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Blog

Are River Cruises the Ultimate Food and Wine Getaway?

Carol Wolniakowski

River cruises have exploded in popularity and it is easy to see why. These small, luxurious vessels offer a unique experience unmatched by any other mode of travel.

So what does that have to do with wine country? As it turns out, many world class vineyards are located along rivers. This makes sense when you consider trade routes were historically near bodies of water, allowing for the shipment of wine casks throughout the old world. But rivers also play an important role for the vineyards by moderating severe climates. In the harsh German winters for example, the Mosel River warms the surrounding area to mitigate damage from cold and frost. The heat from the sun's rays reflecting on the river also helps the grapes to ripen, which can be a challenge in cold climates.

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Top Places to Go Truffle Hunting

Carol Wolniakowski

Truffles are one of the most expensive foods in the world. Gourmands around the world clamor for these rare fungi to enhance their dishes and elevate a meal. Their distinct, musky aroma envelopes your senses unlike any other food. Whether enjoying white truffle atop your risotto or black truffle in your omelette, these delicacies have the power to transform your food from a meal to a full sensory experience.

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The Wine Everyone Loves to Hate

Carol Wolniakowski

Love it or hate it, Beaujolais Nouveau is arriving in wine shops and grocery stores on Thursday, November 19th. What started as a local French tradition has become what some call a global rite of autumn – the first taste of the new wine harvest. Others call it a marketing ploy for suckers. Ouch.

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6 Ways to Celebrate Champagne Day

Carol Wolniakowski

Did you know that today is international Champagne Day? People all over the world will be popping corks to honor this special wine. No matter what is going on in our lives, there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for and to celebrate. Want to join in the fun? Here are 6 ways to enjoy Champagne Day:

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Virtual Tastings and Travel Events

Carol Wolniakowski

Want to travel to France and sample some Burgundy and funky cheese? How about a trip down the picturesque Danube River? International travel may be on hold for now, but that doesn't mean you cannot experience the sights and flavors of your favorite countries right in your own home - with virtual events.

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Fabulous Fall Getaways

Carol Wolniakowski

Fall is the best time of year to travel. The crisp air and vibrant hues beckon us to get out and explore. From apple picking to horseback riding to sipping wine in the vineyard, there are endless ways to enjoy Mother Nature in her full glory. Autumn also kicks off comfort food season, where we indulge in all the flavors of the new harvest. Exploring the diverse landscape and local cuisine of our country is the ultimate way to experience the season.

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Surf and Sand with Chardonnay? Top Beach Resorts for Food & Wine - Part One

Carol Wolniakowski

No need to visit wine country for a fabulous food and wine experience! Luxury beach resorts around the country have incredible wine cellars and Wine Spectator award-winning wine lists with winemaker dinners, food pairings and cooking classes. Many resorts are family friendly with fun kids programs and sitters, giving mom and dad some time to relax. Whether you are looking for a couples getaway, a girlfriend retreat or a family vacation, here is Part One of our top picks for food and wine on the beach.

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A Sommelier's Guide to Top Food & Wine Road Trips

Carol Wolniakowski

Ready to hit the road? The United States has incredible food and wine destinations right in our own backyard. Some you’ve never thought of! Cities, beach towns and country retreats all have something unique to offer - and don't require a passport or even a flight! Our food and wine experts scoured their top resources from coast to coast to put together the ultimate list of destinations every food and wine

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The Inside Scoop on Paso Robles

Carol Wolniakowski

With delicious wines, a charming town and down-to-earth sensibility, Paso Robles is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. The rolling hills and vineyards set the stage for a diverse variety of wines based on the unique micro-climates of the region. I have been chatting with the folks in Paso on the latest and want to share some highlights not to be missed.

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Why Experienced Travelers Use a Travel Advisor

Carol Wolniakowski

You may be wondering - why use a travel advisor? Aren’t travel agents outdated and unnecessary? Well, yes, the old version of a travel agent is dying out. Today’s travel professionals, however, are more consultants than booking agents. After all, you certainly can just book a trip online yourself. But if you are looking for expertise, advice and extra perks, a travel advisor can be a huge asset.

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The Ultimate Hotel in Rioja, Spain

Carol Wolniakowski

Hotel Viura in La Rioja Alavasa, Basque Country, has to be one of the most unique hotels I have ever stayed in. It has incredible charm and a hip character - avant-garde, yet also warm and welcoming. This boutique hotel is a destination in and of itself with two restaurants, a wine shop, rooftop terrace, wellness center and new thermal cave. My stay at Hotel Viura really elevated my visit to the Rioja wine region of Spain. Here are some of the reasons why I loved it:

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Must-Visit Wineries in Traverse City: Part Two

Carol Wolniakowski

There are beautiful wine regions all over the world, but did you know that some of the best scenery is in Northern Michigan? The Traverse City area is home to a thriving wine community and I was fortunate to visit the region in the height of fall colors. In addition to gorgeous vistas of rolling vineyards and sparkling blue water, the wineries of Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula offer high quality wines with many great tasting experiences. In fact, there were so many enjoyable visits that I decided to split my summary into two parts (you can read Part One here). These wineries are not to be missed:

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Must-Visit Wineries in Traverse City: Part One

Carol Wolniakowski

I had the chance to spend a few days near Traverse City in the peak of fall colors.  WOW.  It truly is a stunning area.  Northwest Michigan is home to a thriving wine region, offering a variety of red, white, sparkling, sweet, and dry wines.  There are a fair amount of fruit wines (especially cherry, as the cherry capital of the country), but I focused on tasting the wines made from grapes.  The climate is cooler than many other U.S. wine regions - it actually sits on the 45th latitude, the same as prominent wine regions such as Bordeaux, Côte du Rhône and Piedmont.  The result are wines that are bright, fresh and lively. 

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