I drink a decent amount of wine. It's true and there is no denying it. In an effort to make my wine habit have some sort of productive merit, I'd like to share a few thoughts on what's good, what's not and why I drink what with what.
Now, I'm not going to pretent that I'm any kind of expert, but here are the Cliff's Notes for those who find themselves scratching their heads in the wine aisle or buying wine because of the picture on the label. Although, I'll admit that I've caught myself doing that once or twice.
Of course, we all know that what you drink should depend on what you are eating, but I'm throwing a wrench into the picture. Being a vegetarian, I don't follow this line of thinking. I drink what I like, when I want it. I'll drink my big bold cab with my salad and I will like it!
If you're looking for something to cool off, a sauvignon blanc is a great choice. They tend to be light and crispy with a hint of citrus. I like to think of it as chardonnay's hip, cooler cousin. (I really don't think anyone under 45 drinks chardonnary anyway.) A good choice with lighter meals like seafood. It's worth a trip to Wilderotter vineyards in Amador to pick up their tasty Sauv Blac.
For those wanting to go with red but looking for something mild, pinor noir is always nice. It is great for those who don't want their wine to grab them and give them a shake. Rodney Strong would be a good choice and is easily accesible at your local Safeway.
A great choice for something with a hint of boldness would be a barbera. Medium bodied, with a hint of tart, this is a fabulous choice for bigger flavor without being overly assertive. I personally love the barbera at CG DiArie in Amador. They usually stock CGD at Whole Foods and Nugget.
One of my faves from way back that still tops my list now is a blend of Petite Syrah and Petit Verdot, called, appropriately enough, Petit Petit, from Michael David. In the words of MD, it is ' a joyous explosion of color and fun, it is a substantial, dense, full-bodied.' I love it. Check it out at Bel Air or take the quick trip to Lodi and stock up at the winery.
If you want to try something different, check out the Proprietor's Blend at Elevation 10 in Clarksburg. Full disclosure here, I know the owners (who are fabulous) and I helped out in their tasting room earlier this month, but even before that I knew this was a winner. A mix of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, it has hints of blackberry and is bold and delicious!
If you're looking for something big that will wake up your taste buds and set the mood for a fabulous time, go with a cabernet sauvignon. Fruit-forward and full-flavored, this is great for a big meal. One that I really like is Earthquake Cab from Michael David. It should be available at Bel Air, Nugget and the like.
Next we have good old Zinfandel. Huge in Amador and Lodi, Zins are bold and often peppery and can hold up to spicy food and big meals. You can take your pick when it comes to Zins, there are a ton of a fabulous ones. For the budget-conscious, check out Bogle Zin. Local out of Clarksburg, it packs a fun bite.
If you're still feeling nervous about your wine pick, I have one fail proof suggestion: grab a bottle of bubbly, a couple champagne flutes and you're set! No self-respecting gal turns down a glass of Veuve Clicquot if offered. Just the sight of that fun yellow label and you know it is going to be a wonderful night! Throw a strawberry in there and you're in business!
What fabulous wines have you had lately?
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Sunday, February 12, 2012
The view from the other side of the bar
I think I've found my calling.
For real.
Yesterday I was lucky enough to fill in at a fabulous local winery in Clarksburg called Elevation Ten. Open less than a year, the wines are awesome and the whole crew is fabulous. They let me get in their way all day and didn't even once give me the "get out of my way, volunteer!" face.
The event was the Port and Chocolate Weekend in honor of the upcoming romance lover's holiday, Valentine's Day. Of course, those of you that know me know I'm not one for romance, but it was fun seeing all those lovey dovey couples swooning over each other, and the great wine.
I got my backstage pass to the inner workings of the tasting room and saw just how much wine these wineries go through during an event. Wow. It's quite an investment. But they were as generous as ever with their pours and the guests loved it. I definitely have a newfound respect for all of the tasting room staff at the places I frequent, often asking to "revisit" this or "try" that again.
Anyway, I got to spend the last few hours of the day pouring and what a blast. The guests were so nice, even forgiving me for my non-sommalier knowledge. They understood when I had to run and ask the actual staff what pairs right with this wine and what makes a white muscat different from a black muscat.
