Grape Expectations

On Sunday, Addison is likely to become hangover central. That's because on Saturday the town will host Winefest 2003 in a 12,000-square-foot tent at brand-new Addison Circle Park.

The Winefest name is a little misleading in that holders of the $35 ticket will gain access to a lot more than wine; they'll be able to imbibe the wares of more than 40 wineries, breweries and spirits distillers from around the world. Fortunately for the sake of decorum, these alcoholic delights will be paired with selections from about 30 mostly upscale area restaurants, also included in the admission price.

This could be a real challenge considering the restaurants involved. What enological magic is required to select the ideal vintages to complement pappadam from the Clay Pit Grill & Curry House, the botanas platter from Cantina Laredo and the cucumber roll from the bipolar (Japanese at lunch, Mediterranean for dinner) Canary Café?

Among the other participating eateries are 2900, Antares, Arthur's, Blue Mesa Grill, Corner Bakery Café, Dream Café, Houston Street Restaurant, La Madeleine, May Dragon, Melting Pot, Mercy Wine Bar, Mi Piaci, Pastazios Pizza, Rockfish, Sambuca, The Dug-out of Addison Circle, The Saffron House and Two Sisters Catering.

Participating vintners include Chimay, Czechvar, De Loach, Dry Creek Vineyards, Glick Wines Group, Gnekow Family Winery, J. Lohr Vineyard and Wines, Kind Estate Winery, Osborne Red Eye Brand, Rodney Strong Vineyards and San Saba Vineyards.

Winefest 2003 is presented by The 500 Inc., and entertainment will be provided by Daddy's Chair and Ricki Derek. So put on your dancin' boots, grab your favorite antacid (prescription or OTC), leave some aspirin on the bedside table and head north to Addison.