I went with Pam Schwartz to the Orlando Science Center, (777 E. Princeton St. Orlando, FL 32803) for Science of Wine. The event allowed patrons to experience the science behind the taste and body of some very full bodied wines. We became the sommelier and scientist at one of Orlando’s most unique wine and food events. It was an evening of wining, dining and learning.
As I sketched, Pam wandered to sample some of the food and drink. She brought back the best samples for me to try as well, as I worked. I immediately focused on the musicians who were mostly ignored standing in front of articulated dinosaur bones.
Samples were available from more than 150 wines from the world’s major regions. The hand-selected pairings were provided by local dining spots like Norman’s, Black Rooster Taqueria, Shin Jung Korean BBQ and Tapa Toro.
Pam and I decided to participate in the wine-themed canvas painting. About 20 tiny easels were set up with wine glasses already drawn on the canvases.There was a selection of just green, red and black paints. I joked that it was impossible to work under such crude conditions. I decided to paint the couple seated opposite us as they worked on their canvases. The canvas had two cups, two faces and lots of angles. It wasn’t my best work. One of the people working the event said, “You must be an artist.” “Not really.” I said. “I just sketch stuff.”
The Science of Wine raised critical funds to provide operating
support for educational programs and opportunities for science learners
of all ages to experience the fun and discovery of Orlando Science
Center. The Orlando Science Center just won first place as Orlando’s Best Museum in the Orlando Weekly reader’s poll. After my first cup of wine, I loved the place.