tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11192326035914541822024-03-13T08:34:14.899-07:00Rollerskating With ScissorsFood Culture, News and Stories... One bite at a time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.comBlogger215125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-77930260855831985542015-03-03T17:36:00.002-08:002015-03-03T22:19:13.833-08:00In My Kitchen.<div>
Commence random thoughts...</div>
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Having a small kitchen is not easy, but I'm used to it. I think our last kitchen was probably only 8x10 feet with no room for a table, only a chopping block that now doubles as a workbench in our garage. Our new (or new-ish) kitchen is a galley kitchen, with barely room to turn around in but an open bar top counter to socialize over whilst whipping up foods. Thank goodness for the laundry room, which serves as a walk-in dry goods closet as well or I'd have piles of rice, beans, breads, spices and canned goods overflowing onto my dining room table.<br />
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I bring this up because I've discovered, through my obsessive-compulsive cleaning & organizational tendencies, that there are certain items I simply <i>must </i>have in my kitchen at all times. Here are a few of my favorites right now...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtZwLeAax-A/VPZP-hblYjI/AAAAAAAAEQg/Pb9hHhwDzjs/s1600/chef%2Btowels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtZwLeAax-A/VPZP-hblYjI/AAAAAAAAEQg/Pb9hHhwDzjs/s1600/chef%2Btowels.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Chef's Towels</b></div>
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Cotton, white (so you can bleach the daylights out of them when needed), 16x19in- Great for sopping up messes, using as a potholder, wiping clean chopping boards and cleaning blades. I keep one on the counter and one hanging off my apron.</div>
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-Chef Revival Red Stripe 100% Cotton Bar Towel-12/Pack for only <span style="color: red;">$10.49</span> <a href="http://www.webstaurantstore.com/chef-revival-700brt-rds-16-x-19-red-stripe-28-oz-100-cotton-bar-towel-12-pack/167CR700RDS.html?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=GoogleShopping&gclid=Cj0KEQiA1NWnBRDchObfnYrbo78BEiQA-2jqBRvxTQf0KpA_sesRCNvW0OwSqH3lSpA4Oizik_aOfc0aAlMC8P8HAQ">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ATFene27x3I/VPZVPrFGL8I/AAAAAAAAEQw/A5mUAB4s2K8/s1600/santoku.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ATFene27x3I/VPZVPrFGL8I/AAAAAAAAEQw/A5mUAB4s2K8/s1600/santoku.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Santoku Knife</b></div>
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Easy to handle, sharp, inexpensive and can chop, slice or pound just about anything. I like the 5 inch version for everyday use. </div>
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-J.A. Henckels International Forged Razor Series 5-Inch Santoku for <span style="color: red;">$26.99</span> <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/j-a-henckels-international-forged-razor-series-5-inch-santoku/1017827634?mcid=PS_googlepla_nonbrand_cutlery_&adpos=1o1&creative=39230274829&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=Cj0KEQiA1NWnBRDchObfnYrbo78BEiQA-2jqBaZOPD2obkF07c1dq9NWlWPYWD_N4m0-EQBvG7uZWYAaArd78P8HAQ">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SgFMNK9oZBs/VPZVadEd7WI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/STYS3_Say50/s1600/barkeepers.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SgFMNK9oZBs/VPZVadEd7WI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/STYS3_Say50/s1600/barkeepers.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Barkeepers Friend</b></div>
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This stuff cleans everything without using abrasive ingredients. Pots, pans, knives, sinks and so much more. Cheap and dependable since 1882.</div>
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-Bar Keeper's Friend® 21-Ounce Cleanser And Polish <span style="color: red;">$1.99</span> <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/bar-keeper-s-friend-21-ounce-cleanser-and-polish/1012949308?mcid=PS_googlepla_nonbrand_cleaning_&adpos=1o2&creative=39230273269&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=Cj0KEQiA1NWnBRDchObfnYrbo78BEiQA-2jqBdcknHRG8O9LYlQG6kI85y3EFUO3PWGKKaCceXZ_kEMaAuQw8P8HAQ">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SRcD-kcMev8/VPZVocWQTVI/AAAAAAAAERA/DKj3sCKy81g/s1600/microplane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SRcD-kcMev8/VPZVocWQTVI/AAAAAAAAERA/DKj3sCKy81g/s1600/microplane.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Microplane Grater/Zester</b></div>
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Perfect for grating/zesting everything from citrus fruits to fresh Parmesan cheese. Helps make the rather tedious job of fine grating go quickly and cleanly.</div>
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-Microplane ® Grater-Zester can be found <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/microplane-grater-zester/s360417?b=1&a=1552">here</a> for <span style="color: red;">$14.95</span>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WBz2giBlZBs/VPZYpk0H2FI/AAAAAAAAERM/8X_MQvlYSkI/s1600/wild%2Brice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WBz2giBlZBs/VPZYpk0H2FI/AAAAAAAAERM/8X_MQvlYSkI/s1600/wild%2Brice.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a></div>
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<b>Wine Forest Wild Foods 'True Wild Rice'</b></div>
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A mix of jasmine brown rice, genuine wild rice, dried porcini, dried shallots & parsley. Based out of Napa, CA too! Great as a side dish or a full hearty meal. </div>
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-You can find this rice for <span style="color: red;">$14.00</span> and all other sorts of treats on their website <a href="http://www.wineforest.com/index.html">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TdNpcnr8KVU/VPZYvZ0hMkI/AAAAAAAAERU/o8aVjZoRUKQ/s1600/cajun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TdNpcnr8KVU/VPZYvZ0hMkI/AAAAAAAAERU/o8aVjZoRUKQ/s1600/cajun.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Tony Chachere's Original Creole Seasoning</b></div>
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If I could eat this with a spoon, I would. We braise chicken in it, smother pork, sprinkle it on fries, simmer fish and sometimes just dash a little on garlic bread. Savory, zingy & spicy all at the same time.</div>
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-Grab the original for <span style="color: red;">$3.50</span> or check out the wide array of Tony Chachere's seasonings <a href="http://www.tonychachere.com/">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSlqN4EgpT8/VPZbzMsWYnI/AAAAAAAAERg/PotYgTuP_LI/s1600/sambal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSlqN4EgpT8/VPZbzMsWYnI/AAAAAAAAERg/PotYgTuP_LI/s1600/sambal.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Huy Fong Sambal Oelek</b></div>
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Ground fresh chili paste. I use this in sauces, soups and if I'm feeling freaky, topped on a baked potato. Excellent combination of heat, vinegar & garlic to sass up subtle foods. A staple in our house.</div>
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-Find it <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sambal-Oelek-Chilli-Paste-18oz/dp/B000JMDHCC">here</a> for <span style="color: red;">$5.99</span> or just take a trip to the grocery store and grab the biggest jar you can find.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4kk4lgqNUZE/VPZdaxr1yjI/AAAAAAAAERs/eUvpO4_wqUY/s1600/curry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4kk4lgqNUZE/VPZdaxr1yjI/AAAAAAAAERs/eUvpO4_wqUY/s1600/curry.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Thai Red Curry Paste</b></div>
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I've been obsessing over Thai curry lately, drowning rice noodles and fresh vegetables in a broth I make with pastes like these. Try steamed tilapia, mung beans and cilantro for a soothing winter bowl.</div>
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-6 Can (4oz. Each) of Thai Green, Red & Yellow Curry Pastes for only <span style="color: red;">$17</span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/4oz-Green-Yellow-Curry-Pastes/dp/B000QU3JM0/ref=pd_sim_gro_17?ie=UTF8&refRID=0CZJEDSNGYKFZQ3BC415">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyo7vADe91c/VPZdiRYIPrI/AAAAAAAAER0/Y2KicHHrNU4/s1600/persian.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyo7vADe91c/VPZdiRYIPrI/AAAAAAAAER0/Y2KicHHrNU4/s1600/persian.png" height="174" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Persian Cucumbers</b></div>
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Crunchy, cute, thin-skinned & nearly seedless, these cucumbers have taken the place of potato chips in my daily snack attacks. I slice them and sprinkle Maldon sea salt over them- such satisfying bites! Also great in salads or in place of lettuce on sandwiches.</div>
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-Grab a container of 6-8 at <a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/">Trader Joe's</a> for <span style="color: red;">$2.29</span>!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FuNxWzrf7pM/VPZf0Mz8n_I/AAAAAAAAESA/sNitmo7hJTM/s1600/peppers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FuNxWzrf7pM/VPZf0Mz8n_I/AAAAAAAAESA/sNitmo7hJTM/s1600/peppers.png" height="320" width="172" /></a></div>
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<b>Jeff's Naturals Whole Golden Greek Pepperoncini</b></div>
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I might be one of the very few people who enjoys eating pepperoncini like candy, but hey, a girl's got her weakness. I love the flavor of these particular peppers, not too heavy on the vinegar. Jeff Mezzeta's family has been in the business for years, based out of the North Bay, using locally farmed produce for their products.</div>
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-Pick up a jar for roughly <span style="color: red;">$4</span> at your local market, <a href="http://www.wholefoods.com/">Whole Foods</a> or <a href="http://www.sprouts.com/">Sprouts</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POBPywElQs0/VPZhHETs0MI/AAAAAAAAESM/uvvflPZhJSw/s1600/boullion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POBPywElQs0/VPZhHETs0MI/AAAAAAAAESM/uvvflPZhJSw/s1600/boullion.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Better Than Bouillon</b></div>
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All natural beef, chicken, fish (and so many more!) flavor bases perfect for braising, roasting, creating stews or just giving oompf to whichever protein you choose. A little goes a very long way, so this jar is worth the dough.</div>
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-Available just about everywhere for <span style="color: red;">$8.50 </span>a jar, so keep an eye out or click <a href="http://www.amazon.com/ChiBetter-Than-Bouillon-Chicken-Base/dp/B00016LA7K">here</a>.</div>
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<b><i>What are some of your favorite kitchen staples?</i> </b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-49907214990708154942015-02-10T16:53:00.000-08:002015-02-11T19:17:10.891-08:00Lula Cellars- Mendocino County.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HtmNqnYLoxU/VNqmRWXHOuI/AAAAAAAAEPE/okS0KqDgFXo/s1600/image%2B(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HtmNqnYLoxU/VNqmRWXHOuI/AAAAAAAAEPE/okS0KqDgFXo/s1600/image%2B(6).jpg" height="640" width="508" /></a></div>
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Sixteen years ago, in the quaint town of Mendocino, my husband took a knee in the middle of a grassy field and proposed- this year we will be celebrating our fifteenth wedding anniversary together... Hard to believe that the time has passed so quickly. Our adventures over the years both as a couple and accompanied by friends have been full of laughter, great food, really good wine and unforgettable memories. Oddly enough, and much to the puzzlement of our native Mendocino friends, we haven't been able to return to that area of Northern California since that fantastic day in August of 2000. Time got away from us, calendars filled up and before we had even realized, our beloved beach town became further and further away.<br />
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Our luck turned a bit this past month, as were invited to return to Mendocino County to discover and explore the region and all of its splendors by the lovely folks at <a href="http://www.lulacellars.com/">Lula Cellars</a>...</div>
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Located in the bucolic town of Philo, Calfornia (about 5 miles west of Booneville, smack dab in the heart of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anderson_Valley">Andersen Valley</a>), <a href="http://www.lulacellars.com/">Lula Cellars</a> sits quietly along Highway 128, surrounded by rolling hills and dense redwood forests. An unassuming little red barn-like tasting room, complete with vineyard dog "Honey", await guests as they ramble down the gravel driveway. I immediately fell in love with the simplicity of the new tasting room at Lula: comfortable stools, a dog to play fetch with, a space heater to keep warm on a chilly day and of course, <i>really</i> good wine.</div>
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Upon our arrival, we were greeted by one of our gracious hosts, Mr. Dan Reed, keeper of the homestead and wine gentleman extraordinaire. Dan pours at <a href="http://www.lulacellars.com/">Lula Cellars</a> pretty much every day of the week, so he's entirely immersed in Lula's wines and can lead guests on a tasting journey through the many different wine styles that Lula produces. We'd be staying with Dan on property for the weekend in Lula's refined rustic cabin, with 360 views of Anderson Valley's "deep-end" picturesque terrain. If you are ever in the Philo/Boonville area, keep an eye out for Dan as he can regularly be seen toting around town with Honey the dog in Lula's 1958 Morris Minor 1000. </div>
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100 miles away from home and worn out from a very winding road, we were both ready to settle in and make ourselves comfortable in our cozy little guest quarters. A slower pace of life forced us to sit back, relax and enjoy the view from the porch as the sun went down over the woods and vineyards. Not much to do, nor the need to do much when you are absolutely engulfed in the beauty that is Northern California. Ogling the clouds is a fine way to spend an evening and falling asleep to mist dripping on your tin roof from redwoods overhead is even better.</div>
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The next morning, we were up with the shining sun and found ourselves walking back down to the tasting room, eager to begin our tasting of the wines and also eager to meet Jeff Hansen, winemaker for <a href="http://www.lulacellars.com/">Lula Cellars</a>.</div>
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<i>"Jeff Hansen, winemaker for Lula Cellars, brings nearly 30 years of grape growing and winemaking experience to the brand. Jeff’s handcrafted, limited production Mendocino Coast Pinot Noir, along with Zinfandel, Dry Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris and Rosato (Rosé of Pinot Noir) reveal the passion he has for producing world class wines."</i></div>
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Jeff was great company- cheerful and witty, well-spoken and he very obviously possessed a wealth of knowledge regarding the Anderson Valley appellation. His casualness and warmth is welcome breath of fresh air, bringing ease and civility to sometimes otherwise terse wine tastings. Both the hubbs and I thought him entertaining and friendly, and the level at which he could speak about his wines, vineyard details and overall wine philosophy was greatly appreciated. It certainly didn't hurt that he had great restaurant recommendations as well, helping us with reservations and tips along the way.<br />
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Now for some of their fabulous wines...<br />
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One of my favorites of our tasting was the <b>2012 Costa Vineyards Pinot Noir</b>- with classic aromatics of tea and rose petal, deep plum flavors and a beautiful ruby color. <i>"The five acre vineyard this wine comes from is a hidden jewel located in the mountain town of Comptche, which is eight miles east of the Coastal Village of Mendocino, 700 feet above sea level." </i>Jeff suggested a nice Chicken with Mushroom Cream Sauce to pair with this elegant wine.<br />
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Also high on my personal list was the <b>2013 Mendocino Rosato</b>- ripe red strawberry, watermelon flavors and a crisp, clean finish. I'm a rosé girl, so I was immediately intrigued when I saw this beauty on the shelf. I was not disappointed.<br />
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I'm not usually interested in Zinfandel, but Lula Cellars <b>2012 Mendocino Zinfandel</b> was enough to change my mind a bit. There's a juiciness and fruitiness to this Zin that is in no way heavy or overpowering. Not too spicy either, which makes it distinctive in its own sense. A pairing to consider with savory Braised Lamb Shanks.<br />
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Another surprise from Lula is the <b>2012 Mendocino Pinot Gris</b>- <i>"The 2012 vintage marks the first release of Pinot Gris. The vineyard this wine came from is located south of the town of Ukiah, on the east side of Highway 101, a perfect climate for the varietal." </i>Crisp, clean and citrusy. As a special treat, Jeff pulled out a round of the most incredible <a href="http://www.sonomauncorked.com/wine-country-food/specialty-food-shops/jose-matos-cheese/">St. George</a> cheese, made by the <a href="http://culturecheesemag.com/cheese-library/st-george-matos">Matos </a>family of Sonoma County. Enough to swoon over, I tried to escape with pockets-full of the buttery cheese, but alas, will have to make a special visit to the dairy on my own one day soon.<br />
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So many thanks go to Jeff Hansen and Dan Reed of <a href="http://www.lulacellars.com/">Lula Cellars</a> for their generous hospitality during our visit. If you are interested in visiting Lula Cellars, they are located at 2800 Guntley Road in Philo, CA @ Hwy 128 and are open from 10am-6pm every day of the week. Stop by, say hello to Honey & by all means, nab a taste (or a bottle) of their dreamy Anderson Valley wines.<br />
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Lula Cellars ~ 2800 Guntley Road, Philo, CA 95466 ~ 707.895.3737 ~ info@lulacellars.com</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-82523386067227405672015-01-05T15:36:00.000-08:002015-01-05T15:36:44.599-08:00Goodbye 2014... You were a weird one.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello 2015.<br />
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I'm embarrassed to notice the date of my last posting.<br />
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Hello friends. I told myself that beginning today, I would get back in the saddle and continue my writing fervently and with newfound enthusiasm. After the year I've had, I'm ready to start anew and move forward with my passions. Food, travel, nonsense and debauchery? Let's do this.<br />
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This past year was full of so many losses, I feel I can only begin this year with a hopeful heart. I want things to be easier, to be happier, to be more positive and lovingly comfortable. We are now truly at home here in the Napa Valley and I want my writing to reflect all of the good I am surrounded by on a daily basis.<br />
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The hubbs and I have some really interesting and wonderful trips coming up in the near future that I'm just itching to write about and photograph. Along with my usual banter, the occasional pug photo and perhaps a recipe or two, I will be adamantly focusing on the good life- <i>our </i>good life, one that we're working very hard to maintain, enjoy and share with others.<br />
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Wave bye-bye to the negative. It is time to bring forth a smile.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-70790601535101122692014-09-09T17:56:00.000-07:002014-09-09T19:35:28.773-07:00Supporting Local.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As everyone is well aware, the Napa Valley was hit hard by a rockin' 6.0 earthquake this past month, leaving much of downtown Napa and its businesses in shambles. Over the recent few weeks, people have been working tremendously hard to regain strength, shelter and safety amongst the chaos of our crumbled tourist mecca. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Restaurants, shops, services and staffing have all been affected by mother nature's furious rattling- some have closed completely, some are in limbo, some haven't even started to discover what lies ahead. Red, Yellow and Green tags stare back at your reflection in the windows of almost every downtown address. It's hard to comprehend until you see it in person, but I've settled on the idea that the streets and sagging buildings somehow resemble the leftover remnants of a once glamorous Hollywood sound stage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And the wineries... Oh, the wineries. Of course not all were impacted by this whopper of wiggle, but so we've heard so many stories of crushed barrel rooms, wine flowing like rivers down the drain and simply impassable cellar doors being jammed shut by mountains of livelihood-- like Lincoln logs falling to the ground, gallons of precious wine have been lost. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The hubbs and I feel <i>extremely </i>lucky to have came out relatively unscathed-- our apartment was tossed absolutely upside-down and we kissed goodbye to most of our breakable belongings. The days following were rough indeed, but in the end, we are safe and things are just things. Not all can be replaced, but we are hoping to move forward and replace the old memories with new ones. We have fallen absolutely in love with this magical valley and we continue to rebound, grow and live full lives amongst our many friends here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part of supporting our community mean getting out and supporting local businesses, especially in this crucial time of healing. Local folks need our help and love. Whether it is just a hug and a smile or laughing over lunch or a just an extra bill in a tip jar, we've been trying to spend as much of our free time as possible out and about our beloved town as we all regain our pre-earthquake confidence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't stay away because you think we've fallen apart. Don't pass over wine tasting because you think the tasting rooms are closed. Don't cancel your reservations and say you'll come another time. Napa needs you. Napa needs some good, good lovin'. Come say hello.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've put together a list of some of our favorite local spots, in case you'd like to visit...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.benegusto.com/">Bene Gusto </a></b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3253 Browns Valley Road, Napa</b><br />
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><b>Come for the excellent pizza, pasta and excellent breakfast. Bring friends, have a relaxed brunch, enjoy a beer out on the patio or a cocktail at their rustic bar. Smiling faces and great comfort food, not to mention some killer happy hour deals.</b></b></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.squeezeinnhamburgers.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Squeeze Inn Hamburgers</span></a></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3383 Solano Avenue, Napa</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Home of the famous "cheese skirt". Need I say more? Oh, and their deep-fried hotdogs are to die for. Super casual, fast and beyond tasty- you'll get addicted just like we have to their burgers, fries, dogs, sandwiches and beer specials just like we have. It's so unfair. I wake up on weekends absolutely craving a squeeze with cheese.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.zuzunapa.com/">ZuZu</a></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">829 Main Street, Napa</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Craving tapas? This is a must visit. Super authentic Spanish tapas & hard to find Spanish wines tucked into a small, cozy loft-like space. Sit at the bar and enjoy a snack or relax and have chat with friendly bartenders. Share a family-style table with friends upstairs and eat your way through the extensive menu. Beware, no reservations here but they'll do their best to get you in fast.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.camomienoteca.com/">Ca'Momi</a></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">610 First Street, Napa</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Specializing in truly authentic Napoletana pizzas, this place will ruin your for life. The hubbs and are obsessed with sitting on their patio for dinner and revel in the super fresh ingredients they use of their stunning pizzas. Pasta, antipasta, soups and selection of interesting wines await you at this small oxbow gem.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.vineleven.com/">VINeleven</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>3425 Solano Avenue, Napa</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Afraid to eat at a hotel bar/restaurant? Don't be. Located inside the Napa Valley Marriot, these guys know what they are doing. With everything from sliders to lettuce wraps to my favorite, the goat cheese stuffed peppers, they've got something for everyone. Local wine & beer list, super friendly staff and strong cocktails make this our home away from home.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.fumebistro%2Ccom/">Fume</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>4050 Byway East, Napa</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>As favorite spot for locals serving seafood, pasta and steak at a reasonable, tasty price. They have a great outdoor patio with fireplaces and are pet friendly! Awesome happy hour deals and darling little bar create a big draw on weeknights. Great local wine list and corkage is on them if the wine is from the valley.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've run out of time for now, but believe me, I'll be back with more local favorites soon. There's a fresh batch of tacos on the stove calling my name... Stay tuned for our Yountville and Calistoga picks, as well as some secret winery spots that you'll definitely want to explore.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-50624163411715007122014-07-28T15:10:00.002-07:002014-07-28T15:10:21.256-07:002014 Wine Bloggers Conference- Intro.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just a few weeks ago, the hubbs and I packed our bags and headed down to beautiful <a href="http://www.countyofsb.org/">Santa Barbara </a>county to attend the <a href="http://winebloggersconference.org/">2014 Wine Bloggers Conference</a> in <a href="http://www.cityofbuellton.com/">Buellton, California</a>. Having missed the previous year in <a href="http://www.penticton.ca/">Penticton, British Columbia</a>, we were excited to be joining our hundreds of fellow writers on California's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Coast_(California)">central coast</a> to sip, savor, discuss and discover wine from SB county and circling the globe.<br />
