Compiled by Chuck Martin

Just In

Congratulations to Ken Schuchter, president of Valley Vineyards in Morrow, who was inducted into the Ohio Wine Producers Hall of Fame last month in Columbus. One of the modern pioneers in Ohio wine-making, Schuchter planted his vineyard in 1969 and opened the winery, which has won many awards over the years, in 1970.

Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park celebrates "Spice Day," 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday with exhibits of culinary plants and food samplings. Admission is free. 421-4086.

Market Scan

Ugli fruit, which resembles a grapefruit wearing an oversized, rumpled suit, certainly deserves its name. A mandarin-grapefruit cross, ugli fruit is grown in Jamaica, where natives pronounce it HOO-glee fruit. True to its ancestors, ugli fruit tastes like grapefruit with a sweet hint of orange. Buy fruit heavy for its size and that gives slightly to palm pressure. Store at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for three weeks.

Sip It

Harvey's Tom Paine Ale ($4 per pint): If Sam Adams makes you happy, Tom Paine will make you ecstatic. This new, strong bitter from a truly great old English brewery has a mild but beautifully flavorful character with woody and cinnamon notes. Absolutely my best surprise of the year so far, and it's just common sense to share it.

Ed Westemeier

Hot Date

Cincinnati's Ethan Becker, Joy of Cooking author and editor, teaches "The Joy of Breakfast and Brunch," 6:30-9 p.m. April 9 at Kremer's Market in Crescent Springs (755 Buttermilk Pike). After class, Becker will autograph copies of the latest Joy cookbook, All About Breakfast and Brunch (Scribner; $15.95). Cost of the class is $45. To register: (859) 341-1067.