Go blind-tasting vodka

MILFORDnVodka connoisseurs will again have the chance to test their palettes as the Laurel Villa Country Inn and Restaurant hosts its second annual "TGIF Premium Vodka Tasting" on Friday, Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy five premium and super-premium vodkas from Russia, Sweden, England, Holland and Texas (yes, Texas!) in a blind tasting, including a new entry that was a Unanimous Double Gold Medal Winner at the World Spirits Competition. Rating cards for each selection will be provided, and when the labels are finally revealed participants will guess which vodka was which. A prize will be awarded for the greatest number of correct guesses. "It's a great way to kick back and relax after the post-Labor Day rush," said Janice Halsted, Innkeeper at the Laurel Villa. "The tasting will be totally casual, so guests will have time to wander our English gardens and sit by the Koi pond between tastings, or just savor the foliage and the Delaware." Chef Carl will create a selection of scrumptious hors d'oeuvres to accompany the event, and guests who choose to stay for dinner will receive 15 percent off their entree. "We're combining a familiar taste or two with some unusual vodkas and one that's totally new," said Halsted. "Last year the winner guessed three of the five correctly. We'll see who can beat that record." Seating for the "TGIF Premium Vodka Tasting" is limited and reservations, at $30 per person, should be made by Sunday, September 25. For reservations and more information, call 570-296-9940. The Laurel Villa is located at 2nd & Ann Streets in Milford.