Inspired by the bold color and chic lines of this home office featured on One Kings Lane, I put together a few pieces to recreate the look more affordably. I am usually a monochromatic kind of gal but pink and blue are really jazzing me these days, so I recreated the look with a bit more pop and brightness- this would work great for a small space. The Chiavari chairs at One Kings Lane sold for $150. Find them here for $49, although the shipping will set you back $25. The chairs come with a cushion that could be recovered in a fun fabric like this one. There are so many beautiful handmade and vintage upholstery fabrics available on etsy, it’s a bit mind numbing.
The key to this recreation is finding a great vintage desk as your anchor piece. Craigslist and etsy are both treasure troves for this type of thing. I did a local search and found 3 great desks with lots of character available on craigslist for under $100. Good bones are essential. The desk should be solid wood and have interesting detail- like a turned leg or beveled edges. A fresh coat of high gloss paint will brighten up and rejuvenate any old piece. Sand down the piece with sandpaper and then apply 2 or 3 coats of high gloss paint. Once you’ve got your anchor piece, just switch out the hardware and add accents.
Does this look like fun or what? I love Austin. Any town that knows how to string a strand of lights to optimal effect is ok in my book. I count myself lucky to have family that lives in Austin, which gives me a great excuse to visit and often. I’ve put together a spanktacular list of great things to do with the help of my co-contributor and Austin local, Lauren Crandall aka my sister-in-law and girl about town. She knows the dealio and is always the first to know about the next great place.
Austin’s motto is “Keep Austin Weird”- although these days you’re more likely to spot a bumper sticker that read “Austin Sucks”. Not to worry- the locals have not turned on their beloved hometown, just trying to deflect the rest of the world that seems to finally have caught on. With Apple moving its headquarters to the capital city, it’s hard to imagine how this town can really maintain its quirk. But knowing the Texans- especially the Austinites- they’ll do their damnedest.
Stay@: San Jose Hotel
Nosh@: La Condessa
Dance@: Barbarella’s
Moviego@: Alamo Drafthouse
Play@: Barton Springs
Eat@: Uchi
Swirl@: Apothecary
Listen@: East Side Showroom
Shop@: Feathers
Chill@: Thunderbird
More on these to follow. Now, let’s get down to brass tacks and talk turkey.
Look out San Fran and Brooklyn, Austin has turned foodie. It’s been in the works for over the last 10 years but Austin now hosts a bevy of establishments to rival the top foodie towns, USA.
Downtown:
Congress: fancy pants prix-fixe dining with both a three and seven course tasting menu offered. Upscale all around.
Counter Cafe: I love this place. A great little diner with a modern vibe, saddle up to the counter and order one of Austin’s best burgers or the very yummy grilled pimiento cheese sandwich. The sweet potato fries are delish too. Walk across the street to take in a real live… wait for it- BOOK STORE. BookPeople is a great local bookstore if you can believe it with recommendations from real live people that work there. I don’t know how much more time they have, so take it in while you can.
Hula Hut: kid-friendly Tiki-tastic Mexican surfer food and right on the water, makes sense to me.
Justine’s Brasserie: I ate at Justine’s about 2 years ago and fell in love with it. An old East Side Austin house housing a record player turning out a crackly Edith Piaf, delicious French bistro food and wine all under a few lovely strands of lights. Ok, it’s pretty hipsterish, very Fort Greene circa 2007, but in a really good way. They could bump up their wine list a bit to the discerning French vin drinker but there’s plenty to pick from especially from the Languedoc which is right on for a place like Justine’s. I dig it.
La Condessa: this place just rocks out the traditional Mexican food with a ridiculous tequila list. Everybody loves this place. Just go.
Lambert’s: fancy downtown delicious bbq, great digs in an old warehouse.
Swift’s Attic: another small plates farm to table phenomenon. Serving up delicious eats and promoting the “Creative, Whimsical, and Delicious” with an interesting wine list to boot, this is the kind of place you’d like to find yourself any night of the week.
North Austin:
Hillside Farmacy: so charming. One stop-shopping- an eatery and grocery in one. Get your farm fresh eggs on the table and a pork chop cut to go. And down a few oysters while you’re at it, they have a great raw bar.
