Photo: Emily Rentsch
All that sparkles is not Champagne.
Sure, Champagne is the most popular kid in the bunch, but there's a whole glittering world of sparkling wines out there that are delightful in their own right. The real trick is deciphering their differences and choosing a style you'll love.
This little guide will give you tools to help you choose your next bottle of bubbly with confidence. We'll run through the big three (Champagne, Prosecco, and cava) and give you tips on what to look for when you're in the sparkling wine aisle. As with many niche sets of knowledge, it's all in knowing the lingo!
New Year's Eve—a.k.a. Champagne's Big Day—is nigh, but I hope a look at this vast world of sparkling wine inspires you to crack open a bottle of bubbly on a simple Tuesday night, or whenever you're feeling a fizzy vibe. There's so much to explore beyond the cliché luxury of Champagne. So, let's get to it!
CHAMPAGNE | France
Champagne is a heavily regulated sparkling wine. In order to preserve its...
Photo: Jonathan Cooper via Unsplash
Hey y'all, it's Friday! Here in Minnesota, it's been a balmy week with lots of sunshine. VERY un-December like, eh? Here's a little list of fun things to keep your spirits sunny and warm all weekend long:
FRIDAY FAVES - 12.8.20
- Looking for an escape? Try the Unspooled podcast, hosted by comedian Paul Scheer and film critic Amy Nicholson. They go deep on each of the AFI's top 100 movies of all time. Watch along with them for a rest from reality!
- How's your loungewear game these days? Check out this exhaustive post on the best sweats across all price points. Now THAT is some 2020 gold!
- There are a LOT of crappy holiday movies out there. But! Hulu's new film, Happiest Season, is a bright and funny Christmas tale that might just renew your interest in the Most Wonderful Time of the Year (especially if you're a Dan Levy fan).
- Once you've donned your new sweats and are ready to watch that non-crappy Christmas movie, be sure to pop open a bottle of Melville Pinot Noir. It makes a...
Photo: Annie Spratt via Unsplash
- Have you ever had Rush Creek Reserve? It's an insanely gooey and earthy cheese from Uplands Cheese in Wisconsin. They only make it in the Fall, and each small wheel is wrapped in spruce bark. It makes the PERFECT appetizer (or dinner for two?) and would be great with a bottle of Loosen Bros 'Dr. L' sparkling Riesling. Mmmm!
- Some over-the-top Christmas light displays to get you in the holiday mood.
- Claire Saffitz (formerly of Bon Appétit) just debuted her new YouTube channel. Let's get bakin'!
- Are you burning your candles wrong?
- We're getting excited about all of the scrumptious take-away Christmas dinners available through local restaurants! I'm drooling over the package from Petit León. Short ribs, foie gras mousse, and apple pie? Yes, please.
- Ever wonder why Princess Diana had that very specific haircut? Me too. Here's why!
- Have you checked out our Gift Guide? Here are a few others we love: Cup of Jo, DESIGNLOVEFEST, Girls' Night In.
The holidays seem to start earlier each year. But right now—in 2020—we are all RUSHING to fill our hearts and homes with wintery cheer as soon as possible! So here we are, leaning into the best of what the world has to offer at the moment, with a lovely list of beautiful, nurturing, and delicious gift ideas for the wine(etc.) lovers in your life.
On this list we have tried to feature many local (to Minnesota) and small businesses that we love. We hope your plans for giving this year involve supporting the mom-and-pop shops around you. We could all use a little boost right now, right?
Please enjoy and Happy Holidays!
photo by Peter Bucks via Unsplash
FOR THE WINE LOVER WHO HAS EVERYTHING
Adobe de Guadalupe Kerubiel | $62
Gorgeous, velvety wine from Mexico. Yes, Mexico! This bottle of red drinks well now but could be easily cellared for a few years. Something to look forward to!
A monthly floral subscription from Apricot Floral | $75/month (Minneapolis residents only)
Genevieve Wilson...
Photo: Farsai Chaikulngamdee via Unsplash
It's Friday! Only 6 more days until Thanksgiving! Below are a few tidbits we are grateful for.
FRIDAY FAVES - 11.20.20
- An absolutely CLASSIC gold heart locket that would make for a thoughtful keepsake.
- Inspired by the Great British Baking Show, I went searching for jelly cakes on Instagram. Woah! If you're looking for a whimsical rabbit hole to fall down, you should do the same.
- Plan a trip to Hawaii by cruising these stunning island rental homes. Drool!
- Did you know you can send a Sip Better tasting kit as a gift? No membership necessary.
- Remember relish trays?! Let's revive them this year for Thanksgiving! Bonus points if you put your spread on a vintage tray.
Take care this weekend!
—Emily Rentsch