I got to spend the day smiling, chatting with interesting people and learning about the wines. It was so fun to stand on the other side of the tasting bar. Though I was there for 7 hours, the day flew by and before I knew it the day was nearly over. It was one of the most fun Saturdays I've had in a while. Not to mention I saved a bundle keeping busy all day. (And the awesome payday of a couple bottles at the end of the day was an awesome little bonus. You better believe I walked in the door and IMMEDIATELY opened that merlot and drank a leisurely glass on the couch with my feet up.)
So, although I love my job, I may end up being stolen away for the wine business. Or perhaps finding myself a weekend gig at one of my favorite tasting rooms. Lord knows there are enough of them to choose from.
Looking for good wine? Check out Elevation Ten. You'll be glad you did. www.ElevationTen.com.
Cheers!
For real.
Yesterday I was lucky enough to fill in at a fabulous local winery in Clarksburg called Elevation Ten. Open less than a year, the wines are awesome and the whole crew is fabulous. They let me get in their way all day and didn't even once give me the "get out of my way, volunteer!" face.
The event was the Port and Chocolate Weekend in honor of the upcoming romance lover's holiday, Valentine's Day. Of course, those of you that know me know I'm not one for romance, but it was fun seeing all those lovey dovey couples swooning over each other, and the great wine.
I got my backstage pass to the inner workings of the tasting room and saw just how much wine these wineries go through during an event. Wow. It's quite an investment. But they were as generous as ever with their pours and the guests loved it. I definitely have a newfound respect for all of the tasting room staff at the places I frequent, often asking to "revisit" this or "try" that again.
Anyway, I got to spend the last few hours of the day pouring and what a blast. The guests were so nice, even forgiving me for my non-sommalier knowledge. They understood when I had to run and ask the actual staff what pairs right with this wine and what makes a white muscat different from a black muscat.
I got to spend the day smiling, chatting with interesting people and learning about the wines. It was so fun to stand on the other side of the tasting bar. Though I was there for 7 hours, the day flew by and before I knew it the day was nearly over. It was one of the most fun Saturdays I've had in a while. Not to mention I saved a bundle keeping busy all day. (And the awesome payday of a couple bottles at the end of the day was an awesome little bonus. You better believe I walked in the door and IMMEDIATELY opened that merlot and drank a leisurely glass on the couch with my feet up.)
So, although I love my job, I may end up being stolen away for the wine business. Or perhaps finding myself a weekend gig at one of my favorite tasting rooms. Lord knows there are enough of them to choose from.
Looking for good wine? Check out Elevation Ten. You'll be glad you did. www.ElevationTen.com.
Cheers!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
The Perty Nerdy Thirty List
First off, HAPPY NEW YEAR! It's 2012 and it's going to be the best year yet.
Now that we have that taken care of, on to business...
This year is the year I (deep breath) turn 29. I know, I know, cue the violins. Anyway, my point is that NEXT year I join the "No longer a 20-something" club. No biggie, I know, but a milestone nonetheless. And to add to that, I have recently been reminded (again) how damn short life is. The world has lost another wonderful soul that we could have really used another 20 years with. Though I have an affinity for old dudes, this one was one of the best, though our encounters were few. But I learned years ago that you never know what tomorrow has in store, let alone the next year. So, the list. It's not a resolution (if it was, I would be tragically late already). The Bossman calls it a "Grand Master Plan," which I like, but I'm not one to be a copycat. So, it's my Perty Nerdy Thirty List. (You try and think of a cool word that rhymes with 30, geez!) And as putting it in writing means it WILL happen (or you suffer the consequence of reading this post one year later and scowling over what you DIDN'T do). It's the "No more excuses" list. The "You're not getting any younger" list and the "You'll be glad you did" list.
Here it is:
1. Go to Costa Rica - Shupasaurus and I have officially booked our trip! March 29th we'll be saying "Adios California y hola Costa Rica! Pura Vida!" Finally, I am going on my dream trip, with a totally fun travel buddy.
2. Do Tough Mudder - For two years, the Bossman has asked me to join his team. The first year, I was too scared to risk my life on what seemed like an impossible course. After seeing him complete it (he's a 50-plus'er) and IN A SPEEDO no less, I am convinced that I can do it. I balked last year, again, but this year I am doing it. I may be the slow poke finishing behind the pack, but I will go and I will finish.
3. Master the back squat - The back squat and I have a love hate relationship. Although I feel strong, you put me in that rack with that bar on my back and I freeze. I can squat down, but somehow I lose confidence on the upswing. Damn you, back squat. Damn you straight to workout hell. I will conquer you. Mark my words.
