BRADENTON -- The South Florida Museum's most buzzed-about fundraiser returns Friday with a superb selection of wine and scrumptious appetizers.

The sixth annual "Vinology: The Science of Wine" gives museum guests the opportunity to eat, drink, laugh, learn and mingle in a relaxed environment.

Rose Carlson, former vice president/general manager at Bright House and longtime board member of the South Florida Museum, has been involved as a sponsor or committee member with Vinology since its inception.

This year, she's happy to just be an attendee.

"The thing I really enjoy is going to this great event where you meet a lot of people you know and new people, as well," she said.

"But not only do you get to sample the wine and food, you also get to learn about the pairings and the different wines that you're sampling, making it very educational."

Vinology will feature world-class wines and premium beers paired with small bites from many of the area's finest restaurants, plus wine education seminars along with a private cooking demonstration from a local celebrity chef.

"The restaurants all do such a good job each year," Carlson said. "And they do something different each year, so you don't know what to expect."

Participating restaurants include Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Duffy's Tavern, Ezra, Fete Catering and Ballrooms, Frosted Over Cup Cakery, Harry's Continental Kitchen, The Lazy Lobster, Michael's On East, Pier 22, Riverhouse Reef & Grill, SoMa Diner, Star Keeper Cafe, The Fresh Market and The Sandbar.

Exclusive VIP reception restaurants and distributors are Eat Here, MTI and Republic National Distributing Co.

All proceeds from Vinology will benefit the educational programs and exhibits at the South Florida Museum.

"If you're going to pick one event to attend," Carlson said, "this is the one."

Details: 6 p.m. Friday, South Florida Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. General admission tickets are $75 with entry at 7 p.m. and VIP tickets are $125 with early entry at 6 p.m. and include a collectible wine glass and small bites from Eat Here.

Information: 941-746-4131 ext. 17 or www.southfloridamuseum.org.

Wade Tatangelo, features writer and columnist, can be reached at 941-745-7057. Follow him on Twitter@wtatangelo.