EXPLORE “OFF THE BEATEN PATH” WINES AT STIFEL

WHEELING, W.Va. (February 26, 2008)- - Wine aficionados seeking to venture away from the tried and true and explore the rich realm of obscure grape varieties won’t want to miss the upcoming wine tasting event at the Stifel Fine Arts Center.

Oglebay Institute’s Art of Wine series continues at 6:30 p.m., Friday, March 14 with a splendid sampling of “ off the beaten path” wines.

With thousands of options for purchase, the average wine consumer is often overwhelmed by all of the choices. Wineries that invest significantly in marketing often are the choice for many buyers simply because of reputation and familiarity. However, in the world of wines, lesser-known wines can often be better values and, in many cases, better wines.

“Since we’ll be sampling wines not normally seen at an event like this, I would categorize the evening as far more than a typical wine tasting. I’d liken it to more of an exploration of sorts; an exploration into what else is out there,” Wheeling resident Walt Smith, who serves as the presenter for the event, said.

“In preparation for this event, I’ve been tasting wines from around the world made from little known grape varieties,” Smith said. “It would make my day if someone fell in love with a wine they didn’t know existed before the tasting.”

Smith will be on hand to discuss and answer questions about spirits served throughout the evening. He was first introduced to fine wine in 1983 when a friend returned from France with a gift of Piper Heidsieck Brut Rose. His appreciation for wine grew over the years and with the addition of a home wine cellar, has now grown into a moderate obsession.

The event is also hosted by Kathy Figaretti, sales manager for North Central Distribution, Inc., which sells more than 2300 different wines from around the world. A delicious buffet of light foods, prepared by Figaretti’s Restaurant, complements the wine selections.

“Figaretti’s does a brilliant job with the hors d’oeuvres and really provides the icing on our proverbial cake,” Smith said.

The March 14 event is the third time Smith has presented at a Stifel wine tasting, and he noted that he is delighted to return to one of his favorite venues.

“I encourage everyone who has not been to one of these events to attend March 14. I am super excited about the wine selections, and it is always a fun evening with a great crowd, he said.

As always, guests have an opportunity to purchase their favorite vintages and browse the current art exhibition on display in the Hart Galleries. “Found and Faux” features award-winning artists Robert Villamagna and Herb Weaver, who collaborated to present an exhibition that exemplifies the power of effective composition in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional work.

Sponsored by H.E. Neumann Co., the wine tasting season continues through June. Reservations are required and may be made by calling the Stifel Center at 304.242.7700. Admission is $27. Oglebay Institute members receive a discount.

The Stifel Center is located at 1330 National Road, Wheeling and welcomes the public daily to art, dance and fitness classes, craft activities and ongoing art exhibitions.

These programs are presented with financial assistance from the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and the National Endowment for the Arts, with approval from the West Virginia Commission on the Arts.