Every month, Rainbow Lodge at 2011 Ella hosts casual, walk-around-style Monthly Wine Tasting Events, each with a different theme and food pairings! On June 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m, Marc Borel kicks off Part One of the “Passport to Italy” series, a three-event Italian wine tour. This month’s tasting focuses on Italy’s Northern region and other regions are being highlighted on July 10 and August 14. As guests taste wines from some of the world’s best regions, they can visit executive chef Mark Schmidt’s food stations to taste four different paired dishes.

The pairings are:

Benvolio Pinot Grigio from Friuli-Venezia Giulia with Rosemary Focaccia and White Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes

Franco Serra Barbera d’Asti from Piedmont with Shrimp and Orzo Pasta tossed with Sweet Corn and Basil Pesto

Cà Maiol, Giomè Cabernet and Merlot from Lombardy with Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder over Cannelini Beans

Remo Farina, Valpolicella Ripasso Corvina and Rondinella from Veneto with Grappa-Scented Peaches with Lodge Honey Zabaglione