Typically, libraries are quiet, staid places full of contemplation and study, but the St. Louis Mercantile Library at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (1 University Drive at Natural Bridge Road; www.umsl.edu/mercantile) is going to be anything but typical on Thursday, September 28, when it hosts the opening reception for History Uncorked: Two Centuries of Missouri Wine. Not only will oenophiles (and the oeno-curious) be able to browse the exhibit which showcases all things viticulturally Missourian, from advertising posters to antique wine-making equipment but they'll also have the opportunity to sample wines while they're "studying" the artifacts. And these aren't just any old vintages: The bottled beauties offered for the tasting are the 2006 Missouri State Fair Gold Medal Wines liquid gold! And one of these special selections will be awarded the Governor's Cup and crowned the best in the state! If that's not a reason to break out the bubbly, we don't know what is. This opening-night party runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m., and admission costs $15 to $20. If you'd like to buy your tickets in advance, call 800-392-9463. And in case you miss the reception, History Uncorked remains on view through Saturday, June 30, and the Mercantile is open daily.
Sept. 28-June 30