Wine stuff

AB’s (aka Andrew Blair's) plans a Pinot on the Patio wine tasting series, to be held the third Thursday of each month, May through October. The first will be May 20; guests can drop in between 5 and 8 p.m. and sample three wines plus some snacks for $10 plus tax and tip. Also, if you buy at least two bottles of wine from the tasting, you get a buy-one-get-one-free offer in the dining room that night. Reservations are suggested, not required: 704-525-8282. 1600 Montford Drive.

Aquavina hosts a Penfolds wine dinner June 5. Among the courses: morel-mushroom-dusted seared scallop with Hyland Riesling; and herb-encrusted lamb chop with Cabernet-Shiraz blend "Bin 389." $49.95; 435 S. Tryon St.; 704-377-9911.

Lava Bistro does four courses and wines from Spain on June 5. Among the offerings: saffron poached chicken with 2008 Basico Sauvignon Blanc; and grilled hanger steak with 2008 Altos del Cuco. $50; 8708 J.W. Clay Blvd. at Shoppes at University Place; 704-549-0050.