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With so much of the conference to cover, I really had to edit my photos and stories down to a select few due to sheer capacity of wines tasted and fun had. From the various appellations in Santa Barbara county alone, to Portugal and Spain, it was delight to sample so many unique wines amongst some of the best citizen and industry wine bloggers around. The hubbs is an old hand at this event, having attended six of only the seven overall conferences, but this time I was in tow- not quite sure what to expect (since I'm not exactly labeled a wine blogger), but thrilled to be attendance nonetheless.</div>
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Oh the glory that is <a href="http://www.peasoupandersons.com/">Pea Soup Anderson's </a>. What is there to say about this magnificent place? It's an institution amongst those of us who had to endure the long journey between Northern and Southern California on a regular basis during our youth- a beacon of solace in a sea of pea green wonderment, decked out with wooden shoes and cuckoo clocks, a putting green, tiny swimming pool and giant neon soup bowl. We were able to snag a room here for a great price and with the recent renovations, it wasn't too bad at all for a few nights of wine soaked sleep. Clean, comfortable and quirky, PSA was our homebase of sorts for the length of conference. It suited us well and was just a short & sobering five minute walk from the <a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sbasy-santa-ynez-valley-marriott/">Santa Ynez Valley Marriott</a>, where the conference was being held.</div>
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Pre-check in to the conference and post our six and half hour drive from home, we needed some sustenance and refreshment to help prep for the days to come. It is here we discovered an oasis of hops and ale, a dark and metallic cave of coolness, the fantastic <a href="http://www.firestonebeer.com/visit/buellton-taproom-restaurant.php">Firestone Walker Taproom</a>. A taproom that will haunt me endlessly as I sit up here in the north, unable to waltz into the modern, yeasty, air-conditioned heaven. </div>
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<i>"The Taproom specializes in brewhouse bistro cooking with an emphasis on local flavor. The Taproom is ultimately an extension of the Firestone Walker brewing philosophy—the finest and freshest ingredients, prepared with care and presented from a distinctively regional perspective."</i></div>
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<i>"The Taproom features our four award winning Firestone Walker beers in addition to eight alternating beers on tap. Patrons of the bar may enjoy 1/2 pints or imperial pints of our beers."</i></div>
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And so we did. We started with lunch and a few different pints of frothy goodness. We shared one of their <b>Cobb Salads with local greens, chicken, tomato, avocado, bacon, bleu cheese, egg & ranch dressing </b>and split a plate of the <b>Seared Ahi Wontons with pan-seared rare sushi-grade Ahi tuna, served with Asian slaw, avocado & crispy wontons. </b>Both dishes were exceptional, considering the that pub food has the tendency to be too heavy and greasy- the cobb salad was seasoned well, presented nicely and tasted fresh and crisp. The seared ahi was delicious and delicate, pairing very well with my tall glass of Firestone Walker <a href="http://www.805beer.com/">805 Beer</a>.<br />
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<i>"A beer crafted for the coast. 805 is a light, approachable brew. Born from an all malt recipe and finished with a touch of hops, it's slightly sweet with a clean finish. 805 is the perfect followup to that ultimate surf session or to reward a hard day's work." </i><br />
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This beer is addictive. Like summer in a can. I've already researched where it can be found up here in Northern California and was thrilled to learn that we'll be able to get our hands on it within a few miles from home. Hooray! Thank goodness for that. We can stock up and bring to all of our favorite summertime bbq's and pool parties- such a great match for grilling and chilling this season.<br />
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With over 40 beers under the Firestone Walker label, it's hard to choose just one. For you brew junkies out there, check <a href="http://www.firestonebeer.com/">out www.firestonebeer.com</a> for more info on the brewery, the taproom, the barrelworks and where you can find your own 805. Trust me, you'll be happy you did.<br />
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Stay tuned, there's much more to come regarding the 2014 Wine Bloggers Conference...<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-14531126651980717912014-07-03T12:37:00.001-07:002014-07-03T12:47:34.172-07:00Holman Ranch.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On a sun-drenched Monday afternoon, the hubbs and I found ourselves rambling down the road deeper and deeper into the heart of Carmel Valley. After a the hustle and bustle of a busy weekend and a relaxing Sunday stay at The Quail Lodge, it was time to head towards our destination, located high above Carmel Valley Village. We were on our way to visit the beloved Holman Ranch- a huge homestead, winery and event location perched like a modest castle amongst the oak trees and rolling hills of the valley. Rich in history and well known for its rustic hacienda, sprawling gardens and breathtaking vistas, Holman Ranch shines as a beacon of beauty in the majestic Carmel Valley appellation.<br />
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<i>"The story of Holman Ranch is truly unique; a special story about a wonderful place that began when California was still part of Mexico. Under the Crown of Spain, the ranch was part of the lands bestowed to the Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo. When the Mexican government secularized the mission lands, one of the first ranchers in Carmel Valley, Don Jose Manuel Boronda, was granted the Los Laureles Rancho—6,625 acres that included what is now Holman Ranch. Their ranch passed through many hands until the Pacific Improvements Company acquired it in 1882.</i><br />
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<i>In 1928, a San Francisco businessman, Gordon Armsby, was attracted to the rich farmland and leisurely pace of Carmel Valley, and purchased 600 acres in the Los Laureles area of the Valley, including what would be Holman Ranch.</i><br />
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<i>Armsby hired Clarence Tantau (of Del Monte Hotel fame) to design the home that would reside on his new property. Tantau and Armsby chose a classic Spanish-style hacienda, which proffered impressive stone walls—all built from local Carmel stone. They installed handmade Mexican terracotta roofing and hand-carved oak-beamed ceilings. Nestled in a stand of mature oaks, nicknamed “Casa Escondida”, or “Hidden House”, the estate served as an exclusive hideaway for many Hollywood celebrities including Charlie Chaplin and Theda Bara."</i><br />
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As we reached the entrance to the ranch, located up rural Holman Road (of course)- a modest sign greeted us, along with a cow crossing and creaky steel gate. Our jaws dropped when we rolled to the top of the dusty road, marveling at the expanse of the ranch itself. We slowed the car to bask in our surroundings and took deep breaths of the fresh Carmel Valley air. I was overcome by sense of calm and serenity, much needed after a hectic few months of scheduling and social chaos.<br />
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Acres and acres of rolling green hills, horse stables big enough to hold nearly one hundred beasts, a shimmering lake surrounded by olive trees, beautiful oaks towering over brightly painted barns and outbuildings... It was like a rancher's dream world, all country and sky. Endless as far as the eye could see, you would never know that Holman Ranch existed so closely to touristy Monterey or crowded Carmel-by-the-Sea. This place, alone in the hills, is the very definition of bucolic paradise.<br />
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<i><b>"Tucked away in the rolling hills of Carmel Valley, historic Holman Ranch provides a unique and memorable setting for weddings, special events, family gatherings, corporate retreats, and team-building events. With its charming gardens, stunning mountain views and serenity, this private estate affords old-world charm while providing modern day conveniences. This impressive property includes a fully restored stone hacienda, overnight guest rooms, vineyards, olive grove, horse stables and a tasting room where guests can sample our wines."</b></i><br />
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Having been invited to the ranch was a lovely surprise. Finally seeing the ranch in person was absolute eye-candy. Experiencing all that Holman Ranch had to offer put me in awe. Well, that and I was feeling quite content thanks to an earlier stop by the Holman Ranch tasting room, where we were able to sample their beloved <b>wines</b>...<br />
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<i>"100% estate-grown wine varietals are planted on approximately 21 acres of undulating terrain. The wines produced are unfined and crafted to deliver the true varietal of the grape from harvest to bottle. The climate and terroir of the appellation has played a critical part in the success of our wines. The warmth of our inland valley coupled with the cooling marine layer has established itself as an ideal microclimate for the production of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Our Burgundy Clones have thrived from the perfect blend of ideal climate, southern exposure and thin rocky soils. </i><i>The estate wines of Holman Ranch include: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé of Pinot Noir."</i><br />
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At the very tip top of highest hill on property lies a hacienda, the crown-jewel of Holman Ranch. Flanking that hacienda are quaint accommodations for overnight guests (reserved for wine members & event attendees only)- our home for that particular evening. Our room was rustic and charming, decorated in an old Western theme, complete with cowboy boot lamps. Clean, comfortable and completely private with perks like front porch rocking chairs and expansive valley views, this certainly was no bad way to spend the evening. We settled in and met up with the rest of our fellow media companions to enjoy a tour.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main interior walkway- perfect for weddings and large outdoor events. The unique beauty of the Holman Ranch venue is that the various spaces can be completely customized to suit your individual needs. Notice the dual-entry carriage house in the distance? We were treated to a twinkle-lit buffet dinner that evening inside. Perfect area for a dance floor! Often used for receptions, with it's barnwood floors and country charm.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautifully manicured lawn is the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding, with one of the most spectacular views of the entire Carmel Valley.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gardens are impeccably cared for, with native plants, fruit trees and shrubs. Steal a moment in the shade of the giant oak trees or bask in the blaring sunshine on top of world.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guests of the Ranch are also welcome to take a dip in one of the oldest, most historic "in-ground" pools in existence within the county. This pool served as a day spa getaway in the early 20's for those privileged enough to visit. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walkways wind around the property, making for a delightful afternoon stroll and enchanting background for photography. Horseshoes pits, a relaxing pond and an entire private game room are also on the grounds for your enjoyment.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The love and good energy Holman Ranch exudes can be seen and felt in every aspect of it's existence.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wandering- what I do best.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roses planted as part of the original Hacienda, with blooms as big as softball. The scent was intoxicating.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>"Holman Ranch is full of romance and history. It is rustic and sophisticated, secluded and amazing. This stone hacienda offers the charm of its native gardens, the breathtaking vistas from every angle, the wonder of its olive groves and vineyards as well as the serenity and privacy of the historic estate itself. A world away yet close enough to everything our guests could need or desire, Holman Ranch offers unlimited possibilities for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, and any other special occasion. Holman Ranch is a place for togetherness, celebration, good friends, and family. It is truly the perfect place to create great memories."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Other fun details of Holman Ranch's event spaces...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>-Game Room</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">"An old-fashioned game room equipped with all the modern amenities. A pool table, dart board, plasma TV, bar, jukebox, roaring fireplace and antique bar to entertain and amuse guests."</span><br />
<b style="font-size: medium;">-Carriage House</b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">"A rustically elegant space with a lofty, open-beamed ceiling, perfect for dancing or dinner for your event."</span><br />
<b style="font-size: medium;">-Great Room</b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">"Classic Mission architecture with original terracotta tile and beautiful views of the gardens greet you upon entering. A perfect location for intimate dining, enjoying cocktails, or lounging by a roaring fire."</span><br />
<b style="font-size: medium;">-Conference Room</b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">"Our fully furnished conference room offers a complete, modern and integrated system including a drop-down screen, projector, Wi-Fi signal, conference phone and sound system."</span><br />
<b style="font-size: medium;">-Chapel</b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">"Our private Hacienda chapel is beautifully adorned with relics salvaged from abandoned churches. Serene and intimate, this space is perfect for a ceremony of up to 50 people. Baptisms, blessings and memorials are also welcome in our chapel."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">For more info on Holman Ranch, check out <a href="http://www.holmanranch.com/">www.holmanranch.com </a>or contact the ranch at:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(831) 659-2640 | info@holmanranch.com </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">The ranch's tasting room is located at </span><span style="font-size: small;">19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Suite C, Carmel Valley, CA 93924. You can visit the tasting room to sample their wines, get more info on their wine club and find out more about how to plan your event at their stunning property.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Many thanks to our lovely hosts at Holman Ranch, our experience was one to remember and share with others near and far...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Be well,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">B </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-83476133473641375172014-03-26T14:08:00.003-07:002014-03-26T14:08:30.261-07:00étoile at Domaine Chandon.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Nestled on a ethereal hilltop in the heart of Yountville, <a href="http://www.chandon.com/"><b>Domaine Chandon</b> </a>sits regally amongst giant moss-covered boulders and aging oak trees, with vast sprawling lawns surrounding. Vineyards cover most of the property, along with the winery, tasting rooms, and their prestigious Michelin starred restaurant, <b><a href="http://www.chandon.com/etoile-restaurant.html">étoile</a></b>.<br />
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<i>"In 1973, Domaine Chandon became the first French-owned sparkling wine venture in the United States. But Chandon’s beginnings date back to 1690 with the father of champagne. A Benedictine monk and cellar-master at the Abbey of Hautvillers, named Dom Pérignon, set out to unlock the secret of sparkling wine and ultimately developed the traditional champagne method."</i><br />
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We visit the property often, sometimes riding our bikes up the hill for a refreshing glass of their sparkling rosé, other times with family and friends as a way to begin our wine tasting adventures. It is a Napa Valley institution, one with a presence, favored by many locals and visitors alike. Perhaps that is the reason they are the <i>only</i> winery in the valley with a restaurant on-site... The allure of Chandon is so strong, they are able to highlight not just their wine, but the spectacular food of <b>étoile</b> as well. We were most certainly in for a treat that day, and I was beyond thrilled to be graciously hosted at one of the finest restaurants in town.<br />
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After a short but sweet tour of the facilities and a relaxed, sit-down sampling of Domaine Chandon wines in the garden, the hubbs and meandered over to the restaurant itself and were greeted warmly by the staff. We were both equally as excited to finally sample the dishes of Chef Perry Hoffman, a kind young man we were introduced to at a previous wine event and had fun chatting with extensively.<br />
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<i>"After joining the culinary team at étoile Restaurant at Domaine Chandon in 2007, Hoffman was quickly appointed Chef. There he captured critical attention in 2010, as the youngest American chef to be awarded a Michelin Star at age 25. Since then, étoile has maintained one Michelin Star for three consecutive years, in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Hoffman was also named a “Rising Star Chef” by the San Francisco Chronicle in 2010, and was a James Beard Foundation Semifinalist for “Rising Star Chef of the Year” in 2010 and 2011. In 2012, Hoffman was named one of Zagat’s “30 under 30,” and also received recognition from Food & Wine, as he was voted “The People’s Best New Chef: California.”</i><br />
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<i>"étoile crafts its contemporary Californian menu around the wine experience and recommends pairings for every dish, both from the property's own label and beyond. The kitchen's accomplishments have a hint of French influence and a flair for originality worthy of its celestial name."</i><br />
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We were seated at one of their elegantly dressed tables with a serene view of the winery's oak grove and ponds and were introduced to our outstanding waiter, Scott. At <b>étoile</b>, service is intimate and very personalized, meaning every detail of the meal is thoughtful- it just so happens that Scott was training another member of staff that day, but her presence was subtle and professional with a cheerful smile.<br />
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The restaurant itself is sublime, decorated with modern accents, spacious windows and peekaboo views into the tasting room. When the weather improves, the seating will move outdoors, onto their expansive patio, complete with cafe lighting and a shade covered terrace that also overlooks the pond and gardens. Inside, beauty can be found in the floral arrangements by Kathy Hoffman, Chef Perry Hoffman's mother, also a local. She's well-known throughout the valley for her work in several different majorly influential restaurants for her use of color, texture, and visual wow. Succulents as far as the eye could see, along with fresh citrus of every kind, all grown on the property in étoile's gardens, orchids and tillandsia.<br />
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We began our meal with a dozen Beausoleil oysters, complimented by a bitter orange mignonette. The oyster were briny, yeasty and paired well with our Chandon champagne. We've both fallen in love with oysters in recent years, but have difficulty finding the freshest-of-fresh bivalves in the local area, much to our dismay. These oysters were certainly fresh and consistent, which was a delightful surprise, as we've been disappointed with different restaurants' standards in the past.<br />
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Next up, I chose the <b>Dungeness Crab Salad with asparagus, sorrel, rhubarb and watercress sauce. </b>The crab tasted <i>amazing</i>- so fresh and sweet. The combination of vegetables garnished with beautiful edible flowers not only made my tastebuds happy, but the presentation brought a huge smile to my face.<br />
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The hubbs decided on the <b>Chilled Spring Onion Soup with roasted sunchokes, preserved lemon creme fraiche and society garlic.</b> A delicious introduction to Chef Hoffman's spring menu, bursting with flavor, practically tasting like the color green, as I've always imagined.</div>
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As a gift from the Chef, we were treated to this amazing dish of <b>Sweetbreads with green garlic sauce, fried egg and dandelion. </b>This was a surprisingly accessible way to enjoy sweetbreads- the green garlic and egg yolk made for a decadent burst of savory goodness. Again, the plating was impeccable.</div>
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Gift number two from Chef took both of our breaths away. Delivered on a plate of sea-blue glass, the <b>Moroccan Spiced Octopus with page tangerines, petite radish, puffed quinoa and crystalline</b>. As this dish was being delivered to us (thank you Chef!), other patrons in the restaurant turned their heads and whispered. It was unbelievable. The octopus was cooked sous vide, making it incredibly tender. The Moroccan spice, mixed with tart tangerine and crispy radish was a delight on the palate. By far, one of my favorite dishes I've ever enjoyed in a restaurant. Period.</div>
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For our main courses, the hubbs went full throttle and chose the <b>Pacific Sea Urchin Fettucini with fava leaves, black radish, yuzu and kumquats. </b>A seriously luxurious pasta. I'm normally squeamish about sea urchin, but this sauce tasted as smooth as cream, buttery with hints of the ocean, sweet yuzu and crunchy radish.</div>
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I was utterly curious as to how Chef Hoffman would prepare a simple cut of fish, so my main course choice was the <b>Scottish Salmon with heirloom beets, winter citrus, red orach and petite chervil</b>. I was blown away by the crispiness of the salmon- achieved by using an extremely hot cast iron skillet. The hollandaise sauce was airy, almost puffy, and the beet puree blended well with the tangy citrus. </div>
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Sweet, sweet dessert was a <b>Dark Chocolate Torte with coffee ice cream and a chocolate bark</b> dipped in gold dust powder. Like the name <b>étoile </b>(meaning "star" in french), the treat sparkled upon arrival and didn't last long on our plate.</div>
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The hubbs and I were absolutely taken aback by the quality, care, attention to detail and service at <b>étoile. </b>The careful craftsmanship that goes into Chef Perry Hoffman's food, combined with his presentation of superb dishes like the one's we were fortunate enough to relish, makes Domain Chandon's restaurant <b>étoile </b>universally celebrated destination. </div>
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Many, many thanks to staff of Domaine Chandon and <b>étoile </b>for a truly memorable experience.</div>
