Swallow, Don’t Spit

What product better illustrates the importance of presentation than wine? Set a bottle of Château Margaux next to some fine china and it’s the pinnacle of taste and civility, but wrap up a jug of Carlo Rossi in a paper bag and it’s the liquid scepter of your local Dumpster king. For the rest of us who purchase something in between, the label is the most likely determinant of choice, which is why it’s helpful to check out an event like the sixth annual Miami International Wine Fair.

For a $65 advance entry fee ($75 at the door) you can taste more than 1000 wines from 400 wineries in 18 countries, all under the roof of the Miami Beach Convention Center. FYI: Real wine enthusiasts don’t swallow; they get the flavor and then spit it back into the cup. But we know you’re not a real wine enthusiast. You’ve probably had a few nights curled up with Carlo in the dank basement of some scummy fraternity house, so go ahead, be yourself, and swallow. It’s more fun, and you can feel better knowing that a third of your entry fee benefits the American Red Cross. The fair runs for three days, from September 8 to 10, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Call 305-777-2255, or visit www.miamiwinefair.com.
Sept. 8-10