Olive & June: a small plate and sophisticated Italian spot in Rosedale, a very local ‘hood just north of downtown. Yum. (pictured above)
Tacodeli: excellent tacos and that’s saying a lot in Texas. Get there early though, they close at 3pm.
Uchiko: Japanese Farmhouse dining presented to you by one of Austin’s finest and James Beard award winner Tyson Cole. ’nuff said.
South Austin:
Barley Swine: one of last year’s best new chefs, Bryce Gilmore reigns king in this kitchen. A small plates style establishment serving up local fare, this place does it right with a great wine list, craft beers and tasty food. I love that their website bios everyone from the chef and owner to the cooks.
Elizabeth Street Cafe: Noodles, Bahn Mi, Boulangerie- does it get better? An idyllic little place serving up delicious French Vietnamese fare. I will be hitting this place up on my next visit.
Lenoir: a tuned up French restaurant aiming for the local clientele run by chef power couple Todd Duplechan and Jessica Maher. The space has a very global and organic feel- very ABC Kitchen- and anyone that puts a sparkling Gamay on the list is ok in my book.
Maudie’s: a self-proclaimed Tex-Mex heaven. Good stuff- if that’s what you’re looking for, this is where you should be.
Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar: One of the best patios in town to while away your day. Savor a few fresh oysters and some crispy Texas Gulf snapper, then wash it all down with a Simonnet-Fevbre Brut Rosé by the glass. Yumminess ensues.
South Congress Cafe: a good go to spot for brunch where it is served daily. A mainstay, this place takes diner dining to new heights. Right on the main drag in South Austin.
Sway: Recently opened from the La Condessa kids, I just tried this place this past December. Ridiculously delicious authentic yet modern Thai that really has that Texas kick to it. My tastebuds always have to readjust when I land in the Lone Star State and this place is no exception. So tasty, so stylish and so friendly- I even saw a couple of car seats in this stylish joint.
Uchi: the fancier version of Uchiko with contemporary Japanese cuisine.
Food Trucks and Trailers and Airstreams- Oh My!
This town is chock full of them giving Portland a run for its money. Here are a few standouts:
East Side King: Top Chef Texas winner Paul Qui’s food truck empire on Austin’s East Side. This guy is on a roll- from Uchiko to East Side King to the soon to be opened Qui, you know you want to check out his food. Grab yourself a flip happy crepe.
Gordough’s: donuts that are not to be believed- this truck is Paula Deen’s dream. The Mother Clucker is somehow a donut with fried chicken strips and honey butter icing. I don’t even get it. If you go, let me know what you think.
G’raj Mahal Cafe: As Lauren puts it, “absurdly delicious Indian” and she’s tough, so this one’s a must.
Hey Cupcake!: that adorable airstream with the pink cupcake on top (see top image). How can you pass this place up, it’s just so cute.
Cocktails & Libations:
Bar Ilegal: (above) is a quiet respite from the notoriously douchey Rainey Street bars. Step inside and may the douchiness disappear as you savor the all-Mezcal menu. A sipper’s paradise. The cantina style stone building will make you feel like John Wayne saddling up to the bar in a John Ford western. Who doesn’t love that.
Bar Congress: this marble topped bar serves up an excellent cocktail list by some of the city’s top ‘tenders, it’s swanky too.
Easy Tiger: fun, laughs, good times- name that musical. A quirky beer garden with a retro personality and obscure wine and beer picks right along Walnut Creek- pretty.
Lala’s: a complete hole decorated in Christmas lights year round, with a fair amount of Hobbit spotting (aka Elijah digs it).
Midnight Cowboy: an old brothel, the original sign reads “Midnight Cowboy Modeling Oriental Massage” (Modeling… really guys- just who did you think you were fooling?), this place is now a swankadoo speakeasy with killer cocktails. With a checkered past, you know this place still maintains its intrigue when its home page reads, “please refrain from excessive displays of public affection and unwelcome advances towards members of other parties.” It must get crazy up in there. Reservations required via their website.
Peche: with over 10 different Absinthe infused cocktails, this place is a mixologist’s delight. Pony up to the bar where you can indulge in their delicious bar menu alongside one of those lip smacking cocktails.
Vino:
Apothecary Cafe & Wine Bar: swirl it up in this darling north Austin spot where they take great pride in their rotating wine list and they should, it’s a good one. It would be tough to stay away from the Pierre Peters grower champagne, but there are lots of wonderful old and new world bottles.
