Why you should be drinking Champagne this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is coming up soon, and if your family is anything like ours, the whole evening is already being planned out, everyone is deciding what dishes they should bring, and what to drink. With so many different dishes being laid out, and realistically everyone eating whatever they want, what champagne will pair best with Thanksgiving dinner? Read below and check out a few of our suggestions.

 Champagne of course! It is the universal favorite, and a classic. Thanksgiving is a celebration and Champagne the end all be all when it comes to celebratory drinks. NASCAR drivers don’t pop bottles of Pinot Noir when they get first place, they pop Champagne. Yes that bubbly drink is the first choice of people who are enjoying life, which is why it pairs perfectly with a Thanksgiving Turkey, mashed potatoes, and any food baby you end up carrying by the end of the night. Plus just opening a bottle of Champagne has become an event of its own, fun for the full family, so long as you don’t hit anyone with the cork. If you need to know how to avoid shooting someone’s eye out this holiday season, here’s a guide to opening bottles of Champagne.

To be technical though all those bubbles really help with pairing Champagne with foods, they help keep the palate fresh and open to the food. Its light style makes going from a mouthful of stuffing to a sweet potato casserole, to cranberry sauce more enjoyable than it already is.  If you’re already looking at Champagnes just know that Champagnes may vary in sweetness and body, but as a general rule, a dry Brut is the safest bet. It’s typically highly acidic, tart, and refreshing, which means it’s the best palate cleanser you could possibly ask for.

Cielo

If you want to dress up your table, no bottle will look better than Sterling Vineyards.  Clad in silver and rose gold, theBlanc de Blancs and Sparkling Rosé from Sterling are ready to present at any seasonal soirée. Available individually for $28 at retailers nationwide, the chic twosome can also be purchased in a gift set, packaged in a sleek black linen box for $75. These bottles will dress up any table throughout the holidays

With the mad rush of menu and party planning, make things a little bit easier with advice from a Thanksgiving pro: Blake Leonard.  Blake Leonard is the daughter of Stew Leonard Jr., and the head of Wine Marketing for Stew’s Wines. While prepping: Blake suggests taking the edge off and finding yourself a little piece of heaven with Cielo Prosecco ($9.99). Cielo, which translates to heaven is Blake’s go-to drink this season. Drink on its own or pair with Aperol for a refreshing spritz.

Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial Rosé

While looking for a drink to go with dessert we recommend Closing out the evening with Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial Rosé (SRP $50), a demi-sec champagne to play off the sweetness of an assortment of pies

If you’re willing to splurge on a really nice aged bottle of Champagne you’ll really get to enjoy the more earthy and autumnal aspects of the drink, which is pretty fitting when you consider what Thanksgiving is all about. Only warning is that if you’re the one buying, and you want to have more than one glass you should knock the first one back quickly. Once you’ve opened a bottle of Champagne you never really need to worry about not finishing it.

Maschio Gummies

For those who want to try something different make your guests Prosecco Gummies, details below!

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Maschio Extra Dry Prosecco

• ½ Cup Sugar

• 3 Tablespoons or 6 packets gelatin

• 2-3 Wine Bottle (or gummy bear if you’d prefer) molds

• 1 cup cranberry juice for color and flavor

Instructions

1. Place the wine, sugar, cranberry and gelatin in a saucepan over medium low heat (if you want to keep the alcohol in, make sure to keep under 90 degrees). Whisk for 2-3 minutes or until sugar and gelatin have dissolved. (Stir in a little pink food coloring if making Rosé gummy bears)

2. Using a glass measuring cup with a spout, pour the mixture over the molds . Use an offset spatula to get rid of the excess and ensure all the molds are filled.

3. Refrigerate for at least 90 minutes.

4. When gelatin has set, bears will easily pop out from mold.

5. Store uneaten wine gummy bears in an airtight container in the refrigerator

By Connor Sherman

How To Have The Perfect Home Bar

As Winter continues to bring us the cold, gone are the days of rooftop bars and to actually go out and brave the cold, what's one to do when you need a drink? You are now at your peak laziest, but you and your friends still want to get their drink on. Best part of Netflix & Chill is being able to make a drink at home without the fight for the bartender and keeping prices relatively low. Sure it’s great when friends decide to bring some over to share with you, but you wouldn’t be caught dead serving a bud light to others. Some of the things you need for a well-stocked bar are really the basics to so you can entertain your friends and yourself with adult drinks. Like your men, your home bar should be diversified, rather than 4 bottles of flavored vodka here is a list of essentials that should be a part of every home bar.

For The Health Nut

When planning on the essentials, the basic liquors are nice, but you're gonna need more than just an arsenal of alcohol to make the perfect drink. Sometimes you're looking for the perfect ingredient to stay (somewhat) healthy, add some Be-Mixed and your halfway there. This mix is - zero sugar, zero cal, all natural and they taste amazing! You can get these flavors in cucumber mint, ginger lime, and margarita.

Your Favorite Blended Malt

Sometimes you just need to show off to your friends. At $80 Usquaebach 15-Year-Old 'Pure' Malt may seem on the higher end but it's worth every drop, I mean cent. The great thing about whisky is at 86 proof it's only 70 calories, being one of the least in all alcohol. Who says you can't be skinny and drunk at the same time? Grabbing for a glass of whiskey is a must while the cold nights at home

Clear Corn Whiskey

What is a clear corn whiskey? Stillhouse Whiskey is
distilled to perfection from a proprietary mash bill of estate-grown corn, unlike novelty 'moonshine' brands on the market which is made from grain neutral spirit, these brands don’t go to the same lengths Stillhouse does to craft their six smooth expressions.

