Varanese Restaurant, located at 2106 Frankfort Avenue, will host the “Tour of Italy Wine Dinner” on Wednesday, May 31, with a reception at 6:30pm and dinner at 7:00pm. The event will feature guest speaker Certified Sommelier Aaron Dawkins, and six creative courses expertly paired with different varietals from Italy. The cost is $65 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (502) 899-9904 or emailing letsdine@varanese.com.

The menu was created by the Varanese team led by Chef Erik Abraham and will consist of:

First Course
Pieropan Suave Classico, Veneto, Italy
Sautéed Middleneck Clams and Chorizo
With Artichoke Hearts and a Grilled Baguette with Saffron Aioli

Second Course
Tenuta di Arceno Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy
Chilled Squid Ink Capellini Pasta
Tossed with Basil Pesto and Poached Shrimp
Topped with Micro Basil

Third Course
Feudi Rubrato Aglianco, Campania, Italy
Fresh Mozzarella Arancini
With San Marzano Pomodoro Sauce and Shaved Aged Parmesan

Fourth Course
Copertino DOCG, Copertino, Italy
Roasted Eggplant Puree with Fire Roasted Leg of Lamb and Veal Sausage
With Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Chopped Herbs

Fifth Course
Renato Ratti Marcenasco Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
Slow Braised Oxtail Bolognaise with House-Made Pasta

Sixth Course
Michele Chiarlo Barbera D’Asti, Piedmont, Italy
Chocolate Dipped Cannoli with Dried Cherry Jam and Pistachio Gelato