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Ugly Christmas Sweaters and Wine Pairings ~ Can you Guess?

Posted on December 9, 2013

It’s time to get out the ugly Christmas sweaters…or at least go to a thrift shop, raid Mom’s closet, or get creative with some old sweatshirts in order to add merriment to the now popular theme party of the season. This past weekend, Mr Grape-Experiences and I attended our neighborhood party at which all of the ladies and half of the gentlemen were decked out in their array of shocking colors and designs. It was a true throwback evening!

Frankly, these six sweaters inspired me to think about a particular wine (what a surprise!). When you look at each sweater shown below, can you guess the pairing? There should be enough clues to make this easy for you and the answers are below. Since you all are savvy wine lovers, I bet you can do this quicker than I pulled my ugly sweater out of the dusty area of my closet!

Cheers and good luck! ~ Cindy

1. This sweater is a blend of many many parts…holly, nutcrackers, snowflakes, *intricate* beadwork and more suggesting the “nuances” of the brilliant knitter. Plenty of color with a suggestion of high alcohol (because we need it after viewing this…), this sweater may represent…

a. Grenache-Syrah-Mourvedre b. Riesling c. Merlot d. Pinot Blanc

2. Hmmmm~ It looks like Santa needed a beer during the long ride and since he is quite the gourmet, I’m sure he only had the best beer on the Continent. But which wine do you think he’ll have while in the same country? Perhaps a…

a. Pinot Noir b. Shiraz c. Riesling d. Assyrtiko

3. This snowman isn’t happy, but the dog is quite relieved. Yep, it’s an ugly sweater, but quite a conversation starter once you get close enough to really see what’s going on! Now, I’m not sure this will remind you of a wine, but you might need a hearty, spicy glass of this after you realize what happened to Frosty! Will you have a….

a. Pinot Grigio b. Prosecco c. Zinfandel d. Rioja

4. Let’s hear it for shoulder pads, piping, embroidery, beads, and jewels! The ladies on Dynasty most likely owned a sweater like this and when they weren’t drinking Martinis and Harvey Wallbangers, they may have been drinking…

a. Tokaji b. White Zinfandel c. Viognier d. Chenin Blanc

5. Of course someone had to do a DIY sweater…a pure example of not adding too much embellishment to get the idea across…and it was quite cost effective! Firm structure in this sweater with some fresh fruit and floral notes could possibly remind you of…

a. Malbec b. Albarino c. Pinotage d. Port

6. Last but not least, this guy put it all together in one big learning moment~ letters, numbers, books, apples, pens, and a sparkly tie to boot – at least the colors were spot on for the holidays. You have to give this guy plenty of credit for channeling his inner educator on the weekend. So, which wine do you think most teachers want at the end of the day? If they are young, they most likely imbibe…

a. Moscato b. Chablis c. Monastrell d. Port

*Answers*

1. a 2. c 3. c 4. b 5. b 6. a

Posted in Random Thoughts, Wine School | Leave a comment

Nothing Like a Little Bit of Bubbly – Guest Post by Dan Sachs, Owner, BIN 36

Posted on December 5, 2013

I am thrilled to publish this guest post written by Dan Sachs, Owner of Chicago’s BIN 36, an incredibly popular venue for lovers of great wine and delicious food. Their annual Bubble Bath event on December 11 is one which shouldn’t be missed for a variety of reasons…read on!

14 years ago, when BIN 36 was in its infancy, we spent a lot of time thinking about events that would be really special. Wine dinners – even 14 years ago – were pretty common, and we wanted to make sure the restaurant represented something fresh; a new way to experience, learn about and enjoy wine. And so, after a few bottles of our own, the idea behind Bubble Bath began to take shape.

We wanted to create an event that really told a story about one specific style of wine—one that was big enough to be fun and casual and entertaining all at the same time. Bubbly seemed like an ideal place to start – with infinite styles, grapes, flavor profiles and regions, it seemed like a natural fit. And, interestingly, our Bubbly Wine Flight is the only flight on the list that has stood the test of time. The wines have changed, but the flight has remained a favorite since it was created.

