Lake Martin Magazine

Delicious!

The better wines are made from what are often called the wine grapes, which include chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and thousands more, like some 8,000 varieties of the species vitis vinifera. Whether it is muscadine or cabernet, the juice is the first ingredient, and you might even say the only ingredient.

Venue is the all-important setting for the dreams come true. So much a part of that happily-ever-after destination, unique and spectacular venues are the first order of business for brides around the world. They tour beaches and castles and ships cruising exotic ports to find the perfect location in which to exchange nuptials, and these days, they are launching their dreams from Lake Martin as well.

A special dinner should feature an exceptional pairing with the entrée.

BAC is the acronym for Blood Alcohol Content, and this little device measures the presence of alcohol on the breath, which correlates to the level of alcohol in the blood.

Tis the season to be jolly, merry, happy or in other words bubbly, effervescent, sparkling. ’Tis the season to celebrate and rejoice and bring out the Champagne for a toast to good health and to good friends.

Football season breeds the tailgating season. It’s all about the dress, the set-up and the convenience of home, even when you are not home, and of course, the food!

Start with a pitcher of sangria, the Spanish-inspired beverage made with red wine, fruit juices, fruit garnishes and sometimes spiked with brandy or other spirits.

OK, you bought a big box of chocolate for your sweetie; now what are you going to serve with it that will bring the chubby guy with the arrows in for a better shot? Pairing wine with chocolate isn’t as easy as we’ve been led to believe.

Are you feeling holiday stressed yet? Are you ready for some advice on what to get the people who have everything? The trend this year is to buy practical gifts that are reflective of the austere economy. Wine drinkers are the easiest to buy for, though there are some caveats and a few things to keep in mind: For one, our taste in wine is a very personal thing. That cannot be overstated.