50 First Dates

etting the Stage:
You don't have to live in Napa to get a taste of the good life and enjoy the sensual sophistication of wine tasting. Grapes are now grown throughout the country from Montana to Florida. For next to nothing, vineyards give tours and tastings of their offerings in incredibly romantic surroundings. A scenic drive through the countryside visiting the local vineyard is the perfect way to wile away a Saturday or Sunday afternoon and spend quality time while you're at it!

For a similar experience closer to home, call your local fine wine retailer. Most of them dedicate one night a week to a tasting of a particular varietal (grape) or wine region. Many culinary schools, restaurants, and extension programs also offer these educational evenings. You'll learn a whole new language together — what an intoxicating way to begin a new hobby with a special new someone!

Begin by visiting localwineevents.com. Make sure you've properly registered for the class and that you've mapped out the route in advance. Take care that your vehicle is clean and is in good working order and the gas tank is full.

IMPORTANT: Call a cab or car service if you drink too much. There's nothing sexy about a DUI — or a car accident.

Dress to Impress:
This date calls for upscale/casual attire.
A pair of good jeans or khaki's (flat front, please!) paired with a well made cotton oxford or the old standby — the black turtleneck.

TA cute skirt cut on the bias with a sexy top, or your favorite slacks with a low cut top. A good rule of thumb: you can and should be sexy on a first date, but display one goody at a time! You wouldn't put your stunning chocolate torte on the same platter with the beef roast, right? If you're showcasing your terrific breasts, leave the teeny mini till next time. If you're introducing a mile of leg, a simple top is best.

Devil's in the Details:
Vino, of course. For an extra romantic touch, try a champagne tasting. Which ever you choose, make sure you don't start on an empty stomach. A nice beginning: splurge on some appetizers at an upscale bar before the tasting begins. Remember, the point here is to sip, not to slosh! Few things are more unattractive than a first date who overindulges. Who cares if you can throw around fancy wine lingo if you're slurring your words!

Three guesses.

Music sets the mood for wine tasting. Try a Pucini Opera — Tosca, La Boheme, Madame Butterfly, or Turandot. Go flapper style with some classic roaring twenties jazz such as Louis Armstrong, Billie Holliday, or Tommy Dorsey.