Our first Bubble Bath, as it became affectionately know, showcased about 40 sparklers, and we opened the doors to about 175 guests. Since then, the event has grown to over 60 sparkling wines and champagnes and 450 guests. This year, I think the event will be even bigger!

Not only has the event grown, in size, but our impact within the community has grown as well. Only a few years ago, we decided Bubble Bath was the ideal event to foster all the good will of the holiday season, and invited a charity partner to join us. Chicago and the wine community here have given BIN 36 so much support over the years, and Bubble bath has always felt like a good time to give something in return.

This year we are proud to have partnered with Common Threads for Bubble Bath, as well as throughout the holiday season. In addition to making a donation from a portion of the ticket sales, BIN 36 is offering a Common Threads/BIN 36 gift basket and a Common Threads Gift Certificate. A portion of the revenue generated from the sale of these items will also be donated to Common Threads.

Lastly, as an added bonus this year, we have a guest chef – Art Smith, founder of Common Threads, who will be at the restaurant signing his newest book, talking about food and entertaining, and, perhaps, sampling a few glasses of bubbly along the way.

We invite you to take the opportunity to sample a wide breadth of champagne and sparkling wine, maybe learn a little something, and, of course, have fun. Bubble Bath 14 will be held between 6-9 pm on Wednesday, December 11^th. Tickets are $50 (with a VIP upgrade option!) and available here.

Cheers! -Dan Sachs

Thanks, Dan! I’ll see you and many other wine lovers at BIN 36 on December 11~

Cheers! ~ Cindy

Posted in Events and Travel, Guest Posts, Sparkling Tastes | Leave a comment

Holidays are Happy When You Celebrate in San Luis Obispo County!

Posted on December 2, 2013

There are times when I find then edit (for your enjoyment, of course) press releases which explain what’s going on in various parts of the world more thoroughly than I can and what follows is no exception! If you find yourself near California’s Central Coast, you may want to immerse yourself into the holiday spirit and consider a few of these activities and events, many of which are family friendly, in San Luis Obispo County. There is a reason it’s considered the Happiest Place in the USA! Charming coastal, college, and wine country towns are waiting for you!

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, Calif., November 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — With retailers, family and bosses pinging us every minute to get all the gift buying and other preparations made, it might seem like there’s no way to avoid the holiday hysteria.

San Luis Obispo County, located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles on California’s Central Coast, has you covered! This beautiful, tranquil destination with its pristine beaches, nature trails, charming towns and abundant vineyards and farms invites to you to slow down for the holidays and experience pure play. You’ll get everything done, but have a lot more fun!

Holiday Hotel Packages

Instead of playing host at your house, why not let the hotels and restaurants in San Luis Obispo County do all the work?

The iconic and romantic Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo , which boasts 110 uniquely themed rooms such as the Caveman, Cayucos Queen, Country Gentleman, Fabulous Fifties, Yosemite Rock and Love Birds, is offering the Winter Couples Escape package which starts at $391 and includes one night’s accommodations plus ice skating, sparkling wine, local chocolates and spa treatments for two. Foodies will love the ‘Tis the Season package at Apple Farm Inn , which is famous for its local farm to table cuisine, fresh pastries, and pies. The package starts at $199 and includes a one night’s stay plus $50dining, $20 shopping, and $12 bakery credits.

Many hotels are offering significant savings in return for Toys for Tots donations, such as Cambria Landing Inn in the artsy seaside town of Cambria (20% off) and Martin Resorts which is featuring $20 off stays at Avila Lighthouse Suites, Pismo Lighthouse Suites, Best Western PLUS Shore Cliff, Best Western PLUS Shelter Cove and Paso Robles Inn. Many other hotels are offering winter savings just for staying at the right place at the right time, such as the Embarcadero Inn in Morro Bay (up to 20% off) and Oxford Suites in Pismo Beach (up to 30 % off). Click here for more holiday hotel deals.