4. Put money away - Everyone says they wished they started saving earlier. I'm already past the "earlier" time, but I guess that just means I better start. If I want to retire in Costa Rica with my little bar on the beach, I better get on it.
5. Learn Spanish - I have Rosetta Stone. I've HAD Rosetta Stone for a year. I also have a fabulous tutor, Ms. Victor Cruz (formerly Ms. Eddie George) who is more than willing to help me and always assigns me the good homework. Do it. And get over that fear of talking. You're a gringo, but you'll always be a gringo, no matter how well you try to roll your rrrrrr's. Get over it.
6. Stop giving kids the stink eye - I am ashamed to admit it, but I do. I'm not a kid person, but it's not their fault. I've met some brats and had little close time with the youngsters. But there will always be brats and I have to get over it. And I guess I am pretty jerky for feeling so blah about kids. I mean, I was one once, right? (Although I was perfect in every way when I was a kid, so that's different.)
7. Be closer with the friendies - You don't realize that you're not making the effort until you go two months without seeing our "bestie." I am very guilty of this and need to make a better effort. A lot happens in little time and I really shouldn't be missing it. I'm lucky to have great friends and I really should take advantage.
8. Read more - I love to read. But I let things get in the way. Hell,it's taken me almost three months to LISTEN to A People's History of the United States. It is like 40 hours long, but there has to have been 40 hours I could have better spent listening to it rather than doing what I was doing (did someone say Law and Order marathon?)
9. Hang out with my mom more - My mom is awesome. She's been through a lot. She's a fun gal. A hoot. I don't tell her that enough. I wouldn't be who I am without her. (Love ya, Mama!)
10. Make my yard perfect - Yeah, yeah, yeah, I've been blaming my neighbors for their super huge trees of darkness for shadowing my yard and killing my grass (it was so pretty when we laid that sod!), but there is a solution. I've just got to figure out what it is and get out there and do it.
11. Learn to bat - I suck at batting. I'm the girl that strikes out most times and hopes to be walked. It's really not that hard. Hit the batting cages and do the dang thing.
12. Have less cocktails - Yeah. I'll work on that.
13. Get up to 4 workouts per week - I feel awesome with my thrice-weekly workouts. I can only imagine how great it would feel to pump it up and workout on more days than I don't.
14. Feel better about results - While we're on that subject, it would be nice to go a little easier on myself about my chub. 28 years and I still don't feel comfortable in my own skin. Seeing that in writing really brings home how pathetic that is. Once again, get over it.
15. Go to a Burning Man thing - HAHA, I've already checked this one off! Phil dragged me to a Burners meeting just last week. And let me say, it was just like you would think it was. Chew on that.
16. Blog more - I love this little bloggie. It has a special place in my heart and it's a great creative outlet. Who cares that 8 people read it?! Those 8 people are special and have a place in my heart for taking ten minutes to see what I have to say. Love you guys!
17. Challenge myself at work - I love my job. I am challenged, but I could do more. I love to write and I get to write at work. I've had articles placed (even with ME in the byline!) and I can do that more. Find an issue, write a piece people want to read and get it placed!
18. Figure out a way to convince the Shupes to grow wine grapes - Five acres of land perfectly sloped on the sunny side of a hill? WHAT A WASTE!
19. Convince the old lady across the street to let us start a U Street garden in her yard - She has a huge yard and is far too old to manage it. Trust me. She walks with two ski poles (hence the nickname "Ski Poles"). We need to ask for the ok and take the initiative and start growing. For her, for our neighbors. Maybe even for perfect strangers who are hungry.
20. Learn our neighbors names - Don't get me wrong, we've met almost all of the people on our street. But we only know two names. Case in point: "Ski Poles," "Electrocution Hair Guy," "Guy with the annoying dog," "German Lady," "Girl who works with fish or something," "Guy who's dog poops on our lawn," "Guy that looks like Lou." We can do better.
21. Ride a horse - Come on, who has never ridden a horse?? Me. (Sad face.)
22. Grow a proper garden - Shupasaurus had a great garden in Bordova. It was so fun to water and tend to, not to mention the booty!
23. Help Kevy Baby get a job - He'll be really bummed he didn't read this. Bahahaha. Oh wait, they don't have internet in Stockton anyway.
24. Go wake to wake - Well, first things first... Any of you have a wakeboarding boat and want to take us out? We have wakeboards and will totally pay for gas. And bring beer.
