Sit down at a winemaker's table

Pairing wine with certain types of food is art that is perfected by those who know wines well. Who would know them better than the winemakers and producers themselves?

On May 2, St. Joseph's Winery hosts its Spring Winemaker Dinner. Chef Alfred Popp prepares a six course meal, each thoughtfully paired with a wine. St. Joseph's assistant winemaker will be on hand to describe to each selection.

Beginning at 6:30, the evening event starts with cellar wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres. The dinner to follows offers a choice of an entree and dessert, a gluten-free option is available.

The first course is cream of asparagus soup paired with St. Joseph's 2007 Pinot Gris. Second course is comprised of Arugula with blue cheese crumble and swiss dressing paired with St. Joseph's 2005 Chardonnay or Kitara 2004 Chardonnay.

Guests have two choices for the main course. First is a lamb chop with spring vegetable bundle and garlic mashed potatoes paired with 2004 Kitara Estate Syrah. The other choice is salmon prepared in an Asian marinade served on leek and fingerling potato paired with St. Joseph's 2007 Pinot Rose, Gewürztraminer L'Epsrit, or Kitara 2006 Pinot Noir.

After consuming three courses, the final choice is all about dessert. Pear and almond tart with whipped cream paired with St. Joseph White Riesling is one choice while chocolate creme brulee paired with a 2003 KB Merlot is the other.

Reservations for the event are required. To hold a reservation with a credit card, call 503-651-3190. Cost is $65 pr person.

Treat mom to a celebratory brunch or lunch

Though some may argue that Mother's Day is yet another "Hallmark" holiday, the May events offers an specific opportunity to honor one's mom.

A variety of local venues host families that weekend for food-centered festivities.

Silverton's Gordon House hosts a tea, lunch and music tour on May 9 at noon. Included in the lunch are special teas, finger sandwiches, seasonal fruits and a salad dessert. David Lula is set to perform on guitar. The events costs $30 for members and their guests, or $35 per person.

Historic Deepwood Estate also hosts a Mother's Day brunch on May 9 and 10. The annual event is a champagne brunch. The event held on both Saturday and Sunday runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Reservations are required for those who wish to attend. The cost is $30 per person.

On May 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Willamette Valley Vineyards hosts their brunch event. Willaby's Catering prepares the meal that is accompanied by champagne and the vineyard's semi-sparkling Muscat. Following the meal a wine tasting and tour of the cellar round out the afternoon. Space is limited, so reservations are necessary.