Stillhouse is packaged in a first-of-its-kind, daring red stainless steel can, taking whiskey where glass can't go. These tin canned concoctions are perfect for on the go or for your bar. With flavors like Apple Crisp, Peach Tea, Coconut, Mint Chip or Red Hot, you're destined to the perfect flavor for even the pickiest of guests.

Coffee With Your Tequila

You love tequila and you love coffee, Patron's XO Cafe gives the essence of fine coffee with your tequila making it the perfect go to for when you want something other than another margarita. The Patron XO Cafe is not only perfect on the rocks, but makes for a great mixer, and for those rough mornings, no one will know if you added a bit to your morning coffee. The coffee aroma will keep you up and give variety in your drink, perfect for an updated Irish Carbomb will keep the night going.

The Perfect Coaster

These Coasters from Hendrick's Gin are the perfect compliment for your home bar. No need to worry about your sloppy guests (we have a few) these eye catching coasters will show everyone exactly where to put their drinl. A uniques collaboration with Dempsey & Carroll creates a unique aesthetic. Yhe collection goes beyond coasters to include not only exquisitely designed correspondence cards, but also Stationary as you send invites to your new home bar. If you want something more personal, check out the custom coasters available at Jukeboxprint.

15 Health Benefits of Wine, According to Science (+6 Delicious Recipes)

In times of celebration, a wine toast may be just one of the most awaited part by many. Popping open the cork while the velvety oaked aroma fills the air and flowing effervescent liquid comes out from the bottle gives excitement to everyone.

The bubbly wine is usually used to commemorate joyous occasions in one's life as it symbolizes royalty and reflects love. But aside from taking part in celebrations, wines come with a host of important benefits.

The wine has undergone intensive studies over the years and it has been proven to be an effective elixir. Who says a man needs a fountain of youth to live a long life? Pour yourself a glass of wine from the wine cooler and bottle up some knowledge to find out the surprising benefits.

1. Drinking Wine Supports Longevity of Life

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that can be found most especially in red wines. It is a powerful antioxidant that can be found in grape skin and red grape juice. Antioxidants help the body fight off free radicals that can damage our cells and organs.

Studies show that resveratrol promotes health and longevity by increasing the activity of a protein called sirtuins. Sirtuins are responsible in protecting the body against diseases of aging. (1)

Several studies have suggested that alcohol consumption, particularly wines, have shown health benefits that lead to longer life spans. Nonetheless, these studies emphasize that positive benefits only come with moderate consumption.

Key Takeaway: If you want to protect your body against diseases of aging, consuming a moderate amount of wine gives positive health benefits that may lead to long life.

2. Drinking Wine Helps Keep Our Hearts Healthy

Since ancient times, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have become a known, life-threatening problem for the world.

According to World Health Organization (WHO), up to the present time, many people are still dying annually from CVD than from any other diseases and it has been the number 1 cause of mortality and morbidity all around the globe. (2)

Many researchers have shown that intake of polyphenols is associated with a reduced risk of CVD, and there are many other polyphenol health benefits when it comes to things like your blood. Wines contain polyphenols which can be actively found in flavonoids that also has putative antioxidant properties.

These polyphenols once again are called resveratrol which may help protect the lining of the blood vessel in the heart. Consuming 1 to 2 drinks per day (4 to 8 ounces) may reduce the risk of CVDs.

Drinking wine may help in decreasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) also known as bad cholesterol which may cause artery damage while increasing the 

Many researchers have shown that intake of polyphenols is associated with a reduced risk of CVD. Wines contain polyphenols which can be actively found in flavonoids that also has putative antioxidant properties.

These polyphenols once again are called resveratrol which may help protect the lining of the blood vessel in the heart. Consuming 1 to 2 drinks per day (4 to 8 ounces) may reduce the risk of CVDs.

Drinking wine may help in decreasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) also known as bad cholesterol which may cause artery damage while increasing the body’s high-density lipoprotein (HDL) which also known as good cholesterol which may reduce the risk for heart disease. Moreover, wine prevents the formation of blood clots. (3)

Key Takeaway: Drinking 4 to 8 ounces of wine per day may lower the risk of having CVD because of the polyphenols that it contains.

3. Drinking Wine Can Help Reduce The Risk Of Type-2 Diabetes

Type-2 Diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus) is a lifelong metabolic disorder that is characterized by the way your body metabolizes glucose (sugar). Sugar levels build up in your bloodstream because there’s no enough insulin that can regulate the movement of sugar into your cells. (4)

The number of people suffering from diabetes has risen from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014 and diabetes prevalence has been rising more rapidly up to the present time. According to American Diabetes Association (ADA), drinking red wine - or any moderate amount of alcoholic beverages can lower blood sugar up to 24 hours.

However, people with Type-2 Diabetes have typically been advised to reduce their alcohol consumption to have a better control of their blood glucose levels. Because of this, ADA recommends checking your blood sugar before you drink, while you drink and after you drink to make sure that it is on the safe level.

Do not drink on an empty stomach because it can lower glucose level even further.

Key Takeaway: Wine drinking can lower blood sugar up to 24 hours in moderate consumption.

4. Wine Has Been Found To Have Anticancer Effects

Cancer ranks the second leading cause of death in the world. Cancer developed from the transformation of normal cells into tumor cells that may be malignant or benign.

Wines contain antioxidants - a substance that may prevent cell damage. Anti-oxidants found in wine such as resveratrol, quercetin, catechin and gallic acid destroys cancer cells and improving the effectiveness of radiation and chemotherapy cancer treatments.

These antioxidants make tumor cells more sensitive to radiation and making normal tissue less sensitive. (5)

Do not underestimate the growing power of a bottle of red. Red grape, one of the basic ingredients in red wine, suppresses the activity of aromatase which can be an effective approach to preventing the development of breast cancer.

Also, a recent study shows that three or more glasses wine in a week can lower the chances of having abnormal colon growth that can lead to colon cancer.

