Italian wines are really popular in our Valley. Many area wine lovers simply drink the wines their parents and grandparents enjoyed while growing up. Others have taken the time to research which regions their family immigrated from and pursue knowledge and enjoyment of those wines tied to tehir family history. Either way, Italian wine is big in our Valley.

An interesting upcoming event focuses on four distinct Italian wine regions and how the wines reflect the history and culture of the people who grow the grapes and drink the local vino. The "Discover Series" event offers four wines with bite size samples of food. The event is at Avalon Golf and Country Club's Buhl Park club this Friday from 7-8PM.

Here's a look at the wines being featured:

1. 2012 Ca Montini Pinot Grigio - Trentino Region DOC

Frut forward and fun with light body and a clean finish. 

2. 2011 Domodimonti "Deja" Passerina - Offida DOCG

Light, crisp and refreshing with citrus fruits and nice acidity. 

3. 2011 Michele Chiarlo "Le Orme" Barbera D'Asti - Piedmont DOCG

Round and medium bodied with red fruits hints of walnuts. 

4. 2012 Testa Montepulciano D'Abruzzo - Montepulciano DOC

Fuller bodied with plum, cassis and a peppery spice on the finish.

The cost of the event is only $25. Guests will be provided with some in depth education on the wine regions being featured and walk away with a good understsanding of why the wines taste the way they do. You can make a reservation for the event by logging onto ww.myvalleyvino.com and click on "contact us".