Guest Writer: Summertime in a Glass—Picnic Wine Picks
Meet Guest Writer Linda Milks- I am so pleased to have Linda contribute this great article about her recent wine tasting experience. The timing is perfect for readers to make some on-point summer selections. Linda is a writer and is a board member of the International Food Wine & Travel Association. She is also an active member in the Wine Review Council, which meets regularly to taste wines from all over the world and pair them with creative...
Discovering Two Unique Wine Bars in La Jolla… You Just Gotta Try Them!
Our International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) gathered a small group in the charming seaside town of La Jolla to make an introduction to two wonderful wine bars. Both are doing things is a new and different way. These are NOT your parent’s wine bars. We first stopped at We Olive & Wine Bar along Prospect Street in the bustling, upscale downtown area of La Jolla Village. Parking can be a challenge, so good luck with that. You might have to hoof it a few blocks,...
Exploring Petite Wines With Big, Robust Flavors
On a recent summer Sunday afternoon, I found myself transported to a lush, tropical garden. The shimmering pool and greenery welcomed us with open arms. I was in for a big treat as a newbie guest---- joining the Wine Council for their summertime gathering. Exploring fine wines, paired with delicious cuisine and of course, wonderful company---what's not to like about that line up!
Robin and Marc Simpson were our incredible hosts. And we all know how much work that is to have company and be...
Wine Clubs. Four Tricks To Keep It All Straight…
As I nuzzle into a spot at a Tasting Room the fun begins almost immediately. I start trying new wines, chatting with the staff and continuing my learning about the precious vino. A little shopping in the wine inspired gift shop and I am a happy camper. If I am impressed and think the value is there... I might sign up for their Wine Club. Why would I do that, you might ask? Well many wines are only offered to members. And it's fun when FedEx rings my door bell and my shipment arrives.
I...
Temecula… There’s More Than Just Wine In The Valley!
It was a lovely sunny morning as a group of So Cal writers recently visited Temecula. The Mount Palomar Winery was established in 1969. This winery has deep roots in this valley, and responding to their kind invitation, the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) set up camp right there. Perched high atop the valley below, we marveled at the premier views from their restaurant Annata Bistro & Bar. The name Annata translates to "vintage"...
A Winegrower’s Story….Continuing A Legacy And Creating Award-Winning Wines
Have you ever sat down in an award-winning Wine Master’s backyard, and just chatted the afternoon away as he unveiled his favorite wines and even some “yet to be released” treasures? Well, this just happened to me. And yes, I already know you are extremely jealous.
Meet David and Anya de Lancellotti who reside in a charming neighborhood know as Floral Park. This town has been around since the 1920’s. You can just imagine the surroundings--- filled with farms and...
Meet The Family Winemaker of Formaglini Wine
I just completed an intimate and informative visit with a Winemaker, along with some of my fellow writers. What a pleasure to sit down with David and in the setting of his historic home, learn all about winemaking, and what makes their hearts beat fast. Tasting some of their yet to be bottled vino, as well as their coveted 2012. We were in heaven. A peek behind the curtain.... I will be sharing that with you all this week. And for those of us in Orange County, CA we are fortunate...
Balboa Yacht Club Wine Dinner Was Superb!
Melville Winery Visits Newport Beach- Just prior to the holidays, we had the pleasure to join members Karen Rhyne and Michael Michel for a lovely Wine Dinner at one of our favorite spots along Bayside Drive, and that is the charming member’s only Balboa Yacht Club. As we gathered in the Ship Model Dining Room we sipped on a glass of wine and introducing ourselves to the other guests for the evening. With one of the best views on the Harbor, we enjoyed four...
Be The Hero At Your Thanksgiving Gathering…
And Yes, That Means Libations! Whether you are the host of the upcoming Thanksgiving dinner, or just a guest hoping to score an incredible meal, this can be a challenging day. First we have the week long preparations, and as we know, Rome was not built in a day, and neither is this meal. From artful table décor, to shopping, making of pumpkin cheesecake, and sautéing the stuffing ingredients. It’s all on the schedule. One by one we check things off the list...
Wine Exchange Offers Premium Wines & Mega-Selection
Sometimes we have a media event which unexpectedly coincides with a major announcement. On this fine March Saturday, it was just such a day. We were meeting with Best Wines partners Kyle Meyer and Tristen Beamon, to hear all about their vino business. Our group included members of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), and the day was planned by our esteemed President Linda Kissam. Little did we know they had just announced they were “on the move”! Best...