Scary spirits — Champane's Wine Cellars Pub is hosting a spooky, Halloween-themed wine tasting that includes a few beers. Jokingly called an opportunity to taste the "scariest" wines in the world, the event will feature such wines as Jekolatern, Black Cat, Witches' Brew, Howling Moon and many more. Seasonal beers will include Werewolf, Goose Island, Buffalo Bills. It happens 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16, at Champane's Wine Cellars, 7007 Chicago Rd., Warren; RSVP only; $15 per person, $20 at the door; call 1-800-842-1222; light snacks provided.
Them bones — The Djordjevski family, owners of the Bone Yard in Farmington Hills, are marking the restaurant's 30th anniversary with an interesting promotion Oct.12-18. Catch it before it goes away and you can get 30 percent off your total bill, whether you dine in or carryout (excluding tax, tip and drinks, natch). The Bone Yard's at 30843 Plymouth Rd., Livonia; 734-427-6500.
FOOD/THOUGHT
Lucida Scala Quinn loves to make sure that the guys in her life are well-fed, whether by her hands or their own. Mad Hungry: Feeding Men and Boys (Artisan, $27.95), proves her devotion. Let the image on Page 145 serve as a point of departure: grilled hangar steak, creamed spinach and Italian fries. The recipes are approachable, easily prepared by, or for, the subject men or boys. The detailed instructions and tips enable even the rookie cook to put a delectable meal on the table.
BOTTOMS UP
If you've even heard of Amontillado sherry it's likely because Edgar Allan Poe's short story was on your high school reading list. For $18, you can purchase Lustau's excellent Los Arcos Amontillado. With a nose of raisins and dried leaves and a rich, nutty flavor tempered by a bracing acidity it pairs well with everything from cheese to stew. It keeps in the refrigerator for weeks and makes good Asian stir-fry gravies, pan sauces and finishes a French onion soup like nothing else.
THE WORKS
If the post-Labor Day chill is getting you down, it could be time to warm yourself and someone you love with a luscious sweet. Baci Perugina, a creamy chocolate hazelnut confection, will brighten your day. The flavors of these "kisses" begin with a whole hazelnut nestled in milk chocolate and chopped hazelnuts, all coated with dark chocolate, then individually wrapped in a good-looking metallic silver-and-blue wrapper.
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