25. Snuggle more with Rocco and Brewski - Ok, ok, I added this one just because I know I already snuggle too much with them, so CHECK!
26. See the fam more - LA is not that far. They are not getting any younger. I have the coolest family ever and should take advantage of that.
27. Go to New Orleans - Speaking of LA, how about Louisiana?! With a friend that lives there and always offers up a place to stay, it's time to go. Perhaps Mardi Gras circa 30th bday? Hmm..
28. Get more political - It's an election year. And important year. This calls for precinct walking, phone banking and all other kinds of politicking. And I love it, so it's time to pump it up. (This has already been started by attending a Fem Dem event - www.femdem.org - attending a CLCA meeting - and buying a ticket to my first Obama fundraiser. Whoot!
29. Get involved in organizations making our world a better place - Sure, Women for Women International is awesome, but I can do more. We all can do more. So let's do it. Who's with me?! (Ha! That was a trick to see if you read this far! Now I know - one whole person!)
30. Don't stress about 30 - After 30, if you play your cards right, you get another 30. And if you're lucky, maybe even more. So there's still time to cross off those last few items, and to think of more I want to add.
Here's to the next year. The year of getting things done. No excuses. No whining. Let's do it!
Now that we have that taken care of, on to business...
This year is the year I (deep breath) turn 29. I know, I know, cue the violins. Anyway, my point is that NEXT year I join the "No longer a 20-something" club. No biggie, I know, but a milestone nonetheless. And to add to that, I have recently been reminded (again) how damn short life is. The world has lost another wonderful soul that we could have really used another 20 years with. Though I have an affinity for old dudes, this one was one of the best, though our encounters were few. But I learned years ago that you never know what tomorrow has in store, let alone the next year. So, the list. It's not a resolution (if it was, I would be tragically late already). The Bossman calls it a "Grand Master Plan," which I like, but I'm not one to be a copycat. So, it's my Perty Nerdy Thirty List. (You try and think of a cool word that rhymes with 30, geez!) And as putting it in writing means it WILL happen (or you suffer the consequence of reading this post one year later and scowling over what you DIDN'T do). It's the "No more excuses" list. The "You're not getting any younger" list and the "You'll be glad you did" list.
Here it is:
1. Go to Costa Rica - Shupasaurus and I have officially booked our trip! March 29th we'll be saying "Adios California y hola Costa Rica! Pura Vida!" Finally, I am going on my dream trip, with a totally fun travel buddy.
2. Do Tough Mudder - For two years, the Bossman has asked me to join his team. The first year, I was too scared to risk my life on what seemed like an impossible course. After seeing him complete it (he's a 50-plus'er) and IN A SPEEDO no less, I am convinced that I can do it. I balked last year, again, but this year I am doing it. I may be the slow poke finishing behind the pack, but I will go and I will finish.
3. Master the back squat - The back squat and I have a love hate relationship. Although I feel strong, you put me in that rack with that bar on my back and I freeze. I can squat down, but somehow I lose confidence on the upswing. Damn you, back squat. Damn you straight to workout hell. I will conquer you. Mark my words.
4. Put money away - Everyone says they wished they started saving earlier. I'm already past the "earlier" time, but I guess that just means I better start. If I want to retire in Costa Rica with my little bar on the beach, I better get on it.
5. Learn Spanish - I have Rosetta Stone. I've HAD Rosetta Stone for a year. I also have a fabulous tutor, Ms. Victor Cruz (formerly Ms. Eddie George) who is more than willing to help me and always assigns me the good homework. Do it. And get over that fear of talking. You're a gringo, but you'll always be a gringo, no matter how well you try to roll your rrrrrr's. Get over it.
6. Stop giving kids the stink eye - I am ashamed to admit it, but I do. I'm not a kid person, but it's not their fault. I've met some brats and had little close time with the youngsters. But there will always be brats and I have to get over it. And I guess I am pretty jerky for feeling so blah about kids. I mean, I was one once, right? (Although I was perfect in every way when I was a kid, so that's different.)
7. Be closer with the friendies - You don't realize that you're not making the effort until you go two months without seeing our "bestie." I am very guilty of this and need to make a better effort. A lot happens in little time and I really shouldn't be missing it. I'm lucky to have great friends and I really should take advantage.
