There is a belief among wine cognoscenti that grape vines must suffer before they can produce great wines. In the Willamette Valley of Oregon, not only does that happen, but everyone in the wine business undergoes an annual pain called, “The Harvest.” Is Mother Nature going to be good to us, or will we be left to our own devices and suffer unruly weather? Unlike other regions in the world, such as Australia and the Napa Valley in California, the Willamette Valley proves unpredictable, and provides vintners with unhappy grapes from difficult vintages. While all wine growing regions suffer good and bad years, Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley, just like the varietal in Burgundy, paints a picture of extreme variance.
Continue reading Braving the Willamette Valley front: Oregon Wine Month →
Ok… How many times have you made pancakes for Mom on Mother’s Day? Surprise her this year with sophisticated brunch that pairs up well with wine or mimosas. These dishes are easy to prep ahead to time so that you can enjoy a glass of wine, too!
Continue reading Food & Wine: Mother’s Day Brunch and Wine Pairings →
Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday is a celebration and a release of all excesses before the Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is more than just one day, it is a whole season with a series of parades from different krewes, or groups, winding through the city. Beads and other throws are thrown from the floats. You can catch beads, blinkies, toys, and even shoes. The official colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green and gold. Purple Represents Justice. Green Represents Faith. Gold Represents Power.
For those of us who cannot make to the Crescent City, here is a classic Mardi Gras menu with some wine suggestions for your party. Continue reading Food & Wine: Mardi Gras Menu →
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