A taste of greatness

Pairings, the food and wine education center in Winterport, has posted its most recent schedule online at www.pairingsinmaine.com. July’s classes include “Tapas: Little Nibbles from Spain,” “Fire up the Grill” and “Summer Soups.” For information, visit the Web site or call 223-0990.

Shake it up, baby

Cold River Vodka of Freeport has teamed up with Dennett’s Wharf restaurant in Castine for the second Maine Martini Mix-Off at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 13. Martinis will be judged on presentation, creativity, originality, showmanship and taste. Contestants must supply their own garnish, mixers and martini glass, and each contestant must use Cold River Vodka, which will be provided. The winner will be named Maine Martini Mixologist and receive a gift basket with prizes worth more than $100. There is an entry fee of $10. For information or to register, call Carolyn Brouillard at Dennett’s Wharf at 326-9045 or e-mail mixoff@coldrivervodka.com. The first 20 contestants to sign up will be admitted.

A blast from the past

Feeling a little old-fashioned? Then head to the 19th century dinner that food historian Sandra Oliver has planned at the Searsport Congregational Church vestry at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 19. Oliver will discuss period foodways and cooking techniques as part of the “Wednesday’s Women” program in conjunction with Penobscot Marine Museum’s Women and the Sea exhibit. The dinner costs $8 per person and preregistration is required. For information or to reserve a seat, call 548-2529.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor ME 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to kandresen@bangordailynews.net.