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Cheers!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-86322211904715644602014-02-26T18:06:00.001-08:002014-02-26T18:06:03.323-08:00Rainy Day Comfort.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's Wednesday. I have the day off. It's pouring down rain. What other reason does a girl need to sit around in her jammies and eat comfort snacks and a cozy dinner? I threw pug in the car and drove up valley to find these tasty treats- I thought I'd share them with you...</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To start, I'm kind of annoyed I didn't buy about 5-10 more jars of these juicy, mouth-watering little morsels. <b>Brooklyn Hard Candy</b> is built on a foundation of using the best ingredients to make the finest hard candy products- I bought the <i>wild strawberry </i>and I'm calling it <b>love</b>.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Brooklyn Hard Candy Company</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"<i>Launched in 2010 by two alums of Le Cordon Bleu London, Brooklyn Hard Candy has kept its concept delightfully simple: classic hard candy, made the old fashioned way, using natural flavors like blueberry and pear alongside old standbys like Meyer lemon and root beer. It doesn’t hurt that their simple, sustainable packaging has singlehandedly erased all associations we may have had of hard candy as the stuck-together stuff of elderly family friends’ candy dishes</i>."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a self-proclaimed sugar junkie, I usually go for the classics-- Skittles, Runts, Sour Patch Kids, Gummi Bears, Swedish Fish, Kit-Kat, Milk Duds, Twix, Rolo, etc. Mix all of those things with my new obsession, <a href="http://threetwinsicecream.com/">Three Twins Ice Cream</a> and I'm a dentist's dream. I even used to work at a candy store. Now that's what I call a bad combination! It's a wonder I still have all of my teeth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have yet to venture into the baked goods world of Napa Valley, only because I am aware that there are <i>several </i>world-famous bakeries in the area. I can't seem to muster up the strength to tackle both candy and patisserie finds in one small blog entry. *Sigh* I'm just going to have to save my cupcake, pastry, doughnut and breads tummy for another rainy day. Come to think of it, I better start swimming more at this sweet rate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been going through a phase of munchies that I call the sweet & savory curse. I can't eat a piece of fruity candy without wanting something chocolate-y or savory. It makes sneaking a piece here or there quite difficult as I always end up not being able to break the vicious cycle. Thus, the reason I ended up with this can of heaven. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><a href="http://dottiestoffee.com/">Dottie's Toffee</a></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"This homemade toffee recipe has been perfected over decades, starting out in Dot Smith’s kitchen in 1976. Now made by Dot’s grandson, Nick Belmont, this signature family candy is sold around the globe — though it stays true to style, still made by hand in the family’s hometown of Spartanburg, South Carolina. Blending Belgian chocolate, sweet cream butter, pure cane sugar, only the best whole and crushed almonds, and a pinch of sea salt. Dottie’s Toffee accents special events, family gatherings, even your everyday workplace. It’s gourmet goodness; an indulgence for every sense."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For anyone and everyone who <i>loves </i>a superior toffee, you must get your mitts on a can of Dottie's. It is the closest thing to homemade you can buy, particularly if you don't have the skill or patience to make some of your own. Dottie's can only be purchased online here in California, but if you're in the area, <a href="http://www.deananddeluca.com/">Dean & Deluca</a> (in St. Helena) happens to have a small supply in stock on a regular basis. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For dinner, I took the plunge and went for it. I'm talking pot pie. Chicken pot pie. All natural, all organic chicken pot pie from <a href="http://www.twinhens.com/">Twin Hens</a>. I couldn't help myself. It's flaky crust and warm, gooey center were calling me from across the artisan food aisle. Considering that I've been trying to eat a little bit more healthy these days, a chicken pot pie seemed indulgent, but I was willing to splurge on a cozy, cloudy evening's main meal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><a href="http://www.twinhens.com/">Twin Hens</a></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-transform: uppercase;">"DEVELOPED FROM OUR OWN RECIPE, WE MAKE OUR TWIN HENS CHICKEN POT PIE THE WAY YOU WOULD AT HOME. COOKED WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY INGREDIENTS – FREE RANGE CHICKEN, LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES AND HIGH GRADE BUTTER – THEY CONTAIN NO HYDROGENATED OILS OR PRESERVATIVES. </span><span class="mainContentRed" style="background-color: white; color: #b30000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-transform: uppercase;"><strong>MADE BY MOMS WHO DOUBLE AS PROFESSIONAL CHEFS</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-transform: uppercase;">, THE FABULOUS CHICKEN POT PIES ARE IDEAL YEAR ROUND – FOR FEEDING YOUR FAMILY, ENTERTAINING FRIENDS, IMPROMPTU DINNERS OR AS A THOUGHTFUL GIFT."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had read about this company several times but wasn't able to locate any retailers in the area that actually sold their product- I'm told that <a href="http://www.bristolfarms.com/">Bristol Farms</a> and <a href="http://www.andronicos.com/">Andronico's</a> have the pies if there's one in your neighborhood. I got this last pie from D&D in person, practically tackling the chic woman next to me as she went for the lobster mac and cheese instead. I win. Although, that mac and cheese might be next on my rainy day list.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That's all I've got for right now- we have some exciting stuff happening this weekend and a ton of upcoming events that will be a kick to write about about. Stay tuned!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Be well,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">B</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-38653840187646337852014-01-27T20:57:00.002-08:002014-01-27T21:08:57.229-08:00Napa Point Brewing Company.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PTU9h67Z7oQ/UucBGzPDS7I/AAAAAAAAD5I/Bx-GF5ZGkE8/s1600/beer.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PTU9h67Z7oQ/UucBGzPDS7I/AAAAAAAAD5I/Bx-GF5ZGkE8/s1600/beer.jpeg" height="320" width="317" /></a></div>
This past weekend, the hubbs and I had the pleasure of visiting one of Napa's newest, most talked about gastro-tastic hot spots...<a href="http://www.napapointbrewing.com/"> Napa Point Brewin<u>g </u>Company<u>.</u></a> To tell you we'd heard of it through the grapevine is a comical understatement to say the least--it seems as though every person in the valley was demanding we check this place out and I must say, we're glad we finally did!<br />
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Located just off of Highway 29, right outside suburban Napa proper, the brewery itself is tucked away in an unassuming business park, far from the crowded streets and hullabaloo of downtown. Easy to find and with ample parking, you can zip right down Devlin Road to find the hulking establishment standing proud like a beacon of beer, alone amidst a sea of open fields and currently undeveloped land. The building itself is quite modest and neatly groomed, with simple architectural qualities and a pleasant presence.<br />
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What makes this place special is that it seems to be a labor of love on all accounts. From the owners to the brewmaster, this team is working hard to build up their beer reputation in the valley, rightfully so. There's only a small handful of breweries around these parts like <a href="http://www.napasmithbrewery.com/">Napa Smith Brewery</a>, <a href="http://www.downtownjoes.com/">Downtown Joe's</a>, <a href="http://www.carnerosbrews.com/">Carneros Brewing Company</a> and <a href="http://www.calistogainn.com/">The Calistoga Inn & Brewery</a> (to name a few), but it has become apparent that good ol' beer has its place amongst the vines and is developing a significant following amongst locals.<br />
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At <a href="http://www.napapointbrewing.com/">Napa Point Brewing Company</a>, Brewmaster <a href="http://insidescoopsf.sfgate.com/blog/2013/10/01/napa-point-brewing-lifting-its-first-glass-this-month/">Denise Jones</a>, "is internationally recognized, having won over 300 awards. Her resume includes the Great Basin Brewing Company, Bluewater Brewing Company, and the Third Street Aleworks where she consistently achieved recognition for her brews with awards from the California State Fair, the Great American Beer Festival, and the World Beer Cup. Prior to joining Napa Point Brewing, Denise was Brewmaster at Moylan’s Brewing Company where she produced world class beers that were distributed across the globe and continued to win local, state, national and international awards including Grand Champion Brewery at the prestigious 2011 Australian International Brewing Awards."<br />
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As soon as you arrive at the brewery, you'll enter their unique gastropub (they're still working out the kinks to get their actual taproom open soon- I told you they were new!) and are greeted with a smile. Take your pick of arranged seating or sidle up to the high-top pub tables and catch the game(s) on one their many giant flat-screen TV's. If you prefer to sit outside, they've got a fantastic patio that is big enough for even the heartiest of groups, with giant handmade oak tables, Edison cafe lighting and ample room to get your drink on. Once you're settled in, it's time to make some serious brewski decisions- pace yourself though, it's a big task with their large selection.<br />
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It wasn't a bad way to spend the late afternoon, happy to be sitting sit out in the sunshine with a sampling of 5 very generous pours (probably around 5oz. each), discovering Napa Point Brewing's sophisticated flavors:<br />
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<b>Cryptic- India Pale Ale (I.P.A.)</b><br />
<i>"Assertive American grown hops from the Yakima Valley in Washington are the cornerstone of this West Coast standard. Two-row pale malt and California Ale yeast combine with the citrusy-pine flavors and aromas of Centennial and Cascade hops. Balanced to accent a firm bitterness to allow the unique qualities of a Northern California-style IPA to shine."</i><br />
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<b>The Crusher- Golden Ale</b><br />
<i>"A highly drinkable golden ale with lager-like qualities. Pilsner malts, noble hops imported from Germany and pure Napa Valley water are set to a cool ale fermentation and the result is a remarkably crisp, clean, “crushable” beer."</i><br />
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<b>Hefu- American Hefeweizen</b><br />
<i>"White wheat and pale two row malts blend together to offer a lively, refreshing ale with a natural citrusy flavor. The easy-drinking American-style wheat beer is served unfiltered for that distinctive cloudy appearance and can be accented with a lemon slice upon request."</i><br />
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<b>N.A.P.A.- North American Pale Ale (</b><span style="color: red;">My favorite!</span><b>)</b><br />
<i>"Our Brew Master personally selects the ingredients from the finest fields of barley and hops in North America to create a brew of superior balance and exceptional drinkability. A pale ale worthy of the finest wine region in the world."</i><br />
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<b>Stomper- Amber Ale</b><br />
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<i>"Regarded as the stylistic standard of the original brews in California brewing history. Premium two-row and crystal malts are matched with select Northern Brewer hops to create a balanced and drinkable amber ale. Restrained bitterness allows the malt flavors to showcase in the finish."</i><br />
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All five of these beers were much more complex than I was expecting, in a great way. I favored the <b>N.A.P.A. </b>pale ale for it's seamless blending of smooth texture and mild flavor, while the hubbs really liked the <b>Stomper's </b>malty robustness.<br />
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We hadn't initially intended on dining here, but of course time got away from us and before we knew it, it was sundown and our tummies were grumbling. Our waiter was a polite young man, eager to help us along the way with our food choices, so upon recommendation we were handed two menus and forgot how full we were. Their selection of tasty treats and belly-warming favorites is pretty hard to resist, no matter how big your previous meal was. I found myself contemplating dishes that were nearly impossible to imagine eating at that moment in time, but went for it anyways, because HEY! Why would I not want to keep eating? <br />
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We started with the <b>Deviled Eggs</b>, admittedly a total indulgence. The combination of mustard seed and <i>candied bacon</i> was delicious and too much to resist. I never really turn down a deviled egg, but these were pretty impressive and served at just the right temp with a light, champagne vinaigrette green salad garnish. The hubbs and I both laughed as we finished the plate in under 5 minutes, shrugging off the fact that we said we weren't hungry.<br />
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I wish I could say that we stopped there with the appetizers (for fear of sounding gluttonous), but we didn't. Oh no, we didn't and I don't feel the slightest bit guilty about gorging myself on savory snacks. The <b>Pretzel Bites. </b>The pretzel bites will keep you coming back, keep you craving a visit to the brewery. Served with and ale cheese sauce, these things will haunt your dreams. You too can soak up all that beer by ordering a heaping bowl of these squishy, salty puffs of yum.<br />
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It got even more amusing when we decided, "Let's just stay for dinner!" A chill started to invade the valley, so we moved indoors for our evening meal. We were fortunate enough to catch CEO <a href="http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/napa-point-brewing-opens-gastropub-on-devlin-road/article_7147bf54-45a4-11e3-a6a6-0019bb2963f4.html">Robert Dahl</a> in action, greeting customers and chatting up his new endeavor. A gracious guy with a penchant for conversation, he treated us to a pint on the house of each of our favorites and helped us make our dinner selection. I decided on going all in by ordering the <b>Meatloaf</b>, <b>Roasted Brussel Sprouts</b> and <b>Mac N' Cheese</b>. Oh baby. What I loved about the food was that it tasted homemade, almost as if it came out of your mama's own kitchen. I'm pretty picky with comfort food, but they really do a nice job at making comfy food still feel like "cuisine". Not too frilly, just well made home cookin'. The hubbs went with the <b>Ale Battered Cod</b>- light, fluffy and surrounded by some of the best fries in town. I'm not kidding about the cod, it was <i>fluffy.</i><br />
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Not only were we stuffed, we were both incredibly happy and satiated by our overall experience at <a href="http://www.napapointbrewing.com/">Napa Point Brewing Company.</a> In fact, we look forward to visiting again with friends, family, our dog, maybe some small children and each other. I personally like the fact that this place is off the beaten path- a beer retreat if you will, a hideaway for brew fiends and folks who enjoy good craft, good food and good company. *Hint Hint- they have a fantastic happy hour too!* <br />
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Go say hello. Do it now.<br />
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Cheers,<br />
B<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.napapointbrewing.com/">Napa Point Brewing Company</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
388 Devlin Road</div>
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Napa, CA 94558</div>
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707-266-7344</div>
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<a href="http://www.napabrewingcompany.com/">www.napapointbrewing.com</a></div>
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<i>*All images courtesy of Napa Point Brewing</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-60499967801504695482014-01-21T17:01:00.002-08:002014-01-21T21:51:04.872-08:00Hello Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been a bad girl. <br />
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I was forthright in letting you all know that I'd be taking December off- but I totally failed to mention anything about January... What the? How does time pass so quickly? I was scouring through my pile of to-do's this morning when it finally dawned on me that, yes, it is already almost February and I haven't written a single thing. For shame, B, for shame. *Insert sad face here*<br />
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I have no excuses.<br />
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December was chaotic and our schedules were loaded with events, visits, family and friends. With so much holiday fun happening, I honestly couldn't find a moment to sit back and type, nor did I want to. I let myself become completely immersed in the season and never really worried about the lack of publication happening. The upside of this downtime also gave me the chance to get to know my new surroundings, settle-in, find my groove (or almost find my groove) and relish in a little decompression time.<br />
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It is now time to get back on the happy train to food town.<br />
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Friends, here is a little sneak peek into <i>my </i>Napa lifestyle thus far....<br />
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We are situated in a prime location here in town, at the intersection of awesome and awesome. A crossings, you might say. We can easily head North, South, East or West, without hesitation or exhausting traffic, hoards of tourists or hulking limo vehicles. We love the option of country frontage roads, winding one-lane wooded paths, and quick "local" routes to get us where we want to be. Our home is spacious, minimal and just the right amount of cozy. I love spending time here, sitting on our patio in this crazy California winter weather, dog at my feet and bubbles in hand.<br />
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On weekends we are out and about, eating, drinking and continuing our merriment. We can usually be found exploring the fresh new bars & eateries of downtown Napa, tapas crawling the short distance of Yountville, sampling brews up in Calistoga or wandering through the backwoods to family-owned winery gems that we love sharing with friends and visitors.<br />
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I've compiled a list of places I want to talk about, many of which aren't familiar to the average weekenders or vacationers. I'll be posting articles in the weeks to come, highlighting these new favorites, so keep your eyes peeled! Here are some of our new haunts:<br />
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<a href="http://www.benegusto.com/">Bene Gusto</a>, <i>Browns Valley</i>... For artisan pizza, pasta, sandwiches, breakfast & outdoor ambiance. We love to sit back, sip wine and enjoy the company here, chatting with neighbors.<br />
<a href="http://www.calistogainn.com/brewery.html">The Calistoga Inn & Brewery</a>... A fantastic little brewery with awesome bar food, an intimate dining room & terribly interesting native folk.<br />
<a href="http://www.fumebistro.com/">Fumé Bistro & Bar.</a>.. Their mouthwatering seasonal menu impresses every time, plus they have outdoor fire pits and a great discounted locals night.<br />
<a href="http://www.redhencantina.com/">The Red Hen Cantina</a>... Newly relocated & remodeled with a HUGE outdoor seating area, this is a fun place for sports watching, Mexican food and whole bunch of tequila.<br />
<a href="http://www.vineleven.com/">VINeleven</a>... Not your typical restaurant, but nonetheless, their food is awesome & the staff is lovely.<br />
<a href="http://www.uvatrattoria.com/">UVA Trattoria</a>... Holy smokes! Amazing Italian fare and totally killer atmosphere with live tunes.<br />
<a href="http://www.redd-wood.com/">Redd Wood</a>... Pizza, pasta & appetizers with an impressive wine list and supremely cool vibe.<br />
<a href="http://www.hillstone.com/#/restaurants/cafeRandD">R&D Kitchen</a>... Quickly becoming one of the most popular meeting spots in the valley with their ample outdoor space and simple, sophisticated menu. Great bar and group destination.<br />
<a href="http://www.bardessono.com/restaurant_bar">Lucy Restaurant & Bar,</a> <i>Bardessono</i>... A personal favorite, full of calm, class and high-end taste.<br />
<a href="http://www.thefremontdiner.com/">The Fremont Diner</a>... A popular stop between Sonoma and Napa for hometown favorites.<br />
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Ok, now I'm getting hungry.<br />
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Stay tuned and get your forks ready!<br />
B <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-30813223138506017302013-12-05T11:17:00.000-08:002013-12-05T11:17:20.892-08:00Welcome Home.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For those of you wondering where I've been this past month, yes, the rumors are true- we've moved to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Napa,_California">Napa</a> and have fallen deeply in love with our surroundings.<br />
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I'm also finding out that living in such a gorgeous, bountiful area makes getting day-to-day stuff done... super... extra... difficult. It is much too tempting to go out and "play" these days than it is to sit inside and stare at my computer screen. Can you blame me? I think a huge part of it is strictly being overwhelmed with writing opportunities here because I just don't know where to start. There's too much food! *Insert maniacal cackle*<br />
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I'll be the first to admit, I've been slacking. Never fear kind readers, it is only a temporary lapse which I presume will last through the holiday season. Ok, that's a lie, I am totally giving myself December off. <br />
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I just unpacked our last remaining box from our move yesterday, so our new place finally feels complete enough to relax in. The anxious "so much more to do" feeling has left my body, we've found a groove in our schedules and I can cook comfortably in my kitchen without slamming a shin into a box full of dishes. We've been enjoying our evenings out on our patio, glass of wine in hand, pug at our feet gnawing on a mint chewy bone. The hubbs usually arrives home around six, which isn't bad considering his commute. By the time he gets home, we've already decided to dine in or out- the nice thing about our location is that we have an impressive radius of options within walking distance or a short car trip away. Dinner has become a bonding time for us as opposed to our previous rushed, overly-casual meal. We no longer feel the urge to "hurry up and eat" so we can do other stuff, but instead we find ourselves lingering over our food and enjoying conversation (whether between ourselves at home or a new friend we've made chatting between tables). It's been a lovely change that really hits home the idea of unwinding after a long day.<br />
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In fact, it was over a meal that we came to this eye-opening conclusion:<br />
We've never lived directly in an area or town where we were absolutely surrounded by our passions. <br />
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Being here is a revelation for us. With the hubbs main interest in wine, and my own obsession with food, it's a match made in heaven. I wake up every morning and have to pinch myself that and keep in mind that I'm not on vacation or staying with my in-laws. This is my home now. It is incredible to me just how much living here has awakened our spirits. We laugh more, we spend more time outdoors, we find new things to check out each and every day. We are surrounded by some of the most influential, acclaimed and highly-touted food, wine & hospitality institutions, all of which are a stones throw away. It's mind-blowing! <br />
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I find myself more and more giddy everyday and I cannot wait to explore even more than we already have. I've got an entire valley to get to know and I'm completely over the moon to do so.<br />
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So sit tight friends, because it's going to be a fascinating ride. I'll make sure to jump back on the blog wagon as soon as I find my bearings and hunker down. Perhaps if it starts raining I'll be forced to stay inside and get some writing done, but for now, I'm out-and-about.<br />
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Happy Home, Happy Hearts.<br />
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Love,<br />
