Valentine's Day Dates + Wine Pairings

Photo: Emily Rentsch
Happy Love Month! We've been imagining the perfect, cozy Valentine's Day date that doesn't require a reservation. Here are five ideas we love, plus the wine you'll want to drink with each one. Hugs and kisses!
 
SPA NIGHT
Well nothing says spa and me time better than a luxurious bottle of bubbles! But, we are also allllll about getting the most bang for our buck.  Ready?  THIS. Elegance meets a field of wild strawberries—wowza! With just a hint of fresh thyme and a back note of citrus, this pink sparkler is the perfect companion for a soak in the tub.
 
HOMEMADE PASTA DINNER
We're suckers for a rich gorgonzola pasta (or a simple plate of noodles drizzled in EVOO) and a creamy white. Try this show stoppin' Sicilian that exudes notes of melon and starfruit. A real stunner!
 
Going red? Our somm, Leslee, loves Sangiovese. And classically, this gorgeous Sangiovese from Tuscany is absolutely the key to unlocking the perfect pairing to a tomato-based, slightly herbed pasta.
 

GAME NIGHT!

[FRIDAY FAVES] The Actual Best Banana Bread and More

Photo: Sonny Mauricio via Unsplash

Hello hello! As we head into another weekend, here are some things we're thinking about to make you happy:

FRIDAY FAVES - 2.4.22


- I know this might sound like a platitude, but I have found the true, BEST banana bread recipe. Seriously. The Ultimate Banana Bread from Smitten Kitchen is a hearty, heavy loaf with an insanely crackly top, ridiculous moisture levels, and a  butterscotchy flavor profile. Add chocolate chips if you dare.

- Remember that classic children's book, "Goodnight Moon"? Here's a cool profile on the woman who wrote it.

- If you're looking for a unique and delicious Valentine's Day gift, check out our collaboration with Cépage! #freewine

- Highly recommend reading the comment section on this Cup of Jo post. It's stuffed with people's pro tips, on everything from stain removal, to staying calm, to successful date nights. It will inspire you!

Bye for now!

 

—Emily Rentsch

[FRIDAY FAVES] Fireplace Envy, The Best Bread, and Valentine's Day Wines

Photo: Hans Isaacson via Unsplash

February is almost here! Here's what we've been enjoying this last week of January. Cheers!

FRIDAY FAVES - 1.28.22

 

- Sooo, what do we think about a study that claims "COVID-19 risk was 10–17% lower in red wine consumers"? Read more here!

- Sticky Chili Chicken with Hot and Sour Pineapple (from Alison Roman) sounds like a great way to warm up this weekend.

- Lovely fireplace inspiration for these wintery days. My favorite is the one made from green marble.

- And some tips on styling your mantel!

- This list of the best bread in every state really makes me crave a road trip!

- And finally, 6 wines to celebrate Valentine's Day with.


Thanks for reading!

—Emily Rentsch

[FRIDAY FAVES] Girl Scout Cookies, Cozy Blankets, and Soy Wine?

Hey hey, it's the weekend! Here are some cozy, delicious, and fasciinating finds to enjoy!

FRIDAY FAVES - 1.21.22


- An indoor-outdoor waterproof blanket the color of a sunset? I'll take one!

- This is your reminder that Girl Scout cookies sales start next month! Their newest cookie, Adventurefuls, look super scrumptious. Quick question: Should we do Girls Scout cookie wine pairings?!

- What do you think of wine made from soy whey?

- I keep hearing about ILIA's Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment. Is it worth the hype? I must know!

- Ever heard of a "handkerchief pasta"? I want to wrap myself inside of one! And eat it with this Valpolicella, mmm.


Bye for now!


—Emily Rentsch

[FRIDAY FAVES] Peloton Winos, Musical Delights, and More

Photo: photo nic via Unsplash

Hello, friend! Our crew has been on a little holiday break, but we're back and ready to talk wine with y'all again! To get you started, check out this list of stuff we like this week.

FRIDAY FAVES - 1.14.22


- First, here's a deep, dark, and handsome red blend for winter from Field Recordings. Drooling yet? Buy it here!

- Loving this repeat post on Wit & Delight about amping up your productivity with the Pomodoro Technique.

- Get out of your head for a minute with this delightful, almost-acapella version of "Let It Go" (yes, from Frozen) performed by Jimmy Fallon, the Roots, and Idina Menzel of course.

- And speaking of Jimmy Fallon, he has a new game show?! It's called That's My Jam and it's a great way to watch your favorite pop stars make fun of themselves, as well as show off their musical skills. The first episode features a sing-off between Ariana Grande and Kelly Clarkson and let's just say it gave me goosebumps.

- Did you know about this subculture of wine-drinking Peloton...

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