Aviary Lounge and Home Decor: unique and very Austin, this South Austin spot is actually a home decor store with a cute little wine bar and a killer wine list as an added bonus. I love it- the good things in life. The couple who owns Aviary were just written up in Apartment Therapy for their chic style. See their home tour here.
Red Room Wine Lounge: An Austin sommelier’s home away from home. This is where the pros go- need I say more? Bill Elsey, Texas’ Sommelier of the Year 2011 is behind the bar to guide your tastebuds and impart some of his vast knowledge. No food, no beer, no cocktails. Just vino. I like it.
Vino Vino: one of my favorite wine bloggers, Jeremy Parzen of DoBianchi, regularly leads tasting events at this local oenophile’s fave. That’s kind of reason enough for me to patronize this place, I’m sold. My brother and sister-in-law annually attend their sparkling fest every December and are big fans.
Wink: specializing in old world wines with over 45 wines by the glass, Wink Wine Bar is a cozy little spot behind the noteworthy restaurant. Kick back with a great glass and food from Wink in a more relaxed environment.
Taste:
Antonelli’s Cheese Shop: ok, so I’m still talking about eating but this is another great little cheese shop in North Austin offering a plethora of great cheese classes. If you find yourself with some time and a curiosity for camembert, this is your place.
Whole Foods: stop in to see the 80,000 square foot flagship store downtown. Most locals I know prefer Central Market but it’s still fun to peruse.
Chill:
Jo’s Coffee: this place is sort of what I pictured Austin looking like. Truthfully I think it may host more out of towners as the South Congress locale is adjacent to the Hotel San Jose but it’s still pretty fun to sit at the outdoor counter, read your iPad (I dare you to bust out a paper) and take in your cup of joe.
Thunderbird Coffee: I dig this place too. Relax with a latte or a Lone Star and take in the neighborhood. Two locations.
Romp:
Barton Springs: jump into this natural spring fed pool. If you’re there on a full moon, join the rest of the werewolves as they howl at the moon for a night swim every full moon at 9pm.
Lake Travis: cannonball into the teal waters of Lake Travis. Limestone lines the bottom of the lake so the water is an unbelievably pretty color- just like the Barton Springs pool. Rent a boat, a canoe, fish or just take a dip.
Zilker Park: hike, bike, canoe or ride the tiny train in this pretty park.
Moviego:
The Alamo Drafthouse: the most badass movie theater you’ve ever been to, in the traditional sense- we’re not talking about viewings of La Dolce Vita projected onto an Italian villa here- we’re talking about good old-fashioned moviegoing. You can never go back to your regular AMC again after experiencing the magic that is the Alamo Drafthouse. Stadium seating rocks it out, the food is really good and they feature craft beers, cocktails and a really good wine list. They also just get it. These guys know what they’re doing and who they’re catering to- a nostalgia-obsessed culture. When the new Die Hard movie is released, they know how to kick it old school and throw it back to 1988 with a screening of the original to get everyone psyched, no matter how bad the new one is. They show Roman Holiday alongside new releases, host 80s sing alongs and the best part- you get kicked out for talking. I like these guys. Thankfully they plan on taking over the world. An Alamo draft house is scheduled to open near DC this spring.
Shop:
Allens Boots: this is a must. Aisles and miles of beautiful cowboy boots right on South Congress.
Feathers Boutique: I try to stop in every time I’m in Austin. The buyers are fantastic, you can find a kickass vintage Oscar de la Renta silk top next to some vintage Nacona boots.
Parts & Labour: exclusively Lone-Star state produced goods, but of course.
Roadhouse Relics: if you’re a fan of signage, you’ll love this gallery where neon artist Todd Sanders shows and sells his fluorescent creations.
Shiki: 2nd Street has become the go to place for boutique shopping in Austin. Shiki was one of the first to open its doors there and a great place to pick up a cool clutch or shop up and coming designers.
Uncommon Objects: an expertly curated antique goods store- don’t miss this spot. Curiosities galore.
Listen:
The Continental Club: swing, rockabilly, country- the usual suspects- pack the house in this swingin’ club retrofitted to its 1957 roots.
