Wine, Dine and Foodie Finds

Jan 21st 2011 11:06AM / by Nanette Wiser

Abundance is the name of the game this time of year. There are so many wine tastings and food festivals, including Plant City's upcoming Strawberry Bash and the fried marvels of the Florida State Fair. Here are some of January's crop.

Gulfport Tuesday Farmers Market : From 9am - 3pm every Tuesday along upper Beach Boulevard, this artsy village by the bay throws a garden party, complete with organic strawberries, artisan cheeses, smoked fish, piping hot New York bagels, boutique and crafts (Bo-Tiki is for hip chicks), Marie Gagne's unique hats and savory teas from the Vinoy's former chef, James Clark (sweet lavender, cherry and smokey green varietals). Worked up an appetite? Stop in Tangelo's or O'Maddy's and while away the afternoon.
O'Maddy's , 5405 Shore Blvd., Gulfport; 727-323-8643
Tangelo's , 3121 Beach Blvd., Gulfport; 727-894-1695
Wine Delights: Parkshore's good eats team up with American Spirits 3rd Friday wine tasting (Fri., Jan. 21, 7pm - 9pm) to raise money for Pet Pal Animal Shelter. Sip 20 global delights (Italian, Australian and South American). Want an early start? Check out the weekly Friday wine sampling at Mazzaro's Italian Market from 1pm - 5pm (11am to 2pm on Saturday) where you can discover Italian varietals and worldly new tastes, and take home homemade Italian dishes, handcrafted cheeses and meats, and so much more.
American Spirits Fine Wine & Liquor, 260 Third S., downtown St. Petersburg; 727-895-8700
Mazzaro's Italian Market, 2909 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg; 727-321-2400
Cocoa for a Cause: Chocolate lovers, heaven's gates open Sunday to raise money for Treats for Troops, March of Dimes, Abilities Foundation and Children's Cancer Center at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Sample candy, pastries, beverages, and other chocolate concoctions that compete for best of show. Don't dive into the chocolate sculpture; it's for show.
Sun., Jan. 23, noon to 6pm; $20 advance, $25 at the door
1111 McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater; 727-791-7400
Taste of Spain: Be queen for a day with a five-course Spanish meal paired with Rioja wines and meet winemaker Jesus Madrazo at the legendary Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City.
Fri., Jan. 27, 7pm; $100 inclusive
2117 E. Seventh St.; 813-248-4961
Kumquat Festival: Relish the citrus family's little gold gem at Dade City's Kumquat Festival. Eat a kumquat just like a grape. This zesty little fruit tastes best if it is gently rolled between the fingers before being eaten, releasing sweet essential oils. Sample pies, cookies, ice cream, and other kumquat delights while enjoying crafts, a car show, farmers' market, 5K and 10K walks and live entertainment.
Sat., Jan., 29, 9am - 5pm; Free
Meridian Avenue at U.S. 301, Dade City; 727-567-3769