Naked Wines is not just any online wine retailer; it’s a company that supports independent winemakers around the world. They are invested in over 95 winemakers in 14 countries and help them sell their wines to a dedicated community of wine lovers. With their unique business model, they offer their customers wholesale prices on top-quality wines and their winemakers creative freedom. The Naked Wines x Food Network Ultimate Holiday Dinner Party is their latest effort in bringing outstanding wines to their customers.

Partnering with Food Network is a natural fit for Naked Wines. Food Network provides excellent recipe ideas that complement the flavors and aromas of Naked Wines. Whether you’re serving a beef roast or preparing grilled vegetables, you can find a recipe that pairs perfectly with your Naked Wine selection. Moreover, Food Network’s lineup includes holiday shows like Holiday Baking Championship, Holiday Wars, and Christmas Cookie Challenge that inspire the chef in you to create show-stopping recipes for your guests.

Naked Wines’ wines are a perfect choice for a holiday party because they are high quality and affordable. Moreover, you are supporting independent winemakers, which adds to the holiday spirit of giving. When you buy from Naked Wines, you’re getting premium wines without paying the markup costs that most other wine retailers charge. The wine arrives at your doorstep, and you’re all set for your holiday party.

Naked Wines and Food Network are all set to elevate your holiday party game. With The Ultimate Holiday Dinner Party, you’re getting access to independent wines from Naked Wines‘ portfolio and corresponding recipes from Food Network’s holiday show lineup. This campaign aligns with Naked Wines’ mission of supporting small-scale winemakers and Food Network’s mission of providing viewers with inspiring recipes for holiday gatherings. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your holiday celebration a memorable one.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of holiday parties with Naked Wines and Food Network! Get the celebrations going with carefully selected wines from independent winemakers and tantalizing recipes from the Food Network.

Buy your own case today and save $50 at : us.nakedwines.com/WINEWITHLORENA 

Gather around my fellow Halloween enthusiasts!

As the bewitching hour approaches, let’s toast to the season with an enchantingly spooky cocktail that’s certain to bewilder your senses. Say hello to the Black Magic Margarita – a chilling concoction that perfectly blends the spirit of Halloween with the tantalizing taste of a classic margarita. Whether you’re hosting a frightfully fantastic Halloween party or simply in the mood for a supernatural sip on a crisp fall evening, this potion is just the trick to treat your palate! So, ready your cauldrons, let’s commence our journey into the world of mesmerizing mixology!

The spooky season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a chillingly delicious cocktail? Let me guide you on a delightful journey to create our Black Magic Margarita. Ideal for a cozy fall evening or a Halloween party, this spectral brew will cast a spell on your taste buds!

Print

Black Magic Margarita

Ingredients

• .75 oz agave syrup
• 1.5 oz lime juice
• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz orange liqueur
• 1/4 tsp activated charcoal
• 3 dashes orange bitters
• ice, black salt, dehydrated lime

Instructions

• To prepare, rim your glass with lime and black salt, and chill it in the fridge. In a shaker with ice, combine Agave syrup, tequila, orange liqueur, and orange bitters, along with 1/4 tsp of activated charcoal. Shake vigorously until cold. Place ice in your chilled glass and pour in your margarita. Finally, garnish with a dehydrated lime.
• Serve immediately!
• **Activated charcoal is safe for most adults when used short-term. Please note that the consumption of activated charcoal may reduce the effectiveness of any daily medication. It is advisable to conduct thorough research on potential side effects before consuming.

And there you have it, my fellow Halloween aficionados – the alluring Black Magic Margarita! This chillingly delightful cocktail is sure to add a touch of the supernatural to your Halloween festivities. Whether you’re indulging in a solitary toast to the spooky season or ensnaring your guests with this bewitching brew, the Black Magic Margarita will undoubtedly cast its spell. So, as the moon takes center stage and the ghouls come out to play, raise a glass to the magic and mystery of Halloween. After all, there’s nothing quite like a little black magic to set the perfect Halloween mood. Remember to drink responsibly, and most importantly, have a spooktacular Halloween!

Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp

If you’re a fan of fish, try out this delicious appetizer recipe that will definitely excite your taste buds. This dish is light and refreshing but at the same time comforting in your palette. A delicious way to start your meal is with a light shrimp appetizer, perfect for enjoying with a dry white wine. Once you’re ready for your main dish, you may transition to red wine.

This recipe for Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp will tantalize your taste buds with the perfectly balanced combination of garlic, olive oil and herbs. The shrimp is lightly coated in a flavorful blend of ingredients before being baked to golden perfection. The result is a savory appetizer that’s as pleasing to look at as it is to eat. Serve this dish with a freshly tossed salad or on a toasted baguette and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable appetizer for any meal.

