Want to put a little weekend in a weeknight?

Go to a wine tasting. We did, last Tuesday, at Il Michelangelo Restaurant (www.ilmichelangelo.com) in Boonton Township.

The vinos came from Ceuso (www.ceuso.it), presented by oenologist Vincenzo Melia. The best was the Vigna Custera blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Nero d’Avola, Sicily’s best local red wine grape. It was smooth yet robust enough to stand up to osso buco prepared by chef Dominick Cascio, Jr.

Owners and friends Dominick Sr. and Connie throw a great party. By the third course you are on a first name basis with everyone at your banquet-style table, and you’ll be belting out That’s Amore with the crowd. To score an invite to the next tasting, call (973) 316-1111.

Our partners-in-wine at Gary’s Wine & Marketplace regularly co-sponsor events with nearby restaurants. The next one, tomorrow at Pierre's Restaurant and Wine Bar in Morristown (www.pierresbistro.com), showcases the wines of Mas de Daumas (www.daumas-gassac.com).

Don’t miss the benefit tasting event at the Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange on May 21st, supporting The Jersey Battered Women’s Shelter (www.jbws.org). It’s a chance to sample different vodkas and tequilas, along with great wines. Check www.garyswine.com to see what else is on tap.

Speaking of the tap, Cork Restaurant (www.corknj.com) in Westmont is having “Beer vs. Wine” taste-off on Tuesday, May 8, individually pairing both for each of the four courses, including Cabrales blue cheese and Vietnamese steak. Reserve online or at (856) 833-9800.

Finally, sample the best of a great California vineyard. David Burke’s Fromagerie in Rumson is holding a five-course dinner featuring wines from Joseph Phelps Vineyards’ superb Insignia Collection (www.jpvwines.com)— classic Napa wine in an iconic New Jersey restaurant. Make reservations for the Wednesday, May 9 event at (732) 842-8088 or www.fromagerierestaurant.com.

Enjoy! But just remember, next morning is a workday.