Red wine could be a key to fighting prostate cancer too. Thanks to the grape compound called resveratrol that makes tumor cells more sensitive to treatment. Researchers have found that an average of four to seven glasses of wine per week gives only 52% chances to men of having prostate cancer than for those who do not drink.

Key Takeaway: Wine contains antioxidants which can help prevent cancer and improve the efficacy of cancer therapies.

5. The Nutrients In Wine Can Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

People growing always have the fear of losing all their precious memories. Some believe it is inevitable, however, there are literally hundreds of ways that one can prevent it. One of these methods is by drinking wine.

Dementia is a chronic or persistent disorder of the mental process that is gradually taking place during old age. Studies show that wine consumption can reduce the risk of having dementia which often leads to Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a developing mental deterioration that can occur as one aged. Again, resveratrol found in wines help in keeping blood vessels open, so that essential supply of oxygen and glucose can move freely to the brain to keep it alive and working. (6)

Key Takeaway: Resveratrol which can be found on wine keeps the blood vessels free from blockages that can affect brain functions in retaining memories.

6. Drinking Wine Can Keep Depression At Bay

Depression has been common but serious disorder for some people because it can affect how you feel, think and handle everyday activities. This may sound contradicting, as most people know that alcohol consumption can worsen one's depression or anxiety. In spite of that, drinking a glass of wine per week can turn into a depression-fighting depressant.

A seven-year study conducted by PREDIMED analyzed 5,500 individuals of light to moderate drinkers and found that individuals who drank two to seven glasses of wine in a week were less prone to depression than non-drinkers.

Again, this is about drinking in moderation because on the same study those who drank heavy alcoholic beverages were more prone to depression. (7)

Key Takeaway: Enjoying two to seven glasses of wine in a week may be your remedy for depression.

7. Drinking Wine Can Give You Healthier Skin

High levels of antioxidants in wine, when applied directly to the skin can inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria and are beneficial in maintaining a healthy skin. Antioxidants rejuvenate the skin, increase skin elasticity and keep the skin bright and glowing.

In consuming wine as a drink, wine can stimulate blood circulation that can prevent wrinkle formation and skin aging. However, when one drinks in excess, it makes hormone flow lose its balance and may cause skin dehydration and aggravate chances of acne. (8)

Key Takeaway: Wine contains antioxidants and polyphenols that are essential to keep the skin healthy.

8. Drinking Wine Reduces The Risk Of Fatty Liver Disease

There are two types of fatty liver disease, one is an alcoholic liver disease (ALD) which is characterized by drinking lots of alcohol and the other is a non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) which cause is not clearly known but it has been associated with obesity. (9).

Nearly 12,000 individuals were studied and said to have NAFLD in the US and modest wine consumption has shown some benefit in reducing this disease. Drinkers who consume tolerable amounts of wine, as compared to those who do not drink at all, have reduced their risk to NAFLD in half.

Then again, modest beer or liquor drinkers have a greater probability of having NAFLD because alcohol is a known liver toxin. Antioxidants in wine help reduce damage in DNA cells, which could benefit damaged liver cells. (10)

Key Takeaway: Drinking of wine in moderation can benefit the liver cells that can prevent the risk of having fatty liver disease.

9. Drinking Wine Can Help Prevent Obesity

There is a difference between overweight and obesity. Overweight refers to an excess amount of body weight that may come from muscles, bone, fat and water. Obesity, on the other hand, refers to excessive amounts of body fat.

Based on Global Health Observatory (GHO) data, at least 2.8 million people in the world die each year as a result of being overweight or obese. (11)

Wine, specifically white wine, contains the antioxidant called epicatechin, quercetin, and resveratrol. These antioxidants can lower levels of cholesterol and may also support weight loss by burning belly fats and by decreasing inflammation commonly associated with obesity. (12)

Key Takeaway: White wine promotes weight loss by burning belly fat and by decreasing anti-inflammatory properties.

10. Wine Can Help Reduce The Risk Of Stroke

Stroke occur when the blood supply to the brain has been blocked which is called the ischemic type of stroke or blood vessels within the brain burst which is called the hemorrhagic type of stroke. These two types of stroke are sometimes not fatal but prevention has always been better than cure.

Alcohol is well-established as one of the causes of stroke, on the other hand, wine has been linked to stroke prevention because of its unique chemical composition. Resveratrol in red wine decreases inflammation that can contribute to brain injury caused by stroke.

Moreover, resveratrol in wine fights free radicals that are produced before, during and after stroke. These free radicals are harmful because they damage cells in the blood vessel and making the brain prone from bleeding and blockage.

The chemical reaction of resveratrol promotes the process called neuroprotection, which protects the nerves and surrounding blood vessel from damage. (13)

Key Takeaway: Wine decreases inflammation that can cause blockage in the nerves which may lead to stroke.

11. Drinking Wine Helps Boost Your Body’s Defenses

Daily consumption of wine can boost immune system according to researchers. Ethanol, the chemical component of alcoholic beverages and wine as well helps boost the potency of vaccinations. (14)

Drinking wine in moderation can help develop immunity that can fight against 200 viruses. Wine contains high levels of antioxidants in the form of flavonoids which can combat strongly against viruses. (15)

As a proof, red wine can help cure the symptoms of flu and cold. The polyphenol resveratrol can prevent viruses from multiplying once they have entered the body’s system.

Key Takeaway: Daily consumption of wine helps boost the immune system as it contains a high level of antioxidants which fight against viruses.