Wine Pairing

Choosing the perfect accompaniment for your meal doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Delicious and delightful pairings are just within reach with these wonderful wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Picpoul de Pinet, Muscadet, Chablis, Riesling and Côtes de Provence rosé. Impress guests at any gathering or treat yourself after a long day with one of these sophisticated selections!

Print

Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp

Servings 2

Ingredients

• 25 ea Shrimp peel and devein
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil
• 3 ea garlic clove minced
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp flat leaf parsley finely chopped
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 tbsp dried bread crumbs
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F
• Clean shrimp and then transfer to a bowl.Drizzle the shrimp with the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes.Toss to combine.
• Pour the dried breadcrumbs into a dish.Lightly dredge each shrimp in the breadcrumbs. Place in rows on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 4-5 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and the bread crumbs begin to brown.
• Server over a baguette toast, and then top it with arugula.Serve warm with a squeeze of extra lemon, if desired.

Starting a new business is never easy, but it can be especially difficult when you are also working a full time job. Juggling the demands of two jobs can be challenging, and it can be hard to find the time and energy to focus on your new business. And if you’re worried about how your current employer will react to your new venture, that’s a valid concern.

As everyone else, I had to find something to keep our thoughts off the fact that we were all confined to our homes for months during the pandemic. For me, this was a wonderful chance to turn my passion for wine into a business that would one day become my dream job. As the result of this epidemic, I came up with the concept of FLAVOUR AFFAIR.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the challenges that you may face when trying to start a new business while working a full time job. We will also offer some tips for overcoming these challenges.

The challenges of working a full time job and starting a new business

Time

One of the biggest challenges that you may face when starting a new business is finding the time to work on your business. If you are working a full time job, it can be difficult to find time to work on your business.

Tip: Get organized and create a schedule. Set aside specific times each week when you will work on your business. Make sure to stick to your new business schedule as much as possible, such as weekends or one particular hour of the day every day to respond to emails, plan, and update your project plan. Consider using vacation hours from work to take some time off from your job to work on your business; for example, take every other Friday off or a full week if you have a unique project. Keep in mind that you must make time to stay healthy (take walks, eat well, etc.).

One way to overcome some time and experience challenges is to outsource some of the work. This can be done by hiring an assistant or Virtual Assistant (VA), or by using a service like Fiverr. When outsourcing, it is important to find someone who is reliable and who you can trust to do a good job. Be sure to communicate your expectations clearly, and be available to answer any questions they may have.

Work/Life Balance

Another challenge that you may face is maintaining a work/life balance. When you are working two jobs, it can be difficult to find time for your personal life . You may need to make sacrifices in your personal life in order to succeed in your business.

Tip: Set boundaries between your work life and your personal life. For example, you may need to set a specific time each day when you will stop working on your business. You may also need to limit the amount of time you spend working on your business each week. Yes, socializing with friends or coworkers can help promote your new business and acquire new customers. When you are out with friends, mention your business and ask them to spread the word. You can also offer deals or discounts to customers who mention your business.

Funding

Another challenge that you may face is getting funding for your new business. If you are working a full time job, you may not have the extra money to invest in your new business. You may need to find creative ways to finance your business.

Tip: Seek investors by networking with individuals in your field, check for grants or loans that you might be qualified for, start a crowdfunding campaign to raise cash for your new company, sell virtual guides, and/or utilize social media collaborations to generate money.

Managing Your Reputation

If you are working a full time job, you may be worried about how your new business will impact your reputation at work. You may be concerned that your employer will think less of you if they know that you have a side business. Imagine my worries when I made public on LinkedIn that I had started a new business? My entire work leadership was on the platform; nevertheless, I have to believe that a great leader will be pleased that they have an employee with entrepreneurial abilities.My favorite part about making the announcement was all of the young individuals that congratulated me and asked for advice on how to overcome their fear of starting a new business.

Tip: There are a few things that you can do to manage your reputation,

-Be discreet about your new business. You don’t need to tell everyone at work about your new venture. If you keep it to yourself, it will be less likely that people will make assumptions about your commitment to your job.

-Keep your side business separate from your full time job. Make sure that you have clear boundaries between the two. This will help to ensure that your employer sees you as a dedicated employee.

-Don’t let your side business interfere with your full time job. If you are working on your business during work hours, or using company resources, it will reflect poorly on you and could damage your relationship with your employer.

Experience

Another challenge that you may face is lack of experience. If you are working a full time job, you may not have the time to gain the experience that you need to start your own business.

Tip: You might need to seek out mentors or enroll in courses in order to acquire the experience you need. Listen to podcasts that teach you how to start your own company while doing things like driving, cooking, or walking. Read books about entrepreneurship. Attend meetups and networking events for entrepreneurs. The goal is to gain as much knowledge as you can so that you can apply it to your own business.

