Winebrats Philadelphia, a group of oenophiles (some of whom would pride themselves on never using that word) who want to dispel the notion that wine lovers are wine snobs, held a wine tasting (imagine that…) at Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant on Tuesday, October 7th. Over 50 people, mostly between 25 and 40 years old, attended.

The theme of this year's Beaux Arts Ball on October 25th was Forms, Frames and Figures – an evening in blue and bronze. Many people came with picture frames around their necks. About half of the guests were in costume; the other half in black tie. Or blue and bronze tie.

Philadelphia Magazine hosted a rum tasting at Cuba Libre restaurant and bar in Old City on Wednesday, October 7th. All the big ones were on hand to share - Bacardi, Cruzan, Captain Morgan, Mount Gay, Cabana Boy....

On Monday, October 27th, newcomer Ciroc Vodka held a launch party at the new PAFA building on Broad Street. Ciroc decked the room out in bright blue uplighting and giant white couches from NYC. There was an open bar, martini stations and taste testing comparisons with other upscale vodkas.

The Young Friends of the UPenn Museum hosted their annual Wines of Antiquity winetasting on Thursday, October 23rd. The wines tasted were actually made within the past few years – but there were lectures given on ancient Roman wines.