California’s Tri-Valley—the Perfect Wine Country Escape
What makes for a perfect wine country destination? Breathtaking vineyard landscapes paired with delectable wines are a given. Certain regions like the Tri-Valley, California, are blessed with an ideal blend of qualities that set them apart from the ordinary. Location, location, location Who wants to spend a chunk of their valuable vacation time getting to where
Getaway and Explore Whidbey Island’s Wine & Spirits Trail
If you’re a wine traveler, a small batch spirits devotee, or connoisseur of farm-to-table slow food, then Washington State’s Whidbey Island needs to be at the top of your ‘go-to destinations’ list. Largest of the many islands of Puget Sound, Whidbey is sheltered by the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, enjoying a drier climate than the mainland.
Txakoli – the ‘Other’ Basque Wine
Travel opens the door to a host of enriching experiences: the first glimpse of a famous city, that connection when a local recognizes your attempt at speaking their language or discovering a culture through its cuisine. The Basque Country of Spain is a perfect example of this ‘sense of place’ —a destination where food and
6 Reasons to be a Wine Tourist
Are you a wine tourist? Do your travel plans always seem to include strolling through verdant vineyards, discovering new vintages and immersing yourself in the wine lifestyle? If so, you are not alone. Whether you call it Enotourism, Oenotrouism, or Vinitoursim, traveling to wine country destinations is hot. What was once a well-kept secret of
Putting the Happy into Holiday Wine Pairing
While it may be called “the most wonderful time of the year,” the busy holiday season is often overwhelming. In an effort to shorten your to-do list, here are a few suggestions and tips that will take the terror out of holiday wine pairing, guaranteed to “make your spirits bright.” If you’re the host Finding
Costa Mesa, California – the Great Romantic Escape
Looking for a romantic SoCal escape? Look no further than Costa Mesa. Hilarie Larson tells us why this is the destination for everything from dining to shopping to the arts.
Wine and Food: The Great Balancing Act
Wine writer Hilarie Larson demystifies wine and food pairing, recognising that a good match, like in marriage or friendship, is a glorious thing.
What is an AVA and Why Should You Care?
Every wine label shows where the grapes came from, a ‘place of origin.' Known as an ‘American Viticultural Area’ (or AVA for short), this bit of information is a key to understanding more about the quality and character of different wines.
What’s So Cool About Yuma Arizona?
Tucked into the southwest corner of Arizona, Yuma has often been looked upon as a small, hot, dusty little burg that’s home to an onslaught of ‘snow birds’ each winter. While it’s true that many retirees flock there, they are only a small part of the increasingly diverse visitors that come in search of old west history, world-class recreation and delectable cuisine.
Five Top Tips for Wine Tasting
If you’re a wine lover, there’s no greater thrill than visiting your favorite winery. Whether you’re on vacation or just escaping the old routine for an afternoon, here are some tips for getting the most out of your tasting room adventures from wine writer Hilarie Larson.