East Side Showroom: take in the accordion, a steel guitar, the Flying Balalaika Brothers, a tango milonga and a Japanese cocktail at this east side haunt. Surprised by any of this? At this point, it all just seems normal.
Stubb’s Bar-B-Q: Nick Cave, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Fall Out Boy- the big guys play this beer and bbq venue with a Sunday Gospel brunch to boot.
Kick Up Your Heels:
Barbarella’s: if you really want to dance it out nightclub style, this is your place. Mostly college students, but if the urge to dance the night away strikes you, you know where to go.
Donn’s Depot: a piano bar and saloon housed in an old train depot with 2 dance floors and a blackjack table just for the fun. This place is the deal. You’ll find a real mix of Austinites in this place.
Stay in a souped up Airstream: Soak up Austin in all its retro glory by renting the above airstream via airbnb.com for $65/night. Looks pretty cool and would definitely be memorable.
Hotel San Jose: do as the hipsters do and stay at the San Jose. This place really is cool and couldn’t be better located for your stay, right on the main drag in South Austin. The interiors and grounds are inspired. Rooms are decked out with cowhide rugs, mid-century furnishings and prints of rock legends. From $175 for a shared bathroom Euro style.
The Driskill: go old school and stay in this landmarked beauty. Built in 1886, this beauty has been fully restored and is now one of the Historic Hotels of America. Right downtown Austin, this hotel adds a little vintage luxe to your visit. From $259
W Austin: it’s a W. We all know what those are. Modern and fun, this one is right downtown in a great location with a swanky pool. This would be a great stay albeit pricey. From $429.
Four Seasons Austin: blow it out and stay at the Four Seasons. Also smack in the middle of downtown Austin. From $459.
If you are traveling with kids or just prefer a cozy stay with a kitchen, both airbnb.com and homeaway.com offer some fantastic home rentals. Austin is chock full of darling 1920s and 30s bungalows that have been tricked out and filled with smart furnishings perfect for a comfy stay.
Festival Town U.S.A.
Austin is always hosting some sort of festival. Austin City Limits (above) and SXSW are the biggies and there are plenty more. They’ve got a kite festival, a hot sauce festival, a reggae festival, a crawfish festival and Food & Wine has even set up shop with an annual gustatory festival every April. If you’re planning your getaway around one, do so early- accommodations book up fast.
Excursion
And lastly for the vino inclined who didn’t get enough in Austin proper, there’s an excursion to Hill Country where they’re churning out some awfully good wines. The heart of Texas Hill Country’s Wine Country is Fredericksburg, a charming little town. It’s a 70 mile drive from downtown so you could stay the night or just come out for the day.
4.0 Cellars: a newly opened collaboration between three excellent winemakers- Brennan Vineyards, Lost Oak Winery, and McPherson Cellars. In a modern and beautiful Texas limestone space, you can taste up to 5 pours from each label. Located in Fredericksburg, they also host live music on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Newly opened and named as one of Food & Wine’s Best New Places to Drink in 2012.
That should do it. Please leave your comments with your top Austin picks- I’d love to hear from you.
Yippee-Kay-Yay and Cin Cin!
{Images: Hello Cupcake: travelmuse.com, Barbarella: Xgray/flickr Alamo Drafthouse: Raquel Hill Design/flickr, Lake Travis: Kevin Vandivier, Uchi: ThatFoodieGirl.com, East Side Showroom: thehealthyirishman/flickriver, The Continental Club: Brett Harned/flickr}
Stir ingredients together slowly and simmer throughout the day.
Serves: 1-however many you may be sharing your snowy day with.
My kids are still pretty little so when a snowy day arrives, I don’t have to scramble for fun and creative indoor crafts. We’re good just singing, playing and reading. So for now, I enjoy a good book during their naps, a nice smelling clean scent in the air, warm and comfy clothes, comfort food and vino once the bebes have been put to bed and old school game with the hubby. This makes for a pretty spectacular day. Let’s break it down.
1. Candles: as long as they smell delicious and burn clean, we’re good. If you read my blog, you know I’m a huge fan of the Tisane candles. This one smells of “a stone cottage in the Welsh countryside; rain drops and moss. Walk down country lanes in a landscape where magic fills the air.” Ok, works for me. These little candles really are magic.