12. Drinking Wine Strengthens The Bones

Past researchers have associated moderate wine drinking with improved bone density. As human age, bones are becoming thinner and weaker. New studies show that drinking wine in moderation may help reduce the risk of having osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that is most common to women after they have reached the menopausal stage. Osteoporosis makes the bone brittle and more fragile with an increased susceptibility to bone fracture. (16)

One or two glasses of wine per day can protect women from thinning bones. It appears that modest consumption of wine bridges the imbalance between the dissolving old bone and poor production of new bone that can lead to osteoporosis in older women. (17)

Key Takeaway: Osteoporosis can be lessened through modest consumption of wine in older women

13. Wine Can Protect Our Teeth Against Dental Plaque

Wine may help prevent dental caries by inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria found in oral biofilm according to researches done by American Chemical Society. Wine can slow down the growth of bacteria that can cause cavities. (18)

Polyphenols, wine, and grape seed extract can slow down the growth of bacteria responsible for the formation of plaque and tooth decay. Though red wine can help reduce these bacteria optimal oral health still results from daily dental hygiene.

Brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist are still the best recommendations, but including wine into your diet can increase your defenses against dozens of possible teeth and gum diseases. Since wines are known to prevent Alzheimers as stated in the fifth benefit, it can therefore prevent potential dental problems brought by Alzheimer's disease.

Key Takeaway: Wine can inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause tooth decay. Nonetheless, daily dental hygiene routine is still the best way to protect our teeth from decaying.

14. Drinking Wine Can Improve Our Eyesights

Ophthalmologist, Milind Pande, from Vision Surgery, says that the resveratrol which can be found in wine may be beneficial to the eyes. Resveratrol prevents age-related deteriorations of eye muscles. One of these age-related deteriorations of eye muscles is called Macular Degeneration.

Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss and is considered as incurable eye disease. This is the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, which is called the macula, which records the images we see.

The macula is the one responsible for your ability to read, recognize, and see objects in fine details. Resveratrol which can be found in wine and grapes prevent the growth of blood vessel in the eyes that can lead to macular degeneration. (19)

Key Takeaway: Wine can prevent age-related deteriorations of eye muscles. So, say goodbye to carrots and drink up your wine for better eye health.

15. Wine Can Help Prevent Gallstones

The gallbladder is an organ located under the liver. It stores bile which is responsible for our body’s fat digestion. Although, gallbladder itself is not important and formation of gallstones may not actually be a problem. At times when gallstone is pushed out of the gallbladder, there’s a tendency that it might get stuck in the bile duct which can cause you a lot of pain.Gallstones are hard and have the same appearance as pebbles. (20)

Researchers have suggested moderate consumption of wine prevent the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder after they have studied the dietary habits of 25, 639 patients for over 10 years, during which time 267 patients developed gallstones. Successful research showed that patients who consumed 175ml of wine per day decrease the chance of developing gallstones by thirty-two percent. (21)

Key Takeaway: To avoid future complications caused by gallstones, it is advised to consume 175ml of wine per day to decrease the chance of developing gallstones.

6 Delicious Recipes

Thinking about winemaking, most likely you’ll immediately think that it’s going to be a tedious procedure because of wine, as we all know, has to undergone fermentation to achieve excellent quality.

Well, in fact, you don’t have to be a master vintner or have expensive equipment to make wine. Making homemade wine from all-natural ingredients like fruits is manageable, enjoyable and worth every sip.

One can also add wine in their dishes to add a unique and smooth taste in their food. This method has been done by top level chefs around the world to impress their customers. So, let the fermenting and cooking begin!

1. Elegant Strawberry Wine

Strawberries are rich in fiber, folic acid, potassium and it is said to be a good source of Vitamin C. With strawberries as your base fruit have you foreseen how healthy is your wine can be?

Ingredients:

• 3 kilograms of whole washed clean strawberries

• 23 liters of hot water

• 1 whole lemon juice

• 2.2 kilograms of organic sugar

Method:

1. Crush strawberries in a large ceramic Jar.

2. Pour in the hot water and then pour in the lemon juice and mix thoroughly for 2 - 3 minutes.

3. Cover the jar with a very clean fine cloth and let it sit in a dark and cool place. Stir every single day for about a week.

4. After the first week, strain the strawberry liquid into a clean bow. Use two layers of cheesecloth for straining. Throw away the leftover pulp.

5. Mix the strained strawberry liquid with the organic sugar and stir, pour the mixture into another clean ceramic jar and leave it be for another week, remember to stir daily again.

6. After week two, transfer the strawberry liquid into glass bottles and lightly cork.

7. Store in a dark and cool place for three months to turn into wine.

8. When you notice that the wine is already clear and no more bubbles are showing, transfer the wine into multiple wine bottles, Seal with a cork and let it ferment for at least a year before consuming.

9. After the long wait, serve it to your friends and families to impress them with your amazing wine brewing skills.

2. Amazing Cherry Wine

Cherry is a shiny red or purple tiny fruit packed with health-benefiting nutrients and antioxidants.

Ingredients:

• 3 kgs. of clean washed cherries

• 4 liters of drinking water

• 2 kgs. of organic white sugar

• 1 tablespoon of brewing yeast

Method:

1. Clean the cherries with running water thoroughly, make sure to remove the stems.

2. Pour boiled water onto it and put them under a wine press for five to six days.

3. Pass the cherry juice through a cheesecloth to remove the pulp. Add yeast and sugar to begin with the fermentation process. Add a bit of lemon juice if you want.

4. Set the jug in a dry and warm place during the fermentation.

5. The process is done after fermenting for several weeks. Shake the jar and let it ferment for another four or five months to finish making the wine..

6. Transfer the wine into separate wine bottles let them ferment for as much as you prefer.

7. Other from plainly drinking the wine you made, you can also add it to any dish that you cook. The wine would add a unique taste to your dish!

3. Braised Chicken with Red Wine

Having a romantic French dinner? Sauvignon Blanc adds zip to the lemon-and-caper-infused liquid.