B <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-64605947641042969032013-12-01T11:56:00.001-08:002013-12-01T11:56:22.447-08:00Food of Murcia: A Photo Journal.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYCIqczgydE/Uk3vpt7evgI/AAAAAAAADzY/VK_pLBN3_gg/s1600/DSCN0230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYCIqczgydE/Uk3vpt7evgI/AAAAAAAADzY/VK_pLBN3_gg/s640/DSCN0230.JPG" width="384" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gazpacho on a warm day, perfect for sipping.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A VERY fresh seafood sampler.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68rnl6Y1umU/Uk3v5EtlBdI/AAAAAAAADzo/dzsxyeGcNhQ/s1600/DSCN0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68rnl6Y1umU/Uk3v5EtlBdI/AAAAAAAADzo/dzsxyeGcNhQ/s640/DSCN0306.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drunken Goat cheese.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0v9e0T8-n7U/Uk3wb8HXrZI/AAAAAAAAD0A/T_T7H4QcpBY/s1600/DSCN0307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0v9e0T8-n7U/Uk3wb8HXrZI/AAAAAAAAD0A/T_T7H4QcpBY/s640/DSCN0307.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Masters of the Drunken Goat Cheese and some fabulous wine, Bodegas Carchelo.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2xYL92-oeI/Uk3wFv02CZI/AAAAAAAADzw/TogyB1tjlnw/s1600/DSCN0308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2xYL92-oeI/Uk3wFv02CZI/AAAAAAAADzw/TogyB1tjlnw/s640/DSCN0308.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I ate way too much of this creamy, delicious cheese.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtE91ULhuWQ/Uk3wObt8DkI/AAAAAAAADz4/GZ34vXtltTs/s1600/DSCN0324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtE91ULhuWQ/Uk3wObt8DkI/AAAAAAAADz4/GZ34vXtltTs/s640/DSCN0324.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful Loreto restaurant.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvTxM2kp27I/Uk3wt7n8GII/AAAAAAAAD0I/wYnwRmyb7ok/s1600/DSCN0325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvTxM2kp27I/Uk3wt7n8GII/AAAAAAAAD0I/wYnwRmyb7ok/s640/DSCN0325.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning courtyard at Loreto.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Head chef at Loreto.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kcmrw-uWir0/Uk3x8NkkWMI/AAAAAAAAD04/GywOqABoOsE/s1600/DSCN0334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="564" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kcmrw-uWir0/Uk3x8NkkWMI/AAAAAAAAD04/GywOqABoOsE/s640/DSCN0334.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby eel salad.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xqJZcnK1A84/Uk3yDz44xaI/AAAAAAAAD1A/ADjieijhdpI/s1600/DSCN0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="460" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xqJZcnK1A84/Uk3yDz44xaI/AAAAAAAAD1A/ADjieijhdpI/s640/DSCN0336.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep fried cheese with tomato sauce.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A7fkwsMVXQ0/Uk3yauNJgzI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/T90XpyF09mU/s1600/DSCN0337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="614" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A7fkwsMVXQ0/Uk3yauNJgzI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/T90XpyF09mU/s640/DSCN0337.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushroom en croute.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFZc_ZoOEyg/Uk3yTtp-grI/AAAAAAAAD1I/YpQN0gvmBUo/s1600/DSCN0338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFZc_ZoOEyg/Uk3yTtp-grI/AAAAAAAAD1I/YpQN0gvmBUo/s640/DSCN0338.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hearty paella.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FiQCO4mrnfo/Uk3ybTWOzjI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/YE1DMGEh7Yw/s1600/DSCN0339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="490" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FiQCO4mrnfo/Uk3ybTWOzjI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/YE1DMGEh7Yw/s640/DSCN0339.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef tenderloin.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xHQjFUfs3xM/Uk3y3QtfCvI/AAAAAAAAD1o/xo9VHeGL_M0/s1600/DSCN0344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xHQjFUfs3xM/Uk3y3QtfCvI/AAAAAAAAD1o/xo9VHeGL_M0/s640/DSCN0344.JPG" width="570" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meat cabinet!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kdSGjFnpDAs/Uk3y8vnNIYI/AAAAAAAAD1w/SDJiEWt2vro/s1600/DSCN0346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kdSGjFnpDAs/Uk3y8vnNIYI/AAAAAAAAD1w/SDJiEWt2vro/s640/DSCN0346.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a lovely setting, with unbelievably fresh ingredients.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JlikTqdpDRc/Uk3y0kq1O2I/AAAAAAAAD1g/i95Q2QhXzic/s1600/DSCN0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="350" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JlikTqdpDRc/Uk3y0kq1O2I/AAAAAAAAD1g/i95Q2QhXzic/s640/DSCN0347.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh seafood.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sPtxmzpzYQ0/Uk3zABWciCI/AAAAAAAAD14/yLy47SYkWyw/s1600/DSCN0348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sPtxmzpzYQ0/Uk3zABWciCI/AAAAAAAAD14/yLy47SYkWyw/s640/DSCN0348.JPG" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruits, desserts.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1VhoeELXBv4/UpuOE6r_AyI/AAAAAAAAD2c/13AkR7HS3vI/s1600/DSCN0422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1VhoeELXBv4/UpuOE6r_AyI/AAAAAAAAD2c/13AkR7HS3vI/s640/DSCN0422.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved these homemade jams, made from Hacienda del Carche grapes.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjHz-nxK5GQ/UpuOeaJiwAI/AAAAAAAAD2k/uEMV7sO24-g/s1600/DSCN0443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjHz-nxK5GQ/UpuOeaJiwAI/AAAAAAAAD2k/uEMV7sO24-g/s640/DSCN0443.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More fried cheese.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ofd6AYJuoX8/UpuOjeUok_I/AAAAAAAAD2s/bEfuFioXKB0/s1600/DSCN0445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ofd6AYJuoX8/UpuOjeUok_I/AAAAAAAAD2s/bEfuFioXKB0/s640/DSCN0445.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamari with aioli.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6vzcOyor6uQ/UpuOsZAcs4I/AAAAAAAAD20/22F9WACSqtc/s1600/DSCN0447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6vzcOyor6uQ/UpuOsZAcs4I/AAAAAAAAD20/22F9WACSqtc/s640/DSCN0447.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garlic-y gaspacho with croutons.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WmOKDgoIf-Y/UpuPM-AJuWI/AAAAAAAAD3A/BnkjWdr4G-o/s1600/DSCN0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WmOKDgoIf-Y/UpuPM-AJuWI/AAAAAAAAD3A/BnkjWdr4G-o/s640/DSCN0452.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dessert plate that caused a fork-fight amongst peers.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fNJTwwCl84w/UpuPNQDkxRI/AAAAAAAAD3E/d_u2GeUGh-E/s1600/DSCN0560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fNJTwwCl84w/UpuPNQDkxRI/AAAAAAAAD3E/d_u2GeUGh-E/s640/DSCN0560.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh cheese with piquillo peppers and anchovies.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYE28_9q1ec/UpuPSdtgviI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/IOD__D7QmmY/s1600/DSCN0563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYE28_9q1ec/UpuPSdtgviI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/IOD__D7QmmY/s640/DSCN0563.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vegetable terrine.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yasbfl4_j8I/UpuP4vS38RI/AAAAAAAAD3o/uxf5SYi9flA/s1600/DSCN0568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yasbfl4_j8I/UpuP4vS38RI/AAAAAAAAD3o/uxf5SYi9flA/s640/DSCN0568.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why yes, that is a rabbit skull in my paella- and it tasted delicious.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rbco4PxjuhY/UpuP2MAxYII/AAAAAAAAD3c/6iNwSCaoRj8/s1600/DSCN0569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rbco4PxjuhY/UpuP2MAxYII/AAAAAAAAD3c/6iNwSCaoRj8/s640/DSCN0569.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand-churned sweet cream ice cream with cherries, pineapple and melon.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnUsmaG9NRQ/UpuP1SobzhI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/lm_7Y28F6l8/s1600/DSCN0561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnUsmaG9NRQ/UpuP1SobzhI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/lm_7Y28F6l8/s640/DSCN0561.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warm smoked-cod spread with crostini.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E2bvKCSng4Y/UpuQFlb0bfI/AAAAAAAAD3w/x6-QrbBLQoc/s1600/DSCN0565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E2bvKCSng4Y/UpuQFlb0bfI/AAAAAAAAD3w/x6-QrbBLQoc/s640/DSCN0565.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paella for everyone!<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-85600255433871960072013-09-30T15:21:00.000-07:002013-09-30T15:24:54.362-07:00Jordan Estate Tour & Tasting.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nh7VWPknHQA/UknjsVzwMnI/AAAAAAAADxk/shkJBN1QxdU/s1600/jordanhome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nh7VWPknHQA/UknjsVzwMnI/AAAAAAAADxk/shkJBN1QxdU/s640/jordanhome.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wanted to share this particular experience with you all because, well, I <i>love</i> <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan</a>...<br />
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The wines. The people. The estate.<br />
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Located in the heart of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Valley_AVA">Alexander Valley</a> amidst the rolling, burnished hills and ancient oak trees of Sonoma County, <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan Vineyard and Winery</a> sits quietly and graciously alone, in an almost palatial fashion. With it's gorgeous ivy-covered chateau, extensive lawns, exquisite guest suites and fantastic wines (of course), Jordan Winery has long been a favorite of aficionados from all over the world. </div>
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"<i>One of the few wine country estates with nearly 1,000 acres dedicated to to natural habitat, Jordan Estate is a journey for all senses, enchanting wine lovers, epicures and nature lovers alike.</i>"</div>
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Enchanting indeed. The hubbs and I have been fans for years, and were lucky enough to be invited to test drive a very special opportunity that Jordan has now made available to the public-- an estate tour and tasting. Previously, guests were only able to visit <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan</a> by appointment or invitation, which was limited to the visiting the winery grounds and tasting room. Now, by reservation, guests can experience the <b>entire</b> estate by touring in Jordan's super-luxe coach, experiencing points-of-interest all throughout the property. All this, while sampling Jordan's wines and indulging in property-grown food pairings, prepared by Estate Executive Chef, Todd Knoll. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SAUuelb8AsY/UkDZ0iayYoI/AAAAAAAADv0/t1cGO3FXgI0/s1600/jordanbreaky.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SAUuelb8AsY/UkDZ0iayYoI/AAAAAAAADv0/t1cGO3FXgI0/s640/jordanbreaky.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The scones. The scones!</td></tr>
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You will start by touring the 40-year-old <b>Winery Chateau</b>, which radiates classic French sophistication and elegance. Marvel at the towering oak casks in the cellar room, ornate architectural details and luscious surrounding gardens while learning the history of the Jordan family legacy. On our visit, we were presented a lovely breakfast of house-made scones, freshly squeezed orange juice, house-made preserves and fresh fruit grown on the property. A delicious beginning.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ujon6j89sQg/UkDc7Vh1UmI/AAAAAAAADwA/nIQa-IcfUao/s1600/jordanfruit.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ujon6j89sQg/UkDc7Vh1UmI/AAAAAAAADwA/nIQa-IcfUao/s640/jordanfruit.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit Orchard.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AfRzQIOe-rk/UkDdJXtWdgI/AAAAAAAADwI/okqVMMIsPK8/s1600/jordanveg2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AfRzQIOe-rk/UkDdJXtWdgI/AAAAAAAADwI/okqVMMIsPK8/s640/jordanveg2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomatoes, peppers, onions, beans.</td></tr>
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Continue on, meandering down through the hills- keep your eyes open for wildlife! The <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan Estate</a> property is teeming with birds, deer, rabbits and other woodland creatures all living peacefully and happily amongst the vines. Your next stop is the <b>Chef's Garden</b>, nearly an acre of vegetables, fruit trees, and herbs that provide Chef Knoll with "<i>inspiration for seasonal, farm-fresh dishes to pair with Jordan Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon</i>." The garden was copious and thriving for us, with ripened fruits and vegetables that we were encouraged to sample. We tasted figs, tomatoes, onions, carrots, basil, apples and fresh herbs, all of which were simply mouth-watering.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uDt4CYXAsAc/UkDiq3xdbOI/AAAAAAAADwY/5tZ41yXkPEI/s1600/jordanflowers.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uDt4CYXAsAc/UkDiq3xdbOI/AAAAAAAADwY/5tZ41yXkPEI/s640/jordanflowers.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bouquet anyone?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4b5SigRspjY/UkDit7Bq9VI/AAAAAAAADwg/IXjF24vUeow/s1600/jordanroses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4b5SigRspjY/UkDit7Bq9VI/AAAAAAAADwg/IXjF24vUeow/s640/jordanroses.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fell in love with these fire-colored roses.</td></tr>
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Next door to the chef's garden, you will have the pleasure of viewing (and perhaps picking a flower or two) at their very own <b>cutting flower garden</b>. It here that the staff finds their awesome blooms for the arrangements you will see scattered around the estate corridors. I was taken aback by the rare Austin roses, fluffy like cotton balls and delicate as lace. The garden focuses on heritage and exotic flowers, over two dozen varieties, all of which are used in Director of Hospitality & Events, Knitsa Knoll's floral arrangements for <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan</a> events. Take note as your pull away from the gardens and notice the of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaics">solar photovoltaic</a> array- an impressive installation of solar power that has reduced the estate's utility bill by 99%, churning out CO2 offsets equivalent to planting nearly 8,000 trees to date.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--GQoZ2Am9h8/Uknn5Tdl3lI/AAAAAAAADys/2Z80FSHh_t0/s1600/solar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--GQoZ2Am9h8/Uknn5Tdl3lI/AAAAAAAADys/2Z80FSHh_t0/s640/solar.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solar power.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2u_l-e1fC4/UkIdAajwF_I/AAAAAAAADww/EcOI9yA5kZY/s1600/jordanmoo.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2u_l-e1fC4/UkIdAajwF_I/AAAAAAAADww/EcOI9yA5kZY/s640/jordanmoo.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Say cheese!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nuu7i9HgbRA/Uknj6hVvFII/AAAAAAAADxs/6T8pt1BSIVM/s1600/gooseandmav.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nuu7i9HgbRA/Uknj6hVvFII/AAAAAAAADxs/6T8pt1BSIVM/s640/gooseandmav.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goose & Mav.</td></tr>
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Another wonderful aspect of touring the estate is getting to visit the farm. A petite barn, chickens (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australorp">Australorp</a> to be exact), donkeys ("Goose" and "Maverick"), longhorn steer and black Angus cows dot the pasture, setting an ideal scene for visitors. CEO John Jordan is even exploring the possibilities of farming his very own beef for consumption on the estate, blending his breeds, thus creating the "perfect" home-grown cattle hybrid. You can't help but think to yourself, "This place has it all."<br />
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Until you see the lake.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WYDpExfF7PQ/UkIhgPe1syI/AAAAAAAADw8/0XvJSccK84g/s1600/jordan7oaks2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WYDpExfF7PQ/UkIhgPe1syI/AAAAAAAADw8/0XvJSccK84g/s640/jordan7oaks2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Chair on the deck and I'm good.</td></tr>
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As you can tell by now, the Jordan family's passion for nature is present and clear. The estate boasts a thriving wetland, and a fully stocked 10 acre lake that is surrounded by forest and olive trees. This brings us to <b>Seven Oaks</b>.<br />
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"<i>Named for its cluster of craggy, blue oaks, Seven Oaks is nestled at the edge of Jordan Lake. This serene corner of the estate is a haven for wildlife and offers sweeping views of our olive orchards and grapevines. Its dock is the perfect place for sipping Jordan Chardonnay.</i>"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B4x1VBu4nn0/UkImC8Yvk-I/AAAAAAAADxU/TvQp03I6zcw/s1600/jordan7oaks.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B4x1VBu4nn0/UkImC8Yvk-I/AAAAAAAADxU/TvQp03I6zcw/s640/jordan7oaks.jpeg" width="474" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shadowy snacks.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FChthl2JjQU/UkIk-awhWuI/AAAAAAAADxM/t24taxGvia0/s1600/jordandimsum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FChthl2JjQU/UkIk-awhWuI/AAAAAAAADxM/t24taxGvia0/s640/jordandimsum.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artful.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NKT4mO19YYQ/UknlbTg1UvI/AAAAAAAADx4/yLi7PqERGYk/s1600/jordancracker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="517" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NKT4mO19YYQ/UknlbTg1UvI/AAAAAAAADx4/yLi7PqERGYk/s640/jordancracker.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger, pistachios... Best cracker ever.</td></tr>
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It is here where we sampled our first pairing with <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/wines/chardonnay/vintages/2010">2010</a> & <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/wines/chardonnay/vintages/2011">2011</a> Jordan Chardonnay. When we arrived at Seven Oaks, we were greeted and presented a small, dark wooden box with glasses. Inside of this box rested a special <i><b>Spiced Garden Escabeche with Gravenstein Apple Vinaigrette & Wild Fennel</b></i>. Also inside was a <b style="font-style: italic;">Nigiri of Seasonal Fruit with Jordan Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sonoma Honey & Citrus. </b>Both were served in tiny stone bowls, tucked neatly into the boxes-- a slightly more modern, chic presentation that contrasted nicely with our rustic surroundings. I adored the fresh basil, tomato and beets of the escabeche, and the unusual combination of fresh fruit with cool, faintly seasoned rice "nigiri" style was a delightful surprise. Both paired seamlessly with the Chardonnay-- I enjoyed the 2010 immensely and was sad to leave both the view and that little wooden box behind.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bNLIdCHxdu0/Uknn2BnE3kI/AAAAAAAADyk/7FsSb-ZsmWA/s1600/olives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bNLIdCHxdu0/Uknn2BnE3kI/AAAAAAAADyk/7FsSb-ZsmWA/s640/olives.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many olive groves.</td></tr>
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The experience at this point was turning somewhat dreamy, with the perfect weather, wonderful wine and great company. As our coach rambled up the rocky hills, letting way to panoramic valley views, I noticed a considerable incline beginning to occur. Rows and rows of vines were passing us by, groves of olives and more grapes than the eye could see. Our ride came to a lumbering halt under the giant bay trees at the <b>Creekside Landing</b>...<br />
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"<i>Situated between our sustainably-farmed vineyards, this seasonal creek is a tranquil habitat for native flora and fauna. The Creekside Landing bridge leads to an ideal location for exploring the grapevines' annual life cycle</i>."<br />
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Excited and giddy, we were finally able to dig our toes (shoes, actually) into the rich soil of <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan Winery</a>, red, silty and richly textured. The majority of us whipped out our cameras and couldn't get enough of the scenery, while others walked along the wines plucking samples of berries in their natural, original form. The sun was high in the sky and although the air was dry and warm, the vines were lush and beautiful-- I couldn't resist plucking a few of the deep purple marbles from their clusters, savoring the tangy not-quite-ready zing that only a fresh grape can produce. And yes, I pulled out my camera and took some photographs of my own. How could I resist?<br />
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I could tell that this entire journey was headed up hill-- a really, really big hill. After we left the grapevines behind, we set off on a vertical ascent up a rocky driveway surrounded by flaxen gold fields and wooded crevices. I watched the birds flitting from one tree to another, gazing across the horizon at the hills that felt so familiar to me. Growing up in <a href="http://www.sonoma-county.org/">Sonoma County</a> was such a blessing and I miss it so much, everyday. Visiting <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan</a> is like taking a small mental vacation for me, where I can take deep breaths and feel a little bit sentimental for lichen covered oaks and dry chaparral landscapes. Giant dark boulders with lime green moss peek out from behind manzanitas, beetles and crickets fill the air with a constant summertime buzz that quiets as you pass through their massive playground. Small, dry creeks weaving their way through tall grass, jack-rabbits peering through aged tree stumps at the passers-by... </div>
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As I was busy zoning out on the beauty surrounding us, I hadn't realized that we were about to reach our final destination on the tour. At the very top of the largest hill on the estate grounds sits <b>Vista Point</b>, one of the highest locations in the county providing a complete 360 degree view of the entire surrounding wine regions.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrAQTBR_CME/UknwQ4NXt4I/AAAAAAAADy4/lcqi1yYovzE/s1600/vista.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrAQTBR_CME/UknwQ4NXt4I/AAAAAAAADy4/lcqi1yYovzE/s640/vista.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>"Breathtaking views from Jordan Estate's highest hilltop give Vista Point its name. The stunning panorama of three mountain ranges and three wine regions define this one-of-a-kind location. A fitting culmination to the ultimate excursion."</i></div>
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Once we had all taken in the enormous view, we were seated for a special final pairing and relaxation period under arguably one of the most elegantly constructed roofed entertaining areas I've ever seen. All stone and polished wood, hammered copper and slick concrete floors. A blazing contrast to the natural environment encapsulating this dream dining room. I smiled when I first saw the cool, perfect, modern little house sitting against the crackling crunch of summer in Sonoma county. A place of respite and contemplation, where it feels special to be at one with the wind and wine. </div>
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In front of me sat another wooden box- this time made of bamboo. Along with it, a tiny sky blue colored <a href="http://www.staubusa.com/">Staub</a> ramekin and a pressed linen napkin. Inside of the box was a <i style="font-weight: bold;">Selection of Sonoma County & European Artisanal Cheeses</i>. One can never have enough cheese. In the cast iron ramekin was a small-bite of <b><i>Miso-Glazed Sonoma Beef with Maitake Mushrooms & Braised Endive</i></b>. We were also served the <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/wines/cabernet_sauvignon/vintages/2002">2002</a> & <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/wines/cabernet_sauvignon/vintages/2009">2009</a> Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon to accompany our afternoon bites, both of which were an absolute dream to drink. The perfect ending to a perfect day.</div>
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Thank you to the family and staff at <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/">Jordan Winery & Estate</a> for this delicious, delightful adventure. This experience will stay with me for years to come...</div>
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Regards,</div>
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B</div>
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<b><i>Jordan Winery Estate Tour & Tasting info is available at <a href="http://www.jordanwinery.com/visit">www.jordanwinery.com/visit</a></i></b></div>
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<b><i>Tours are 3 hours long at the cost of $120 per guest</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Or call 800.654.1213 for arrangements</i></b><br />
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<i><b>*</b>Photos 1, 7, 8, 13 & 16 courtesy of www.jordanwinery.com</i><br />
<i>All other photos are authors own.</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-20254756532876131882013-09-11T21:10:00.000-07:002013-09-12T09:58:48.782-07:00Day Three: Feeling good. 2013 Hunger ChallengeI slept like a rock last night, thanks to this cool weather and a bit of over-exertion yesterday. That is a good thing, since my sleep patterns have been so up and down ever since the little dude with all the energy came to live with us. We were up before the sun today, or rather, <i>with</i> the sun-- but strangely, it didn't feel so bad to be up, perky and ready to take on the day.<br />
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I'm starting Wednesday off right by having a nutritious meal that will help fuel my favorite workout, swimming. I've recently rediscovered my love for swimming and have been enjoying regular trips to our community pool. Not only is it fantastic during the hot weather, swimming just makes me feel good all over. There's a certain freedom to jumping in the pool, feeling the water against your skin and having super-human power as you pull your way down the lanes. For that, I need fuel.<br />
