddesses Abigail Gullo & Lu Brow will head the cocktail program at SoBou in New Orleans.

If you find yourself in New Orleans this summer, sashay over to SoBou for cutting-edge cocktails and small plates inspired by Louisiana street food. Describing itself as "A Spirited Restaurant South of Bourbon Street," SoBou was created by the team behind the legendary  Commander's Palace and other acclaimed NOLA eateries. SoBou is scheduled to open on June 25th in the W New Orleans Hotel - French Quarter (the guest rooms are also undergoing a dramatic renovation).


                                                           Courtyard at the W French Quarter

I was recently invited to sample some of the cocktails that will be served at SoBou and was thrilled to learn that the cocktail program will be led by two fabulous ladies: Abigail Gullo and Lu Brow. Both of these women have made a name for themselves as innovative and fearless crafters of cocktails and their sippable masterpieces at SoBou will incorporate house-made tinctures & bitters, as well as barrel made cocktails. Signature cocktails will include the very tasty Jean Lafitte which is a delicious blend of three rums, local honey, citrus and ginger. How good was it? I had two! SoBou will also feature self-serve wine machines and a beer garden with built-in beer taps.

The food at SoBou sounds equally tempting and will showcase re-imagined Louisiana classics such as a Po-Boy interpreted as Duck Debris and Buttermilk Beignets with chicory coffee ganache. I can't wait to indulge on my next trip to the Big Easy!

SoBou is located South of Bourbon Street at 310 Chartres Street.

 

Oh Brazil: Kenoa Beach Spa & Resort and Sauipe Swimwear

Kenoa Beach Spa & Resort

A member of Design Hotels, Kenoa Beach Spa & Resort is a wellness sanctuary and private retreat located on Brazil's northeast coast. Just 9 degrees south of the equator, Kenoa enjoys a year-round tropical climate that makes it a beach lover's paradise. This intimate ocean front resort offers guests a choice of 23 accommodations including private villas and suites. Other perks include two infinity pools, direct access to a private beach, a golf driving range, a conference and business center, spa, fitness center, library and more. Spa treatments incorporating products from Shiseido and Germaine de Capuccini are offered. Acclaimed Chef Cesar Santos provides original culinary creations at the Kaamo Restaurant, Lounge & Wine Bar. Suite rates are as low as $558 + tax per night for 2 guests - includes breakfast and spa access.

Just in time for your Brazilian vacation, Macy's has launched a new capsule collection, A Magical Journey: Brasil, featuring clothing and accessories inspired by this tropical paradise.

Sauipe One-Piece Halter Swimsuit
$225 at Macy's
You can't go to Brazil without a great bathing suit! Who says a one-piece swimsuit can't be sexy - this retro-chic silhouette is sizzling. Made in Brazil, this halter swimsuit has a plunging neckline, a festive tropical pattern and the added bonus of built-in tummy control.

Sheraton Social Hour: A Delicious Partnership with Wine Spectator

Now even the most discerning wine drinkers can raise their glasses with glee when ordering vino at the Sheraton! Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, in cooperation with Wine Spectator, has announced the global launch of Sheraton Social Hour. The first-of-its-kind, brand-wide premium wine program offers guests a specially curated menu of premium wines and weekly tasting events at more than 240 participating Sheraton hotels around the world. In North America, the program will feature wines rated 90+ by Wine Spectator. The wines will be served in Riedel stemware to ensure that each varietal is presented in the perfect stemware to enhance the wine’s flavor and aroma. Tasting events will include chocolate & wine pairings chef's table menus, and other wine pairing opportunities.

In North America, the program will feature Sheraton Selects, an upgraded premium wine menu comprised of a rotation of eight or more wines by the glass, all rated by Wine Spectator. All Sheraton Selects wines will be rated above 85 and at least four offerings will be rated 90+. The program will feature renowned wineries such as Chateau Ste. Michelle, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Northstar, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte and Eroica. 

Did you know that Wine Spectator editors review more than 15,000 wines each year in blind tastings? Each wine is awarded a rating on a 100 point scale. Wines rated 95-100 are “Classic: a great wine”; 90-94 rated wines are “Outstanding: a wine of superior character and style”; 85-89 is “Very good: a wine with special qualities.”

Cheers!