Ingredients:

• 8 pcs of chicken thighs

• Table salt

• All-purpose flour for breading

• 2 tbsp. of butter, unsalted

• 2 tbsp. of olive oil

• 4 large garlic cloves,peeled and crushed

• Freshly ground pepper

• 1 1/2 cups of Sauvignon Blanc

• 1 1/2 cups of chicken stock, preferably homemade

• Four pieces of lemon zests

• 4 sprigs of thyme

• 1 tablespoon of drained capers

• 1 piece of bay leaf twig

• 1 cup of red wine

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Dust the chicken with flour and season with salt and pepper.

3. Melt the butter and oil together in a large ovenproof skillet.

4. Fry the chicken with the skin-side down, and let it cook over medium-high heat. Cooked both sides for about 12-14 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

5. Place the chicken into a large platter, leave about a tablespoon of oil in the skillet.

6. Place the garlics into the skillet and saute over medium-low heat until it becomes softened, this would usually take about 5 minutes.

7. Pour in the red wine and let it boil over high heat. Let it boil until about half of the mixture has evaporated.

8. Combine the lemon zest, the stock, capers, thyme, and bay leaf and boil.

9. Replace the chicken skin-side up to the pan.

10. For about 50 minutes, braise the skillet in your oven, do this until the meat becomes tender.

11. Replace the skillet to your stove and boil for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly lessened.

12. Remove unwanted seasoning remains if you want. Serve and enjoy!

4. Red Wine Pork Tenderloin

Try this very easy to fix, and very rich tasting pork dish.

Ingredients:

• A kilogram of pork tenderloin

• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced

• 1 stalk of celery, chopped

• 1/2 tps. of table salt

• 1/2 tps. of ground black pepper

• 1/2 tps. of powdered garlic

• 2 cups of red wine

• A packet of ready made gravy mix

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

2. Place pork in a large baking dish, and season the meat with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place onions and celeries on top of the meat, then pour wine all over it.

3. Bake the pork tenderloin for 45 minutes.

4. After baking, remove the pork tenderloin from the large baking dish, and transfer to a large platter. In the baking dish, mix the gravy mix , wine and cooking juices. Stir the mixture until it thickens. Slice the pork tenderloin into desired sizes and cover with gravy.

5. Serve and enjoy! I recommend that you eat it with baked potatoes.

5. Shrimp Linguini With White Wine

This shrimp linguini is so easy to make, can be done in minutes, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz of linguine pasta

• 1 tbsp. of olive oil

• 6 clove of garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup of broth from chicken

• 60 mL of white wine

• 1 juice from squeezed lemon

• 1/2 tsp. of lemon zest

• Salt to taste

• 2 tsp of freshly ground black pepper

• 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled

• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter

• 3 tsp of parsley, fresh and chopped

• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil

Method:

1. Pour water in a large pot, then lightly sprinkle it with salt. Transfer the pot to a stove and let it boil.

2. Cook the linguine in the pot until al dente or for about 10-14 minutes.

3. Preheat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat and sauté the garlic for about a minute.

4. Combine the wine, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, pepper, and salt.

5. Lower the flames, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until half of the liquid has evaporated.

6. Throw in butter, shrimp, basil, and parsley into the saucepan. Cook for 3 to 4 more minutes, until the shrimp turns opaque.

7. Add in the al dente linguine, and mix to well coat the with the sauce. Cook it for about 2 more minutes.

8. Serve and enjoy!

6. Cheesecake with Wine Jellies

This cheesecake infused with wine is a unique and new kind of wine-and-cheese-pairing.

Ingredients:

Cheesecakes:

• 3 tbsp of melted unsalted butter

• 7 pieces of graham crackers

• 1/2 cup of organic sugar

• 1 tablespoon of organic sugar

• 1 medium to large egg

• 1 medium egg yolk

• ¼ tsp of salt

• 10 ½ oz log of softened fresh goat cheese

• 1/2 cup of crème fraîche

• 2 tbsp or 5 oz of crème fraîche

• Wine Jellies:

• 1 pack of unflavoured gelatine

• 2 1/2 tablespoons chilled drinking water

• 3 tbsp of orange Muscat

• 3 tbsp of rosé

• 3 tbsp of Pinot Noir

• 3 tbsp of tawny port

• 4 tsp of white sugar

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Place a parchment paper on a baking sheet. Create four pieces of 3-inch circles with a shirt cardboard.

3. Spread butter on the insides of the four 3-inch circles and 2 ½ inch in depth ring molds.

4. Using a food processor, grind the melted butter with the graham crackers, add a tablespoon of the sugar.

5. Place the molds on the baking sheet that you have lined with parchment paper, then place the cardboard rounds on each mold’s bottom. Trim the cardboard to make it perfectly fit.

6. Distribute the crushed graham crackers with butter on each mold, and then firmly press them to compact. Bake it for about 10 to 12 minutes, and set aside to cool.

7. While waiting, using a bowl, and a handheld mixer, beat the egg yolk, egg, salt and the remaining half cup of sugar at medium-low speed for about 2 minutes or until it becomes pale and fluffy

8. Include the goat cheese and continue to beat to make it smooth. Add in the in the crème fraîche, fold gently. After doing so, transfer the mixture into the graham molds and smooth out the top.

9. Bake until the cheesecakes are set or for about 25 minutes, prevent it from browning. Set aside the cheesecake for 10 minutes to let it cool, and then refrigerate for at least an hour, or until it it chilled.

10. Boil a cup of water then dip a sharp knife into it. When the knife heats up, remove it and dry it immediately. Gently pass the blade around the each cheesecake edges. Carefully press the cardboard bottoms of each mold to get the cheesecake out of the molds, replace the removed cheesecakes into another baking sheet.

11. Cut four strips of parchment paper tha are long and high enough to cover the edges of the cheesecakes. Wrap each cheesecake with the parchment paper strips to help them keep their shapes. Make sure to secure it with a tape.

