Posts made in December, 2014

Sometimes we toast the New Year with friends, and sometimes it’s just the two of us. A New Year’s Eve for two can boast more exotic ingredients, since the quantity is smaller, but can also be a more unique affair, crafted from your favorite flavors. Here are some ideas… Classic, Elegant, European Sparkling crystal, fine champagne, and some world-class seafood set the tone for this celebration for two. Buy the best...

Even though some desserts better lend themselves to coffee or even strong spirits, there are wines that will work for almost any dessert. Let’s explore… Dessert: Apple Pie Wine Pairing: Ice Wine Ice wine is a type of dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. The water inside the grapes freezes, allowing a more concentrated juice to be pressed from the frozen grapes, resulting in a...

You could always go to your local wine shop, pick up a great vintage, and an equally great bag (Perhaps even an insulated bag that keeps wines cool? Two gifts in one!), but that kind of gift has been overdone. Other ideas? Here you go… Wine Gift Cards Many retailers offer wine gift cards—even online—and that allows your recipients to choose their own favorites. Wine Clubs Here’s a gift that keeps on giving! Clubs range...

Here’s Christmas in a glass: hot mulled wine is traditional, warming, fragrant, and delicious. What’s not to like? Christmas Hot Mulled Wine 12 whole cloves 2 star anise 2 bottles (each 750ml) dry red wine* 1/2 cup sugar Stripped zest from 2 oranges and 1 lemon, and 1 lime, plus more zest for garnish 3/4 cup fresh orange juice 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice The juice from one lime 2 sticks cinnamon 1 vanilla pod, halved 1 nutmeg, for...

The Wine Enthusiast’s regal replica of an antique corkscrew promises years of effort-free openings. A smooth-gliding, non-stick, coated, worm removes corks (natural and synthetic) with a simple pull of the handle. Inner workings and grapevine-relief casing made of lasting zinc alloy. Antique Bronze finish. Can also mount to your bar.  $60.00       Designed to fit all traditional wine bottles, the Oster electric...