Northern Latitudes Distilling; Cheese & Cocktails; January 21, 12:30 and again at 2:30 p.m.

Lake Leelanau, home of Northern Latitudes Distilling, definitely looks like a winter wonderland right now. So, this would be a great weekend to venture north and indulge in some free artisan spirit tastings or delicious custom cocktails with their Jack Pine Gin, Horseradish Vodka, smoky Bourbon or yummy Plum and Coffee Liquors.  The Cheese Lady will be there too, hosting a very tasty Cheese & Cocktail pairing event. Cocktails can have notes that are smooth, sharp, spicy, or smoky to name a few, and so can cheese! – sounds like some wonderful parallels going on.  So be sure and check this out; there will be two times offered, one at 12:30 and again at 2:30 p.m and then live music begins at 4:45 p.m.   

Bay Pointe Inn – Winter packages, Happy Hour and Specials; Also, January 25 WIne & DIne 5 course Dinner – $ 125.00; 5:30 p.m.

Baby, it’s cold outside.  But so, so warm around a cozy fire, indoors or out,  at the award-winning Bay Pointe Inn on Gun Lake. Indulge in a relaxing weekend and enjoy their whirlpool suites or the toasty heated indoor pool and hot tub. Even better, book your very own cozy cottage for $ 199.00 and enjoy some nearby downhill skiing. The Bay Pointe Bar & Grille is a true culinary gem and folks rave about their farm to table seasonal menu, extensive wine selection and exceptional personalized service. Be sure to check out the daily Happy Hour specials and live music Wednesday’s.  Also, January 25 Bay Pointe will host an amazing WIne & Dine 5-course dinner for $ 125.00; an early Valentine perhaps? 

Fenn Valley Chili Cookoff January 20 – 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Chili and sparkling cider anyone?  Or delicious white, red or sparkling wines?  You’ll be sure to find something you love to compliment a steaming bowl of hot chili.  Join Fenn Valley tomorrow, January 20 for their annual chili cook off starting at 2:00 p.m.  See who the judges assign as winners in this coveted chili championship; the winners will be revealed at 4:00 p.m. in the categories of Two Legs (Fowl), Four Legs (beeb & pork), Exotic (seafood or wild game), Vegetarian! And Best of Show.  Go online to register for this  zippy, sparkling, steamy chili day at Fenn Valley,  all for the grand sum of $ 5.00 (beverages not included).