One of the great Fine wines events in Tampa Bay area this week will be Wine Dinner “A Life In Wine “, with speaker Michael Rugers, who is well known in the wine business in USA and abroad. Just few points of his vast career in the wine business : he was director of Wines and spirits at Bern’s steak house in Tampa; director of Wines and spirits at Tavern on the Green in NYC; International wine judge at Vin Expo in Bordeaux, France, in Chilly, in California; Fine wine specialist at Southern wines and spirits, and more.
It will be hosted by one of the finest restaurants in Tampa – Counter Culture on September 22, 2024.
I am honored to present during that dinner one of my wine themed paintings “Bacchus and Colombo”. That original painting , shown above, will be available at that dinner during a silent auction. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to one of the Rugers favorite charities, St. Jude Children’s Research hospital. Starting bid is $200.
Artist Tatiana Rugers created this painting, inspired by one of Michael’s wine partners and great friend, Jean-Luc Colombo. Colombo is a great wine producer and owner of vineyards in the South of France. Jean-Luc Colombo, located in the Cornas appellation of the Rhône Valley, France, was established in the early 1980s. The estate is known for its exceptional Syrah wines, which reflect the unique terroir of the region. Jean-Luc Colombo’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned the estate a prestigious reputation among Rhône Valley producers.
Read about Artist Tatiana Rugers–>>
Learn about Tatiana Rugers art and International exhibitions–>>
A Life In Wine – Wine Tasting Dinner With Michael Rugers. September 22 at Counter Culture restaurant, Tampa

Join Michael Rugers, the former Director of Wine and Spirits at Bern’s Steak House, as he celebrates 30 years in the wine business! Experience a light-hearted evening filled with rare wines, elevated cuisine and stories from his illustrious career.
Enjoy a five course paired dinner menu crafted by Counter Culture’s Chef Owner Jeannie Pierola. Exclusive wines will include but are not limited to:
Ruinart Brut Blanc de Blanc
Monsanto Chianti Classico Reserva
Bravium Chardonnay
Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon
Vérité La Muse
Ruinart Brut Rose
Rugers is excited to share his global knowledge of wine. He will share stories of wineries he visited in France, Spain, Italy, Germany, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, compounded by anecdotes including luminaries like Bob Mondavi and Angelo Gaja.
Rugers has judged wine shows in France at VineExpo, Chile and in several locations across the United States. He was selected as the best sommelier in the United States by the Wine Enthusiast in the late 90s. Rugers is the former Director of Wine and Spirits at Tavern on the Green in New York City.
Join Michael Rugers, the former Director of Wine and Spirits at Bern’s Steak House, as he celebrates 30 years in the wine business! Experience a light-hearted evening filled with rare wines, elevated cuisine and stories from his illustrious career.
Enjoy a five course paired dinner menu crafted by Counter Culture’s Chef Owner Jeannie Pierola. Exclusive wines will include but are not limited to:
Ruinart Brut Blanc de Blanc
Monsanto Chianti Classico Reserva
Bravium Chardonnay
Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon
Vérité La Muse
Ruinart Brut Rose
Rugers is excited to share his global knowledge of wine. He will share stories of wineries he visited in France, Spain, Italy, Germany, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, compounded by anecdotes including luminaries like Bob Mondavi and Angelo Gaja.
Rugers has judged wine shows in France at VineExpo, Chile and in several locations across the United States. He was selected as the best sommelier in the United States by the Wine Enthusiast in the late 90s. Rugers is the former Director of Wine and Spirits at Tavern on the Green in New York City.