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Today's breakfast: <b>poached egg</b> (1), <b>whole wheat toast</b> (1 slice), <b>skillet potato</b> (1/2 russet), some <b>cantaloupe</b> and a few <b>strawberries</b>. <b>Whole milk </b>(1 cup) as always. Hearty, but necessary to get me through the next few hours of busy work and pool time.<br />
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I really enjoy being up early in the morning, especially when the weather is mild. Being in the kitchen prepping food and cooking in the A.M. makes me feel very homey. I love having the dog under my feet as I shuffle around in pj's toasting, slicing, sipping and savoring the quiet time.<br />
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My morning went as planned but I struggled with the swim, having covered only 800 meters in 45 minutes (which is slow for me). I need to get back into the groove and on a regular schedule again, otherwise my body and metabolism suffers. Before my workout, I drove over to <a href="http://www.walnut-creek.org/citygov/depts/ps/parks/heatherfarm/">Heather Farm Park</a> in Walnut Creek to visit the dog patch, which resulted in a good hour of chasing our four-legged friend around with a frisbee... Somehow I always manage doing all the work as my dog looks on in curiosity. Nonetheless, a nice way to burn some calories and get outside both swimming and at the park.<br />
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Upon my return home I was surprised to notice that I wasn't quite as famished as I thought I'd be, so I pushed myself a little harder by getting household chores done and watering our huge garden. This time of year is huge relief for homeowners (in my opinion) because the sun finally relents and the winds pick up, giving a breath of fresh air to a recently parched landscape. With the sprinklers on and my pants rolled up to my knees, I managed to clean up some stubborn wild seagrass and prune our roses back for the fall. It took about an hour, so by the time it was 1:30 I could feel my body getting shaky-- the biggest giveaway that I've waited too long is that I start to smell ammonia through my nose. Think I'm kidding? I'm not. Check <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/ammonia.htm">this article</a> out to learn more about the strange and wonderful ways are bodies tell us, "Hey! I need sustenance!"<br />
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Eat I did. I kept it relatively simple with a <b>whole wheat</b> (1 slice) <b>grilled cheese sandwich </b>using our precious <b>cheddar cheese </b>(1 oz), along with a chopped <b>tomato </b>(1 oz) & <b>white onion </b>(1/2 oz) salsa, a side of <b>cantaloupe</b> (1 serving) and washed it down with <b>whole milk</b> (1/2 cup). I've already drank about 64 fluid ounces of water today in an attempt to stay incredibly hydrated, so that's a positive thing. I know, I know- my bread looks totally burnt. I had to figure out how to do grilled cheese without oil or butter, so I used our broiler and lost track of time. Not wanting to waste, I scraped off the worst bits and ate it anyways. I will say that I rarely eat this much bread, let alone sandwich bread, but I am grateful to have it. I really wished I would've planned better and purchased a head of lettuce, spinach, or some cucumbers, as we are definitely lacking in greens this week. At least I still have a yellow onion and some carrots left to use for supper, along with tomatoes. <br />
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I was trying to go as lean as possible for today, but I quickly realized that our food options are starting to become a little more tricky. We have fruit left, some dry pasta, rice, canned tomatoes, an onion, chicken broth and 1 chicken breast left for tomorrow and Friday. I'm not terribly concerned, but the strange remainder of ingredients is making things slightly interesting-- my creativity will prevail!</div>
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For dinner tonight, I wanted a typical triangle meal with meat, starch and vegetables. That's exactly what I got when I pan seared boneless, skinless <b>chicken breasts</b> (4 oz per), steamed some of our <b>carrots </b>(1- 7in. per) and then boiled & mashed our <b>russet potatoes </b>(1 potato per). Because we have one extra <b>tomato</b>, I sliced one for us to share before dinner. A basic, filling meal that I was able to give a little more flavor by adding the pan sauce from the chicken to the potatoes, along with a dash of milk for creaminess. Not too bad. Considerably healthy.</div>
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I had a MEAN case of the snackies this afternoon that was driving me crazy. I found myself pacing around the house looking for something to do just to distract myself from diving into my <i>candybag</i>. Indeed, I keep a bag of gummy bears, milk duds, skittles, sour patch kids and junior mints stashed in my cupboard for emergencies. All I could do was stare at it. But I didn't give in!</div>
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Day Three... Done. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-63227064975080703892013-09-10T19:15:00.000-07:002013-09-12T09:58:19.297-07:00Day Two: B-L-D. 2013 Hunger ChallengeLast night was pretty hard. I went to bed around 9:30 with the intention of falling asleep pretty quickly, but was kept up by my slowly grumbling stomach. As I tossed and turned, my body couldn't relax and the pang became annoyingly noticeable. By two in the morning, all I could think of was, "Can't wait for breakfast... Ugh." I think it was around 3 when I finally dozed off, thankfully.<br />
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The dog wakes me up every morning quite early, as dogs do, but today I woke up feeling motivated-- if not a little sluggish. I usually let him do his business and then crawl back into bed, but today I simply made the bed, checked me email and began to put together breakfast.<br />
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I'm not normally a breakfast gal, but after yesterday I thought it pretty important to fuel up for the day, since I have bunch I need to get accomplished and will be whirring for a few hours solid. Today I made myself <b>one soft scrambled egg</b>, 2<b> slices of whole wheat toast</b>, <b>1/2 cup of sliced strawberries</b> and my token <b>1/2 cup of whole milk</b>. That's a bigger breakfast than I would ever normally eat, but I have to say, I feel better when I do. Starting off my day at 369 calories. <br />
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Note to self: still waiting for my stone fruits and melons to ripen. My strawberries were ready to eat and will need to be used within the day or tomorrow, while my larger fruit is still firm and inedible. The cantaloupe has about a day, along with the watermelon, but the peach, plum and nectarine were all unripe when purchased. Craving the lightness and sweetness of fruit, so berries will have to do for now.<br />
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We'll see how far my resilience lasts today on a full morning meal...<br />
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I got most of my errands finished up, including lugging 23 quarts of paint down to the hazardous waste recycling center, braving Costco at 10am for a box of triathlon nutrition bars for the hubbs, watering the garden and spending a hot hour at the dog park. I've been busy this last hour writing other articles and keeping correspondence up to speed, all while enjoying a semi-dull lunch. Not much you can do with <b>carrots </b>(1 carrot)<b> </b>and <b>white rice </b>(1/2 cup), so I portioned out a little (1/4 cup) of last nights leftovers for substance. Topped off with a glass of sparkling water, I feel satisfied if not underwhelmed. Saving our fresh tomatoes for this evenings tacos. Why don't I just have a sandwich you ask? Well, I couldn't afford lunch meats, and other than that I have cheese, which I'm trying to make last all week. I gobbled up my lunch quickly, all 356 calories of it.</div>
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This evening I prepared the hubbs favorite- Mexican food! Well, sort of. As close to it as I can get. I used our <b>80% lean ground chuck</b> (4 oz per), <b>flour tortillas </b>(1 per), <b>tomato</b> (1 chopped), and <b>Monterey jack cheese</b> (2oz), along with <b>white onion</b> (1/2 chopped) and I thought that I'd try <b>shredded carrots</b> in place of something crunchy, like lettuce (1 carrot). I tossed in some <b>garlic (</b>1 clove, minced) for some flavor with the beef and then decided to add hot water to the mixture and braise it. I find that when you have a cheaper cut of meat, especially ground beef, it always helps to braise in order to soften up the texture. It will also help to permeate the garlic into the beef, giving it a richer flavor. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the prettiest, but it didn't taste bad!</td></tr>
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I had a hard time with this meal because I desperately wanted to keep eating the tacos. I could sit and eat four or five if left to my own device, but I'm sticking to the plan and only allowing myself a serving. Luckily, a serving of ground beef is rather generous, so this meal, wrapped up in a large tortilla, was plenty satisfying. Self-restraint is more difficult when it's a favorite food. I will be taking advantage of these leftovers for sure-- maybe for lunch? </div>
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I've found that by dinner time, I'm pretty darn ready to eat. We generally aim for 6:30 at the latest (due to the hubbs work schedule) and on Day Two, I was definitely feeling the growl by 5pm.<br />
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Tomorrow, I think I'll try going lean and light. That's been a big struggle, figuring out how to eat well enough to feel energized and FULL at the same time. I can't eat potatoes all week or I won't be able to move, nor can I eat only raw veggies or lean meats for the opposite reason- I'll faint. Plus, I'm swimming my regular 1200 meters in the morning, we'll see how that makes me feel. </div>
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Day Two... Done. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-81734945142297345692013-09-09T20:13:00.000-07:002013-09-09T20:15:40.246-07:00First Day Jitters: 2013 Hunger ChallengeSo here's the thing....<br />
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I have this new pug puppy who's a maniac and needs to be run like a thoroughbred pony for the majority of the day in order to get any peace and quiet around here at night. It's also 100 degrees at our house, with no air conditioning. Therefore, I spend the cool mornings running the dog ragged, sweat my way through the afternoons in front of a giant fan with all the windows closed, and then beg for wind in the evenings, which rarely arrives. <br />
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Today I got up pretty early, cleaned my house, took pug to the dog park (stood without shade for an hour), walked another half mile, brought him back home and then jumped in the car to go grab groceries. I was hungry before I left for the store, but decided to stick it out in order to conserve. By this time (around 11am) I am usually pretty voracious for something, anything, to eat. Knowing that I had limited food amounts definitely made me think twice about *when* I was going to have lunch-- even after mid-range exertion. I kept thinking to myself, "I'm not even really putting forth that much physical effort and I'm famished. Argh!" <br />
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When I finally found the time to eat lunch, I was feeling lightheaded and very, very cranky because I'd waited too long to eat and my blood sugar level had plummeted. I'm one of those people that are good one second, and totally not ok the next when it comes to personal fuel, so the lesson I will be taking away from today is that I should <b>eat breakfast</b>. When meal planning and limiting intake of food becomes an issue, it's crucial to start out on the right foot. Tomorrow I will be making myself a decent breakfast, because when my lunches are this small, every bite matters.<br />
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For lunch today I treated myself to a risky <b>Monterey Jack quesadilla</b> with sliced tomatoes. I also made sure to savor one cup of <b>whole milk</b>, as an addition of nutrients and a tummy filler. Yes, I was still hungry and could've eaten more, but that's not the point. I did notice that it's much harder to NOT snack then I thought it would be. Because guess what? We don't have any snacks. And I forgot to buy other produce. It is what it is, but man, it's painful realizing that each slice of cheese costs thirty cents. In order to stretch out the dairy luxury, I portioned myself 2.5 ounces on just one single tortilla. That tomato (both inside and as a side dish), by the way, is about the size of a golfball. Cheesy lunch goodness at 570 calories.<br />
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Dinner tonight is a throwback to the good ol' days and cozy, comfy favorite : Tuna Wiggle! At least that's what we call it, but most people refer to it as <b>Tuna Casserole</b>. Egg noodles, condensed cream of mushroom soup, albacore tuna and milk, all baked together to form a solid carb bomb. I decided that if the hubbs was gonna take leftovers to work each day, this was a good place to start because it keeps for a while and still tastes pretty darn good. It's also quite filling, and strangely satisfying at the same time. At a whopping 600 calories per serving (1 3/4 cup), this should do the trick for a hearty, homestyle meal. Yum.<br />
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For me, this challenge isn't about buying a week's supply of ramen and calling it a day. That's too easy. I'm attempting to create thoughtful, decent meals with what little I could manage that possess at least a measurement of nutritional value- not just for myself, but for my husband as well. I was able to find protein (like lean beef and chicken breasts) as well as canned tuna, pastas and broth at prices that fit in to the daily budget. It's up to me now to turn the few items I have into dishes that make the most of my limited pantry within the next five days, as if it were my only choice.<br />
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Day one... done.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-88426792326604423622013-08-19T20:43:00.002-07:002013-08-19T20:43:50.080-07:00Murcia: Lunch With Bodegas Castaño.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Once our initial introduction to the incredible wines of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a> and the pleasures of the <a href="http://www.i-winereview.com/NonReportTastings/0910montastrellSelections.php">Monastrell</a> grape had gotten off to an amazing start, before we knew it, lunch was upon us. It was time to make our way to the family owned vineyard of <a href="http://www.bodegascastano.com/en/">Bodegas Castaño</a>, located on the outskirts of <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a> in an idyllic country setting.<br />
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<i>"Bodegas Castaño is today one of the most respected wine producers in South-Eastern Spain in recognition for their tradition and achievements in the use of the indigenous grape varieties. With a clear innovating spirit, the Castaño family has incorporated avant-garde technologies and the latest vinification systems to keep alive the legacy of their ancestors, an inherited passion for the deeply rooted Monastrell, the king variety in Yecla. </i><i>There is no mystery. Our wines are born from over 500ha of vineyards planted along four big estates located in different areas of DO Yecla, where each variety finds its perfect habitat allowing for perfect cultivation."</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great guys- Daniel Gonzalez & Daniel Castaño.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiling face, fantastic shorts.</td></tr>
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Upon our arrival, we were greeted by family member and Export Director, Daniel Castaño and U.S. Exporter Daniel Gonzalez, both smiling from cheek-to-cheek and happy to have us visit. We were welcomed, and as they began to show us around this beautiful homestead, I realized something special- this was no ordinary vineyard, it was an <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agritourism"><b>agriturismo</b></a></i>! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The guy ruled the kitchen, all by himself.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home amidst the vines.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahhh... The pool.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HONkkMyd-MY/UhLd3AGL6pI/AAAAAAAADqQ/eAaYJPOseRk/s1600/DSCN0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HONkkMyd-MY/UhLd3AGL6pI/AAAAAAAADqQ/eAaYJPOseRk/s640/DSCN0162.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The calm before the storm.</td></tr>
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The home belongs to the Castaño family, resembles a modest, rustic country inn, has a sparkling pool alongside a casual picnic area <i>and, </i>if you are feeling particularly posh, you can enlist the services of chef, friend and foodie extraordinaire, <b>Antonio Lozano</b>. It was Antonio, and Antonio alone, preparing our lunch for the day (I believe around 20 of us), like a culinary ninja, moving in silence and smiling gently at our Ooooh's and Aaaaah's. In a kitchen no bigger than a normal house's, Antonio worked his magic and presented our afternoon meal. Incredible- just look at all of this beautiful food!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rEZsQckL2fE/UhLekTQI36I/AAAAAAAADqY/RtVuvMa5NAk/s1600/DSCN0174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="442" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rEZsQckL2fE/UhLekTQI36I/AAAAAAAADqY/RtVuvMa5NAk/s640/DSCN0174.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamon Iberico and locally produced Manchego cheese.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xTB-4vCzOu0/UhLe4Uyfk-I/AAAAAAAADqg/bXXJlYzsYV8/s1600/DSCN0179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xTB-4vCzOu0/UhLe4Uyfk-I/AAAAAAAADqg/bXXJlYzsYV8/s640/DSCN0179.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salad, made with fruits and vegetables from their very own gardens with Marcona almonds in the background.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xfKzfdbnME/UhLfAHX1ZSI/AAAAAAAADqw/_3lj1S0BmIY/s1600/DSCN0183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xfKzfdbnME/UhLfAHX1ZSI/AAAAAAAADqw/_3lj1S0BmIY/s640/DSCN0183.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brilliant grilled lamb, roasted potatoes, grilled zucchini and asparagus.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh local watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, cherries (delicious!) and pineapple. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MIl4d5S2utg/UhLfFj6LBrI/AAAAAAAADq4/BbgGoIsRouY/s1600/DSCN0187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MIl4d5S2utg/UhLfFj6LBrI/AAAAAAAADq4/BbgGoIsRouY/s640/DSCN0187.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand-pressed wafer cookies sandwiching gooey warm honey.</td></tr>
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I was hooked. I had also managed to consume a lot of wine by this point, so the dreamy Spanish sky was particularly intoxicating as we sat under the trees, light wind lifting the table skirts, tumbling leaves at our feet. My weakness: the <b><a href="http://www.bodegascastano.com/en/wines/castano-rose">Castaño Monastrell Rosé</a></b>. Light and clean, with hints of red fruit, I found myself staring into the glass wishing I could stay in Spain forever. And then, as if my thoughts had been heard, I looked up and snapped this photo, right as lunch was ending...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAJSIdGG93k/UhLjnYKc3fI/AAAAAAAADrM/GVH_jYO-TN8/s1600/DSCN0185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAJSIdGG93k/UhLjnYKc3fI/AAAAAAAADrM/GVH_jYO-TN8/s640/DSCN0185.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The combination of conifers, ornamental fruit trees, colors and sunlight was just too much for me to resist.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">Our bellies were full and so much laughter was shared at this tasting. Many thanks to the gentlemen of <a href="http://www.bodegascastano.com/">Bodegas Castaño</a> for an ethereal afternoon. I can't wait to return and spend more time at their lovely casita in the country.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Be well,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">B</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-37261448317114754122013-08-06T16:13:00.000-07:002013-08-06T17:25:28.775-07:00Murcia: Yecla & Monastrell... Morning.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kpBUMImbiT4/UecUapFnI2I/AAAAAAAADkI/8VETqpB85nA/s1600/DSCN0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kpBUMImbiT4/UecUapFnI2I/AAAAAAAADkI/8VETqpB85nA/s640/DSCN0111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our second day exploring the<b> Region of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a> </b>began early, setting out around 7:30 in the morning, making our way towards the town of <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a>. Located in the extreme north of <a href="http://www.spain.info/en/que-quieres/ciudades-pueblos/provincias/murcia.html">Murcia</a>, about a 45 minute trip by car, <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a> is part of the trifecta of wine producing cities that thrive in region, along with neighboring <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumilla">Jumilla</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullas">Bullas</a>. <br />
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This is where the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mourv%C3%A8dre">Monastrell</a> grape is king. A variety that thrives amongst the arid, rocky land of Murcia's wine-growing empire, this grape prefers the heat and needs little irrigation due to its heartiness. The soil is loose and dry, and the clusters sit low with deep roots, almost as though the vine is clutching the earth for nutrients. The gorgeous, vibrant vines reach for the sun and grow freely, never under the constraints of tie-back or trellis, these grapevines reach mammoth size if left to grow on their own. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful, lush Monastrell.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gnarly vines dig deep into the rocky, dry soil.</td></tr>
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The <a href="http://www.i-winereview.com/NonReportTastings/0910montastrellSelections.php">Monastrell</a> grape produces some of the most intensely flavored fruit in the industry, and has had a past reputation of being heavily tannic and hard to drink. Things are and have been changing for quite some time in the region, and now wineries are producing, big, <b>bold</b> wines that pair well with a variety of foods and cuisine from around the world. Over the course of our trip, we were fortunate enough to visit some of the most well known producers of wine using <b>Monastrell</b>- around three to four wineries a day, all of whom treated us to the best of their best, with tours, educational info and even meals prepared for our group, specialized to highlight the beauty and flavor of the <b>Monastrell </b>grape.<br />
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Our first stop of the day was at <a href="http://www.bodegaslapurisima.com/en/home/79-demo-homepage/123-wines-designation-of-origin">Bodegas La Purísima</a>, located in <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a>...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YFZ-bVr3xKk/Uecm7KeX8rI/AAAAAAAADko/4qpIgIbU7cc/s1600/DSCN0077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YFZ-bVr3xKk/Uecm7KeX8rI/AAAAAAAADko/4qpIgIbU7cc/s640/DSCN0077.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The La Purísima tasting room.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unique Spanish tile work.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An aged sign outside of the La Purísima tasting room.</td></tr>
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<i>"Since 1946, the La Purísima Winery selects and processes the fruit of the best vines in order to create The Great Wines of Yecla. Our commitment to quality, innovation and wine-making tradition is acknowledged and rewarded with many international prizes and the confidence of thousands of our customers all over the world. The La Purísima Winery is an enterprise which follows its vocation as an international winery, since our wines are being enjoyed in more than 30 countries. We are a young team, with an average age of 32, which joins together technical and trade experts, international enologists and a strong marketing team, bound on leaving behind a past of wine-in-bulk production."</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wine bloggers galore.</td></tr>
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Once inside the barrel room, our group was treated to an abundant selection of <a href="http://www.bodegaslapurisima.com/en/">La Purísima</a> wines. Our gracious hosts, <i>Technical Director</i> <b>Pedro Azorín Soriano</b> and <i>Exporter</i> extraordinaire <b>Daniel Giménez Alba </b>were delighted to share the history and specifications of the winery co-op with us, while we sipped and savored the various lines of La Purísima label. One of my favorites, the <a href="http://www.bodegaslapurisima.com/en/our-wines/item/104-la-purisima-rosado">La Purísima Rosado 2012</a>, brought a smile to my face with it's light ruby color and smooth, luscious raspberry undertones. The wine itself can be served with just about any food you can imagine, thanks to low alcohol content and an amiable palate. Not to mention the bottle is both intriguing and incredibly classy- it would be perfect for any gift-giving occasion, especially for that modern, chic friend who gets a kick out of branding and gorgeous, easy-to-drink wines.<br />
