Photo: via Unsplash
Happy Halloweeeeeen! Wishing you a spooky weekend and lots of fun!
FRIDAY FAVES - 10.28.22
- This podcast legitimately freaks me out. Don't listen to it alone!
> DRINK THIS: Matic Pinot Gris, orange wine from Slovenia
- And if you ever wondered how the heck Halloween came to be, check out this episode of Flightless Bird.
> DRINK THIS: Spy Valley Pinot Noir from New Zealand
- These table linens are beautiful and dramatic, perfect for wintertime dining.
> DRINK THIS: Domaine de Piaugier Côtes du Rhône Villages-Sablet from France
- On our somm's recommendation, I made a Manhattan with this rich Pedro Ximenez sherry from Spain in place of sweet vermouth and HOLY SMOKES! It rules.
> DRINK THIS: El Maestro Sierra Pedro Ximenez Sherry from Spain
- I hope these kooky toddler costumes make you smile!
> DRINK THIS: Elio Perrone 'Bigaro' from Italy
See you in November!
—Emily Rentsch
Photo: Hansjorg Keller via Unsplash
Hello hello! Thanks for stopping by the blog! Please enjoy some of our favorite things on the internet this week, and have a lovely, orange-y Fall weekend.
FRIDAY FAVES - 10.21.22
- Why do I love Quarantine Kermi so much?!
- If you're looking for an alternative to the spooky snacks and drinks of the season, might I suggest orange wine?
- Who's up for a little self-care Target run? We've all done it!
- Cup of Jo's Fall favorites lists are the BEST.
- How's this for an inspiring movie?: In Blind Ambition, four Zimbabwean friends (and immigrants to South Africa) become sommeliers and make an inspiring journey to the World Wine Tasting Championship in Burgundy. And it's a true story! I'm IN.
—Emily Rentsch
Photo: Nika Benedictova via Unsplash
Do you ever miss trick-or-treating? I do! What other excuse do I have to house a bowl of fun-size Snickers?
Luckily, adulthood allows for some other delicious things. Like wine! And homemade snacks that give Snickers a run for its money. Throw your own adult-friendly Halloween party this Fall with these festive food and wine pairing ideas.
CHOCOLATE, PEANUT BUTTER
DRINK: El Maestro Sierra Pedro Ximenez Sherry
This spiced sherry is light on its feet and a perfect foil for nutty and milk chocolatey treats.
APPLE, PUMPKIN, BUTTER, CINNAMON
DRINK: Jim Barry 'Wintervale' Riesling
This Riesling is both rich in honeycomb flavor and lifted with citrus and florals that compliment all things pumpkin spice and baked apple.
DARK CHOCOLATE, RED VINES
DRINK: Rob Murray Vnyds 'Force of Nature' Zinfandel
Dark red and black fruit make this Zinfandel a friend to dark chocolate treats and classic licorice.
MARSHMALLOW, NOUGAT, SALTED CARAMEL
DRINK: Elderton 'E Series' Chardonnay
A creamy, peachy Chardonnay...
Photo: Mateus Campos via Unsplash
We know this month is all about Halloween, but don't forget that Boss' Day is on October 16th! Show your appreciation for the gal in charge with one of these delicious wine gifts she can enjoy in her downtime. Which one suits your boss best?
THE VISIONARY
This sort of boss is inspiring! She sets a clear vision and mission for her employees and then lets them have it, on their own terms. She's great at giving feedback and making her expectations clear.
The Gift: Rare Wine Co. Historic Series 'New York' Malmsey Special Reserve Madeira, for a singular sipping experience
THE DEMOCRATIC LEADER
A democratic boss values your input! She lets the majority rule and is always asking her employees to weigh in and bring their ideas to the table.
The Gift: A selection of wines from Our Female Winemakers shop section, so she can support her peers
THE INNOVATOR
This sort of boss pushes you to reach your full potential! She excels at motivating her employees to do their best work and beyond. And she's...
Photo: Ross Sneddon via Unsplash
It's October. The holiday season is around the corner, trees are erupting in fiery colors, and words like crisp and cozy and hunker down are on everyone's lips. It's pretty much the best time of the year, right? And it's also the best time of year for gathering.
From rowdy neighborhood bonfires to fancy Thanksgiving feasts, there are many reasons to get together in the Fall. And accordingly, there will be occasions where you're surrounded by just your core group of friends, and others where the party is much more nuanced and mixed. So, how will you ensure that your sister-in-law's love of all things bubbly jives with your Dad's insistence on "anything under fifteen bucks"?
Easy! Add our shop page to your bookmarks and take a deep breath. Maybe put on a little jazz. It's going to be ok.
Choosing beverages geared toward your (or anyone's!) specific tastes is exactly what our sommelier, Leslee, does. Our Let it Rip! tasting kit is a great place to start if you simply want someone to set...