Wine and Survival
If it weren't for the warmth of friends and neighbors—and friendly invitations to share a bottle of wine—I'd probably give in to my propensity to sleep the winter away. So when my next-door neighbors called with an impromptu offer for dinner at their place, I seized the opportunity.
Social connections are the key to survival in the Minnesota tundra. A glass of crisp Torrontés and some fresh, yummy guacamole doesn't hurt, either.
Continue reading "Conquista Torrontés 2008 and Guacamole" »
Let the Noshing Begin!
With the seemingly endless stream of holiday parties this time of year comes the equally endless array of chips, dips, crackers, and cheese spreads. (And, of course, the subsequent vow to hit the gym come January 1st.) But nevermind that for now—let's enjoy the snacking while we can.
And while we're at it, how about a fruity glass of Sauvignon Blanc with a homemade cheese spread?
Continue reading "Chateau Ste. Michelle Sauvignon Blanc 2008" »
Baking and Simmering
The weather outside is frightful. Dreadful, really. Right now it's about 4 degrees, and despite the beautiful blanket of snow on the ground, I'm especially grateful to be indoors. And baking. The two week countdown to Christmas is on, so it's time to pull out
the cookie recipes of Christmases past and get to work measuring,
mixing, and rolling.
First, though, I'll need to do a bit of simmering--mulled wine, that is.
Continue reading "Mulled Red Wine" »
Gobble Gobble
Turkey? Check. Cranberries? Check. Wine? Are you kidding?? Check. It wouldn't be a true Thanksgiving feast at my house without the bottles of wine flowing.
Undoubtedly, if your guests are anything like mine, they'll fall into one of two camps: red wine drinkers and white wine drinkers. Sure, more savvy wine connoisseurs will prefer the style of wine that pairs best with the meal--but I'd presume that the majority just drink what they like. A fantastic rule to go by, I say.
Better stock up on some bottles of red and white.
Continue reading "Giving Thanks for Wine" »