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After our brief but engaging visit to <a href="http://www.bodegaslapurisima.com/en/">La Purísima</a>, we made our way to our next destination towards the Northeast of Murcia, arriving at <a href="http://www.barahonda.com/">Bodegas Señorío de Barahonda</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMfXh5mOhho/UgFmKhw83ZI/AAAAAAAADmM/mtHbMpYh4GY/s1600/DSCN0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMfXh5mOhho/UgFmKhw83ZI/AAAAAAAADmM/mtHbMpYh4GY/s640/DSCN0108.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This grand building contains the winery, tasting room & restaurant.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun-soaked.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.vinesleuth.com/">Vinesleuth</a> Amy C. Anderson Gross in a great photo op. </td></tr>
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I found myself taken aback by the warm greeting we encountered here at this sprawling, modern napa-inspired winery. With a salute to our own United States of America (by flying the flags together as a symbol of friendship and respect for their visitors), it was a moving way to be welcomed by this proud family and staff. Although <a href="http://barahonda.com/">Señorío de Barahonda's</a> collection of over twelve different wines sold under 5 different brands is impressive, it's bottles like their <i style="font-weight: bold;">Barahonda Monastrell 2010</i>, <b style="font-style: italic;">Barahonda Crianza 2009</b> and the <b><i>Carro Tinto 2012</i></b><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>that I really enjoyed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCUH6no-P9s/UgF86LOB9hI/AAAAAAAADoc/AZkdD0FJTYA/s1600/DSCN0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCUH6no-P9s/UgF86LOB9hI/AAAAAAAADoc/AZkdD0FJTYA/s640/DSCN0155.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Barahonda family of wine.</td></tr>
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Our vivacious host, <a href="http://barahonda.com/historia/la-familia">Alfredo Candela Belda</a> was thrilled to show us around the vineyards, educating us on the wines, the property, the restaurant and the family homestead, <b>La Castañona</b>...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home sweet home.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s-r0AYRoCvs/UgFy12Mo9pI/AAAAAAAADnQ/EJ9L3PSdJuA/s1600/DSCN0121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s-r0AYRoCvs/UgFy12Mo9pI/AAAAAAAADnQ/EJ9L3PSdJuA/s640/DSCN0121.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now that's what I call a doghouse.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W1D-mvFHIlU/UgFzJ7lUgfI/AAAAAAAADng/1XR0gbBPqv4/s1600/DSCN0124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W1D-mvFHIlU/UgFzJ7lUgfI/AAAAAAAADng/1XR0gbBPqv4/s640/DSCN0124.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the homestead.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ddn_jhtDL4E/UgF0YEkrxVI/AAAAAAAADn4/ZBLvtGx_EzQ/s1600/DSCN0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ddn_jhtDL4E/UgF0YEkrxVI/AAAAAAAADn4/ZBLvtGx_EzQ/s640/DSCN0129.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The luxurious pool- a rarity in the Spanish countryside. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0BuzXxYSmZo/UgFztmic1AI/AAAAAAAADno/qJspYbg8usA/s1600/DSCN0128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0BuzXxYSmZo/UgFztmic1AI/AAAAAAAADno/qJspYbg8usA/s640/DSCN0128.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The freestanding family chapel sits within the garden walls of the main house. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wUABA9zZgik/UgFzvChm2NI/AAAAAAAADnw/ePYrZDGJ-Sw/s1600/DSCN0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wUABA9zZgik/UgFzvChm2NI/AAAAAAAADnw/ePYrZDGJ-Sw/s640/DSCN0126.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not a bad view.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RjI_5G1jS8/UgF3GDUP92I/AAAAAAAADoE/xCdtrEaPfRc/s1600/DSCN0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RjI_5G1jS8/UgF3GDUP92I/AAAAAAAADoE/xCdtrEaPfRc/s640/DSCN0131.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An irresistible photograph of the family dog.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9DwDco8KfiY/UgF3HifGwoI/AAAAAAAADoM/U7YyVN8mJs8/s1600/DSCN0134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9DwDco8KfiY/UgF3HifGwoI/AAAAAAAADoM/U7YyVN8mJs8/s640/DSCN0134.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original cellar, below the family kitchen.</td></tr>
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<i>"This family company was established in 1925 by Pedro Candela Soriano and has been growing and evolving ever since, passing to Antonio Candela Garcia, then to Antonio Candela Poveda and nowadays to his two sons Antonio and Alfredo. The company began in a small bodega (cellar) which has expanded over time according to capacity and technological requirements and now boasts a second winemaking cellar. Today Bodegas Antonio Candela forms part of the family group which also encompasses Señorio de Barahonda as well as Viña de Aliagar, the company which manages the family estates."</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-41aJT0NcVqE/UgFwZPQhEcI/AAAAAAAADm0/Qdhs8y4cswg/s1600/DSCN0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-41aJT0NcVqE/UgFwZPQhEcI/AAAAAAAADm0/Qdhs8y4cswg/s640/DSCN0150.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second floor dining room.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-27QsnEq9qsQ/UgF_NG-Z2gI/AAAAAAAADo0/Z7uwK70cRdk/s1600/DSCN0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-27QsnEq9qsQ/UgF_NG-Z2gI/AAAAAAAADo0/Z7uwK70cRdk/s640/DSCN0151.JPG" width="550" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple, modern and elegant.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5v8togX5LYw/UgF_Rpp-0aI/AAAAAAAADo8/7d-UA1emkI0/s1600/DSCN0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5v8togX5LYw/UgF_Rpp-0aI/AAAAAAAADo8/7d-UA1emkI0/s640/DSCN0152.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great glass-etching detail in the restaurant windows.</td></tr>
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One of the higlights of this visit for me, being a food blogger, was learning that <a href="http://www.barahonda.com/">Señorío Barahonda Restaurant</a> exists amongst the rows of vines and acres of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mourv%C3%A8dre">Monastrell</a> dust. With it's light-filled, ample dining room and classic Spanish menu, this romantic restaurant environment should be a destination for all wine-lovers exploring the <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a> region. I wasn't able to dine at the restaurant during this visit, but viewing the menu and photographs of the dishes served definitely made me want to return for a meal with the hubbs.<br />
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It's hard to believe that these were just the first <i>two</i> wineries that we visited on our trip- after spending time with both parties, it was time to sit back, relax and enjoy a completely home-cooked, idyllic Spanish lunch with the fellas from <a href="http://www.bodegascastano.com/en/">Bodegas Castaño</a>...<br />
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Just wait until you see the photos of our first gorgeous group picnic- stay tuned!<br />
B <br />
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<i>*All photos author's own taken 6/23/13</i> <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-91336207631199119312013-07-12T12:36:00.000-07:002013-07-17T15:23:45.117-07:00Murcia: Out & About Photo Journal 1.Hello friends! I've decided that because I have SO many photos from this wonderful trip that I will slip in small photo journal entries between articles... As I prepare my facts, photos and info from our first day of wine tasting in <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumilla">Jumilla</a>, I thought you might enjoy viewing a few photographs I snapped while enjoying <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siesta">siesta</a> and late night tapas. The city of Murcia is absolute pleasure to explore on foot, so whenever we had a bit of down time, I was out and about <i>wandering</i>...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLR0ZQ2_UXo/UeBPlwnpRcI/AAAAAAAADg8/Ek-rx2Z68Zo/s1600/DSCN0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="539" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLR0ZQ2_UXo/UeBPlwnpRcI/AAAAAAAADg8/Ek-rx2Z68Zo/s640/DSCN0021.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a beautiful alley near our hotel with a modern, clean apartment building surrounded by potted flowers and trees. I was struck by the graffiti looking so out of place in such an affluent looking neighborhood.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkLovcdRK-E/UeBPlzWRIlI/AAAAAAAADg0/XXTby9eCRq4/s1600/DSCN0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="354" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkLovcdRK-E/UeBPlzWRIlI/AAAAAAAADg0/XXTby9eCRq4/s640/DSCN0026.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pleasure of Spanish carbs... The breadstick on the left is a local specialty, looped around in the shape of a teardrop. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XauUzp3bWKI/UeBPmXSgm1I/AAAAAAAADhA/3Bggx1Qf0Ug/s1600/DSCN0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XauUzp3bWKI/UeBPmXSgm1I/AAAAAAAADhA/3Bggx1Qf0Ug/s640/DSCN0040.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This building, located near the cathedral, was one of the most striking I've seen. Gorgeous hand-painted details using vibrant colors and exquisite masonry.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1NOwKB9UWQ/UeBPmy9VXFI/AAAAAAAADhE/cCgOqVP1To0/s1600/DSCN0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1NOwKB9UWQ/UeBPmy9VXFI/AAAAAAAADhE/cCgOqVP1To0/s640/DSCN0042.JPG" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fountain and geraniums outside of city hall.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHIn5T802Bc/UeBPn7j-MeI/AAAAAAAADhg/wWskkNoQVgI/s1600/DSCN0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHIn5T802Bc/UeBPn7j-MeI/AAAAAAAADhg/wWskkNoQVgI/s640/DSCN0043.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The giant fish in the river Segura.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUhCQvt7zJM/UeBPn-vUgLI/AAAAAAAADhY/_RNPvKzz9oI/s1600/DSCN0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUhCQvt7zJM/UeBPn-vUgLI/AAAAAAAADhY/_RNPvKzz9oI/s640/DSCN0047.JPG" width="570" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longshot of the river Segura... A little low and dry this time of year.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hqLHKHciaGU/UeBPnmDYMaI/AAAAAAAADhU/kGvxkqpNbpA/s1600/DSCN0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hqLHKHciaGU/UeBPnmDYMaI/AAAAAAAADhU/kGvxkqpNbpA/s640/DSCN0048.JPG" width="354" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The locks on the bridge over the river- each lock is permenantly attached by it's owner and hand-painted with initials as a symbol of everlasting love.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mye1F9jrCbE/UeBPog1ykZI/AAAAAAAADhs/UQ26JYcrliI/s1600/DSCN0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mye1F9jrCbE/UeBPog1ykZI/AAAAAAAADhs/UQ26JYcrliI/s640/DSCN0049.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opposite shot of the river Segura, looking down towards the city botanical garden.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8hq6nkIUmE/UeBPoggTYFI/AAAAAAAADhw/neKyf-Nsoe4/s1600/DSCN0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8hq6nkIUmE/UeBPoggTYFI/AAAAAAAADhw/neKyf-Nsoe4/s640/DSCN0050.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teatroromea.es/">The Teatro Romea</a>.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sDjssVBHFcE/UeBPo-DuHBI/AAAAAAAADh0/IumggE1zmhY/s1600/DSCN0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sDjssVBHFcE/UeBPo-DuHBI/AAAAAAAADh0/IumggE1zmhY/s640/DSCN0051.JPG" width="534" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A church located right around the corner from our hotel. Bells on the hour, rung by hand.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5AoHD-t0cnQ/UeBPpc9mb-I/AAAAAAAADiE/-c_ANUCqNT8/s1600/DSCN0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5AoHD-t0cnQ/UeBPpc9mb-I/AAAAAAAADiE/-c_ANUCqNT8/s640/DSCN0052.JPG" width="630" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved this tapas restaurant. <a href="http://www.laparrandataberna.com/">Taberna La Parranda Pequena</a>. A daily visit, for sparkling wine or a light snack.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PbTxY0EcBxc/UeBPpjx3u9I/AAAAAAAADiI/f8pCOvO-PoU/s1600/DSCN0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PbTxY0EcBxc/UeBPpjx3u9I/AAAAAAAADiI/f8pCOvO-PoU/s640/DSCN0053.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take a seat, pick a favorite.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9sckzmfOwM/UeBPpmPfDnI/AAAAAAAADiM/v75jCMcPYrg/s1600/DSCN0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9sckzmfOwM/UeBPpmPfDnI/AAAAAAAADiM/v75jCMcPYrg/s640/DSCN0055.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.orceserranohams.com/how-to-serve-mojama/">Mojama</a> (cured salmon), Marcona Almonds and fresh patatas fritas.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ofVqTiOVUH4/UeBPqOQmpLI/AAAAAAAADig/SNIMKLChG6o/s1600/DSCN0060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ofVqTiOVUH4/UeBPqOQmpLI/AAAAAAAADig/SNIMKLChG6o/s640/DSCN0060.jpg" width="570" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small drum procession in the early evening.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBhOQcwnu-o/UeBPqZXHmqI/AAAAAAAADic/aSbXHnQGrUE/s1600/DSCN0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBhOQcwnu-o/UeBPqZXHmqI/AAAAAAAADic/aSbXHnQGrUE/s640/DSCN0061.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wam, slightly crispy eggplant with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jam%C3%B3n_ib%C3%A9rico">jamon iberico</a> and tomato puree. One of my personal favorite tapas delights.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pmt-GVmrEes/UeBPqicC2uI/AAAAAAAADik/5gDwzXXQUYI/s1600/DSCN0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pmt-GVmrEes/UeBPqicC2uI/AAAAAAAADik/5gDwzXXQUYI/s640/DSCN0062.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menu? You're looking at it. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcORxSh8TaA/UeBPrAdlnsI/AAAAAAAADi0/3C729np5mcM/s1600/DSCN0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcORxSh8TaA/UeBPrAdlnsI/AAAAAAAADi0/3C729np5mcM/s640/DSCN0063.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another favorite tapas- jamon iberico "riding" on deep fried artichoke hearts.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pzMmANlyM0U/UeBPrg_61sI/AAAAAAAADjA/f7OonzHqlqQ/s1600/DSCN0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pzMmANlyM0U/UeBPrg_61sI/AAAAAAAADjA/f7OonzHqlqQ/s640/DSCN0064.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meat hanging from the ceiling! Another frequently visited tapas bar.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JW5IcMGbGp8/UeBPsL41fxI/AAAAAAAADjM/nbsIAYw1oh0/s1600/DSCN0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JW5IcMGbGp8/UeBPsL41fxI/AAAAAAAADjM/nbsIAYw1oh0/s640/DSCN0066.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at all that jamon... My mouth is watering. This place was great, the staff was hilarious, warm and insistent on stuffing us silly with food & drink.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GbAVFy4OUL0/UeBPsV8uRtI/AAAAAAAADjQ/OQtMjMQTTyA/s1600/DSCN0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GbAVFy4OUL0/UeBPsV8uRtI/AAAAAAAADjQ/OQtMjMQTTyA/s640/DSCN0067.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bodegasjuangil.com/">Juan Gil</a> and tapas- the perfect combo. More on Juan Gil to come...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A foodie's dream.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uoKjlvSMwKw/UeBPs6dFwyI/AAAAAAAADjk/u50-lcyGVrk/s1600/DSCN0069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uoKjlvSMwKw/UeBPs6dFwyI/AAAAAAAADjk/u50-lcyGVrk/s640/DSCN0069.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brined olives and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchego">Manchego</a>.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-55lzL-F7270/UeBPtke003I/AAAAAAAADjs/daEcKDNti14/s1600/DSCN0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-55lzL-F7270/UeBPtke003I/AAAAAAAADjs/daEcKDNti14/s640/DSCN0070.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was constantly trying to figure out how to get this in my suitcase. Jamon iberico.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_IE0JRA2z4/UeBPtQO57QI/AAAAAAAADjo/tL5kubq5yeg/s1600/DSCN0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="342" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_IE0JRA2z4/UeBPtQO57QI/AAAAAAAADjo/tL5kubq5yeg/s640/DSCN0071.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful theater at night. Sit on the steps, eat some ice cream and people-watch until your heart's content.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'm working hard on my next article, but in the meantime, I hope you enjoyed this peek into everday <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a>. Next up, <a href="http://www.bodegaslapurisima.com/en/">La Purisima</a>, <a href="http://barahonda.com/en/">Bodegas Seńorio De Barahonda</a>, <a href="http://www.bodegascastano.com/en/">Bodegas Castaño</a>, and <a href="http://www.bodegasjuangil.com/">Juan Gi</a>l.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>*All photos are author's own taken between 6/22/13 & 6/28/13</i>. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-73092193519479324412013-07-09T09:34:00.001-07:002013-07-21T17:41:59.282-07:00Murcia: Bold and New.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTSV2zhUtHo/UdtfZz-0_eI/AAAAAAAADeU/nm5mPRXbsPg/s1600/DSCN0037.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTSV2zhUtHo/UdtfZz-0_eI/AAAAAAAADeU/nm5mPRXbsPg/s640/DSCN0037.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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My day began early, bleary-eyed and sleepy on a Saturday morning, filled with the anticipation of travelling abroad and the hope that all would go smoothly along the way. The hubbs, also half-asleep, was by my side as we swiftly made our way to SFO in the darkness of the early weekend. My mind was racing-- did I remember my passport? Did I pack appropriately? How long was this flight exactly? Actually I should say "flights", considering that there were three connectors I had to catch just to get to Alicante, along the southeastern shores of Spain. After nearly twenty five hours of travel, our plane finally touched down (on time!) at the small, yet efficient <a href="http://www.alicante-airport.net/">Alicante Airport</a>. We were now just a short driving distance from <a href="http://www.murciaturistica.es/en/tourism.home">Murcia</a>- about an hour, spent chatting with our fellow bloggers <a href="http://vinesleuth.com/uncorked/">Amy Gross</a>, <a href="http://www.winejulia.com/">Julia Crowley</a>, <a href="http://www.grape-experiences.com/about-me/">Cindy Rynning</a> and our chaperone, <a href="http://www.argosconsulting.net/">Mike Matilla</a>. We were all a bit punchy by this point, but eager to begin our exploration of the region, starting with the city of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a> itself.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Su38fDdylAg/Udtcr3balBI/AAAAAAAADd0/r602UNbz2eA/s1600/DSCN0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Su38fDdylAg/Udtcr3balBI/AAAAAAAADd0/r602UNbz2eA/s400/DSCN0157.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fields of gold.</td></tr>
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Along the way to town, riding side-by-side with our driver, Pepe, the van became quiet as we all were taken aback by the incredibly unique landscape of the surrounding region of Murcia. In comparison to other parts of Spain, this rocky, dry terrain was more Mediterranean than areas I'd visited in the past-- I couldn't help but think to myself, "this is a tropical desert." The further we traveled, the more the land started to resemble parts of... Arizona? Indeed, with beautiful clay colored dust, palm trees springing up left and right, giant cactus hulking alongside adobe-esque homes and roads that reached from the sea to the mountains, all in plain sight without foliage blocking the view. This Spain was very foreign to me, completely and utterly different from the lush, fervent seaside towns of the North, more isolated and vast than Madrid and it's neighbors. On one side you have the ocean, and not far from it, on the opposite side of the highway, you have a giant, sluggish mountain range that rises up from the plains like a dinosaur resting peacefully under an ashen colored rug.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tT_eIkXIiWk/UdtcQRoSNmI/AAAAAAAADds/fPsrYMk80Sw/s1600/DSCN0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tT_eIkXIiWk/UdtcQRoSNmI/AAAAAAAADds/fPsrYMk80Sw/s400/DSCN0075.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view at 120 km per hour.</td></tr>
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The strange part, I had noticed, is that the further inland we traveled, the more greenery began to appear. Not just a little plant here or there-- we're talking acres and acres of apricots, peaches, almonds, olives, lemons, table grapes and the like. Modest homes made from clay, stone and wood, surrounded by palm trees and almond groves, fruit trees and vegetables for miles. Striking plant life against a rather bleak landscape, much like California's own central valley, where irrigation is king even though the water supply is limited. Like any other dry climate, Murcia sees very little rain in the winter and there is an abundance of sunshine and heat during the summer months, leaving very little natural water sources accessible to the people. And yet, they thrive, dependent on their bountiful harvest of produce and flowers, often times referred to as "<b><i>Europe's Orchard</i></b>" amongst the growing communities. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EeXLDt97udI/Udtc_gkVM1I/AAAAAAAADeA/kYXQFRyS26o/s1600/DSCN0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EeXLDt97udI/Udtc_gkVM1I/AAAAAAAADeA/kYXQFRyS26o/s400/DSCN0036.JPG" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old meets new(ish) outside our hotel.</td></tr>
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We arrived at our hotel, the <a href="http://www.nh-hoteles.es/nh/es/hoteles/espana/murcia/nh-rincon-de-pepe.html?nhagentid=11009&nhsubagentid=110095220109&utm_source=google&utm_medium=maps&utm_campaign=googleplaces">NH Rincon de Pepe</a>, a startlingly modern hotel amidst the classic cobblestone streets and cool stone buildings of ancient Murcia. Located in the heart of the city, walking distance from the gorgeous <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castilian_people">Castillian</a> gothic <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathedral_of_Murcia">Cathedral Church of Saint Mary</a>, the hotel is host to two restaurants, a casino and the now blogger-infamous <i><b>La Muralla</b></i> bar. Our rooms were spacious, comfortable and relatively well equipped to our needs, while the general property and atmosphere of the hotel was pleasant and relaxing. A quick wash of the face, a glass of water and a huge sigh of relief for landing safely at our destination, we were ready to get down to business. Well, sort of. Actually, we were completely starving and in need of some decent sustenance after our long journey. Perhaps a glass of wine or two, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerveza"><i>cerveza</i></a>, some local tapas and a good, long introduction to our surroundings. We also finally were able to meet up with additional fellow bloggers <a href="http://www.makerstable.com/">Meg Maker</a>, <a href="http://www.wellesleywinepress.com/">Robert Dwyer</a> and <a href="http://www.vindulgeblog.com/">Mary Cressler</a>, traveling from different parts of the U.S.-- all three having had lost their luggage lost via Amsterdam. Travel snafu aside, it was impossible to pass up the opportunity to get our first taste of Murcia... <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nQ8PYJwKYHU/UdthCGxqE2I/AAAAAAAADeo/-5gXDlhj9VY/s1600/DSCN0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nQ8PYJwKYHU/UdthCGxqE2I/AAAAAAAADeo/-5gXDlhj9VY/s400/DSCN0039.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gorgeous cathedral just steps away.</td></tr>
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After we dropped off our own luggage, freshened up and settled in, we were asked to re-group for a casual lunch around 2:15 in the afternoon-- which, if you were wondering, is Spain's most important meal of the day. Lunch here is not your average deli sandwich or fast food bite to eat. Lunch is the biggest meal, usually one of the longest ( about 2-3 hours) and is chock-full of hearty, savory dishes. For our introductory meal, it had been arranged for us to eat at the hotel's own alleyway restaurant, <b>La Barra</b>. Situated around the corner and down a vibrant, skinny lane, <b>La Barra's </b>facade is a relaxed, down-tempo outdoor eating area where friends and neighbors can meet up for tapas while enjoying the fresh air. The restaurant staff was nice enough to arrange a table for the nine of us to share, under a dark canopy, shielding us from the warm summer sun. Our chaperone Mike, was integral in our food decision making (thanks Mike!), by helping us to understand the menu.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2cTkEIgTQ1I/Udwn3pkKZzI/AAAAAAAADe4/D9l-HP6iNxE/s1600/DSCN0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2cTkEIgTQ1I/Udwn3pkKZzI/AAAAAAAADe4/D9l-HP6iNxE/s320/DSCN0019.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical Murcia lane.</td></tr>
