Cru Vs. Brew: What Tastes Better With Food?

Wine or beer? 

The age-old question of which pairs better with food will be answered at Amanti Vino of Montclair's upcoming Cru vs. Brew event.

The battle of the libations will take place at the Women's Club of Upper Montclair on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m.

Brewmaster Garrett Oliver of Brooklyn Brewery will go glass-to-glass with Robert Sinskey, owner/vintner of Robert Sinskey Vineyards and a pioneer in organic and biodynamic winemaking. Sinskey will partner with Steve Matthiasson, a top Napa Valley viticulturist who was named a "Winemaker of the Year" by Food & Wine magazine.

The competitors will pair their selections with the five-course meal created by Ariane Duarte of Montclair's CulinAriane. Guests will debate and use a paddle to vote for the winner. 

"This is the most exciting event Amanti Vino has ever hosted — it's truly unprecedented for foodies as well as wine and beer lovers," said Sharon Sevrens, sommelier and proprietor of Amanti Vino. "The boxing gloves are likely to come off early as the two sides battle for votes!"

Here's a preview of the menu:

• 1st Course: Grilled octopus, sweety peppers, goat cheese, chorizo vinaigrette
  Paired with 2010 Matthiasson White Blend California vs. Brooklyn Sorachi Ace
  
  2nd Course: Seared fennel dusted salmon, prawn, roasted maitake mushrooms, parsnip puree
  Paired with 2010 Robert Sinskey Pinot Noir vs. Brooklyn Local 1
  
  3rd Course: Pork Duo: Roasted pork loin, pork belly, butternut squash bacon hash, apple cider reduction pork sauce
  Paired with 2007 Matthiasson Napa Red vs. Brooklyn Crochet Rouge (Riesling Expression)
  
  4th Course: A selection of Artisanal Cheeses.
  Paired with 2006 Robert Sinksey Marcien vs. Brooklyn Cuvee La Boite
  
  Dessert: Chocolate caramel panna cotta, Amarone cherries
  Paired with 2010 Matthiasson Late Harvest Flora Napa vs. Brooklyn Black OPS
  

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Intensive Therapeutics, a Scotch Plains nonprofit organization that provides occupational therapy services to children with special needs. Guests may also take part in live and silent auctions. 

The Women's Club of Upper Montclair is located at 190 Cooper Ave., in Montclair, NJ. 

Tickets are $250 per person. Reservations can be made by calling 973-509-9463 or emailing sharon@amantivino.com.