Sophisticated Sip: Amaro Montenegro

Please keep sugary sweet cocktails far away from me - I prefer a drink with layers of flavor where savory, bitter, and sweet combine together to create a drink with depth. Last year, I had my first sip of amaro and fell in love. Amaro means bitter in Italian and these liqueurs are made by infusing pure alcohol with unique combinations of herbs. Each brand has a distinct flavor profile, texture, and color - I've had some amaros that are syrupy and opaque and others that are lightweight and translucent. Amaros have been traditionally sipped after dinner as a digestif but mixologists are incorporating them with great success into cocktails.

First produced in Bologna in 1885, Amaro Montenegro is the number one brand of amaro in Italy. Slightly sweet, Amaro Montenegro has elegant notes of spice and orange peel and a smooth texture. Serve it neat or mix up a simple cocktail with Amaro Montenegro and Ginger Ale. You can also substitute Amaro Montenegro for rum in a Mojito - the possibilities are endless! Sophisticated and delicious, Amaro Montenegro is also very affordable - a 750 ml bottle retails for around $21.

London Calling: Celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in Style!

Image: Suzanne Plunkett—Reuters

I've always said that I'm not a Royal Watcher but have I been lying to myself? Allow me to present the evidence: in 1981 I woke up early to watch Diana marry Charles, I traveled to Philadelphia in 2009 to view an exhibition of Princess Di's dresses and I was glued to the telly in 2009 watching William wed Kate. And, perhaps the most damning piece of evidence is my admittedly inappropriate crush on the not so much younger Prince Harry. Maybe this interest in the royal family stems from my love of pomp and circumstance and from afternoon tea to fairytale weddings, nobody presents pomp better than the Brits. In addition to the Summer 2012 Olympic Games, London will also take center stage during the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. If you plan on participating in the celebration of the Her Majesty's 60 year reign as monarch, be sure to do it in style!


The Royal Horseguards Hotel

Where to Stay: Location and luxury meld together perfectly at the posh Royal Horseguards Hotel. A five star hotel with panoramic views of the River Thames, the Royal Horseguards is the perfect spot to watch the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant during which a procession of 1,000 boats from all around the world will travel down the River Thames and flank the Royal Barge which will transport the Queen. The Royal Horseguards also overlooks the iconic London Eye and is just yards away from Westminster, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, and West End.  Built in 1884 in the style of a French chateau, the Royal Horseguards has been completely refurbished to Victorian splendor but has all of the modern amenities required by a discerning traveler. In honor of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, you can enjoy up to a 30% discount on stays June 1-10 (excluding June 2-4).

The Shoes: Aruna Seth London Union Jack Wedge ($4800)
Designer Aruna Seth is a favorite of English "it" girls like Pippa Middleton and Princess Beatrice & Princess Eugenie. She designed this gorgeous limited-edition wedge covered in genuine Swarovski crystals specifically to commemorate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

The Dress: Vivienne Westwood Apron Fish Dress ($470)
This intricately pleated and folded frock shows why Dame Vivienne Westwood is British fashion royalty. I love the classic look of a crisp white dress combined with a modern cut.

 

Bold & Bellissimo Marchesi di Barolo Wine: Five Fun Facts

Wow. Wow. Wow. Yes, tasting a 1970 Marchesi di Barolo left me momentarily monosyllabic. Sipping a wine that was bottled before I was born, that had matured in an Italian cellar and traveled across the ocean to make its way into my glass in Manhattan was a truly surreal experience. And, what an honor to be guided through this moment by the winemakers - the Abbona family. Here are five fun facts about Marchesi di Barolo and the family behind the label.

1. Location: The vineyards of the Marchesi di Barolo Estate are located in northern Italy in the Langhe area of Piedmont. The cellars are in the village of Barolo (population: 600!) and overlook the impressive Renaissance castle of the Marchesi Falleti di Barolo. The winery produces approximately 1.5 million bottles of vino, including Barolo, Barbaresco, Gavi, and Moscato d'Asti. The Marchesi di Barolo cellar is a virtual Barolo library and houses 40,000 bottles going back to the 1800's.




2. The Winemakers: Meet the Abbona Family - the 5th and 6th generation of winemakers who run this family business. Valentina and her brother Davide work closely with their parents Ernesto and Anna to maintain the family legacy for the future.


