Five O'Clock Somewhere

Maybe we have completely different ideas of daytime fun, but can you think of a better way to spend an afternoon than in the warm embrace of Uncle Beam and Aunt Sapphire while popping finger food in your mouth and then washing it down with your choice of more than 400 types of wine? It's heaven in the city; it's Christmas in August; it's the Denver Food and Wine Classic, put on by Southern Wine & Spirits of Colorado and the Colorado Restaurant Association Education Fund.

Starting at 1 p.m. today (noon for you VIPs), the Classic kicks off in a 26,000-square-foot tent on the grounds of the Pepsi Center, 1000 Chopper Circle. Highlights include wine and tastes of more than thirty restaurants; the W.J. Deutsch Wine Cafe (pairing wine and food); and the Trinchero Family Estate wine area. At 1:15, a "Steel Chef" competition will be held among five of the area's top chefs.

In addition to the main tent, adjacent tents include the Bombay Sapphire Lounge and the Bourbon Barrel Room, each staffed with a master mixologist pouring a variety of exclusive drinks. Tickets are $50 per person or $200 for VIPs. For information and a list of all wines, spirits and participating restaurants, check out www.denverfoodandwine.com.
Tue., Aug. 26, 1-5 p.m., 2008