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We started out with a couple of dewy, cool pitchers of <i>cerveza</i>. Traditionally, it's pretty common to start your meal or tapas session off with a cold bottle of <b>Mahou</b>, <b>Cruzcampo</b>, <b>Estrella Damm </b>or <b>Estrella Levante</b>. After all, we were about to embark on a wine tasting bonanza for the next 5 days, why not give the palette a refreshing break? There were glasses of Cava ordered as well- the bloggers wanted bubbles. Bubbles in beer or bubbles in Spanish sparkling wine, it didn't matter. Menus were quickly passed around and the fun began...<br />
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For our first course, I decided to go with the <b style="font-style: italic;">habitas salteadas con jamón y heuvos rotos (</b>broken lacy eggs with ham and beans)- upon Mike's recommendation. The hubbs pilfered half of this dish, and we found ourselves arguing whether or not his <b style="font-style: italic;">rollitos de salmon marinado el eneldo rellano de marisco </b>(salmon roll stuffed with dill, caviar and crab) could compare. Both were, without a doubt, divine. It is very a special moment when you arrive in a country and are taking your first bite of local fare. The beans in my dish were grown locally and cooked perfectly, and the jamon was savory and crisp. The hubbs starter was melt-in-your-mouth tasty, although due to outdoor heat became a little too warm after a few minutes. Nonetheless, each dish was a delicious intro to this unfamiliar region's culinary capability.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBfjt7iS2ts/Udw-qecQ1bI/AAAAAAAADgY/L6fF67CVdqk/s1600/DSCN0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBfjt7iS2ts/Udw-qecQ1bI/AAAAAAAADgY/L6fF67CVdqk/s640/DSCN0025.JPG" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmm beer.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqI6g6_L5i0/Udw-ol590RI/AAAAAAAADgQ/cnzmCeCCpdA/s1600/DSCN0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqI6g6_L5i0/Udw-ol590RI/AAAAAAAADgQ/cnzmCeCCpdA/s640/DSCN0022.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike in blue, ready to eat.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vQLcQfrXz4c/Udw0pEgEfsI/AAAAAAAADfU/sqepzURLUAY/s1600/DSCN0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vQLcQfrXz4c/Udw0pEgEfsI/AAAAAAAADfU/sqepzURLUAY/s400/DSCN0031.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beans, "lacy" egg, jamon.</td></tr>
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As more dishes began to arrive, cameras appeared and the obsessive photo taking took action-- <i style="font-weight: bold;">Tranco de bacalao rebozado con pisto murciano </i>(salted cod with potatoes), <b><i>t</i></b><b style="font-style: italic;">ortilla el gusto espanol </b>(layered potato omelette), <b style="font-style: italic;">festival de verduras del tempurada el iberico </b>(salad festival of local veggies with ham) and for the sweet-tooth in all of us, <b style="font-style: italic;">postre de la casa sugerencias del dia </b>(rice pudding).<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQF9f2VwYrA/Udw1TxRfimI/AAAAAAAADfc/llZnh-jm3YA/s1600/DSCN0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQF9f2VwYrA/Udw1TxRfimI/AAAAAAAADfc/llZnh-jm3YA/s400/DSCN0029.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon roll.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQnMo06Cbig/Udw1X44rLrI/AAAAAAAADfk/aYDkSrtpeyE/s1600/DSCN0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQnMo06Cbig/Udw1X44rLrI/AAAAAAAADfk/aYDkSrtpeyE/s400/DSCN0032.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spanish tortilla.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TNj3xJ8Wo0M/Udw1aFDURCI/AAAAAAAADfs/HsLnq_hWS4o/s1600/DSCN0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TNj3xJ8Wo0M/Udw1aFDURCI/AAAAAAAADfs/HsLnq_hWS4o/s400/DSCN0030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a festival in my mouth!</td></tr>
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Beautiful food in a beautiful setting will always be a good thing... And I think I speak for most of the Murcia 8 when I say, "sabe tam bien" wholeheartedly. Can't wait for the next meal. If you can believe it, this was just <i>lunch. </i>Our American tummies were bursting at the seams, and yet, we took a siesta and continued to eat more about 3 hours later. It's almost impossible to to *not* eat in Spain, especially in a social aspect. Spaniards eat like it's a sport: work hard, play hard, eat tons and walk it off. A lifestyle I could definitely get used to.<br />
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It's a good thing there's a lot more coming where that came from... Stay tuned!<br />
B<br />
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*<i>All photos are author's own, taken over the course of 6-22 to 6/28 of 2013.</i><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-18970711150218135582013-07-03T15:20:00.002-07:002013-07-03T15:23:28.368-07:00Murcia: An Introduction.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm just going to throw this out there:</div>
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<a href="http://www.spain.info/">Spain</a> rocks!</div>
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This statement should come as no surprise, seeing as though I've expressed my passionate adoration for all things Spanish on several accounts. I <i>love</i> <a href="http://www.spain.info/">Spain</a>. <a href="http://www.spain.info/">Spain</a> makes me feel genuinely happy inside- from the minute I purchase my plane tickets stateside, to the last glance over my shoulder as I clunk down the air tunnel on to my returning flight home. My journey back to California is usually a quiet one, full of reflection and an accompanying twinge of heartache, knowing that it may be a while before I return. Beautiful memories bounce around my head like fireflies contained in jar, burning brightly, jumbled and fascinating. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing those memories of the people and places we became acquainted with throughout our exploration of the breathtaking <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Region_of_Murcia">Region of Murcia.</a></div>
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Courtesy of the <a href="http://www.institutofomentomurcia.es/web/portal/what-is-info">Instituto de Fomento de la Región de Murcia (INFO)</a>, both the hubbs and I were invited to join the adventure by our wonderful host Mike Matilla, of <a href="http://www.argosconsulting.net/english/home.html">Argos Consulting</a>. It was decided that the hubbs would, of course, cover all aspects of wine in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a>, while I was fortunate enough to be the <b>food</b> gal, cataloguing with whom, where and what we were going to be eating on the trip. Eat we did, until our stomachs were uncomfortably fat and full of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jam%C3%B3n_ib%C3%A9rico">Jamón Ibérico</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchego">Manchego</a>, fried <a href="http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octopoda">pulpo</a>, <a href="http://www.nuts.com/nuts/almonds/marcona-almonds.html">Marcona almonds</a>, <a href="http://www.tienda.com/food/products/se-01.html">Bacalao</a>, bowls of fresh local fruit and flan dulce galore. We were treated to fantastic al fresco lunches, homestyle banquet feasts, modern day Spanish gastronomy and tapas, tapas, tapas for five days straight-- I was a girl in heaven. <br />
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On top of all this phenomenal food, focus was concentrated on the "<a href="http://www.spanish-wines.org/murcia.html">Wines from Murcia</a>", specifically the Denominación de Origen (appellations) of <a href="http://www.yecla.com/">Yecla</a>, <a href="http://www.jumilla.org/">Jumilla</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumilla_(DO)">Bullas</a>. Each day was devoted to winery visits, meeting the associates, touring the facilities and learning the history behind these unique producers of incredible, affordable wines that primarily showcase the extraordinary native <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mourv%C3%A8dre">Monastrell</a> grape.</div>
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Over the course of five days we visited ten lovely wineries, three restaurants, an agriturismo, countless tapas bars, one castle, a wine museum, an ancient cathedral, and underground bar with a Roman wall running through it, a real-life cave dwelling and a humble homestead church... Whew. As tiring as all this may have been, especially running on an estimated 3 hours sleep each night (when in Spain!), it has to have been one of the most memorable, educational, fun-loving, spirited adventures I've endured and absolutely enjoyed.<br />
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Day one in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yecla">Yecla</a> will cover visits to the creative coop of <a href="http://www.bodegaslapurisima.com/es/">Bodegas La Purisima</a>, the gorgeous <a href="http://barahonda.com/en/">Bodegas Señorio de Barahonda</a>, lunch under the sun and laughter at <a href="http://www.bodegascastano.com/en/">Bodegas Castaño</a>, a warm welcome from the staff at <a href="http://www.bodegasjuangil.com/">Bodegas Hijos de Juan Gil</a> in Jumilla, tapas hopping in the evening and a trip downstairs to "the wall", infamous late night watering hole of wandering souls.<br />
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Stay tuned!!<br />
B <br />
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<i>The friends I've made along the way are just as invaluable as the experience itself-- the <b>Murcia 8</b> are busy at their keyboards, prepping, editing, photo sifting and writing their hearts out, helping to spread the good word on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a>. Keep up with fellow writers <a href="http://www.winelog.net/blogs/drxeno/">Ward Kadel (Vinopanion)</a>, <a href="http://www.makerstable.com/">Meg Maker (Maker's Table)</a>, <a href="http://www.wellesleywinepress.com/">Robert Dwyer (The Wellesley Wine Press)</a>, <a href="http://www.vinesleuth.com/">Amy Gross (Vinesleuth)</a>, <a href="http://www.vindulgeblog.com/">Mary Cressler (Vindulge)</a>, <a href="http://www.grape-experiences.com/">Cindy Rynning (Grape Experiences)</a> and <a href="http://winejulia.com/">Julia Crowley (Wine Julia)</a> as they sip, savor and share their Murcia thoughts with the wine and food world.</i> </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-48522534483853495002013-06-19T16:31:00.000-07:002013-06-19T16:31:18.163-07:00A Spanish Exploration.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The hubbs and I are excited to embark on quite an adventure this upcoming week, to one of our favorite countries-- <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain">Spain</a>. We've both been blessed enough to have visited in previous years on vacation, spending time in Barcelona, Madrid and Seville, all which are fantastic in their own way. (You can even follow hubbs on his 2011 adventures throughout the <a href="http://www.winelog.net/blogs/drxeno/2011/10/09/navarra5-day-1-d-o-ing-navarra-inurrieta-ochoa/">Kingdom of Navarra</a>, Spain, as he sips, savors and catalogs the regions gorgeous wines- the lucky fella!) This time around, our trip will be quite different... we will be experiencing Spain through the eyes of our gracious hosts, <a href="http://www.institutofomentomurcia.es/web/portal/what-is-info">The Instituto de Fomento de la Región de Murcia</a>. Along with a handful of fellow authors, we will be eating, drinking and blogging our way through the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Region of Murcia</a>, an area in southeast of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iberian_Peninsula">Iberian Peninsula</a>, known for it's vineyards, wineries, beautiful beaches and unique architecture.<br />
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We arrive Sunday, first in Madrid, then continuing on to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alicante">Alicante</a>, and finally reaching our destination in the city of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murcia">Murcia</a> just in time for lunch. I am absolutely thrilled to be an active participant in this opportunity, especially knowing so little about the area and it's surrounding bounty. This week, I've spent a ton of energy researching the various wineries we'll be visiting (approx. ten in 5 days), reading up on the landscape (dry, arid and hot) and trying to familiarize myself with the local culture. <br />
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As for our accomodations, we will be calling the <a href="http://www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/spain/murcia/nh-rincon-de-pepe.html">NH Rincón de Pepe</a> home for length of our stay...<br />
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"The NH Rincon de Pepe hotel in Murcia, Spain is a four-star establishment located in the city center, within short walking distance of tourist attractions, great shopping, and numerous restaurants and bars. Just a few blocks from the Segura River, the NH Rincon de Pepe hotel is 50 meters from the Castilian Gothic-style Murcia cathedral, and close to the bull-ring, stadium, university, and Calle de la Traperia pedestrian area."<br />
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Our days will be filled with activity, which we will both be diligently keeping track of-- I can imagine that there will be an overwhelming amount of photographs and information to come, but I can't wait to share our stories with you all. On top of visiting the city of Murcia, we will also be participating in day trips, discovering wineries (and fine foods) in the appellations of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumilla">Jumilla</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yecla">Yecla</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullas">Bullas</a>. The agriculture of this particular region is supposedly spectacular, so I very much look forward to witnessing "Europe's orchard" in person.<br />
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As for right now, I've got to concentrate on my packing. I've committed to carry-on only, so my skills are being stretched as far as I can manage for a week long journey. My next two days are loaded with errands and loose ends to tie up before we head out, but the anticipation of the trip itself keeps a smile on my face and spring in my step. <br />
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Stay tuned friends, Spain here we come!!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-40244426194677352882013-06-12T19:58:00.003-07:002013-06-12T19:58:47.077-07:00The Big Apple... Second Bite.Day two in New York began slowly and with ease, enjoying a hot warm shower and a cup of coffee from the lounge downstairs at <a href="http://www.carltonhotelny.com/">The Carlton Hotel</a>. As I sat and sipped, I was remembering the details of the previous evening, when the hubbs finally arrived in town, somewhere close to midnight. <br />
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After I left the festive surroundings of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flatiron_District">Flatiron District</a>, I meandered back to the hotel for catnap, and then settled down with a refresher inside the<a href="http://millesimenyc.com/salon.php"> Salon</a> at the hotel. A few laughs and chats later, I decided to walk the short distance a few blocks away to visit a place I've been meaning to for quite some time, <a href="http://leshalles.net/">Brasserie Les Halles</a>, homebase of Chef-at-large, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthony_Bourdain">Anthony Bourdain</a>. Being a huge fan of his, I couldn't be in New York and <i>not</i> stop by Les Halles- at least for a cocktail or glass of bubbly. I arrived close to closing time, but managed to slip in and enjoy a glass of sparkling rosé and a conversation with the bartender. Had I arrived earlier, I may have been able to sneak a late night bite in, but I was happy as a clam just stopping in to say hi.<br />
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"Bustling and lively, <a href="http://www.leshalles.net/">Brasserie Les Halles</a> is a typical Parisian brasserie serving fresh and simple dishes of France’s everyday cuisine. For centuries, the old market district of Paris, Les Halles, fed people from all walks of life with food stalls, restaurants, brasseries, bistros and cafes, open at all times day and night. This is the rare spot renowned for skillfully knowing how to leave French classics untouched, unmodernized, and absolutely delicious."<br />
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Perhaps on my next trip I will stay a spell and order dinner... This visit was enjoyable, anyhow.<br />
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To fuel my Thursday adventures, I indulged in a light breakfast at the <a href="http://www.madisonbistro.com/">Madison Bistro</a>. A tiny, well-appointed cafe located just a few blocks north of my hotel, I found it to be a charming, quiet and excellent place to plan my day.<br />
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"For fine French cuisine in a romantic and elegant setting, be sure to visit Madison Bistro in Murray Hill, and enjoy Master Chef Claude Godard’s updated traditional bistro fare."<br />
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I ordered their <i>Two Eggs w/Bacon, Sausage, Sauteed Potato & Baby Greens</i>, which ended up being one of the prettiest breakfasts I've ever been served. My eggs were cooked perfectly, the sausage is house made, the bacon was cooked exactly to the crisp I like and the salad was tangy and refreshing. The food is all incredibly fresh and plated immaculately- even better? It tasted amazing. Bravo <a href="http://www.madisonbistro.com/">Madison Bistro</a>.<br />
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At the bistro, I determined that I would like to spend my afternoon wandering <a href="http://www.grandcentralterminal.com/">Grand Central Station</a>-- in my humble opinion, one of the most exquisite and intriguing buildings in all of New York. The history of this terminal is absolutely mind-boggling, so me going into detail is just silly. Built in 1831, the grand dame of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaux-Arts_architecture">Beaux-Arts architecture</a> sees millions of people pass through her doors on a regular basis, catching trains, enjoying a meal or just ogling her beauty (like me). <br />
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One of my favorite ways to pass the time is to sit on the terrace and people watch. On this particular day, the sun was shining, people were headed to and from just about every-which-way and I found myself completely content, staring into the heavens of the station. It's twinkling, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerulean">cerulean</a> blue ceiling dusted in stars and astrological formations makes the mind wander. The hustle and bustle of the crowds, the ticking of the world's largest <a href="http://www.rohlfstudio.com/rohlfs-featured-stained-leaded-glass-project/grand-central-terminal-tiffany-clock/">Tiffany clock</a> and the energy of the building is beguiling to me. I think I sat for two hours on the great marble steps without moving, taking in the place. A big perk of the station is, you got it, the air conditioning. Many folks use <a href="http://www.grandcentralterminal.com/">Grand Central</a> as a short respite from the sweltering New York heat on their lunch hours or mid-walk to wherever. I certainly took advantage. Not only is it one of the most photographed buildings in the world, it is a treasure to me and I find great comfort and solace within it's walls. Friends greeting, tearful departures, anxious new travelers and tourists with mouths agape as they stare in awe at this spectacle. There is something magical about Grand Central, and visiting never gets old.<br />
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All that people watching made me hungry as a bear, so <i>of course </i>I had to fetch me some oysters! The one and only <a href="http://www.oysterbarny.com/">Grand Central Oyster Bar</a> was the perfect place for me to satisfy my need to slurp some east coast bivalves. <br />
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"The Oyster Bar first opened its doors in 1913 on the lower level of Grand Central Terminal. Woodrow Wilson was President, the United States was on the threshold of World War I, and Prohibition was just six years away. New York City was slowly emerging as a literary and artistic center, and little “salons” that attracted writers and artists and dilettantes were starting to spring up in Greenwich Village and in other parts of the city. The resplendent new Grand Central Terminal opened its doors that year too, on the site of what formerly had been the old and rundown train depot. People flocked to see the new terminal that was then as now considered an engineering marvel."<br />
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These guys know the meaning of fresh seafood. In this vaulted ceiling, checkered tablecloth-clad cafeteria style eatery, folks can enjoy over 30 different varieties of oysters at any one time, chosen from a list of what I counted was almost 150. Wowza- now that's my idea of an oyster bar! On top of their overwhelming oyster selection, guests can choose dishes like <i>Penne with Florida Royal Red Shrimp, Maine Lobster Meat and Broccoli Rabe with Garlic & Oil Broth </i>or a <i>Maine Lobster Roll on a Toasted Potato Bun with Cole Slaw & Sweet Potato Chips</i>. For you non-seafood lovers, plates such as the <i>Grilled Sirloin Steak with French Fries and Vegetables</i> should suffice. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CKobOKnCuy0/Ubjw4sfFtVI/AAAAAAAADZA/NlUwyZJkHiI/s1600/nyoyster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CKobOKnCuy0/Ubjw4sfFtVI/AAAAAAAADZA/NlUwyZJkHiI/s320/nyoyster.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I, of course, chose a simple half dozen of the shelled guys, careful to pick only oysters that are found on eastern shores. I went with the <a href="http://www.oysterguide.com/new-discoveries/belons-from-maine/">Belon</a> from Maine, a couple <a href="http://www.oysterguide.com/maps/prince-edward-island/malpeque/">Malpeque</a> from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_Edward_Island">Prince Edward Island</a> and to round it all out, a few <a href="http://www.oysterguide.com/maps/nova-scotia/tatamagouche/">Tatamagouche</a> from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova_Scotia">Nova Scotia</a>. The oysters were all impeccably fresh, served on ice with cocktail sauce and mignonette in adorable little paper cups. Nothing terribly fancy, but I appreciated the emphasis on the food itself. <br />
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If you're looking for entertainment here, pull up a stool and sit at the seafood bar, where all oysters are shucked in front of you and the soup is made-to-order in bubbling little single-serve cauldrons. I caught a glimpse of their popular seafood stew being made and thought twice about trying to stuff myself silly. Instead I opted for a slice their "famous" <i>Donut Nectarine and Brown Sugar Caramelized Apple Pie (a la mode)</i>, with many thanks to my new friend sitting beside me. A gentleman I shall refer to as one of the original <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mad_Men">Mad Men</a>, on a day trip to visit the only dentist he trusted these days. Hilarity ensued, and before we all new it, several more slices of pie were served and paid for by this mystery man with a sweet tooth. Not a bad end to my Grand Central Station visit, not bad at all.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9fucFMJL4Uc/Ubj8Hlo1_QI/AAAAAAAADZY/dhtLmDwsF_8/s1600/nomad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9fucFMJL4Uc/Ubj8Hlo1_QI/AAAAAAAADZY/dhtLmDwsF_8/s320/nomad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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By this time it was about 3 o'clock and I was parched from all that briny goodness. Upon recommendation from a friend, I headed my way back towards <a href="http://www.madisonsquarepark.org/">Madison Square Park</a> to <a href="http://www.thenomadhotel.com/">The NoMad Hotel</a>, which rests at Broadway and 28th Street. Touted as one of the most stylish and sublimely chic hotels in Mid-town, The NoMad defines urban luxury- From it's discreet, richly furnished lobby to it's ornate, sexy parlour and mysteriously dark bar, you will immediately fall in love with this classy establishment and it's staff. I only visited for drinks, but felt a twinge of envy when I realized how awesome this hotel was.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aeBwqhG3Ze0/Ubj8hFDgT6I/AAAAAAAADZg/gZltur8RU2Y/s1600/nomad+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aeBwqhG3Ze0/Ubj8hFDgT6I/AAAAAAAADZg/gZltur8RU2Y/s320/nomad+bar.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bar.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p8k1f-ymY-M/Ubj8oZ8Xz4I/AAAAAAAADZo/wxjnXrv1Azc/s1600/nomad+parlor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p8k1f-ymY-M/Ubj8oZ8Xz4I/AAAAAAAADZo/wxjnXrv1Azc/s320/nomad+parlor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Parlor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZmmt3lUWfc/Ubj85HDwhNI/AAAAAAAADZw/S0V4IlqNjZ0/s1600/nomad+library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZmmt3lUWfc/Ubj85HDwhNI/AAAAAAAADZw/S0V4IlqNjZ0/s320/nomad+library.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Library.</td></tr>
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The <b>Bar</b>, which<b> "</b>evokes a balanced mix of spirited club and elegant lounge. A selection of classic and proprietary cocktails will be crafted by award winning-mixologist, Leo Robitschek", is situated at the rear, behind the <b>Parlour</b>, an elaborately decorated dining area where guest can sit by the open hearth and "observe the preparation of fresh breads and seasonal specialties." Alongside, sits the <b>Library</b>, "a fully curated, two-level library which is connected by an original spiral staircase imported from the South of France. Guests can lounge throughout the day on custom-made furnishings and enjoy light fare and finger foods which are served alongside coffee, tea, wine, and cocktails. An eclectic literary collection is available, featuring extensive volumes on such wide-ranging topics as The History of New York, Music, and Cocktails and Spirits."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A8xQLpS4ibE/UbkInYSjrtI/AAAAAAAADaA/-Y29_J4APpI/s1600/cocktails.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A8xQLpS4ibE/UbkInYSjrtI/AAAAAAAADaA/-Y29_J4APpI/s1600/cocktails.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmmm...</td></tr>