Barolo Riserva 2001  ($105)

3. What is Barolo: Often described as one of Italy's finest wines, Barolo is a red wine produced in Piedmont from the Nebbiolo grape. We sampled several at the tasting and the Marchesi di Barolo 2001 Riserva was one of my favorites and I believe it finely captures the essence of this varietal. A rich garnet red, the Barolo Riserva 2001 has a seductive perfume with hints of vanilla, toasted hazelnut, and absinthe. The taste is velvety with just a hint of dryness balanced by soft and sweet tannins. 2001 was considered a perfect harvest because the weather conditions were ideal - not too hot. This wine is absolutely delicious now and will also age beautifully. Pair it with steak or lamb - delizioso!


Zagara Moscato d'Asti ($19)

4. They Make White Wine Too! - In addition to their acclaimed Barolo, Marchesi di Barolo also produces several other varietals including their stellar Zagara Moscato d'Asti. Moscato is one of the hottest trends happening in wine and the Zagara is one of the tastiest that I've tried. Sweet with soft notes of peach, this is a perfect dessert wine. It is also fine by itself as a cool summer sip.



5. Visiting the Winery: If you plan a trip to Barolo, you must visit Marchesi di Barolo. Reserve in advance and tell them Wanda sent you! They have two tasting rooms and a store where you can purchase your favorites. You can also enjoy a delicious meal - Anna Abbona is the creative force behind the winery restaurant that serves authentic Piedmontese cusine.

PS - Meeting the Abbona family was really one of the highlights of my blogging career. I loved their family dynamic and their passion for wine was contagious. I'm looking forward to visiting their winery one day!

PPS - Alas, the 1970 vintage Barolo that I tasted is not available for purchase. I strongly recommend befriending anyone that you suspect has a bottle in their cellar - you won't be disappointed! Anyone with such exceptional taste in wines surely must have other redeeming qualities. Salute!

Time to Spoil Mom: Great Gifts for Mother's Day

Mother's Day is just a few days away (Sunday, May 13) but there is still time to give your Mom a gift that will make her feel like a jetsetter whether she is taking a trip or relaxing at home. (image: Keith Haring, Mother Holding Baby )

One of my friends recently took her 70 year-old mother on a week long vacation to Italy and had a blast. It has been way too long since I've traveled with my Mom but instead of surprising her with a trip - I would involve her in the planning process. Present your mom with several guidebooks for 3-4 places that you think would be a great fit for your ultimate girlfriend getaway and let mom get the final vote. Barnes & Noble has a great selection of travel guides.

If you've already planned a tropical getaway for Mom, this gorgeous turquoise bejeweled linen caftan from Calypso St. Barth will take her from the beach to cocktails in style. And, if even if she never leaves the house she'll feel glamorous in this chic caftan. (Llewellyn Turquoise Jeweled Caftan, $345)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Sometimes Mom just wants to relax! Just in time for Mother's Day, Lierac Paris skincare and Ovando Florist have partnered to create "Sleeping Beauty"- a chic floral arrangement paired with a sophisticated selection of best-selling Lierac products. The gift includes a striking floral arrangement, Lait Sensoriel Body Milk, Sensorielle Multi-Use Oil, and Body Slim Anti-Cellulite Concentrate. ($225, a $285 value)

If your mom is a foodie with an adventurous palate, The Ingredient Finder is certain to have the perfect spice, oil, salt, and more. One of my faves is their Global Spice Blend Collection ($162) that showcases blends from Marrakech, Sri Lanka, Spain and beyond. And, if you're lucky, mom will get the hint that you're craving a homecooked meal with a dash of these spices. Of course, you'll do the dishes!


My Mom believes that there are few problems in the world that a nice cup of tea can't solve and some of our best conversations have opened over tea. The ritual of tea is all about taking a time-out to connect and reflect. So while you and mom are planning your trip or reminiscing about past adventures, brew a pot of this gorgeous Blooming Zen Tea. The gift set ($89.95) includes two flavors of Japanese white tea and a beautiful clear glass tea pot so that you can observe the tea balls blooming as they steep.

In the Bag: Scala Collezione Tres Jolie Sun Hat

From city streets to sandy beaches, a great hat is a must when the weather heats up. The Scala Collezione Tres Jolie/Ribbon Crusher is a stylish chapeau that also provides UPF 50 sun protection. Available in several colors from basics like black and white to vibrant turquoise and fuchsia, the Tres Jolie will pair perfectly with a sundress or beach ensemble. It has a flattering 4-inch brim and an external bow trim that doubles as a sizing tie to adjust the hat so that it is truly one size fits all. Just pack it and go - the crushable style snaps back to shape with ease.

