Now in its 17th year, the Food Network’s New York City Wine & Food Festival (www.nycwff.org) took place last week from October 17-19.

In my ever so humble opinion, nothing says summer or end of summer, like clams on the grill and Wolffer wine.

Several years ago, my dear friend Sue’s mom, Elvira stopped by our home for a visit. It was one of those sweltering, hot summer days and...