Holiday Events

Our region is known as the Happiest Place in the USA , so let a little of that joy rub off on you and your loved ones during the holidays. From Christmas in the Village with Santa and Very Merry Lighthouse Tours to holiday dog parades, teddy bear teas and Ugly Sweater Parties, there’s no end to old-fashioned or quirky holiday cheer.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry – SLOwly of Course!

One of the most delicious things about SLO County is its abundance of farms, ranches and renowned wineries, giving diners a deep connection to the food. Savor mulled wine and other special offers such as Black Friday shopping at local wineries. Let us do the cooking and attend one of our holiday dinners. Many of these unique wine and food events are in Paso Robles – just named 2013 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine – such as Black Tie Dinner in the Caves at Eberle Winery , Christmas Cookie and Wine Pairing at Vina Robles and New Year’s Eve Party Mad Men Style at Robert Hall Winery . Click here to check out all the holiday wine and food events throughout the county.

Traditional Yuletide Events

There are more than 100 seasonal events going on in San Luis Obispo County, but no holiday retreat would be complete without a visit to the enchanting Hearst Castle where you can step back into the 1920s and 30s and experience Christmas as if you were a guest of William Randolph Hearst. The castle boasts an amazing array of elaborate decorations with two majestic 18-foot Christmas trees holding court in the Assembly Room. You can also time travel in downtown San Luis Obispo at the Victorian Christmas Open House Tour at the historic Jack House & Gardens or enjoy a traditional Forbes Pipe Organ Holiday Sing-Along at the nearby Performing Arts Center.

Various communities have created Christmas villages or parades with a Santa cameo and other traditional fun, including the Christmas in the Village and Christmas Concert & Parade in Arroyo Grande, Christmas Light Parade in Paso Robles, Holiday Parade in San Luis Obispo and the 6th Annual Christmas in Cayucos featuring Horse drawn carriage rides and children’s activities. Cambria’s Holiday in the Pines offers visitors many holiday discounts and events at hotels, restaurants and shops.

Enjoy a Quirky Yule

Animal lovers can make presents for their favorite beasts and watch them open it at Holiday Magic at the Zoo , or act like a polar bear and take a chilly Polar Bear Dip in the ocean at the Cayucos Pier. They can also watch canines in costume at the Pancake Breakfast & Doggie Parade in Avila Beach, or make like Santa’s steeds at the Reindeer Run in San Luis Obispo, a 5K run followed by breakfast with Santa.

Other offbeat favorites include the Very Merry Lighthouse Tour complete with carolers and refreshments in Avila Beach, the Lighted Boat Parade in Morro Bay or the Sea Crest Ugly Sweater Party in Pismo Beach, where you can win prizes for your cheesiest holiday knits. Or check out the beloved annual Victorian Teddy Bear Tea in Paso Robles, where kids can bring their teddy bears to enjoy music, storytelling, gingerbread, tea and cameos by the Snow Queen & King, the Clauses, elves and more.

Holiday Adventures

Nature worshippers can celebrate the holidays with some outdoor adventures, such as a Cayucos Holiday Bluffs Nature Walk , where they can learn about the flora, fauna and history of the region. Or kick your adrenaline up a notch with an invigorating zipline tour over vineyards with Margarita Adventures , which is offering $20 off on $99 gift certificates.

Play in the Snow in Summer Weather

Looking for the snow without the shoveling and frostbite? Enjoy snow in 70-degree weather at the Holiday Harmony & Light Up in sunny Pismo Beach including Santa, carolers, tree lighting and bounce house at the pier. Or dive into 50-tons of powder at Winter Wonderland in Atascadero’s famous Sunken Gardens, which also features a carousel, BMX bike demo, rides, food, crafts and more.

Check out the detailed 2013 SLO County Holiday Guide on the Visit San Luis Obispo County website , where you can also find information on everything from outdoor recreation and agritourism to wine country and arts and heritage.

