More Romantic Valentine's Day Dinners for Couples

Provence is a land of sun-drenched beaches, olive groves, lavender fields and, of course, great wines and food. Known primarily for its beautiful multihued rosés, the appellation additionally presents a varied landscape of delicious wine styles of every type --- traditional sparkling, floral-scented whites and berry-rich reds --- making this region a perfect wine stop! Having once served as maître d'hôtel of a Provençal restaurant, Richard Vayda, ICE's resident sommelier, will be your ideal guide through an evening exploring some of the unique gems of this area. Regional cheeses and other nibbles will accompany the tasting, which will include at least eight wine selections.

It's a celebration of all things Mexican. We'll cover Mexico’s greatest dishes and drinks, as well as a few with a twist. We'll make and then dine on: fresh corn tortillas; adobo chicken; grilled skirt steak; sautéed shrimp; fresh pico de gallo; guacamole; and to drink, a classic margarita!

This four-session continuation of the Wine Essentials series offers in-depth exploration and tastings of some of the world’s more interesting and unusual wines. Studies will include an expanded array of lesser-known varietals and wines, as each class concentrates on one wine category and delves into the wines’ production, characteristics and uses, including discussions of food and wine pairing. Session 1: Advanced White Wines: Side-by-Side Tasting of Interesting Aromatic and Fruity Wines. Session 2: Advanced Red Wines: In-Depth Comparison of Selected Wines From Old and New World Regions. Session 3: Off-Dry to Sweet: Exploration of Elegant Rieslings to Cru Classé Sauternes. Session 4: Fortified and Aromatized Wines With Wine Service: Fascinating Wines, From Vermouths and Sherries to Madeiras and Portos.

Although it contains vast areas of arid landscape, the Middle East is a fertile spot on the culinary map. Over the years, various empires have ruled the region's countries, leaving their imprint on the colorful, aromatic and diverse flavors. Recipes are dominated by spice blends, in-season vegetables and fruits, grains, olives and olive oil, nuts, herbs, and pickled and preserved foods. From Beirut, the “Paris of the Middle East,” to Jerusalem, considered the oldest city in the world, you will get a taste of the incredible culinary heritage with a magnificent vegetarian menu of hummus; tabbouleh; spicy falafel, tahini sauce; baba ghanoush and homemade pita.