July is Food & Wine Month in Philadelphia

This July ushers in a new summertime tradition: an entire month devoted to the art of pairing fine food and wine. The Wine School of Philadelphia is celebrating with five major events featuring locally sourced ingredients and sustainable wines.

"The summer harvest in this region is one of the most diverse and beautiful in America," explains Wine School Founder Keith Wallace. "It needs to be recognized."

The festivities kick off on July 6, with the first of two "Moveable Feast Dinners." Each dinner begins with a one-hour wine class followed by a four-course feast prepared by Chef Luca Garutti of L'Oca Italian Bistro. Says Chef Garutti, "The Moveable Feast dinners are special because they allow me to share my personal philosophy that all great food is local; it's an Italian tradition."

The exclusive "Winemaker's Dinner" on July 7 will host New Zealand winemaker and Wine School alumnus, Dan Brennan, and his selection of sustainably produced wines from his own Decibel Vineyards. "It's thrilling for me to come back to the place that first gave me the knowledge to become a winemaker. I can't wait to sit down at this special dinner and share my passion," says Mr. Brennan.

Two other events will tweak the Wine School's signature series of food and wine pairing classes, "The Sommelier Smackdown" and "The Corked & Forked Cooking Class." For the first time this July, both will feature locally sourced produce and artisanal meats and cheeses paired with sustainable wines.

At The Corked & Forked Cooking Class, Mr. Wallace himself will present recipes, wine pairings, and anecdotes from his upcoming cookbook with Running Press. "I'm going to let the best of Philly's farmer's markets wholly inspire my four-course menu that day. Frankly, it's the way I cook at home, and I want to demonstrate that anyone can create amazing, simple fare when exceptional ingredients are at hand."

To join us at the Wine School for class or to speak with Mr. Wallace, please contact the Wine School at 1-800-817-7351 or email press@vinology.com.

To learn more about Food & Wine Month, visit www.vinology.com/july.