In A Fabulous World

What We're Sipping: Sparkling Wine

2012-05-24T10:00:00.000-04:00

2010 Saint-Hilaire Brut Sparkling Wine

For the love of sparkling wine! As I further my studies in wine, I desire to make sparkling wine my specialty because I highly enjoy this style of wine. I was attracted to Saint-Hilaire due to the method used to produce this sparkling wine, Blanquette de Limoux.

Blanquette de Limoux also known as ancestral method is a technique that bottles incomplete fermented wine (the wine is sweet) without adding yeast and sugar traditionally used to ignite a second fermentation. The bottle is sealed and fermentation continues until the sugar is gone. Now that we know how it's made, let's taste! Caramel green apple and hints of lemon allows this crisp dry bubbly to pair well with lobster linguine and friends that can appreciate a fun fact!

Suggested to those that enjoy: dry crisp sparkling wine

Saint-Hilaire Sparkling Wine: $13.99

What We're Sipping: Cabernet Franc

2012-05-21T10:26:00.000-04:00

2010 Three Creek Vineyard Cabernet Franc

My experience with Cabernet Franc has mainly been as a blend. While attending a recent trade tasting, I was fortunate to enjoy various Cabernet Francs and became intrigued by the grape. Recently in a wine shop in Venice Beach, I spotted this Cabernet Franc from Santa Barbara and had to purchase it.
Ripe dark cherries, blueberries, clove, with good structure and an elegant finish creates a pleasurable drinking experience. Best enjoyed with your favorite person.

Suggested to those that enjoy: Cabernet Sauvignon

2010 Three Creek Vineyard Cabernet Franc: $24.99

What We're Sipping: Food and Wine Edition

2012-05-15T11:52:00.000-04:00

2009 Wattle Creek The Triple Play

I was first introduced to Wattle Creek during a taping of Vino Seduction and was very impressed. While I enjoyed The Triple Play alone, I knew that it would pair well with food. A taste profile of blackberries, plum, slight earthiness with a delightful finish paired with Maple-Glazed Pork Chops with Toasted Pecans.

Maple-Glazed Pork Chop with Toasted Pecans and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Suggested to those that enjoy: fruit forward Shiraz/Syrah

2009 Wattle Creek The Triple Play: $25.00

What We're Attending: Kendall-Jackson Bordeaux Blending Luncheon

2012-05-08T09:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I had the privilege to attend Kendall-Jackson Bordeaux blending luncheon led by their wine maker Matthew Smith. This fascinating event was held at McKendrick's Steakhouse and provided attendees a glimpse of how the blending process works in wine making. Our blending selections were three Cabernet Sauvignon (two from Alexander Valley one from Knights Valley), Merlot (Bennett Valley), and Petite Verdot (Knights Valley).

All wine selections were from the Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve collection. Using the pipette, I measured the desired amount of wine I wanted to blend to create my signature wine. From my initial attempts, wine making is not in my foreseeable future however, my latter blend of the three Cabs and Merlot was eponymous worthy.

After the blending fun, we dined while enjoying 2008 Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.

Winemaker Matthew Smith

Sarah Beth Kokoszka of Majestic Fine Wines

What We're Sipping: Garnacha

2012-04-27T10:47:00.000-04:00

Stylo Garnacha Old Vine 2007

Garnacha is a popular varietal from Spain but also grown in abundance in the south of France where it is known as Grenache. Labeled as an "old vine" implies that the Garnacha's vine were approximately 30 years or older. Older vines yield less grapes but of exceptional quality.

A beautiful carmine hue with intense dark fruit on the nose. While enjoying, you will discover black cherries, black pepper, earthiness, with a long finish. Stylo pairs well with pork.

Suggested to those that enjoy: Grenache

Bottle signed by winemaker Antonio Hidalgo

Stylo Garnacha Old Vine 2007: $14.99

What We're Sipping: Chateau Nardou Bois Meney

2012-04-16T00:06:00.000-04:00

2010 Chateau Nardou Bois Meny

It is impossible to be a wine lover and not enjoy French wines. Whether your choice is white over red, Rhone Valley over Champagne, when the conversation leads to Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux is king.
From the right bank of Bordeaux in the disjointed appellation of Cotes de Bordeaux, Chateau Nardou is a blend of Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. A taste profile of dark cherries, blackberries, plum, velvet tannins, and an earthy finish pairs well with lamb shanks with rosemary. For the value, Chateau Nardou is a very good drinking experience.

Suggested to those that enjoy: subtle red wines

Chateau Nardou: $14.99

What We're Sipping: Armand de Brignac Brut Gold

2012-04-12T07:45:00.000-04:00

Armand de Brignac Brut Gold

What's a celebration without the best bubbles? To commemorate In A Fabulous World's 2nd anniversary, it was only fitting to select a luxurious Champagne.
Colloquially known as "Ace of Spade" this Champagne has donned the pages of O Magazine to an appearance in everyone's favorite rapper Jay-Z music video. Produced by the highly esteemed Cattier family, Armand de Brignac is the choice of those with luxurious taste. Rich apple, melon, and a crisp toasty finish pairs well with wild caught shrimp. Enjoy Armand de Brignac Brut Gold upon the achievement of a milestone amongst gracious friends.

