On the Plate: Upcoming Food and Wine Events

July 23: Chefs & Champagne
The James Beard Foundation will be honoring Chef Michael Romano of Union Square Cafe for his contributions to the food industry at its annual Chefs & Champagne Benefit at the Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack, New York. Hang in the Hamptons and enjoy tastings by chefs including Florian Bellanger of Fauchon, Rebecca Charles of Pearl Oyster Bar, Josh DeChellis of Sumile, and Kerry Heffernan of Eleven Madison Park along with Champagne Charles Heidsieck and the Estate's own award-winning wines. Proceeds from the event will benefit the preservation of the historic James Beard House in Greenwich Village, as well as the new East End Long Island Culinary Scholarship and the programs of Spoons Across America: The Source for Children's Culinary Education. Tickets are $150 for members of The James Beard Foundation, and $200 for guests. 5-8 pm. For reservations, call 212-627-2308 or order online.

July 25: Cheese and Beer 101
Dean of Curriculum and Maître Fromager Max McCalman isn't just a stuffy cheese and wine guy -- he also appreciates a cool frothy one with his favorite cheeses every now and again. Cool off while you taste cheeses with a collection of summer beer. The $75 registration fee can be paid online. 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center
500 West 37th Street 2nd Floor (entrance on 10th Avenue).

July 26: A Picnic in Provence
Provence in the summertime is not to be missed, but if you can't make it in person, transport yourself there by tasting the country-style picnic Rosé’s of Bandol and Provence, the savory and hearty reds of the Rhone mixed with Syrah, Grenache, Carignane, & Mourvedre grapesand perfumey Viogniers and other citrusey whites from Languedoc, Roussillon, and neighboring villages. Add some cheese and hors d'oeuvres, et viola! Tickets available online. Tickets $35.00 in advance, $45 at the door (if available). 6:30 - 8:30, Divine Bar West, 236 West 54th Street between Broadway & 8th Avenue. 212-265-WINE.