The benefits of starting a new business while working a full time job

While starting a new business can be a daunting task, there are some benefits to starting a business while you are already employed. One benefit is that you will have a steady income from your full time job, which can help to finance your new business. Additionally, working a full time job can give you valuable experience and knowledge that you can apply to start and grow your new business. Finally, having a full time job can help to provide some stability as you navigate the challenges of starting a new business.

While there are some challenges to working a full time job and starting a new business, there are also some benefits that can help you to succeed. If you are considering starting a new business, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision. with your current obligations. Doing so will help you to set yourself up for success in both your full time job and your new business venture.

By following these tips, you will be able to overcome some of the challenges that you may face when starting a new business while working a full time job. Remember to take things one step at a time.

Conclusion

Starting a business while working a full time job has many benefits. It can help you reduce the risk of failure, because you have a steady income to support yourself. It also allows you to build your business slowly, without having to quit your job and take on too much risk at once. And finally, it demonstrates to your employer that you are a go-getter and have the drive to succeed in anything you set your mind to. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of starting a new business, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Just remember that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

About my new business, Flavour Affair

The online wine service, Flavor Affair, which elevates luxury and exclusivity to a new level. Our wines are hand-picked by me, your wine expert, so you can be confident that you’re receiving only the finest. We handpick small-batch and hard-to-find wines from across the world to ensure that each of our customers receives a unique wine experience. Flavour Affair has you covered whether you’re looking for a unique gift for a friend, customer or something to wow your dinner guests with.

We also provide wine concierge services and group tastings, so if you’re arranging a large occasion, we can assist you in selecting the best wine for your dinner and adding the perfect touch of professionalism. Make your event more interesting by having one of our wine tasting sessions so that your guests may learn about and taste unique wines.

Lorena Gutierrez, Founder of Flavour Affair- Fine Wine Concierge Service and Online Wine Store since 2020.

Please feel free to contact me at Lorena@flavouraffair.com with any queries you may have.

Introduction to wine spitting

The term spitting out wine may sound a bit vulgar, but it’s actually a sign of respect. Wine tasting is an art form that requires precision and finesse, which can only be achieved by taking the time to taste the wine before swallowing.

When you attend a wine tasting, one of the most important things to remember is to spit out the wine. This may seem like an unpleasant task, but it’s necessary in order to limit your alcohol consumption. Here’s why:

When you drink wine, the alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream through your stomach and small intestine. The more alcohol you consume, the more impaired your judgment and coordination will be. By spitting out the wine instead of swallowing it during a wine tasting event, you may avoid getting tipsy and better evaluate the flavors of the wines you will be tasting.

Spit vs when to sip your wine

There are two main ways to approach wine tasting-by spitting it out or by sipping it. When you’re first starting out, it’s best to spit out the wine. This will allow you to taste as many wines as possible without getting drunk. As you become more experienced, you may find that you can sip the wine and still evaluate its flavors. Here are some tips on when to spit and when to sip:

When to Spit:

• Formal tastings are likely to include a communal spittoon or spit bucket for spitting into.
• Wine Trade events were you are likely to try more than 50 wines
• Wine school or conventions, you want to be able to retain information

When to Sip:

• When you don’t have many wines to try and you are not driving
• Small intimate tastings
• At a restaurant or at wine bar
• The last wines you will be trying at a big tasting event
• A very expensive wine you get poured at a tasting event
• When there’s a pandemic and you don’t want to spread your germs

The majority of the time, spit is the solution, and don’t feel guilty about spitting. Even the most refined sommeliers acknowledge it as part of wine tasting etiquette. Some wine drinkers spit more than others, but if you want to fully enjoy the experience, then it’s best to spit. At the end the most important thing is that you don’t make a fool of yourself by getting drunk and endanger yourself while doing so.

If you’re going to a wine tasting event, make sure you do your homework and know what wines will be served beforehand; you may want to skip the others until later so that you can savor only the ones you really want to enjoy!

INTRO

St. John, located in the US Virgin Islands, is considered one of the best Caribbean islands for honeymooners and luxury travelers alike. This island is also a hot spot for ecotourists looking to explore its natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you love hiking or you love snorkeling, St. John has something for everyone. If you’re looking to have a memorable vacation, the following tips will help you feel as though you live on St. John for a day.

Most people choose a Caribbean vacation because of its heavenly weather and exotic beaches, but it’s always important to remember that one should never visit without thoroughly researching the island beforehand. Let this Ultimate Guide be your first stop before exploring St. John, USVI.

Things to do ahead of time

If you’re planning a trip to St. John during high occupancy season (Dec – Mar), be advised that it can get really busy on-island and there are some things you will want to plan ahead before your visit.

