TGIF

Weekend’s Greetings from Gosford Wine . . . I hope that the weekend finds you well, and that you’ve all found your way to The National by now.  If you haven’t been, do check it out – 232 Hancock, right next to Ciné.  I had the Moorish pork tenderloin with tomato couscous and date mostarda last night . . . it was fantastic.  And the last time I had hummus that good I had just climbed off the camel I rode through the Wadi Rum in Jordan; no kidding.  The stalwart Ben Giacchino did a bang-up job on the winelist, as well.  There are tons of excellent values there, and you can’t miss in any price range.  In saying all of this I fail to mention that the space itself is really quite beautiful.  You’ll love it.  See the menu at www.thenationalrestaurant.com.

Introducing, the Tailgater (or Kickoff Case, as you prefer) . . . Nothing stokes the varsity buzz like a rowdy red or light white wine.  If beer and bourbon are weighing you down, give the Tailgater a try.  This case of six bottles of the robustly satisfying Vina Alarba Old Vine Grenache and six bottles of the oh-so refreshing Casal Garcia Vinho Verde is the ticket-holder’s dream.  Our normal price for this case of wine would be $109.66, after tax.  We’ll let it go this weekend for $99.99, tax included.  Supplies should run short on this item, so please call or e-mail ahead to reserve yours.