Cheers to a Happy Holiday in San Luis Obispo County! ~ Cindy

Posted in Events and Travel | Leave a comment

(Happy) Thanksgiving Thoughts ~ From Me to You!

Posted on November 28, 2013

I hope all of you who are Americans either by citizenship or in spirit are enjoying Thanksgiving Day! If you are from another country and don’t “officially” celebrate this holiday, take a moment to give thanks for all of your blessings – Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be celebrated only in the United States!

This year, Mr. Grape Experiences and I are celebrating with family! Sitting at our dining room table will be my parents from Williamsburg, Virginia, our daughter and husband who are in Chicago, another daughter who lives in Cambria, California, and yet another daughter and her husband who live in Denver, Colorado. We’ll continue the tradition of a roasted (this year an organic) turkey, stuffing, corn muffins, and broccoli casserole. Yet we are adding some new twists: a sweet potato concoction, butternut squash soup with roasted pepper puree, and arugula/spinach salad with cranberries, beets, and goat cheese. I will post one of these recipes on the site next week…along with a wine review!

The wines have been chosen, of course. We’ll start out with some bubbles and a toast while last minute preparations are being made and during dinner, I have a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (yes, this crowd loves their Chardonnay)!! Naturally, I’ll let you know which brand of wines was served when I post on Twitter or Facebook…don’t forget to check!!

It’s a busy day, to be sure, and although the food and wine are up front and center at the table, look around and remember all of the goodness surrounding you. We have much for which to be grateful and trust me, I never take any of that for granted.

Cheers to a beautiful Thanksgiving! ~ Cindy

Posted in Random Thoughts | Leave a comment

Toast to Thanksgiving ~ Wine Quotes to Share

Posted on November 25, 2013

It’s time again to entertain your Thanksgiving guests or hosts with brilliant quotes which will lighten the mood, help others reflect on something other than the over-cooked turkey, or just fill a conversational lull at the table! It doesn’t matter which quote you use or even if you pretend it’s your own…just remember to bring a bottle of two of wine to get the festivities started!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Wine makes a symphony of a good meal. – Fernande Garvin

Come, come good wine is a good familiar creature if it be well used; exclaim no more against it! – William Shakespeare

When there is plenty of wine, sorrow and worry take wing. – Ovid

Drinking good wine with good food in good company is one of life’s most civilized pleasures. – Michael Broadbent

Give me wine to wash me clean of the weather-stains of care. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

This wine should be eaten, it is too good to be drunk. – Jonathan Swift

Water for oxen, wine for kings. – Spanish Proverb

If God forbade drinking, would He have made wine so good? – Arnaud Jean du Plessis de Richelieu

Quickly bring me a beaker of wine, so that I may whet my mind and say something clever. – Aristophanes

What though youth gave love and roses age still leaves us friends and wine. – Thomas Moore

Wine rejoices the heart of man, and joy is the mother of all virtues. – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Friendship is the wine of life; Let’s drink of it and to it. – Unknown

A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry. – Ecclesiastes 10:19

If food is the body of good living, wine is its soul. – Clifton Fadiman

Wine is sunlight, held together by water. – Galileo Galilei

Wine in itself is an excellent thing. – Pope Pius XII

A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world. – Louis Pasteur

Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance. – Benjamin Franklin

No thing more excellent nor more valuable than wine was ever granted mankind by God. – Plato

What is better than to sit at the end of the day and drink wine with friends, or substitute for friends. – James Joyce

Cheers~ Cindy

Posted in Random Thoughts | Leave a comment

Ugly Christmas Sweaters and Wine Pairings ~ Can you Guess?

Nothing Like a Little Bit of Bubbly – Guest Post by Dan Sachs, Owner, BIN 36

Holidays are Happy When You Celebrate in San Luis Obispo County!

(Happy) Thanksgiving Thoughts ~ From Me to You!

Toast to Thanksgiving ~ Wine Quotes to Share

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