Calendar: Mollydooker “Blend a Hand” at Ruffino’s … Whole Foods Oktoberfest events

Shake and steak: Australian wine label Mollydooker hosts a “Blend a Hand” event at Ruffino’s on Sunday, Oct. 30, at 6:30 p.m. that promises to be an interactive, fast-paced, noisy and participatory evening served with great Ruffino’s food. A special “shaking” motion is required to properly blend the Australian Mollydooker shiraz from the bottle. Click here for a video demonstrating the shake, and call (225) 753-3458 to make your reservations today. The reason for the season: It’s Oktoberfest at Whole Foods, and the store is celebrating in high style with three great events this weekend. On Friday, from 4-7 p.m., the Specialty Department will have seasonal brews available to sample; and the Beer Club will meet from 8-9 p.m. to taste seasonal flavors, including Oktoberfest varieties, each paired with an artisan cheese. On Saturday from noon to 3 p.m., the Louisiana Culinary Institute will visit the store to prepare traditional German fare for guests to sample, and the store’s Global Bar will also feature German food. For more information, call guest services at (225) 218-0452.