September in Indiana seems to be more like a "tween" season when it comes to the weather, so why not do the same for our wine palate? The lingering heat and humidity one day makes us reach for a crisp cold wine to quench our thirst. Then Mother Nature gives us a day in the 70's and an evening in the 50's and we crave warming reds and hearty craft beer. We won't have to choose between seasonal flavors the next few weekends as Perk Up Cafe/Brotgarten in Broad Ripple at 6536 Cornell, celebrates its annual Fall Fest Sundays on September 18th and 25th, 2016, from noon-4pm. Enjoy refreshing German wines, locally produced German style beer, juicy bratwurst and succulent sauerkraut served on house made breads (the nutty rich pretzel buns vs the light airy yeast rolls-it's a tough but tasty decision to make!) There will be music and since it's Sunday, that also means the weekly Koffee Klatsch will be taking place too starting at Noon. That's where you can have a cup of house roasted coffee with a slice or two of house made German pastry or cake. Prost!!

More info at www.perkupindy.com

You all know how much I love Vinho Verde, that crisp, dry, low alcohol style of wine from Portugal. Aveleda is one of the oldest and most prominent producers of wine in that region of the country. I've had the pleasure of visiting the winery which is one of the loveliest around, with fairy gardens and roaming peacocks on the grounds. While there, I tasted several other labels produced by the winery, that up until recently were not available in the Midwest. Aveleda's brand "Casal Garcia" offers Vinho Verde in both the white and rose style as a still wine AND as a sparkling wine. Most Vinho Verde has a very small amount of spritz, but these sparklers offer true soft bubbly pleasure at an affordable price. If you like Spanish Cava or Italian Prosecco you will want to explore the sparkling side of Vinho Verde too. A bottle is an affordable way to add a bit of flair to a tailgate party, weekend brunch or TGIF with friends.