The Full Wine Experience in Green Bay

Posted by Jeff Flynt on

I would definitely call myself a "wine geek." So any chance I get to learn and discuss the wondrous world of wine, I jump at that chance.

So if you're like me, or want to learn more about vino, a great opportunity takes place every month at Syrah Restaurant and Wine Bar in Green Bay.

I spoke with owner Dennis Fenrick about the next installment of their Green Bay Academy of Wine, which is tomorrow night (Wednesday) at their location at 3597 Bay Settlement Road.

Fenrick says there are 4 spots remaining for their "Only the Name is the Same" theme, which costs $25. It's limited to 12 people per session, because Fenrick says it allows for a more one-on-one experience.

"Three pinot grigios and three cabernets, each grown in a different part of the world. It’s about the terroir, and it’s an eye-opener for people who’ve only tried one style of wine,” says Fenrick.

Where did the idea come from to begin this monthly series?

"I saw a hole in the local market in how they do wine tastings. Most wine shops and wineries basically throw product in front of you. They may put some food in there that may have nothing to do with the wine,” Fenrick said. “I think people learn better through more experience of tasting. I’ve kind of created a part education, part wine pairing with foods.”

Fenrick says he works with Chef Justin Johns in putting together the pairing menu. But the person running the show varies with the theme.

"The one in February, we did a tour of Italy and I had one of my Italian wine experts come in and talked about five different regions and had more experience and toured the different wineries," says Fenrick.

Those who attend aren't exactly sommeliers, nor are they people who've never tried wine before.

"It ranges all across the spectrum. They definitely are either wine savvy, or want to be wine savvy. People that know at least a little about wine, or definitely want to learn more," Fenrick said.

The Green Bay Academy of Wine is growing in popularity, with the May 8th "Spring Fling" event sold out already. Fenrick has added a second "Spring Fling" event on May 15th.

"I’m calling it Wines for the Patio. Bringing in wines that can stand on their own that can be an everyday, easy drinking summer wine,” says Fenrick.

But on April 16th, there's a special wine dinner. For $50, you can enjoy a five-course meal featuring the wines of Dry Creek Vineyards from Sonoma County, California. Fenrick is bringing in a representative from Dry Creek for that event.

Be sure to follow Syrah on Twitter and Facebook.

 

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