4. The best hot chocolate on earth. Ok, I didn’t have this today because I’m not in Paris. But soon Angelina Paris’ world famous hot chocolate will be available online. Yippee Kay Yay!
5. What can I say- I love Terry Gross. I’ve loved her for years and she never disappoints. I usually just catch Fresh Air in the car but snowy days are a great excuse to search the archives. She’s on a Supreme Court roll this week. Her interview with Sandra Day O’Connor is quite something- now that’s a lady that doesn’t give anything away- tough crowd. An uncomfortably fascinating listen.
6. Books! Yay for books- the old fashioned kind. I dug out my hardcover copy of Reflections Of A Wine Merchant. My husband gave this to me just after we were married and it is what got me into the wine business. A romantic and nostalgic look at wine merchant and importer Neal Rosenthal’s life, he tells tales of tasting with Italian winemakers in cellars that their great grandfathers tasted in, spitting vino on the proper angle into the corner of said cellars, hiking up sheep filled hillsides to meet with vintners and the hits just keep on coming. Such a fun read if you’re into that stuff. And we broke out Ezra Jack Keats’ The Snowy Day. Can I just say Wow! The story is so endearing and illustrations- Fabulous. My favorite is that of the bathroom floor- see above. I think the kiddos liked it too.
7. Backgammon- because who doesn’t like a good old fashioned game of backgammon. In our next house, I am designating a corner for a game table. I think it’s important to devote time and space to game playing in one’s life. Games are the best- an afternoon playing games is one you will remember. And what’s life about other than making memories, right? Vintage seafoam green backgammon set on etsy.
8. And last but not least- comfort food. This kind of seals the deal on a cold wintery day. You just sort of have to indulge- it’s the rules, isn’t it? My comfort food of choice- an authentic margherita pizza and a Sagrantino wine. Paolo Bea is my first choice. If I could afford it, I’d go for the straight up sagrantino- 100% sagrantino grape but alas, it’s not a $60 bottle night. I’m going for the San Valentino blend instead. Anything from Bea is pretty killer and at half the price, this will do.
What are your ingredients for the perfect snow day?
My mind is a bit of a jumble today as I scrambled to make my 8am train from NY back to DC. Made it. Did get on the wrong train, but it’s all good- headed to the same place. Whew. This is what 9 month old twins do to a 37 year old brain and I even had the night off.
A few random thoughts for the day:
1. Tick Tock, Ya Don’t Stop
You gotta love NYC Cabbies. I left my friend’s West Village abode at 7:43, hailed a taxi and was inside Penn Station at 7:49. Yes. In DC, the cabbies operate on an entirely different clock. You actually have to ask them to make it snappy. NYC cabbies- for all their faults- know what time it is.
2. Motown Mary
While zipping through Penn Station trying to grab a last minute latte and NY bagel, I spotted my pal Ariana Debose all dressed up as a young Mary Wilson, smiling down at me. Well, lookie-loo I thought, there she is, Little Miss Broadway. At 22, she’s on her 2nd Broadway show with a giant poster splattered all over NYC to boot. Hooray and go girl. More from Miss Ari later this month as she gives us a sneak peak into her Motown world working with legend Berry Gordy and costume fittings with Project Runway favorite and Motown designer, Emilio Sosa.
4. The Crib Dibbler
Need I say more? We gave this to my friend Katy last night at her baby shower as a gag gift. She stared at it for about 2 seconds before saying (1/2 laughing 1/2 horrified), “Is this for real?” Pretty funny. There’s a whole slew of prank boxed gifts here. I love a good prank.
I’m probably the last person on the planet that’s watching this series to STILL be watching. I couldn’t subscribe to the binge viewing that is sweeping the nation. Not because I don’t want to, but because I’m literally too tired to. My twin-induced octogenarian sleep habits prohibit me from staying lucid past 9:30. Sad, right? Well, what can I say- the bebes are still not sleeping all the way through the night. Well, one of them is, but alas… In any case, I am on the early bird special so after I get the bebes to bed, I’m good for an episode of Jeopardy and 1 episode of House of Cards. I know, so dorky right!
