Polar Vortex Doesn't Keep Wine Lovers from Che Figata Winemaker Series Kickoff

Despite wind-chill temperatures below -50F, more than 30 guests found their way to Che Figata Thursday evening, Jan. 30, for the first in the Italian eatery's winemaker series dinners featuring Piero Lanza of Poggerino.

Piero Lanza of Poggerino greets guests at the Poggero wine dinner, the first event of Che Figata's Italian Winemaker Series

The six-course dinner featured five paired wines (dessert was paired with espresso), each described by winemaker Lanza himself. In addition, Lanza visited with guests, displaying on an iPad images of the regions and vineyards from which they sipped.

Winemaker Piero Lanza shares images of his vineyards with Calamos Investments Founder, Chairman and Global Chief Investment Officer, John P. Calamos, Sr. Calamos also is co-founder and owner of Che Figata.

The next Italian Winemakers Series dinner will be held Wednesday, Feb. 20, featuring fourth-generation winemaker Elisa Scavino of Paolo Scavino winery. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.

Elisa Scavino of Paolo Scavino Wines will be at Che Figata Wednesday, Feb. 20.