On this episode of Crystal Palate’s Wine Country, I am talking with Nicole Abiouness of Abiouness Wines. Nicole is a Virginia native turned California winemaker who is getting quite a reputation for her Pinot Noir. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I thought it was the perfect time to learn more about this elegant and…
Welcome to Crystal Palate’s Wine Country! My guest this week is Christine Vrooman, owner of Ankida Ridge Vineyards in Amherst, VA. Ankida is known as “The Little Burgundy” of Virginia. The name Ankida is an ancient sumerian term that means where heaven and earth join. One trip to this majestic property you quickly understand why…
Tis the season for love, laughter, beautiful brides, handsome grooms, breathtaking venues, delicious food and inevitably bad “banquet wine!” I am always amazed at how many brides obsess over every detail from the gown to the flowers to the photographer to the caterer, but when it comes to the wine selection, it’s usually a complete…
With every new year comes a resolve to get a little healthier for many of us. Whether you vow to lose a few pounds or simply lower your cholesterol, wine can play a role in your healthy lifestyle. There are many studies extolling the health benefits associated with wine and it’s low carb too! A…
Thanksgiving leftovers seem to be the gift that keeps on giving. From soups to sandwiches and everything in between, it’s easy to lose your love of the bird after a day or two. If you’re stuck in a rut, check out these turkey salad sliders for a delicious spin on that boring turkey sandwich. Or…
Selecting the perfect Thanksgiving wine doesn’t have to be a source of stress and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider starting your festivities with a sparkling rosé as an aperitif and then opt for a white and red option for your main course and let your guests decide what pairing they enjoy the…
Julia Child started inspiring amateur cooks and housewives across America when she first brought us her famous Boeuf Bourguignon recipe on The French Chef. This recipe takes about 30 minutes to pull together and another 2 plus hours for cooking, but it’s so worth it! Plus, you’ll have lots of leftovers. The classic pairing for beef…
Four days into my New Year’s resolution and I am still going strong with the Paleo plan. I have found that this plan is fairly easy to stick with as long as you take time to prepare ahead The bonus for me is that The Paleo Diet allows wine in moderation and since I am a…
Selecting the perfect Thanksgiving wine pairings can leave you with a serious case of heartburn, but it doesn’t have to be so difficult. Whether you are hosting the holiday meal or simply in charge of bringing the wine, let me help ease that holiday stress by taking the guesswork out of Thanksgiving wine pairings. I always…