I have to say, I am really digging it. It took me a few episodes in to really get hooked. I didn’t really know who I was rooting for as the characters all seemed really cold and unlikeable but the onion has started to peel its layers and I am Team Claire all the way. Robin Wright’s portrayal is nuanced, calculated and vulnerable all at once. I’m kind of in love with her. The best lines of the series though have to be the words that come out of Janine Skorsky’s mouth. My favorite line of the series to date “Hey, Twitter Twat- WTF!” Now, that’s good writing.
Any random thoughts flooding your brain today? Do tell…
I had to laugh as I trekked out to Williamsburg to co-host a baby shower last night. The Linda Evans Dynasty Fur Phenomenon is in full swing on the literal shoulders of the young twenty somethings of Hipsterville, USA. It’s been a while since I’ve ridden the L Train- it’s always good for some great, if not a bit obnoxious, people watching. On my way out to the ‘burg, I noticed that not one, not two, but five young things were sporting Dynasty-worthy broad shouldered vintage fur coats. One or two I would expect, but FIVE on one subway car. I know Williamsburg is a caricature of itself, but this was so ridiculous, it was kind of awesome.
After hopping off the train, as I booked it down Bedford to South 2nd on my way to the fab ISA, I started fur spotting. I spotted 4 little Lindas clip clopping their way up the avenue- Bedford Avenue that is. Nothing earth shattering about this observation- just so saturated, I had to make note of it. Noted.
Would you hop on the figurative L train and join these little Lindas in their retro camp craze? I wonder how many of these cute young things have actually seen an episode of Dynasty? I’m no fur wearer myself, so I’ll stick to my military wool coat for now (plus, based on last night’s numbers, I do believe this trend is a bit played out) but I do enjoy Miss Collins and Miss Evans circa 1985. I remember my mom telling the babysitter on Friday nights back in the day, that I would want to watch Dallas and Dynasty and then I could go to bed. Thanks mom, you really are the coolest.
A few favorite looks from Christian Siriano’s fall collection. I’m in luck- I’m attending a Siriano fashion show this weekend. Ok, so it’s in Baltimore and not New York, but hey, I’ll take it.
The bebes turn 9 months tomorrow- whoa- and my father in law is paying us a visit. I’m going to make this and drink this (a full report with tasting note to follow), we’ll hang with the bebes and head out to the Baltimore School of the Arts gala. My hubby has choreographed a piece for the school that debuts tomorrow night with the fashion show to follow. An alumni of the school, Siriano will be chairing the gala and bringing his looks from the NYC runway to Bmore. Woohoo! As a loyal Project Runway fan, I love me some Siriano. Sunday, I hop a train to NY to co-host a baby shower for my dear friend, Katy Robbins- Volatizing’s resident style maven extraordinaire. Things are usually pretty low key around here but this weekend looks to be kind of stellar. How about you- what are you up to this weekend?
There were lots of purty dresses on the red carpet Sunday night but I quite liked all of the metal that was happening. Jennifer Lawrence swapped her Dior couture for a metallic Calvin Klein number and the rest of the ladies above donned their metal for the awards. I absolutely loved the bold lines of Naomi Watts’ Armani Privé gown- so strong and modern. Wearing this gown must have made Ms. Watts feel like a total badass- a feeling you’d like to be armed with with a billion viewers staring on. Stacy Keibler looked like a statue herself with a nod to old Hollywood in Naeem Khan. She sported the statue look last year too but with in gold with Veronica Lake hair. Clearly it’s a good look for her. And let’s face it, it’s hard to look anything but fantastic next to George. Halle stunned in gorgeous Versace, again such an amazing cut- love the strong shoulder and low neckline. And the First Lady went with Naeem Khan as well. He had a good night.
We’re sure to see lots of knockoffs sooner than later but in the meantime, here are a few fun and very affordable metals for the masses.
Ok, I’ll bite. Let’s face it, most celebrity wine is pretty much schlock and more importantly, a bad idea. Everyone and their dog has jumped onboard the vanity wine train from the likes of Ramona Singer of the Real Housewives franchise to Jason Priestley and Mike Ditka. Hell, even Nancy Pelosi owns a couple of vineyards. But some of the stuff is actually quite good. I’m a fan of Dave Matthews’ Blenheim Vineyards out of Charlottesville, VA., some of Coppola’s stuff and I’ll always have a soft spot for Fess Parker’s wines as it was one of the first wineries I visited as a wee wine drinker. I’m kind of curious about Sam Neill’s Central Otago wines as well, although probably mostly because I love me some Jurassic Park and Dead Calm. Sam Neill is a cool dude- he’s got to make cool wine.
