proximity, have joined forces for the first of many cooperative marketing moves.

Though there is no cross ownership, the two Reid Street businesses are jointly hosting two evenings -- last night and tonight -- of wine tasting and fine dining.

The events feature a pinot gris, pinto noir, chardonnay and a cabernet sauvignon from Oregon's Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Ed Cowley, a significant share holder in the winery, will be on hand to discuss the wines and meet with attendees.

Willamette produces about 100,000 cases per year and is looking to increase its production to about 140,000 cases, Bacchus part owner Thierry Cabot said.

"Willamette produces excellent quality wines in the burgundy style (though) its vines are not as old as those in the burgundy region,'' Mr. Cabot, who has operated a wine distribution business in Bermuda for about three years, said.

Le Figaro part owner Frank Schmitz said with the two businesses located side by side there is a unique opportunity to create this type of event.

"This is the first of many cooperative efforts. We will put together a similar event every other month,'' Mr. Schmitz, who has 15 years of restaurant experience, said.

The next effort, slated for April, will feature wines from France's Loire Valley.

Le Figaro, located in the former Archimedes Greek restaurant, is owned by Mr.

Schmitz and his wife Pauline while Bacchus, located next door, is owned by Mr.

Cabot and his wife Julie through Bermuda World Productions Ltd. and by lawyer John Sharpe and his wife Fong through their New World Wine business.