I've been pouring a lot of private wine events lately. Always fun to educate, entertain and converse with people about one of life's simplest pleasures, wine.

The star of the show has been the scrumptious and hard to find Late Harvest Torrontes from Familia Zuccardi in Argentina.

I visited the winery a decade ago and am happy to say the quality, care and charm I experienced with their wines then, continue today. Which is why people LOVE this unique presentation of the Torrontes grape. It's usually bottled as a dry white wine, with a flavor profile similar to that of Sauvignon Blanc. When it's left on the vine, the grape sugars condense and when pressed, the silky juice offers up aromas and flavors of mango, pineapple and honeysuckle. We call it "Heaven in a glass". The Santa Julia label comes in a half bottle size that makes it a terrific stocking stuffer. If you can keep yourself from drinking it before you gift it.

Wasn't Broad Ripple Lights Up fun? As we become more of an urban village with a towering skyline, it was fun to experience the simple pleasure of a parade. Kudos to the people, pets, and percussionists who waved and smiled to all of us as we lined the streets. Backyard Birds Brandt Carter in her little red corvette. The Minion on the firetruck. And Santa, flipping the switch on the new lights along the canal were only eclipsed by the Super Moon that appeared and added even more Christmas magic to the evening.

One of the contributing artists in the new 10th West Gallery in the downtown Stutz Building, is Warfleigh resident David Kleeman.

David gives sculpture a whole new meaning blending found objects with his own creations using metal, wood and ceramics. His astonishing work involves hours of time and thought. He's too humble to offer that information up on his own, but ask and he'll share the story behind the piece. Hear it and you'll want his art in your home.

Ashland Gallery in Broad Ripple is where the talented teacher/artist Johnny McKee offers life changing experiences for young adults with Down's Syndrome and Autism. This is another gallery where you need to hear the story to fully appreciate the energy and beauty of the creations. This month in addition to the work of his students, Johnny showcases some of his abstractly soothing pieces with the effervescent work of Kipp Normand. Kipp is what I call an archaeological artist. He uncovers art in both the everyday and unexpected places, then puts them together in a way that will stir your soul.