The cold and the beautiful

Shaken or stirred? That’s a debate for another day, but there’s no contesting the results of the Cold River Vodka Martini Mixoff event held at Eggspectation in South Portland earlier this month. The mixoff is one in a series in Maine and New Hampshire, and the winners of each will compete in the September finals. The overall champion will be named Maine Martini Mixologist. Dorinda Roye, the bar manager at Jameson Tavern in Freeport, won with her Cold River Mosquito Bite. To make it, muddle together the juice of 3 limes, 2 packets sugar, fresh mint leaves and 3 drops Tabasco. Top with ice and add 1 part Cold River Vodka , 2 parts mojito mix and a splash of club soda. Strain into a martini glass with mint and lime. For more information, visit www.coldrivervodka.com.

You say tomato, I say delicious

There’s nothing like the taste of a fresh, locally grown tomato. Maine growers are celebrating the harvest with Maine Tomato Tasting Week. Through Sept. 3, tomato lovers can get their fill at farm stands and markets statewide. For information or to find a tasting site in your area, visit http://www.getrealmaine.com/visit/tomatotastingday.html.

Cooking up some fun

Clueless in the kitchen? Want to spice up your day-to-day menus? Pairings, the food and wine education center in Winterport, can help. The facility has posted its September schedule, which includes “Tastes of Tuscany” and “Pizza Perfection,” online at www.pairingsinmaine.com. Classes cost $60 per person. For information or to reserve a space, call 223-0990.

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.