Wine and Cheese Pair Up at Conklin House

Last Thursday, Babylon's was the site of a festive yet educational gathering. Attendees learned how to pair a variety of wines, all donated by Massimiliano Gargiulo, with cheeses and appetizers presented by owner Nina Latino and cheese consultant Patrick Ambrosio.

The mood was light-hearted, as village residents and visitors from neighboring towns who said they love patronizing new downtown shops like the fromagerie, discussed their favorites among the samples. A mozzarella bite came with a pinot grigio wine, while a herbes de Provence salami with truffle butter (all items sold at the shop) was paired with a sangiovese red.

The shop owners were able to showcase the personal touch they offer as independent retailers, almost always on-site at their stores to direct, teach and guide shoppers, while the Conklin House raised money to restore the Nathanial Conklin headstone in Wheatley Heights.

Gargiulo said the event was a success, and the 50 tickets sold out quickly. He hopes to hold a similar event soon.

The funds for the event were donated to the Babylon Town Historical Society Conklin Cemetery Restoration Fund. The society will also host a June 9 lecture and tour fundraiser for the cause. Check Patch for details or call 631-587-3750 for more information.