• Car Rental: 6-8 months ahead of travel 
• Hotel / Villa / House Rental: 6-8 months ahead of travel
• Boat Charters / Cruises: 3-5 months ahead of travel
• Photographer Services: 3-5 months ahead of travel
• Highly Rated Restaurants: 1-2 months ahead of travel
• COVID Requirements: Learn about the requirements 1 month ahead of travel
• Travel and daily itinerary: Build one 1-2 months ahead of travel

Learn about COVID testing requirements and travel restrictions ahead of time by visiting the USVI Travel Screening Portal https://www.usvitravelportal.com/

Getting there and Accommodations

The journey to St. John can be a long one depending on where you are located.  For example, I live on the west coast of the US therefore my flights usually take approximately 10 hours to get to St. Thomas, and then another 45 minutes by taxi before getting on the ferry boat for a 20 min ride that takes us to from St. Thomas to St. John, Cruz Bay Landing. This is just an example but it should give people an idea how much time they will need in order to get there on time and safely!

After landing in St. Thomas, we took a taxi van to Red Hook Ferry which takes you across the harbor and then into Cruz Bay. You can either buy your tickets ahead of time on their website or at the station.  I recommend purchasing them beforehand online if you know how many bags you will be traveling with.  The lines can be long during the busy season. The cost of the ticket per person is $12 plus $4 for each bag.

We arrived on St. John at 3 pm which was perfect for us since we rented our Jeep from St. John Car Rental just a few blocks from the ferry landing.  It is right around the corner from the Grande Bay Estates where we rented our condo.  It is located in the heart of Cruz Bay and is right next door and within walking distance to many restaurants, bars and shopping. If you’re traveling with a bigger group I highly recommend renting a larger apartment or villa using https://www.stjohn-villarentals.com/ or https://www.vrbo.com/.  Smaller groups of 2-4 are great for the condos at Grande Bay. This resort has everything that anyone could need: convenient location, with a nice swimming pool, hot tube and gym.

After checking in and unpacking, we headed off to get groceries at Starfish Market. Once you start driving around (on the left side of the road) you start to feel like a local after just one day!

Where to Eat and Drink

Saint John is a relatively small island and it’s important to remember that some restaurants may close earlier than others. When you feel like getting out of the house consider eating at any of these places:

Breakfast –

• Cruz Bay Landing. If you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or something light to keep you full until lunch, then go to Cruz Bay Landing. They have smoothies that are out of this world and health food sandwiches.
• High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill.
• The Beach Bar.

Lunch –

• The Tap Room. If you are looking for a lunch spot with Pizza and Beer.
• The Longboard. The Longboard has great appetizers, tacos and salads.
• Woody’s Seafood Saloon, lots of fried fish and great happy hour from 3 – 6 PM daily. I recommend trying an appetizer called Shark Bites.
• Skinny Legs. Located in Coral Bay, this place has delicious juicy burgers.
• 1864 The Restaurant. For a late lunch and the best oysters on the island.

Dinner –

• Extra Virgin Bistro. Anything on the menu is delicious and they have a great wine selection.
• Lime Inn. Great food and wine pairing menu and excellent Key Lime Pie.
• Ocean 362. For the most romantic sunset dinner.
• Dave & Jerry’s Island Steakhouse. For their Prime Boneless Ribeye and juicy Oven Roasted Half Amish Chicken.
• Wine Bar – Island Cork . If you’re looking simply for a glass of wine and cheese, this is the spot.
• ZoZo’s has a great dinner and sunset views on the island.
• The Beach Bar. A great place to watch any sports game and enjoy an ice cold Kalik beer on their beachfront balcony with a beautiful view of Cruz Bay.

Recreation

We love snorkeling at several of the beaches on St. John.  We own and pack our own snorkeling gear, however there are a number of places on the island where you can rent snorkeling equipment.  I personally recommend bringing your own equipment if you like to snorkel a lot like we do.  That way you will always have it and it usually fits better and is more convenient.

Favorite Things To Do –

Day charter and sail with Kekoa.

If you’re looking for a unique experience then consider getting out on the water and what better way than by taking a day boat charter. Kekoa is an amazing boat with incredible staff, drinks and food. They know all the best snorkeling spots and can even take you on a secret island tour.

Kekoa is one of the most incredible vessels you’ll ever lay eyes on. Hand built by brothers Jamison and Ryan Witbeck in 2006, she has survived some of maritime world’s greatest tests including being abandoned at sea adrift for over a week during a winter storm and two category 5 hurricanes that nearly destroyed her…and yet she still sails today.  Book your charter here https://blacksailsvi.com/ 

Do a sunset trip with Voodoo.