12. In a separate medium bowl, combine cold water and the gelatin powder and gently combine by stirring. Microwave the gelatin at medium power until the gelatin full melts or for about 20 seconds.

13. In separate ramekins, Pour the 4 different types of wine. Include 2 tsp of the white sugar to the rosé; and also to the Pinot Noir, microwave the ramekins for about 18-20 seconds. After microwaving stir gently to fully dissolve the sugar.

14. Pour 1 tsp of the previously melted gelatin into each of the 4 wine ramekins. Set the wines aside and let cool completely. Each ramekin of wine jellies gets poured on one of the cheesecakes you made. Refrigerate it for about 20 minutes or until chilled and set.

15. Gently remove the parchment molds from each cheesecake and serve!

Wrapping It Up

Wines have been many things to us over the years. The wine has undergone numerous studies which have found various connections between improving the quality of life and its consumption. In the ancient times, due to the scarcity of water, the wine has become an essential need in life rather than a luxury, so it came to symbolize sustenance and life.

Even in the earliest of times, wine has proven its worth when it comes to sustaining life. Up to now, there are still on-going researches on why wine is considered as one of the most powerful elixirs known to man.

However, anything in excess is bad for one’s life. The first thing to realize is that the dose matters. Many studies give the results in glasses per day or week. Anyhow, saving the drinks up during the week to binge over the weekend has been shown to be associated with zero health benefits and is in fact associated with the conditions linked to chronic, heavy alcohol abuse.

So pop up some bottle in your fridge! Savor every sip and feel the velvety texture of your wine as you drink. Wine a bit and just a little bit more. Yet, always remember to drink moderately.

This was originally published on Jen Reviews

What Is a Horizontal Tasting?

Are people always asking you how to get into wine? You've already done the research and drank the bottles but now you can host your very own Horizontal Tasting to teach those who are a little unfamiliar.  This is one of the easiest ways to teach beginner level wine drinkers about specific regions of the world. 

All you need to do is set-up a tasting with one grape varietal, such as Pinot Noir, to showcase how different weather, temperature, and soil can create a big difference of aromatics and flavor in your glass. You and your group will taste through each wine recognizing characteristics like aromatics, texture, acid, tannin, and flavors and as you move to the next wine each guest will see, smell and taste the change in region.

Below is our selection of wines for you to try during your next horizontal tasting. Feel free to get creative make your own Horizontal Tasting using other types of wines.

California- Sonoma County Region: St. Francis Winery Pinot Noir 2014v

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards source their Pinot Noir fruit from the cooler areas of Sonoma County where fog from the Pacific Ocean rolls in at night during the summer, dropping temperatures substantially. This natural air-conditioning allows the grapes to develop deep flavors while retaining natural acidity. To capture the distinct varietal characteristics of each vineyard, the lots are fermented separately starting with a five to ten day cold soak to extract optimal color and flavor. 

Food Pairing: Pairs well with salmon, roast chicken, grilled vegetables and light pasta dishes.

Argentina- Río Negro Valley Region: BARDA BY BODEGA CHACRA 2014v 

Barda is 100% Pinot Noir. The fruit is produced at “Treinta y Dos” and “Cincuenta y Cinco” vineyards, with 20-year-old vines. The fruit is hand harvested with no automated mechanization used at any stage of the production process.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with roast beef, salmon, swordfish, and pasta's with meat or seafood sauces.

Burgundy Region: Maison Louis Jadot Gevrey-Chambertin, Clos Saint Jacques Premier Cru 2013v 

There are 26 Premiers Crus in Gevrey-Chambertin, of which half are located in the valley called Combe de Lavaux, on calcareous and clay soil with marl. Clos Saint Jacques is oriented to the southeast and has only five owners. The Pinot Noir grapes are fermented in vats for up to 4 weeks, and then the wine is matured in oak barrels for 18 to 20 months.

Food Pairing: Serve with game, meats, mushroom dishes and strong cheeses.

Barda 2014

Gevrey-Chambertin Clos Saint Jacques Premier Cru

Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2014

5 Drinks To Quench Your Thirst This Labor Day Weekend

Cucumber Fizz

Labor Day: herald as the last hurrah as summer ends and autumn starts in full swing. So for whatever you're doing this labor day, whether it's heading to the beach for one final swim or staying at home to chill out Monday, here are some cocktails to celebrate Labor Day. 

Cucumber Fizz - By Patti Scarff, Kalamazoo, MI 

• 2 basil leaves 
• 3 thin slices of cucumber 
• 1 oz gin 
• 1 oz simple syrup 
• 3 oz Mionetto Prosecco DOC Treviso Brut

Muddle basil and cucumber, and then shake with gin, simple syrup, and ice.  Strain into a coupe and top with Mionetto Prosecco. Garnish with a basil leaf.

Gin Blush - Created by the mixology team at The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel and available at The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel

• 2 oz. NOLET’S Silver Gin
• 1 oz. Chambord
• 1 oz. Raspberry Puree
• 1/2 oz. Lemon Juice

Shake all ingredients with ice, strain and serve in champagne flute or coupe glass and garnish with a raspberry.

Frozé - Created by James Cottenham and available at Infirmary in NYC

• .25 oz. Campari
• 4 oz. Janeil Rose
• .25 oz. Giffard Pamplemousse
• .5 oz. Amaretto
• .5 oz Orzata Syrup
• 1 oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice

Juicy Fruit

• 3 oz Sam Adams Rebel Juiced IPA
• 2 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Grapefruit Juice

Build in wine glass, add ice and garnish with half Grapefruit wheel.

