LOCAL BRIEFS

AITKIN - The Northern Lights Wine Club will present The Wines of Chile and Argentina at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15 at the Beanery Internet Cafe in downtown Aitkin.

This is an informal and educational event for those interested in expanding their knowledge and love of fine wines. Cost of the wine tasting event is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. No product purchase is required and you don't have to be a Northern Lights Wine Club member to attend.

At the event, participants will explore a variety of wines from the historic wine regions of Chili and Argentina. An assortment of appetizers also will be served.

South American wines didn't have a major presence in the United States until the early 1990s. Chile started the movement and quickly became known for delicious wines at affordable prices. Lately, it has been Argentina's turn.

From Chile, look for crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc from the Casablanca and San Antonio valleys and reds made from Carmenre, a distinctively spicy French grape abundant in Chilean vineyards. In Argentina, the Salta province is known for Torronts, a native grape variety with a distinctive, floral aroma that makes some of the country's most interesting whites. But Malbec from Mendoza is unquestionably the country's marquee variety.

Lakes Area Dance Club dance party scheduled Friday

The Lakes Area Dance Club will host a dance party Friday in Room E101 at Central Lakes College in Brainerd.

The dance lesson will begin at 6:30 p.m. and participants are asked to arrive at 6:15 p.m. to register. General dancing will begin after the lesson from 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Singles and couples are welcome to attend and partners are not required. Beginners to advanced dancers are invited.

Cost is $5 for members, $10 for non-members and $2 for students with a current identification card. For more information, call Deb at 820-3557.