Just learned about TWODOG Wines, the most recent project for Utah restaurant owner and wine expert, Joe Padilla, and fellow Utah wine lover, Dee Erickson.

To make the long story, short --- about a year ago, the friends got a hair-brained idea to start their own wine label. They hired noted California winemaker Rick Longoria, of Richard Longoria Wines, to help them out.

In January, TWODOG (named for Erickson's dogs --- Fancy and Molly) released it's first two offerings: a full-bodied red blend from the hills of Paso Robles and a white made with grapes from Santa Barbara and Montery.

The wine makes its Utah debut April 13 and 14 at The Wild Grape Bistro in Salt Lake City.

The "TWODOG Nights in the High West” dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. The four-course meal also includes vodka and whiskey pairings from the High West Distillery in Park City. Cost is $40 per person. Optional wine/liquor pairing is $30. Tax & tip not included. Call 801-746-5565 for a reservation.

Labels: Utah, wine