Campari Froze

Gin Blush 

Juicy Fruit

Daybreak Roaster

Daybreak Roaster

• 1 oz. DEWAR’S 12 Blended Scotch Whisky
• 1 oz. coconut water
• 1 oz. cold brew coffee
• ½ oz pandan syrup (recipe below)
• 1 pinch malic acid (or ⅓ oz. lemon juice)
• 2 oz. tonic

Mix all ingredients with ice in a rocks glass. Top with tonic.

To make pandan syrup:

Boil 3-4 pandan leaves in 2 cups of water. Add 2 cups of sugar and stir to dissolve. Strain into a glass bottle and keep refrigerated for up to one week. (You can buy pandan leaves online or in many Asian supermarkets.)

Cocktails To Celebrate National Rum Day

You don’t have to be in the caribean  to enjoy a refreshing rum based cocktail

With National Rum day today, we are gathering our favorite cocktail recipetes to celebrate the day through the summer sunset.

“My favorite variation of the Classic Daiquiri, this is inspired by the Floridita cocktail but uses aged Flor de Caña rum instead of white rum for a bit more complexity.  I add in a thin orange twist to brighten the citrus notes.” – Ashela Richardson Flor de Caña Ambassador

For a Classic Rum Cocktail: 

Daiquiri al Marrasquino created by Ambassador, Ashela Richardson

• 1.5 Part Flor de Caña 7
• ¾ Part Fresh Lime Juice
• ½ Part Simple Syrup (1.5:1 Sugar: Water)
• ¼ Part Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
• Shake Vigorously and strain into Coupe
• Garnish with Orange Peel
• Daiquiri: Coupe Glass

For your Piña Colada Lovers: 

Piña Colada Fresca created by Ambassador, Ashela Richardson

• 1 ½ parts Flor de Caña 7
• 1 part coconut water
• 1 part fresh pineapple juice
• ½ part fresh orange juice
• Swizzle over crushed ice and top with nutmeg and orange slice

For those looking for something NEW: 

Agua Colada created by Ambassador, Ashela Richardson

• 1 ½ part Flor de Caña 7
• 1 part coconut water
• ¾ part fresh orange juice
• ¼ part fresh lime juice
• ½ pineapple gomme syrup
• Serve: pebble ice
• Garnish: grated nutmeg

Stormy Night

Created by Nils Boese, Jägermeister Global Brand Ambassador, Hildesheim, Germany

• ½ part Jagermeister
• 1 part Rum
• ½ part Fresh Lime Juice
• Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer

Build in Collins glass and top off with ginger ale or ginger beer.

The Salty Bird - Created by Lauren Schell

•  .75 oz. Campari
• 1.5 oz. Cruzan Black Strap Rum
• 1.5 oz. Fresh Pineapple Juice
• .5 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
• .5 oz. Simple Syrup
• Pinch of Salt

Combine all ingredients, shake and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with a pinch of salt, dehydrated pineapple.

A Break From Rosé We're Drinking Red

On most summer day and nights we have been guzzling #RoséAllDay but wanting to drink a red that'll satisfy even the biggest Brosé. 

Hard to hear that one can pass up a Whispering Angel for a red? Even red wine can be described as light and fruity and make for a great summer drink while chilled. Check out our suggestions for you to drink tonight. Sangria anyone?

Chilean wine is known for its high-quality product but low and affordable prices. For the best summer red, we recommend Carménère as its herbaceous peppercorn-like flavor both compliments and brings out the smoky flavors you would often find at your typical summer BBQ. Instead of adding to the richness and sweetness of BBQ foods,  Make sure to grill up some succulent meats and crisp veggies and pour yourself a glass (or two) of Carménère at your next BBQ for the ultimate summer 

“The keys to summer reds are three fold: lighter fruit flavors, high acidity to keep the wine refreshing, and wines that you serve cooler (like 50˚F). There is a distinct set of wines that fit the bill and they, themselves come from cooler climates (which usually produce lighter reds with higher acidity). I love lighter style Zweigelt or Sankt Laurent from Austria, German Pinot Noir (called Spätburgunder), Beaujolais from Burgundy, and Pinot Noir from Sancerre in the Loire Valley. Mencía from Spain can be fantastic too, if it’s the more berry, minerally style (versus a spicier version that may be too much for summer). Each of these has a “lightness of being” about them that makes them lively and fresh. 

And here’s a shopping tip for the readers: If you’re not sure if something will be heavy or light, take a look at the alcohol level. Any red above 13.5% ABV is going to be a bit too heavy to qualify as a summer red! "

— Elizabeth Schneider host of the popular "Wine for Normal People" podcast and author of a forthcoming, reimagined basic wine book, called "Wine for Normal People."

Beaujolais is light-bodied, low-tannin, refreshing, and best served chilled. made with iconic Beaujolais producer Georges Duboeuf, whose wide portfolio of appellation-driven Flower Label wines and Cru Beaujolais bottlings are ideal for summer. The Flower portfolio is the 2015 Beaujolais-Villages, a vibrant, fruit-driven wine which over-delivers for the cost, and serves as an excellent introduction for anyone interested in exploring the high-quality side of Beaujolais. 

Beaujolais

Carmenère

Riunite

Light and well-balanced, Riunite Lambrusco is perfect for every occasion. Enjoyable and straight forward, its easy drinkability make it a favorite with a wide variety of foods, including spicy fare.

Looking to learn how to make a great sangria? Check their recipe below.

Classic Red Sangria
1 750ml bottle of Riunite Lambrusco
1 lemon, 1 orange, 1 peach, 1 ripe green apple, sliced
½ cup orange juice
¼ cup Brandy (optional)
¼ cup Triple Sec
1 can of lemon-lime soda

Combine the sliced fruit, brandy and triple sec in a pitcher. Add Riunite Lambrusco, orange juice and lemon-lime soda.