Imagine yourself on a gorgeous catamaran boat with the sun setting before you. You’re relaxed and enjoying your ride as it makes its way across beautiful blue Caribbean water while listening to some of your favorite tunes. It doesn’t get much better than this! It is a 1.5 hour excursion that includes a charcuterie board and open bar.  Book your excursion here https://voodoovi.com/ 

Hire a photographer for a day

If you’re someone who loves taking photos and capturing the memories forever then consider hiring a local photographer to come along with you on your daily activities.  St. John has many talented photographers on the island and they know all of the best spots to take pictures.

I’m a big fan of Sarah B. Swan, her love for the ocean is profound.  She captures its raw beauty in a way that only someone who has been on the sea can. Adventure and lifestyle photography are also passions of hers; capturing all types of moments with an eye on natural light and no photoshop whatsoever! I highly recommend her to everyone.  Book a session with Sarah here https://www.tropicalbandit.com/about 

Beaches

Spend time with friends and family at one of the many beaches, one of the most convenient is Cinnamon Bay (Look out for the turtles! Cinnamon bay is one of the best beaches on St. John), Hawksnest Beach (a stretch of white sand beach on the North Shore and is known for its snorkeling), Maho Bay (with its soft white sand and clear waters, this is the most popular beach on the island because of the grass beds and sea turtle population).

If you’re looking for a secluded beach then head out to Jumbie Bay or Salt Pond Beach.

Hiking

Hiking on St. John is easy to do and offers some of the most beautiful views you’ll ever see. The majority of the island is the protected US Virgin Islands National Park and there are several trails that lead down to hidden beaches.  You will enjoy hiking trails in forests, past historical sugar plantation ruins, around salt ponds, over hills and through valleys. Park rangers offer programs and talks including bird watching, hikes and cultural demonstrations.

Some of the more popular trails include: Hawk’s Nest Trail, Ram Head Trail (located off Salt Pond Beach), Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins Trail, Reef Bay Trail and Francis Bay Trail.

Where to Shop

Starfish Market is the ultimate grocery store for all your food, and drink supplies.

Caravan Gallery and Gifts is where you’ll find unique handmade St. John souvenirs.

St. John Spice – If you’re looking to bring home some spices then stop by St. John Spice for all your spices, hot sauces, rubs and more!

If you’re looking for a more unique shopping experience, head over to Cruz Bay Landing next to the ferry dock where you can find souvenirs, clothing and shoes plus so much more!  Also there are several shops in Mongoose Junction in Cruz Bay and more located in Coral Bay.

Conclusion

Although St. John is only one of the Virgin Islands, it’s probably the most unique of them all. This is because St. John is mostly a protected National Park. There are no high rises, big hotels or big casinos here on St. John.  Just gorgeous beaches and untouched forests that attract visitors looking to escape and relax in paradise. 

St John is not overrun with tourists like some of the most popular tourist destinations are. Sure, there are bus loads of cruise ship passengers who come to St. Thomas then to St. John for a few hours during their Caribbean Grand Tour, but they don’t stay long enough to really appreciate what St. John has to offer. This allows those who do want to explore beyond the beach and the bars to experience what it’s really like to connect with nature and the beauty of the island.

I hope sharing this with you will help make the most out of your vacation to Sr. John by having access to some inside secrets necessary to enjoy this beautiful island. All you will need to do is get on a ferry and make your way to St. John.  There is also some useful information here on this site as well https://stjohnusvi.com/stjohn.html 

Good luck exploring!

Our 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Travel Day

Day 2 – Relax and swim with the turtles at Maho Bay

Day 3 – Day charter and sail with Kekoa

Day 4 – Hiking: Ram Head Trail (located off Salt Pond Beach)

Day 5 – Trunk Bay Beach 

Day 6 – Snorkel at Cinnamon Bay Beach, Sunset Cruise with Voodoo and Dinner at Extra Virgin Bistro

Day 7 – Travel Day

Spring is finally here! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and it’s time for a picnic. You know what that means; it’s time to break out that favorite bottle of spring picnic wine!

I’m so excited for the warmer weather and all of the fun outdoor activities that come with it. We love going with our friends to listen to live music and have picnics in the park. And of course we love bringing along a good wine to enjoy.  If you’re like me you might be asking yourself what kind we should bring  to this year’s spring picnic?

Here are three wine recommendations for this spring that you shouldn’t overlook. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that not all wines are created equal, especially when it comes to pairing with food. So here are some great wines to drink this spring as well as some good food pairing recommendations.

Grenache Blanc: This is a great wine that’s perfect for your spring picnics

It’s hard to know where the wine world is going, but one thing that you can be sure of is that it will be interesting. With all the new wine regions opening up and making names for themselves, we are in an era of exciting wines from all over the world, and for that reason today I’m focusing on a grape variety called Grenache Blanc and its origins in both Spain and France. Grenache Blanc is a white wine grape, famously known from the Rhône Valley in France and recently also in California. 

