Bookworm x Picnic Linden Hills x Comma, a bookshop
Uncorked Book Club
October 6: “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey
You’re Invited
Join a lively community of book and wine lovers for a relaxed gathering to discuss our favorite literary fiction while sipping on a perfectly paired wine. I’ll discuss how the pairing elevates our enjoyment of both the book and the wine, and we’ll break into small groups to share our thoughts. We call ourselves a book club, but consider the event a book party, and you’re invited.
We meet every other month, on the first Monday, 6-7:30 pm, at Picnic. Tickets cost $18 and include one glass of wine. Snacks and additional wine pours are available for purchase.The Uncorked Book Club is a collaboration between myself, Picnic Linden Hills, and Comma, a bookshop. Our 2025 schedule: June 2, Tilt; August 4, Moonrise Over New Jessup; October 6, Orbital; December 1, Small Things Like These.
August 4: “Moonrise Over New Jessup” by Jamila Minnicks paired with House of Brown Red Blend
The Book: Set in the midst of the civil rights movement in Alabama, this debut novel is based on historical all-Black communities that thrived across America. Narrator Alice Young arrives in one of these towns, alone and nearly penniless, and falls in love with the people and a place where she is free from whitefolks’ “invisible lines and unwritten rules.” But not everyone in New Jessup agrees how to achieve Black political power, and unexpectedly, Alice finds herself at the center of a divide that could threaten everything she holds dear.
The Wine: A juicy chillable red from House of Brown, a Black-owned, family-owned, and women-led label in California. 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Pinot Noir, 25% Tempranillo. Aromas/flavors of hibiscus, tea rose, pomegranate, Maraschino cherry, cinnamon, clove, and English lavender. Light body, bright acidity.
Why it works: The book and wine both celebrate Black voices. Different viewpoints in the book are represented by a blend of grapes – and each contributes to the storytelling. While the book tackles some weighty topics, the wine’s refreshing character complements the joy Alice finds in New Jessup.
June 2: “Tilt” by Emma Pattee paired with Pewsey Vale Vineyard Estate Riesling
The Book: Annie, 35-years-old and 9-months pregnant with her first child, is shopping for a crib at Ikea in Portland, OR, when a massive earthquake occurs. She survives and starts walking back into the city to find her husband. In a voice that is both dryly humorous and heartfelt, Annie narrates this journey to unborn “Bean” over the course of one day, reflecting upon the experience and upon her own life and desires.
The Wine: From old Riesling vineyards in the hills of Eden Valley, South Australia. Respected and brilliant winemaker Louisa Rose. Aromas/flavors of lime, lemon, grapefruit, pineapple, dried herbs, white flowers. Aromatic with refreshing acidity.
Why it works: Strong female points-of-view. Wine’s bright & fresh character satisfies Annie’s thirst on a hot and grueling day. Moreover, the wine has sufficient intensity and complexity to accompany the novel’s weightier themes.