Patrón Reveals New $399 Bottle With Partner Guillermo del Toro

Today Patrón announces it's newest partnership with Guillermo del Toro with a bottle pricing at $399. This partnership marks one of the first collaborations in which del Toro has engaged outside of the entertainment industry, and among a handful of partnerships carefully selected by Patrón over its long history.

The Patrón x Guillermo del Toro partnership includes 2 new bottles. one of them being a limited-edition 750ml bottle of extra añejo tequila sits upside down as the “torso”. This  includes a blend  of rare Patrón tequilas aged for an average of more than five years in a combination of different new and used oak barrels

Patrón

While a 100ml bottle is also available with aged orange liqueur, sits on top, a skull exquisitely carved into the crystal. Complementing that tequila is the smaller bottle, a first-of-its-kind aged Patrón orange liqueur produced from aged Patrón tequila. 

The blend is much different from your go to Silver Patrón, as this has a bright golden color with sweet notes of honey, raisins vanilla and oak. While the orange liqueur has a sweet aroma of citrus and French Toast.

Only a very limited number of sets were produced, and are currently available at fine spirits and liquor retailers across the country for the suggested retail price of 399.

How To Celebrate Bastille Day Without Leaving Home

The fourteenth of July marks Bastille Day, the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy. Although you may not want to go out for a French dinner, we've conducted the best way to celebrate in the comforts of your own loft. Check out this guide to celebrating like the French person you want to be, at least for a day.

The New Whispering Angel

Coming from the Whispering Angel family, Rock Angel is transparent pale in color and has delicate red berry aromas on the nose. On the palate, it has floral notes with a touch of spice; complemented by a long, dry finish. With greater intensity and more richness than Whispering Angel, Rock Angel is a food-driven wine that will pair well with a variety of hor d’oeuvres and entrees.

Originating from Château d'Esclans, a prestigious estate and winery in Provence, France producing some of the finest and top-selling rosé wines in the world. Château d’Esclans celebrates its 10th anniversary vintage of its flagship Whispering Angel under the leadership of Sacha Lichine, who has elevated these wines to the premium, prestigious level he envisioned for Provence rosé. 

Patte From Dean & Deluca

Exclusively at Dean & Delcua, Dufour Gourmet by Chef Aurélien Dufour is proud to present the finest handmade pâtés, sausages and specialty meats that will delight all food lovers’ taste buds. Each product is handcrafted with care by Chef Aurélien using traditional French techniques and the highest quality of meats. 

Our pick to try is the Duck & Fig Pâté. A modern combination of sweet and savory coarsely ground duck pâté perfectly balanced with dry Turkish figs and caramelized shallots in red wine.  Ingredients: pork meat, duck meat, shallots, Turkish dry figs, salt, ground pepper, nutmeg, sugar, brandy, cream, eggs.

Dean & Deluca, 560 Broadway, New York, NY, 10012

Cheese From Murrays

Who doesn;t love a cheese plate? While there are so many selections Murray's offers a complete French cheese selection for you to pick up, without being mistaken for another country like last year.

Murray's Cheese, 254 Bleeker St

Ladurée Macaroons

There's nothing quite as enticing as these crispy, yet chewy, French pastries. Hopefully you already waited in the infamous Ladurée line to pick up a box for your friends, otherwise you may want to postpone your holiday festivities. Atleast with the Summer heat François Payard offers a macaron ice cream sandwich to keep you cool, go ahead and grab one (or five).

Maison St-Germain VIP Opening Night Hosted By Lily Kwong

Last night in New York, Chloe Wise, Ben Bronfman, and Kate Foley celebrated with model-turned-landscape artist, Lily Kwong, to kick off the first day of summer at the VIP Opening of Maison St-Germain. In celebration of the thousands of delicate elderflowers harvested once a year to create St-Germain French liqueur, Lily Kwong created a geometric hedge maze and canopy of fresh flora and fauna with Dan Flavin-inspired luminosity for the exclusive private event which took place on the High Line.

The bohemian-chic crowd mingled throughout the immersive installation, sipping on St-Germain cocktail pairings by St-Germain Global Ambassador Camille Ralph Vidal, with beats by DJ Mia Moretti, while fabulous French hors d’oeuvres were served throughout. The evening was layered with performances by Artistic director Mafalda Millies and choreographer Nathan Mitchell, who teamed up to present the The-Solar-Do-Nothing-Dance. In honor of the longest day of the year when the earth’s axis is most aligned with the sun, their spinning and sparkling performance-take-over, paid homage to one of the first devices to convert solar energy to electricity: Charles and Ray Eames' Solar-Do-Nothing Machine (1957).

Notable guests included: Jenné Lombardo, Cleo Wade, Ben Bronfman (musician),Rushka Bergman, Timo Weiland, Sabine Heller, Kate Greer, Margot, Kate Foley, Ben Pundhole, Eddie Granger, Martha Hunt, Jacquelyn Jablonski, Georgia Fowle, Brianna Lance, Britt Maren, Mariah Strongin (model), Mari Malek, Aurora James, Browne Andrews, Cara Santana, Garrett Neff, and socials, TK and Cipriana Quann, Kelly Framel, Jenny Albright, and Julia Loomis.Following the VIP opening, the installation will be up for select consumers the next day before florals and foliage are donated to non-profit organization, Roots of Peace, which is led by model-turned philanthropist Kyleigh Kuhn.

Photos courtesy of BFA

Looking to bring this type of party in your own home? Make one of their signature cocktails the Printemps

• 1 oz Oxley gin
• 3/4 oz St-Germain French elderflower liqueur
• 3/4 oz Martini Ambratto
• 2 dashes orange blossom salive solution
• Rock glass – basil flower (or just basil)

“The Printemps cocktail is fresh like spring – incorporating basil, orange blossom, and of course St-Germain. There is an interesting blend of botanical and floral notes with a slight bitterness.” – Camille Ralph Vidal, St-Germain Global Ambassador