Grenache Blanc grape produces wines that are bright with low to medium acidity, full body, and medium (+) in alcohol content. This amazing grape is primarily used in blends that will bring out lovely toasty aromatics, brightness and rich mouth feel.

Since it’s time of the year to start thinking about what you’re going to be drinking on the weekends and at your spring picnics. This wine just might cover all your bases – Grenache Blanc. The sun-drenched grape has just the right amount of acidity to go with grilled chicken, or fish, and light salads. It also makes a great pairing for creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert.

Domaine le Clos des Lumieres, Côtes du Rhône (blanc) 2019

Appellation: Côtes du Rhône

Region: Rhône, Southern Rhône

Grapes: 40% Grenache Blanc, 40% Viognier, 20% Bourboulenc

Tasting notes: Crisp, clean, and aromatic. floral aromas, soft pear, sweet apples and just a dash of cooking spices.

Pair this wine with a Spanish paella that includes prawns and saffron, Grenache Blanc’s salinity showcases the prawns while its citrus spice reflects saffron spice and lemon in the dish. Pork Chops with Spiced Apples or a delicious Greek Chicken.

Courtesy of Mirabelle Selects

Sauvignon Blanc: A bit more robust than the Pinot Grigio, this wine goes great with mango salsa and seafood

Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular wines in the world, but what do you know about Sauvignon Blanc? What are its different types and how does it taste?

The type of the Sauvignon Blanc I drink will determine the type of food I’m eating. For example, if I’m drinking Sauvignon Blanc from the Old World (France) then they’re usually more terroir driven and light alcohol, these wines will pair perfectly with fish, goat cheese, and chicken. Verses from New World like California which are often fuller-bodied or fruit-driven will pair with dishes that have tropical flavors such as a mango salsa sea bass. 

One of my favorite ways to enjoy a California Sauvignon Blanc is on the patio on a warm spring afternoon paired with some chips and mango salsa! It’s crisp, refreshing taste pairs well with a variety of dishes.

<<Not released yet>>

Patland Estate Vineyards 2017 Sauvignon Blanc

Appellation: Napa Valley

Region: California

Grapes: 100% Sauvignon Blanc 

Tasting notes: Full Body, bright and aromatic. Tropical flavors, mango, pineapple, over ripe lemon, and kiwi.

Pair this wine with a grilled salmon and top it with mango salsa.

Albariño: A light, crisp wine that pairs excellent with oysters

Albariño is a white wine grape primarily grown in Spain’s Rías Baixas region, also grown in Portugal in the Vinho Verde region (known as Alvarinho) and in Coastal Mountains in San Luis Obispo County, California’s central coast. Albariño wines are refreshing, crisp, and fresh with hints of salinity, melon, peach and citrus flavors. The grape’s high acidity levels make it an ideal food wine that pairs well with seafood or other light fare such as salads when served chilled.

The grape has been grown for centuries in the Galicia region of Northwest Spain where it was used to produce both red and white wines.

This next wine is insanely good, and probably one of my favorite Albariños of all times. It’s the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon on the beach or by the pool. Pairing: SEAFOOD, SEAFOOD and more SEAFOOD!

Eladio Pineiro Envidia Cochina Tete de Cuvee Albariño 2019

Appellation: Rias Baixas

Region: Galicia, Spain

Grapes: 100% Albariño 

Tasting notes: Mouthwatering acidity, extremely refreshing, medium body and a taste of salinity. Lemon, lime, marine and white flowers.

Pair this wine with fresh oysters, octopus, fish tacos and scallops.

You’ll be able to enjoy these delicious wines with your friends or family while enjoying the great outdoors. What could be better? These three wines are guaranteed to make any spring or summer day a little more enjoyable. So what are you waiting for? Get outside and try some new wine today! You won’t regret trying any of these delicious wines this spring. They’ll be sure to impress even the pickiest of palates.

Do you ever find yourself thinking about the future? What will it look like? When and how am I or we going to get there? Better yet, have you ever stopped and thought this could be the new future?

Hmm that sounds kind of wild don’t you think? Nevertheless, I feel 2020 made the world take a pause and transition from everyone living in the “Present” to the thinking of the “Future”. Obviously, we do not see flying Teslas zipping through the air, but a lot of things that happened in 2020 that are literally changing the way the world operates.

The world evolved around us and continued running even while we were at home in quarantine. Some of us were able to prove that we could still run large companies and continue to operate virtually regardless of our location(s). The creative people of this planet saw 2020 as an opportunity for CHANGE and thought of a brighter future.

That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to one of my favorite startups of 2020: VIVANT, the ultimate virtual wine education and tasting experience platform. It provides a virtual connection to the wine world, LIVE wine tastings, and the opportunity to meet wine enthusiasts from around the world. Their approach and this system is changing the way we connect with one another, and is modernizing the traditional way of wine tasting.