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I sidled up to <b>Bar</b> and was greeted with a warm smile by a fellow with a sporting moustache, sophisticated vest and white sleeves rolled up to the elbow. How very Victorian throwback cool. He was incredibly friendly and gave my plenty of time to read over their extensive cocktail list. My first drink choice was the Rolling Stones influenced <b><i>Start Me Up</i>: </b><i>Bourbon, Rum, Strega, Honey, Ginger, Lemon & Orange Bitters. </i>I enjoyed the sweet bite of this drink, served over a massive ice cube with just enough zing to keep the burn of the bourbon to a minimum. Next, I ordered their <b><i>Hair Trigger:</i></b> <i>Venezuelan Rum, Fernet Branca, Ginger, Lime & Cucumber</i>. How could I not? I'm from the San Francisco Bay Area and we consume 25% of the Fernet supply in SF alone-- the barkeep found humor in that little tidbit. I actually really liked the combo of the fresh cucumber, fernet and rum because it neutralized the concoction and was nicely balanced. I was only at The Nomad for short time, but I will definitely return. In fact, I can't wait for my next trip to NYC, because I would love to experience the dining as well. The entire experience is on my to-do list. <a href="http://www.thenomadhotel.com/">NoMad</a>, I shall see you again.<br />
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My lessons in Mixology were over and it was time to return to the <a href="http://www.carltonhotelny.com/">Carlton Hotel</a> to meet up with the hubbs and the rest of the gang from <a href="http://www.creativefeed.net/">Creative Feed</a> for a group dinner. We were headed to <a href="http://www.wine30nyc.com/">Wine:30</a>, an "intimate, neighborhood and wine bar in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murray_Hill,_Manhattan">Murray Hill</a>"- an attractive Mediterranean influenced restaurant with an emphasis on wine and wine pairings. I was excited to check this place out, seeing as I had passed by it several time on my walking adventures throughout our stay. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our host and lead to their exclusive wine cave, downstairs and completely separated from the rest of the diners at the restaurant. The cave, which was dug out by hand with buckets by the owner, was an intimate and interesting way to experience our dinner.</div>
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A lovely prix fixe menu was arranged for our group, complete with a fantastic staff of servers to help us along the way. Wines were chosen, excessive laughter erupted, <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2013/06/12/how-cronuts-are-driving-new-york-city-crazy.html">cronut</a> knowledge was shared and the food began to arrive...</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Dipping Sauces</i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Cucumber-Dill Yogurt (favorite, an unusual yet palette pleasing choice)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Hummus</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Spicy Tomato & Pepper</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Bruschetta </i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Tomato-Mozzarella</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Spicy Beef Sausage, Peppers & Onions</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Roasted Corn, Black Beans, Chihuahua. Cilantro-Lime (favorite, loved the crunch of the sweet corn)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Choice of Entree</i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">* Free-Range Roasted Chicken Breast with Chimichurri sauce, served with Wild Rice and Sauteed Broccoli Rabe.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">* Seared Hangar Steak with Potatoes au gratin, Roasted Asparagus & Bernaise sauce. (I chose this entree and was impressed with the potatoes au gratin. The steak was seasoned nicely as well.)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">* Lemon-Basil Linguini with Asparagus, Tomato, Basil, Garlic, Parmesan and Olive Oil.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Dessert</i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Mini Red Velvet Cupcakes (who doesn't love red velvet?)</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChplUc4k4ks/UbkvYqjdeyI/AAAAAAAADag/fxJIrtnN8O8/s1600/wine30+dine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChplUc4k4ks/UbkvYqjdeyI/AAAAAAAADag/fxJIrtnN8O8/s320/wine30+dine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Overall, <a href="http://www.wine30nyc.com/">Wine:30</a> was a pleasant experience. The restaurant itself is quaint, but has a great atmosphere, full of smiling faces and friendly people. Outside, during nice weather, there is a lovely patio garden seating area that is perfect for warm summer dinner parties. While the restaurant small is small and often packed to the gills, the staff at <a href="http://www.wine30nyc.com/">Win</a></span><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wine30nyc.com/">e:30</a> </span><span style="text-align: center;">do a great job of accommodating just about everyone inside and out. Their wine list is impressive, especially for such a compact space, and if you aren't in the mood for wine, they've got a great selection of imported beers to choose from. If you are ever in the Murray Hill area of Manhattan, swing by and check this little gem out.</span><br />
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It's hard to imagine that there's a day three still to come, one that explores the nightlife of Brooklyn. From video arcade bars, 4am sandwiches from the corner store, watching graffiti artists from a rooftop patio and squeezing our way through tiny doors and into the past for vintage cocktails to sampling <a href="http://www.zapps.com/zapps-cajun-crawtator-potato-chips-1-2.html">Crawtators</a> and getting lost on the NYC subway. So much more to come... Stay tuned.</div>
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Cheers,</div>
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B </div>
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*<i>Photos 4,7,8 author's own</i></div>
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<i>*Remainder of photos courtesy of establishment media galleries.</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-89763031183561708222013-06-04T12:35:00.000-07:002013-06-04T16:08:24.069-07:00The Big Apple... First Bite.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RCeHwX_vIkE/Uaz7oMd80wI/AAAAAAAADUc/P9YenfIwpFw/s1600/empire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RCeHwX_vIkE/Uaz7oMd80wI/AAAAAAAADUc/P9YenfIwpFw/s320/empire.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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Our trip to <a href="http://www.nyc.gov/html/index.html">New York City</a> this year was a whirlwind of fun, food, friends and wine. As usual, the city was remarkable and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manhattan">Manhattan</a> never ceases to thrill and amaze me- with so much to do in so little time, I was beside myself with choices. How would I spend my long days, where would I eat, what new place could I explore? Let's find out.<br />
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My plane touched down Wednesday afternoon, amidst the heat and haze of <a href="http://www.panynj.gov/airports/newark-liberty.html">Newark Liberty International Airport</a>, a choice I had made last minute when flight prices dropped. On my past trips, I usually get to-and-fro using <a href="http://www.panynj.gov/airports/jfk.html">JFK</a>, but the temptation of saving a few bucks was far too much for me to resist, thus the New Jersey decision. Unfortunately and in all honesty, I can't recommend this to travelers as an introduction to the New York area, most certainly not for first time visitors flying in from distant locations.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1v3rtuHess/Uaz4uPg8BXI/AAAAAAAADUI/4ByuaELFeJ8/s1600/newark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1v3rtuHess/Uaz4uPg8BXI/AAAAAAAADUI/4ByuaELFeJ8/s320/newark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what security feels like at Newark.</td></tr>
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Although it's proximity to the city is convenient, I found the airport difficult to navigate, an absolute security nightmare, slightly funky, severely lacking order and total rip-off when it came to ground transportation. $100 for a 16 mile cab ride is a bit steep for me, although I do admit I could have taken a train transfer for much cheaper. It's hard to motivate yourself to sit on a train for an hour and half after a 6 hour plane flight though, especially in 90 degree weather at 90 percent humidity. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3D4kMAHO-RE/Uaz4nuUNX8I/AAAAAAAADUA/Jow2amgsCT0/s1600/jfk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="142" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3D4kMAHO-RE/Uaz4nuUNX8I/AAAAAAAADUA/Jow2amgsCT0/s320/jfk.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay JFK!</td></tr>
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I highly suggest sticking to <a href="http://www.panynj.gov/airports/jfk.html">JFK</a>, for the convenience of it's connection to the <a href="http://www.nycsubway.org/wiki/Main_Page">NYC subway</a> and the ease, cleanliness and sensibility of the airport itself. Why is this helpful information? When I travel, especially on shorter trips, I like the airport to be a swift transition between air and land, without having to waste my time on the nonsense of a poorly run facility. Call me crazy, but flying is stressful enough as it is for some of us, therefore I'm a big fan of well-organized hubs that get me in, through, and out efficiently and anxiety-free. <br />
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I digress... On to the good stuff!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LzeTcH5qvRA/Ua0AIOLSBNI/AAAAAAAADU0/s8AHH0CsGyw/s1600/carlton2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LzeTcH5qvRA/Ua0AIOLSBNI/AAAAAAAADU0/s8AHH0CsGyw/s320/carlton2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The building itself is beautiful.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xBCFpn_xjT0/Ua0CFi5nzqI/AAAAAAAADVE/sCA7K_cTZcE/s1600/The-Carlton-Hotelobby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xBCFpn_xjT0/Ua0CFi5nzqI/AAAAAAAADVE/sCA7K_cTZcE/s320/The-Carlton-Hotelobby.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lobby with it's faux fireplace, an illusion made using water and flickering lights.</td></tr>
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Our homebase for this 4 day trip was smack-dab in the middle of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manhattan">Manhattan</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midtown_Manhattan">mid-town</a> to be exact, at the elegantly appointed <a href="http://www.carltonhotelny.com/">Carlton Hotel</a>. Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and bustling, cab-filled streets, <a href="http://www.carltonhotelny.com/">The Carlton Hotel</a> stands like a striped beacon of cool, stacked-stone, decorated with intricate French-inspired black filigree details. The interior of the hotel feels modern with an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Deco">Art Deco</a> twist, similar to most classic New York hotels. The environment is warm and welcoming, while remaining refined in it's presentation. I found the staff to be incredibly kind and helpful when needed, otherwise quietly waiting in the wings, giving the hotel a very serene feel. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhyx9eU1ZJc/Ua0Et2OYEEI/AAAAAAAADVQ/MEAuENWwuJs/s1600/Millisime.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhyx9eU1ZJc/Ua0Et2OYEEI/AAAAAAAADVQ/MEAuENWwuJs/s320/Millisime.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Salon.</td></tr>
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The hotel's restaurant, <a href="http://www.millesimenyc.com/">Millesime</a>, (pronounced mee-lay-ZEEM), is a fantastically decorated brasserie that draws in guests with it's richly colored, parlor-style lounge and bar. Once inside, you are sure to be lured upstairs by the luxurious wood-paneled, chandelier filled dining room where you can sample some of the city's finest...</div>
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"The Carlton Hotel's signature, full service Murray Hill restaurant, Millesime, is a seafood brasserie, presenting guests with a straightforward menu highlighted by both bold and delicate French cuisine. 2 Michelin Star Executive Chef Laurent Manrique draws inspiration from the classic seafood dishes found throughout France, utilizing only the freshest, seasonal ingredients sourced from local waters and nearby farms. For guests craving a small bite, Executive Chef Manrique has crafted a menu of small plates ideal for sharing. For those looking for something a bit more substantial, this Murray Hill restaurant also offers a Burger Millesime, Croque Monsieur and the Salon Club. The elegant upstairs dining room features a 100-year-old mosaic floor; a Tiffany Dome skylight, red banquettes, a marble raw bar and an open kitchen allow you to peek in on the culinary team at work."</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar Millie.</td></tr>
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The hubbs spent most of his time within the walls of <a href="http://www.millesimenyc.com/">Millesime</a>, sampling over 220 wines as a Juror (judge) for the <a href="http://www.bordeaux.com/us">Bordeaux Wine Council's</a> (CIVB) <a href="http://www.bordeaux.com/us/blog/tag/todays-bordeaux/">Today's Bordeaux</a> wine competition, to choose the top 100 affordable Bordeaux wines for 2013, thus being our main reason for visiting NYC. Along with his peers, they sipped, savored and discussed wines for two days straight, while enjoying meals provided by Millesime.</div>
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I, on the other hand, sampled a few of my own tidbits at Millesime, like their <a href="http://www.santamonicaseafood.com/content/misty-point-oysters">Misty Point oysters</a> on the half shell, served with mignonette and housemade cocktail sauce. For lunch on our last day in town, I enjoyed their <i>Millesime Burger</i>, smothered in Monterey jack, avocado, roasted peppers, spicy onion rings & french fries, while the hubbs chose the <i>Chicken Club</i> with saffron aioli, tomato confit & pancetta on multi-grain toast with their delicious pomme frites. All of the food at Millesime was freshly prepared and presented in an appealing manner. We very much enjoyed our dining experience and would definitely re-visit when back in the city.</div>
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Initially the hubbs and I were going to fly in together, but we became separated by scheduling conflicts, which meant that he would be leaving San Francisco as I was arriving in New York. Much to his dismay, I was excited by this idea because it meant having the evening to myself to explore the wonders of mid-town without him (love you honey!) Once I unpacked and settled in, I headed out to my favorite first stop- <a href="http://www.eataly.com/">Eataly</a>! For those of you who are wondering why I'm obsessed with <a href="http://www.eataly.com/">Eataly</a>, you can read about my earlier adventures on one of most popular postings, <i><a href="http://rollerskatingwithscissors.blogspot.com/2012/09/my-visit-to-eataly.html">My Visit To Eataly</a> </i>from 2012. It's a personal favorite, and this time I was determined to eat at <a href="http://www.eataly.com/manzo/">Manzo</a>, a small, more formal setting that celebrates the deliciousness of American beef. Strangely enough, I ordered everything but the beef, and I don't regret it.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vd6TpM32Tas/Ua4uYUrwsYI/AAAAAAAADV4/ULtLTru9vBo/s1600/manzo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vd6TpM32Tas/Ua4uYUrwsYI/AAAAAAAADV4/ULtLTru9vBo/s320/manzo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lznMlqhpI6U/Ua4uDVuC3uI/AAAAAAAADVw/CZ-5MT1y9IM/s1600/beetsalad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lznMlqhpI6U/Ua4uDVuC3uI/AAAAAAAADVw/CZ-5MT1y9IM/s320/beetsalad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My appetizer was a gorgeous salad- <i>Roasted Beets with Hazelnuts, Goat Cheese & Black Truffle Vinaigrette</i>. I had to eat slowly and with purpose in order to completely indulge in this mouth-watering, savory yet delicately sweet salad. The trick, as told by my waiter, was that the creamy goat cheese is whipped with their finest olive oil to create a pillowy soft blanket underneath the colorful beets. The crumbled hazelnuts gave each bite an interesting contrast in textures, bringing just enough crunch. And the truffle vinaigrette... No words. This dish was divine.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tasty AND pretty to look at.</td></tr>
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At the suggestion of my incredibly well-informed waiter, to pair with my glass of sparkling rosé, I next ordered one of the evening's special plates-- <i>Pan Seared <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamachi_(fish)">Hamachi</a> with Red Chili Oil Glaze atop Smoked Hamachi, Green Chickpeas & <a href="http://www.delallo.com/articles/castelvetrano-olive">Castelvetrano</a> Olives in a light broth</i>. The seared hamachi had a crisp outer layer and a sweet, cool center- just how I love my fish cooked. The red chili oil mixed with the broth, briny olives and creamy chickpeas burst with flavor, all in one bite. I was particularly fond of this dish because I've tried variations of it at home, using different olives and salmon, perhaps capers as well, because both the hubbs and I love the combo. For a restaurant specializing in beef, <a href="http://www.eataly.com/manzo/">Manzo</a> sure hit the mark with this light yet satisfying seafood treat.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHYrb5pdHWY/Ua43J9pbd4I/AAAAAAAADWY/KeVz4BR1p9c/s1600/shakeshack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHYrb5pdHWY/Ua43J9pbd4I/AAAAAAAADWY/KeVz4BR1p9c/s320/shakeshack.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Shake Shack... This pic perfectly captures the mood of that warm, cheerful evening.</td></tr>
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Once I had filled my tummy with yummy, I waddled around <a href="http://www.eataly.com/">Eataly</a> for a bit longer and then decided to explore the outdoors a bit by heading across the street to <a href="http://www.madisonsquarepark.org/">Madison Square Park</a>. By far, one of my favorite parks in all of New York, I found it a cozy place to digest, sit back, and admire other people's impressive milk shakes and frozen custards from the wildly popular and tasty <a href="http://www.shakeshack.com/location/madison-square-park/">Shake Shack</a>. If I hadn't have gorged myself at dinner, I would've definitely joined in on the fun, but my stomach was far too full for more food. Their milkshakes, by the way, have such a huge following that people are willing to stand in lines of 100+ just for a taste of their sweet, sweet goodness. The burgers are awesome too, and along with fact that you can order beer (what???) with your burgers, fries, etc and sit in the park, that makes the <a href="http://www.shakeshack.com/location/madison-square-park/">Shake Shack</a> one helluva destination point. The hubbs and I sat and sipped later in our trip one evening- probably one of our nicer moments this visit, just relaxing and chatting and drinking beer out of plastic cups.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://urbanspacenyc.com/mad-sq-eats/">Mad.Square.Eats</a> </td></tr>
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Amidst the chatter and ice cream, I happen to be told that I picked quite an exciting night to be in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flatiron_District">Flatiron District</a>, especially directly where I was perched at the apex of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/23rd_Street_(Manhattan)">23rd Street</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadway_(New_York_City)">Broadway</a> and<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth_Avenue"> 5th Avenue</a>. I was about the witness one of the coolest New York natural oddities that happens only a handful of times a year-- <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/30/manhattanhenge-2013-photos_n_3358386.html">Manhattanhenge</a>! This is when the full sun aligns perfectly with the grid of New York city streets, creating an explosion of color and joy amongst the thousands of folks watching. I've never seen so many people standing in the middle of intersections holding their hands up in unison, all to snap a photo of this phenomenon. An overwhelming way to end my first evening in Manhattan, one that brought a sense of wonderment and community to me, a girl from California awash in a sea of people from all over the world. I'll snip this article here, and leave you with my own photo of Manhattanhenge 2013, enjoy.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pictures just don't do it justice.</td></tr>
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Parts two & three coming up soon, featuring the notorious <a href="http://www.leshalles.net/">Brasserie Les Halles</a> , <a href="http://www.eataly.com/birreria">Birreria</a> on the roof, dinner and laughs at <a href="http://www.wine30nyc.com/">Wine:30</a>, mixology at <a href="http://www.thenomadhotel.com/">The NoMad Hotel</a>, good eats at <a href="http://www.traifny.com/">Traif</a> in Brooklyn, and about a dozen other late night discoveries.</div>
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To be continued...</div>
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Cheers!</div>
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B</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1119232603591454182.post-78492922125278255022013-05-22T09:52:00.000-07:002013-05-22T09:57:37.672-07:00Wandering Soul.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Yesterday it was 3.7 miles.<br />
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Today I plan on 4.<br />
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Next week, it will probably be close to 10 miles per day.<br />
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Next month, I feel like I won't be sitting down much at all.<br />
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Walking... It's what I do. More appropriately, <i>wandering</i>. Sometimes I set out on a mission to the farmer's market down the street, other days I walk a mile to the pool where I swim, and often times, I jump in the car just to go park it somewhere else and wander.<br />
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It's not that I'm allergic to home-- I love being at my house, out in my garden, or hibernating in my pj's watching endless episodes of cuisine-based reality TV. But when the weather is pleasant, and my curiosity gets the better of me, I can't help but wander.<br />
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I think I get it from my folks. Those two can walk around a mega store for hours and find endless entertainment, just as much as they can a park or city streets. Sometimes, when I visit, we wander together, not accomplishing much of anything at all, but nonetheless enjoying the scenery. I find it to be an intriguing sport, one that stimulates the senses without over-tiring the body. An escape from anxious thoughts and worries, walking and wandering are a release, no matter where I am going.<br />
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Next week I will be in New York City, land of wanderers. On my last visit, I had no choice but to walk everywhere due to my location and my lack of vehicle. This time I will have no choice due to the opposite, deep within the skyscraper walls of Manhattan, jam-packed with cars and people, all on their way to somewhere.<br />
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New York will always be a place of comfort for me because you can wander and walk and lose yourself in it's awesomeness, not matter what your plans are. Going to the park? Cool, let's walk. Headed down to Shake Shack? Word, let's walk, it's nice outside. Hey, have you heard about that new falafel joint down on so-n-so? Yeah man, let's head down there once I get my shoes on. Sure, people take cabs and the subway, but they're usually on foot first. <br />
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The only time I'd grab a cab was when I'd already walked a few miles and was lost. Whoops, I'm supposed to be 3 miles south of where I am in less than 20 minutes for a group dinner- waving hand furiously at pretty much every car I see on 5th Avenue, jumping up and down and finally flagging down a towncar. It's a last resort for me when visiting-- there's just way too much fun stuff to see if I walk instead. Of course I Heart New York, but I feel like I need a shirt that has a little shoe instead of a heart between the <b>I </b>and the <b>New York</b>. Or footprints... Er, you know what mean.<br />
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Is there a point to this article? No, not really. Just a rambling of thoughts. As I finish up typing, my tennis shoes stare back at me and I can imagine them saying, "Hey lady, where we going today?" (yes, in my world, everything can talk) and I feel like answering back, "Dudes, today, just the grocery store to buy stuff for cupcakes. But next week, New York. And in the upcoming months, who knows where the winds might take us..."<br />
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Time for a stroll.<br />
Be well,<br />
B<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06654010526771015774noreply@blogger.com0