The hat fairy was kind enough to send me this hat to review and I really like it. This is my second Scala sun hat and I think they deliver great style at a fantastic price. The Scala Collezione Tres Jolie is usually $30 but it will be available at Hartford York from 5/10/12-6/30/12 for $24 (a 20% discount.)

Use the promo code: SunHatSave20 (not valid with other offers).

Dresses, Drinks & Destinations: The Paris Edition

In my unofficial, utterly unscientific but eerily accurate poll, Paris dominates the list for the destination that many women dream of visiting and revisiting. And, why not? Breathtakingly beautiful, the City of Lights is renowned for the finest in food, fashion, wine, beauty, and cultural offerings - what more could a discerning lady ask for? 

Get there with Je Suis. Paris - an 8-day tailor-made luxury extravaganza designed exclusively for women by women. Living up to their tagline "celebrate yourself in the city that celebrates women," Je Suis. Paris focuses on the finest fashion, gastronomy, wine, art, history, "joie de vivre" and more. Space is limited to 10 guests per tour and activities include wine tasting, a tour of the legendary San Germain area, VIP access to professional stylists to assist you in creating your perfect Parisian fashion statement, and many more special events.

The dates of the inaugural Je Suis. Paris tour are August 4-12, with subsequent dates in October, November and December. The price per person is in the mid $7k range (land only) and includes a deluxe single room in a 5-star boutique hotel, roundtrip deluxe airport transfers, meet & greet at the airport in Paris where you will be whisked through customs, a day in the Champagne region, several meals, and many fantastic perks. 

Once you've booked your trip, celebrate with a petite bottle (375 ml) of Pol Roger White Foil ($30). Founded in 1849, Pol Roger is one of only a few Grande Marque Champagne houses that remains family owned and operated. Pol Roger White Foil is a beguiling blend of equal parts Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, with a minimum of 3 years of aging. The citrus flavors and notes of toasty brioche make Pol Roger White Foil the perfect bubbly to sip while planning your Parisian extravaganza!

Of course, shopping is a must when you're in Paris but you'll still want to bring some fashionable frocks with you! This black and white striped dress from French designer Agnes B. subtly reminded me of the Sonia Rykiel ensemble that Carrie Bradshaw wore for her arrival in Paris. Admittedly, this dress is a simpler and much less expensive interpretation but it can be played up with accessories.  (Agnes B. Robe Marino - $325)

A New York Minute: Schiaparelli & Prada, Harlem Jazz Shrines & Wine Tasting

Metropolitan Museum of Art
May 10 - August 19
$25 recommended admission.
It looks like the Costume Institute at the MET has another blockbuster exhibition on their silk-gloved hands. Inspired by Miguel Covarrubias's "Impossible Interviews" for Vanity Fair in the 1930s, this exhibition explores the affinities between two iconic Italian designers from different eras: Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada. The exhibition will showcase approximately ninety designs and thirty accessories by Schiaparelli (1890–1973) from the late 1920s to the early 1950s and by Prada from the late 1980s to the present. Signature objects by both designers will be arranged in seven themed galleries: "Waist Up/Waist Down," "Ugly Chic," "Hard Chic," "Naïf Chic," "The Classical Body," "The Exotic Body," and "The Surreal Body." 

Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival
May 7-13.
$10 tickets. Some shows are admission free.
No trip to NYC is complete without a visit to Harlem. Head uptown for the Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival - a weeklong celebration of Harlem's legacy as a Jazz mecca. Venues include the Apollo Theater, Harlem Stage Gatehouse, Lenox Lounge, Showman's Cafe, Red Rooster, Columbia University, Abysinnian Baptist Church, Small's Paradise, Minton's Playhouse, and many more. Noted performers include Nona Hendryx and Wycliffe Gordon.

Mini Grand Tasting: A Taste Around the World with 20+ Wines
Saturday, May 12. 1-3pm at Italian Wine Merchants
$95
Take your tastebuds on a trip around the world at this mini grand tasting featuring more than twenty wines from Italy, France and North & South America. Sip on Champagne, Barolo, Burgundy, Super Tuscans and many more.