Here is an overview of what VIVANT is and how it’s changing the wine industry:

A unique futuristic wine tasting experience and connection to the wine world.

Wine lovers across the globe had to stay home this past year. And like the rest of the world, we are unable to travel to our favorite wine destinations until it is safe again. We now have a solution to this problem. VIVANT will transport you instantly from the comfort of your home to the wine regions around the world. You will be able to travel to the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, Alsace, Bordeaux, and even the Loire Valley all in a week. VIVANT has a broad list of virtual wine experiences from all the main wine regions of France, and more countries and regions across Europe will be added this year. An expert Wine Advisor leads each virtual experience. The Wine Advisor will walk you through the tasting and thoroughly educate you on everything about the wine region’s terroir. You will also be able to meet the winemakers and producers that have dedicated their lives to making the wines you will be enjoying.

Interactive live wine tasting.

Regardless of your level of wine education, you will learn to taste like a pro. Did you know that interactive quizzes are not only fun, they actually help with knowledge retention and help expand your brain’s learning capacity? I was amazed by their Interactive Tasting Method. VIVANT has really made the experience fun and interactive. During the tasting, you are able to choose from an online interactive tool which colors, aromas, flavors, and other palate characteristics you see and taste – all with a click of a button.

Are you competitive?

As I mentioned, the quizzes and unique Interactive Tasting Method are fun and help you learn more effectively. When you answer questions correctly, you win points and compete against others in the experience, with a full leaderboard! It will definitely give you that extra push to learn so you can end the experience at the top of the leaderboard.

I could go on and on about how much I learned and enjoyed the VIVANT experience. Better yet, you could just experience it yourself and see first-hand the future of virtual wine tasting.

This is a sponsored post written by me. All thoughts and opinions are 100% mine.

When you think of Italy what is the first thing that comes to mind? If you are anything like me, it’s a great Italian wine and an amazing pasta dish. That for me is one of the most desired pairings when I’m craving some comfort food, or searching for the perfect date night recipe.  It’s also a great way to use your imagination to feel like you are traveling around Italy from the comfort of your home. 

If you are new to my blog or social media platforms, I recently founded a new company called Flavour Affair. We all wish we were able to travel right now to some of our favorite wine and food destinations. However, given the current circumstances, that just is not an option right now. Therefore, I want to bring the travel experience to you through Flavour Affair. My travel box features a wine from a specific country or wine region and be paired with a traditional food recipe from the are to showcase and complement each other.

Today I’m able to finally share with you the first Flavour Affair Italy Experience recipe and wine pairing.

Tagliatelle al ragù alla Bolognese is probably one of my favorite authentic Italian pasta dishes. It’s also really hard to find restaurants that are willing to put in the time required to make it authentically without taking shortcuts. When this dish prepared correctly, it will definitely blow your socks off. That is why I am going to warn you now; this recipe will take some time to prepare, but the dish is well worth the effort and time.

This traditional pasta dish has to go with another favorite vino from Italy that has enough acidity that will pair well with the tomato sauce. For this dish I picked a 2017 Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico from Tuscany, Italy.  A 100% Sangiovese, very juicy and bright, it’s earthy, tobacco, violets and cherry, with amazing fresh acidity.

Enough said, this recipe will take you between 3-4 hours to prepare, so you better start working on it before it gets too late HA-HA! 

I hope you enjoy it.

STEP 1

To make the Italian soffritto, mix and pulse the onion, celery, and carrot in a food processor until very finely chopped, almost to a puree consistency then transfer to a small bowl.

STEP 2

Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Break apart the beef into small clump size patties (about 1½”) and add to the pot; season lightly with salt. Cook the meat turning occasionally until the beef is lightly browned on each side, but not crispy, 7–8 minutes per side. It may still be a little pink in the center but that’s okay.  The meat will complete cooking throughout the rest of the process. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a medium bowl.

STEP 3

Remove any remaining meat pieces and the fat from the pan and wipe clean with a paper towel. Now take the pancetta and dice it into small cubed pieces (about ¼”), you can purchase sliced pancetta and dice it to desired size. Cook the pancetta in the pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta has released some of its fat and is crisp, approximately 8 minutes. Add the soffritto (onion-carrot-celery mixture) to pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are very soft and beginning to stick to the surface, 7–8 minutes.

STEP 4

Return the beef to pot and pour in the white wine. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, smashing down on beef with a wooden spoon breaking it up into small pieces, until wine is evaporated, surface of pot is almost dry, and meat is finely ground, approximately 15 minutes. (The meat should be in little bits and pieces now) Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, and nutmeg and cook, stirring occasionally and still breaking down and pressing on meat, until the tomato paste is slightly darkened; about 5 minutes.