Readers, thank you for your continuous support. I look forward to the celebration again next year.

Suggested to those that enjoy: crisp medium-bodied Champagne

Armand de Brignac Champagne: $300

Allow Me to Reintroduce Myself...

2012-04-05T11:18:00.000-04:00

Hi, I'm Maxine. A 20-something brown girl currently living in Atlanta. Here is a glimpse of me:
-I really enjoy painting my nails so I have an affinity for nail polish (I wear fun colors but classic red is so ladylike). It is very relaxing allowing me time to think resulting in a fabulous outcome!
-I love beautiful perfume.
-Being fly is imperative.
-I must always have MAC Clear Lipglass.
-I highly regard loyalty. I wouldn't be shocked if I was a mob boss in my past life.
-I am a news junkie.
-I love music. It's one the best gifts life gave.
-I love food and will try anything. I'm working on becoming a really good cook. I currently define myself as a "recipe cook."

I can include more but what I most enjoy is wine. Beyond just bringing a bottle with a cool label for girls night, it's my profession. I'm currently studying for the Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) exam and desire to obtain other certifications.

I launched In A Fabulous World to share with readers my various interests as we defined our taste for sophistication together. If you are an early reader, you see that my palate has led us to the vinifera grapevine. Dedicating the blog to wine has sharpen my skills, allowed me to meet great people, and afforded me many opportunities. I'm very grateful.

In A Fabulous World is the millennial woman's wine lifestyle blog. It's for the educated, career ambitious, romantic, fashionably astute young lady with an interest in fine wine favoring a BFF approach to learning. She does not desire to be an expert, but the ability to speak with confidence about wine whether ordering for the table at a business dinner or selecting a favorite for date night.
Thank you for selecting me as your guide as we drink more and learn more each week about this fascinating world of wine.

May your stemware be half full of the best,

Maxine

What We're Sipping: Sparkling Wine

2012-03-22T12:26:00.000-04:00

J Cuvee 20

It's a fact, I truly enjoy a great bottle of bubbly. I am also a fan of Russian River Valley wines, so I was excited to try J Cuvee 20 produced in Russian River Valley. It's striking subtle packaging of a bold letter "J" peaks one's curiosity as to what this sparkling wine entails to have such limited design. However, reading the words cuvee confirmed its quality.

On the nose a hint of vanilla with a crisp refreshing taste of pear and lemon. Best paired with a fruity desert while toasting to life.

Suggested to those that enjoy: sparkling wine

J Cuvee Brut: $19.99

-Have a wine you would like to see featured? Contact us at inafabworldblog@gmail.com. Can't wait to hear from you!
*At In A Fabulous World we blog with integrity. Occasionally we receive wine for review but we only provide reviews for selections we enjoy and would share with others.

Your Lexicon of Wine: Sulfite

2012-03-21T11:14:00.000-04:00

Sulfite-a category of sulfur-containing chemical compounds.

"US wine labeling laws requires bottles to state 'contains sulfites' if wine has 10ppm of sulfur."

What We're Sipping: Zinfandel

2012-03-20T00:12:00.000-04:00

2009 Seghesio Sonoma County Zinfandel

I will admit, Zinfandel is not my first choice. If you have been reading In A Fabulous World for a while, you know that I've only dedicated one post to the varietal. However, Seghesio is worth discussing. Blackberry on the nose and palate along with cherries followed by hints of cinnamon, molasses, and smoked wood creates a complex enjoyable drinking experience. Pair this Zin with my favorite soup Taco Soup. *Cheers*

Suggested to those that enjoy: Primitivo

2009 Seghesio Sonoma County Zinfandel: $25.00

-Have a wine you would like to see featured? Contact us at inafabworldblog@gmail.com. Can't wait to hear from you!

It's What FAB Girls Do...

2012-01-10T10:03:00.000-05:00

Santa Barbara

Byron

Lisa, our hostess at Byron

2009 Monument Pinot Noir

Cambria Estate Winery

Cambria Late Harvest Viognier

breakfast at Fess Parker Doubletree

It's What FAB Girls Do...

2011-12-31T16:49:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

What We're Sipping: Favorites Under $15

2011-12-20T00:03:00.000-05:00

As you pick up last minute holiday gifts and finalize your Christmas menu, consider this awesome wines for under $15!

LaMarca Prosecco $11.99

2007 Blackburn Cabernet Sauvignon $12

2010 Joel Gott Sauvignon Blanc 13.99

Cartlidge & Browne Chardonnay $13.99

De Chanceny Brut $13.99

2008 Goulart Classico C Malbec $11.99

Your Lexicon of Wine: TCA

2011-12-16T09:08:00.000-05:00

2, 4, 6-Tricloroanisole (TCA)-musty, moldy, rank order found in wine. Also known as corked.