But let’s get back to the bottle at hand. We’re talking about Brangelina here and let’s face it, these guys are not only Hollywood gold, but philanthropic globetrotting design Gods to us mere mortals. Too much? Maybe but Troy, Alexander and smooching your sibling at the Oscars aside, these guys make some pretty good choices. Case in point, they are pairing up with the esteemed Perrin family of Chateauneuf-du-Pape’s Chateau Beaucastel. Kind of hard to beat that pairing.
Marc Perrin met with the couple in June of 2012 and after tasting through the Perrin family wines, tasted through a number of Provence rosés made by their neighbors to decide on style. The focus will be on showing terroir through organic farming. Sounds pretty good to me. I’m a sucker for a good Provençale rosé and if it’s a Jolie-Pitt/Perrin pairing- well, bring it on. I’m curious to taste this little beauty.
Pitt and Jolie will be making their new rosé- with whites and reds in the works- from grapes grown on their organic estate in Corres, France. You may have seen Chateau Miraval’s Pink Floyd rosé on the market in the past. Pink Floyd recorded The Wall at the estate in the 70s. Not necessarily a redux, as there are new winemakers involved. The grapes are the same but the hands- very different.
Bring it on Pitt-Jolie. They can totally pull off that French aloof thing. Just look at the above photo. What do you think? Would you drink their wine?
I always wanted a winter wedding. I actually got married during a downpour in the middle of August- it. was. awesome.- and I wouldn’t change a thing, but there’s something about a winter white wedding that is so fresh and fabulous.
I love this look for a winter wedding. It’s very Carrie Bradshaw Goes to the Rockies. If I were getting married in the winter, I might have to wear this.
My friend Molly eloped this weekend to Aspen with her soon to be hubby and twin boys. It’s going to be a beautiful private and small ceremony in an historic church in Aspen followed by S’Mores and Champagne at the chic and landmarked Hotel Jerome. I picked out the Bollinger NV Special Cuvée for the newlyweds. Tempted by the Chartogne-Taillet, I opted for the more traditional Bollinger as her hubby is kind of old school. Hopefully-if she doesn’t read this blog today- it will be a surprise from our gang of girlfriends. Later they will hold court in the Rock Star booth for sushi at Kenichi. They are going to have a blast.
There is a tight group of us from college that couldn’t bear to miss her wedding (even though we weren’t technically invited as it is an elopement after all), so we all sent our crafty friend Natalia a few photos. She photoshopped them together and made them into a poster so that we can hang out in one of the pews in the church and be present for her wedding. Clearly, we just couldn’t stand not to be there.
Missing a wedding is always such a bummer. I love the idea that if you can’t make it to a friend’s wedding, you can do something creative in your absence like sending a video or a life-sized cutout to take your physical place. My friend Amy sent along a life-sized cutout for my wedding when she and her hubby couldn’t make it. She was 8 months pregnant and living in Hong Kong so she had a good excuse. Still, one of my favorite memories from my wedding is those two hanging out at our reception. A fun idea and a great memory maker.
Almost Real Stand Ups‘ etsy shop will do a 6 foot cut out for $90. Not bad considering you won’t be paying plane fare, accommodations, etc.
Below is Molly’s big surprise at finding us waiting for her in her condo. Very Real Housewives of Ann Arbor. We all went to school together at the University of Michigan so for those of you fellow Wolverines familiar with Chipatis at Pizza Bob’s and Pizza House (I am Team Pizza Bob’s by the way, except for the breadsticks at Pizza House of course- oh college!), my friend Steph came up with a great tagline for our sassy intro: “I know a good Chipati when I see it and I’m not afraid to eat it!”.
The note that accompanied us:
My friend Amy, her hubby and soon to-be-born little one (or rather, their cutout) at my wedding:
Former showgirl, forever travel junkie, sometime sommelier, and mom to twin bebes. This little blog is a mixed bag of tasting notes, travels, tales of motherhood, and current musings. Thank you for stopping by. Cin Cin! (photo by Amy Dickerson for Anthology Magazine)
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