STEP 5

Pour the chicken stock and milk into pot; add a small pinch of salt. Reduce heat to the lowest setting and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until meat is very, very tender, 2½ –3 hours. There should not be any rapid boiling or bubbles at this stage of the cooking process. Instead, the sauce should slowly cook and release the occasional small bubble or two as it simmers. When finished, the sauce should have the texture of and look like a sloppy joe mixture. If the liquid reduces before the meat is completely tender, add an extra ½-cup chicken stock and continue cooking. Remove the bay leaf. Taste sauce and adjust seasoning with salt as needed; keep warm.

STEP 6

Cook pasta in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, minus 2 minutes per package directions, as it will finish cooking through the final 2 minutes in the sauce. Rustichella d’Abruzzo for around 4 min. Please note that if you are making a smaller portion for two people only, you will want to use half of the pasta package.

STEP 7

If you are making a smaller serving for only 2 people, add two cups of the meat sauce in a separate medium pan on low heat, and using tongs, transfer the pasta to pan with the meat sauce and mix. Add ½-cup of the pasta cooking water and a ½-cup of Parmesan cheese to the pan and mix thoroughly. Increase heat to medium and bring to a simmer.  Continue cooking and tossing the pasta constantly, until pasta is al dente and sauce has slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. If making the full serving size, prepare the whole pasta package and use all the meat sauce.  Transfer the pasta to the pot with meat sauce and follow the same process, instead adding 1-cup of the pasta cooking water.

STEP 8

Using your tongs, transfer the pasta to a serving platter and top with more Parmesan cheese.

STEP 9

If making only for two and you have remaining meat sauce you can store it in the refrigerator for 3 days or freeze the sauce for future use. ENJOY!

Wow what a crazy year this has been for hosting events. And even though a lot of wineries are starting to open and some people are doing small events in person; I’m still taking up the social distancing precautions and staying at home as much as possible.  That is unless I have to take my boy Archie (my doodle) to the dog park, and beach or if I need to make a quick trip to the market for some grocery shopping. I’m starting to feel like this is my new normal, and going 100% virtual is starting to feel really good for me. And even though it was a little hard doing virtual events in the beginning, I’ve found that after doing several of them recently I’ve started to like them. And on the upside I’m able to connect with a lot more people then I normally would if I were doing an in person event.

This section is to keep you informed of my LIVE wine tastings on social media and other important events that come up related to the wine industry, from interviews, bottle wine tastings, educational wine videos, etc.

You are personality invited to join me to these awesome events and taste wine with me.

PAST EVENTS

March 2021

Instagram LIVE events

1️⃣ Monday 3/8 at 3 PM PST – Maria Magdalena Sosa – Winemaker at Bodega Garzon @melesosa @bodegagarzon

2️⃣ Wednesday 3/10 at 5:30 PM PST – Madeline Puckette – WineFolly.com co-creator @madelinepuck @winefolly

3️⃣ Thursday 3/11 at 4:30 PM PST – Shayla Varnado – Black Girls Wine founder @blackgirlswine @shaylavarnado

Private Tasting

March 28, 20213PM EST/1PM PST

Hosted by Lorena Woods with Elodie Roy, Dennis Sherman, and Stephen Lenahan as guests.

LINK TO EVENT

Reserve by March 15th to ensure wine delivery

PAST EVENTS

November 2020

• November 23rd, 2020
• 12:00 PM PST
• INSTAGRAM LIVE

You are able to watch past events previously recorded on IGTV.

You can access to the live sessions here:

https://www.instagram.com/lorenawinediary/channel/

Taste with us! You may purchase your bottle in different locations. Use the Store Locator to find the closes location to you.

You can also find Faire La Fête in Costco. Locations include VAN NUYS, TUSTIN, GARDEN GROVE, LOS ANGELES, FOUNTAIN VALLEY, AZUSA, FULLERTON, OXNARD, ALHAMBRA, IRVINE, CHINO HILLS, CULVER CITY, FONTANA, HAWTHORNE, BURBANK, CITY OF INDUSTRY, INGLEWOOD, TUSTIN, HUNTINGTON BEACH, TORRANCE, SANTA MARIA.

“Building a diverse industry & Exploring Livermore Wineries”

I’m pleased and very excited about this and It’s something you just can’t miss out on. “Building a diverse industry & Exploring Livermore Wineries” Interview with winemaker and founder Phil Long from Longevity Wines @longevity_wines and also President of the African American Association vintners. We will have a discussion about his own winery, his involvement in AAAV, Livermore Valley as a region and it’s Wineries.

“I want the world to know black vintners are out here, and we have a lot to offer”

says Long during an interview with Black Enterprise.