8. Read more - I love to read. But I let things get in the way. Hell,it's taken me almost three months to LISTEN to A People's History of the United States. It is like 40 hours long, but there has to have been 40 hours I could have better spent listening to it rather than doing what I was doing (did someone say Law and Order marathon?)
9. Hang out with my mom more - My mom is awesome. She's been through a lot. She's a fun gal. A hoot. I don't tell her that enough. I wouldn't be who I am without her. (Love ya, Mama!)
10. Make my yard perfect - Yeah, yeah, yeah, I've been blaming my neighbors for their super huge trees of darkness for shadowing my yard and killing my grass (it was so pretty when we laid that sod!), but there is a solution. I've just got to figure out what it is and get out there and do it.
11. Learn to bat - I suck at batting. I'm the girl that strikes out most times and hopes to be walked. It's really not that hard. Hit the batting cages and do the dang thing.
12. Have less cocktails - Yeah. I'll work on that.
13. Get up to 4 workouts per week - I feel awesome with my thrice-weekly workouts. I can only imagine how great it would feel to pump it up and workout on more days than I don't.
14. Feel better about results - While we're on that subject, it would be nice to go a little easier on myself about my chub. 28 years and I still don't feel comfortable in my own skin. Seeing that in writing really brings home how pathetic that is. Once again, get over it.
15. Go to a Burning Man thing - HAHA, I've already checked this one off! Phil dragged me to a Burners meeting just last week. And let me say, it was just like you would think it was. Chew on that.
16. Blog more - I love this little bloggie. It has a special place in my heart and it's a great creative outlet. Who cares that 8 people read it?! Those 8 people are special and have a place in my heart for taking ten minutes to see what I have to say. Love you guys!
17. Challenge myself at work - I love my job. I am challenged, but I could do more. I love to write and I get to write at work. I've had articles placed (even with ME in the byline!) and I can do that more. Find an issue, write a piece people want to read and get it placed!
18. Figure out a way to convince the Shupes to grow wine grapes - Five acres of land perfectly sloped on the sunny side of a hill? WHAT A WASTE!
19. Convince the old lady across the street to let us start a U Street garden in her yard - She has a huge yard and is far too old to manage it. Trust me. She walks with two ski poles (hence the nickname "Ski Poles"). We need to ask for the ok and take the initiative and start growing. For her, for our neighbors. Maybe even for perfect strangers who are hungry.
20. Learn our neighbors names - Don't get me wrong, we've met almost all of the people on our street. But we only know two names. Case in point: "Ski Poles," "Electrocution Hair Guy," "Guy with the annoying dog," "German Lady," "Girl who works with fish or something," "Guy who's dog poops on our lawn," "Guy that looks like Lou." We can do better.
21. Ride a horse - Come on, who has never ridden a horse?? Me. (Sad face.)
22. Grow a proper garden - Shupasaurus had a great garden in Bordova. It was so fun to water and tend to, not to mention the booty!
23. Help Kevy Baby get a job - He'll be really bummed he didn't read this. Bahahaha. Oh wait, they don't have internet in Stockton anyway.
24. Go wake to wake - Well, first things first... Any of you have a wakeboarding boat and want to take us out? We have wakeboards and will totally pay for gas. And bring beer.
25. Snuggle more with Rocco and Brewski - Ok, ok, I added this one just because I know I already snuggle too much with them, so CHECK!
26. See the fam more - LA is not that far. They are not getting any younger. I have the coolest family ever and should take advantage of that.
27. Go to New Orleans - Speaking of LA, how about Louisiana?! With a friend that lives there and always offers up a place to stay, it's time to go. Perhaps Mardi Gras circa 30th bday? Hmm..
28. Get more political - It's an election year. And important year. This calls for precinct walking, phone banking and all other kinds of politicking. And I love it, so it's time to pump it up. (This has already been started by attending a Fem Dem event - www.femdem.org - attending a CLCA meeting - and buying a ticket to my first Obama fundraiser. Whoot!
29. Get involved in organizations making our world a better place - Sure, Women for Women International is awesome, but I can do more. We all can do more. So let's do it. Who's with me?! (Ha! That was a trick to see if you read this far! Now I know - one whole person!)
30. Don't stress about 30 - After 30, if you play your cards right, you get another 30. And if you're lucky, maybe even more. So there's still time to cross off those last few items, and to think of more I want to add.
Here's to the next year. The year of getting things done. No excuses. No whining. Let's do it!
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