Tag: Wine Tasting
New Finds in Walla Walla
For the last several years, the first weekend in November has found my husband and me (and, often, several of our friends from around the Northwest) in Walla Walla, Washington, for the region's Fall Release Weekend. It's a wonderful time to visit, as the frenzy of harvest and crush are over, and the wineries are eager to share their newest releases . . . all of this against the backdrop of colorful fall foliage, the gold stubble of wheat fields and early dustings of snow creeping down the surrounding Blue Mountains.
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Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
A Return to Almost-Normal Wine Tasting
My husband and I recently made our annual spring trek to the standout wine region of Walla Walla, Washington. In the past few years we've ventured there and found the wineries made substantial adjustments to their tasting rooms and events to keep their patrons safe in the COVID era. During this visit we found several of our old favorites had returned to pre-pandemic celebrations while also keeping some of the best innovations and changes that came out of the past two years. It seems they've learned that, like my husband and me, many of their patrons prefer to sit down at a table for a relaxed tasting rather than elbow their way up to a crowded bar for a quick pour while struggling to hear what the host had to say about the wine.
Dancin Tastin’
Recently, my husband and I had to cancel this year's annual fall trek to Walla Walla, Washington, for the region's Fall Release tasting weekend, but we did manage to get in some local tasting at one of our favorite wineries. I enjoy visiting wineries in the late fall, when the crowds of summertime visitors have abated, the bustle of harvest and crush is past, and the vineyards have taken on the muted colors of the season.
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Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Celebrations
Last weekend my husband and I traveled to Portland for two celebrations, one with friends and the other with family. On Friday evening we gathered with several friends with whom we have shared a love of wine, good food and each other for 40 years. Over the course of the decades some of us have moved out of town and even out of state, but we always found a way to get together at least a couple of times a year, even then. COVID put an end to those events for nearly two years, so it was with an extra measure of joy and gratitude that we came together this week.