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Vineyard begins harvest
After a challenging growing season, Sakonnet Vineyards has started its 34th harvest. Picking and crushing got under way last week, and all are invited to come and experience the season. A Harvest Open House on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, will celebrate the newly released Holiday Spice and Port wines. Sip mulled wine by the fireplace and enjoy desserts by Gerry Dupont. The vineyard, at 162 West Main Road, Little Compton, is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with tours at noon and 3 p.m. (last wine tasting is at 4:30). For more information, call 635-8486 or visit www.sakonnetwine.com.
Sparkling wine dinner
A four-course sparkling wine dinner is on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Westport Rivers Vineyard & Winery at 417 Hixbridge Road in Westport. Select courses will be paired with Westport Rivers’ Champagne-style sparkling wines. Guests will accompany co-owner and winemaker Bill Russell on a strolling vineyard tour at 5:30 p.m. before dinner. Learn the centuries-old method of producing Champagne and explore the wine cellars with the man who has been making wine in Westport since 1989. After a brief, but informative tour, he will join guests at Long Acre House for dinner. Tickets are $85 per person (advance ticket sales only). Dress is farm casual and weather appropriate (for the outdoor part of the tour). For tickets, or more information, call 508/636-3423, ext. 2.
Christmas tea
A Christmas Tea is an easy, delightful, economical and non-alcoholic way to entertain almost anyone. On Wednesday, Nov. 4, the non-profit Barrington Community School hosts a class that will cover menu planning, tea selection and serving, presentation and baking tips. And, of course, you’ll enjoy a Christmas tea! Instructor Ellen Thompson, is an award-winning teacher and graduate of the Magnolia & Ivy Tea School who loves to bake, cook and share her tea talents with friends and family. This two-hour session begins at 7 p.m. in the home economics room at Barrington High School, 220 Lincoln Avenue, Barrington. The fee is $40 for Barrington residents, $45 for non-residents, which includes tuition and food supply. For more information, call Barrington Community School weekday mornings at 245-0432, or visit www.barrcommschool.com.
