Last Friday evening, it took a little bit of effort to navigate to Irish Monkey Cellars -- but I'm glad I went. The third Friday of every month, this small Oakland winery hosts "Wine Soaked Fridays" -- a casual event featuring locally produced wine and local musicians.

"It's basically just a chance to share the common enjoyment of hanging out," says owner/winemaker Bob Lynch. "People meet friends here."

When I arrived at the winery at 7 pm (it's tucked in the back of Embarcadero Cove, a light industrial park near the 16th St. exit off I-880, where East Oakl), the crowd was just starting to gather. The event is held where the wine is made. The front half of the building is a bar-style tasting room; beyond that is an open area for the performers and partygoers. And behind the band, rows of wooden casks provided a lovely backdrop.

The evening felt like a mellow party, rather than a "wine tasting." Oakland's T-Sisters (yes, they are actually sisters) performed some subtly sophisticated folksy harmonies. (See video)

Irish Monkey served a selection of its own wines at the bar. Most were available for $5/glass. (My favorite was the tempranillo.) There is no cover for the event, but tips are welcome. Light appetizers are provided, and some people bring their own food. (Yes, you can bring a pizza if you want to.) The crowd was in the mood for conversation, and it was an easy environment for socializing.

Irish Monkey, which has been in business two and a half years, produces 18 types of wine on its Oakland premises, all from biodynamically grown grapes from vineyards throughout California's wine country. "We have big crushing parties here when we bring the grapes in," said Lynch. "It's quite a scene."

Lynch notes that all Irish Monkey wines are low-alcohol (14% alcohol max.) "We keep the alcohol content low because it tastes better. High-alcohol wine tastes like raisins. Who wants to drink a glass of raisins?"

Irish Monkey is one of 17 local wineries in the East Bay Vinters Alliance, a local wine marketing cooperative. On July 31, the Alliance will hold its Urban Wine Experience tasting event in Jack London Square, Oakland.

"The Bay Area's climate is cool enough in summer to make quality wine," said Lynch. "The grapes don't know where they came from. 'Make local' is an important part of 'buy local.'"

The next Wine Soaked Friday will be held July 16, starting 7 pm, at Irish Monkey Cellars: 1017 22nd Ave, Oakland (map). Irish Monkey also holds more traditional open tastings Saturdays and Sundays, noon-5 pm.