The host was disappointed when he learned that his favorite bottle of wine was tarnished by TCA.

What We're Sipping: Sparkling Wine

2011-12-14T00:09:00.001-05:00

Mumm Napa Brut Rose

A holiday celebration isn't complete without bubbly and Mumm Napa Brut Rose is a good selection. A beautiful salmon color in the glass, your palate will enjoy a refreshing taste of strawberries and dark berries. Enjoy this rose as an apertif at your holiday party or with brunch on a relaxing Sunday.

Suggested to those that enjoy: sparkling wine

Mumm Napa Brut Rose: $17.99

It's What FAB Girls Do...

2011-12-12T00:04:00.000-05:00

What We're Sipping: Conundrum

2011-12-09T00:35:00.000-05:00

2009 Conundrum

For wine enthusiasts that enjoy blends, Conundrum is one that is most celebrated. Refreshing apricot, honeysuckle, apple, and peach pairs well with salmon salad while catching up with your bestie. Besides an enjoyable drinking experience, the allure of Conundrum is it's grape selection. Although the percentage isn't disclosed, Conundrum consist of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillion, Chardonnay, Muscat Canelli, and Viognier. Whatever the percentage or grapes, Conundrum is worthy of a second glass!

Suggested for those that enjoy: Pinot Gris and dry Riesling

2009 Conundrum: $19.99

It's What FAB Girls Do...

2011-12-07T08:59:00.001-05:00

Study mode, thanks Martin.

Where Are We: Frank Ski's 8th Annual Celebrity Wine Tasting & Live Auction

2011-12-05T00:02:00.001-05:00

Last night we attended Frank Ski's 8th Annual Wine Tasting & Live Auction at Frank Ski's Restaurant & Lounge. This fundraising effort benefits the Frank Ski's Kids Foundation which expose kids to opportunities in science, technology, athletics, and the arts. Food was provided by Carrabba's and desert by CamiCakes. Featured wines such as Northstar Merlot, Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Beringer Knight Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, The Prisoner, Stag's Leap Chardonnay, Twomey Merlot, and Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon & Chardonnay were served for guest enjoyment. Upon departure, attendees were given Frank Ski's Restaurant & Lounge signature bottle of California Sweet Red Wine. This was a fabulous evening of wine, food, and conversation contributing to the betterment of Atlanta's youth. We look forward to being in attendance next year.

Frank Ski's Restaurant & Lounge signature sweet red wine

Maxine, Frank Ski, Danielle, and Kenny Burns

Ladies of Vino Seduction

Danielle, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Maxine

What We're Sipping: Food and Wine Edition

2011-12-02T01:15:00.000-05:00

2009 Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir

When one thinks of California regarding wine, our first thoughts are usually towards Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. However, over the past years the conversation is now including Pinot Noir. From the producers of Meiomi Pinot Noir, we experience another excellent Pinot Noir, 2009 Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir. Earthy on the nose followed by flavors of cherries, spice, and cedar creates a complementary pairing to Sugar-and Spice Skillet-Roasted Duck Breast. This impressive food and wine pairing is best enjoyed with friends and family while celebrating the accomplishments for 2011.

Suggested to those that enjoy: elegant Pinot Noir

Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir: $45.00

What We're Sipping: Shiraz

2011-12-01T00:02:00.001-05:00

2009 Mollydooker "The Boxer" Shiraz

In this awesome year of wine, one name has been the topic of many wine conversations, Mollydooker. From the unfortunate $1 million forklift drop to the Mollydooker Shake, this wine is worthy of it's praise. A taste profile of blackberries, brown sugar, currant, and spice with a long finish creates a joyous occasion for your palate. Include this bottle in your holiday gift giving.

Suggested to those that enjoy: Syrah and Zinfandel

Mollydooker "The Boxer" Shiraz: $25.00

What We're Sipping: Orvieto

2011-11-29T09:03:00.000-05:00

2010 Ruffino Orvieto Classico

I am aware of Italian wines via book knowledge but do not always consume as I should. I'm glad I broke the ice. Hailing from the commune of Orvieto in Umbria, Italy, this fragrant white is a blend of Trebbiano and Grechetto with tasting notes of melon, citrus, and honeysuckle with a crisp finish. Pair this wine with a festive salad containing chicken, walnuts, and strawberries lightly topped with your favorite vinaigrette.

Suggested to those that enjoy: Pinot Grigio

2010 Ruffino Orvieto Classico: $8.99

It's What FAB Girls Do...

2011-11-28T01:19:00.000-05:00

What We're Sipping: Food and Wine Edition

2011-11-22T00:13:00.001-05:00

NV De Chanceny Cremant de Loire & Oyster Rockefeller

As the holiday season rapidly approach, the countdown to planning a fabulous party is on. Considerate serving your guest De Chanceny Cremant de Loire paired with Oyster Rockefeller. Produced in Loire Valley, a blend of majority Chenin Blanc with Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc creates a taste profile of crisp melon, dried flowers and great acidity that complements Oyster Rockefeller. Present this delectable pairing at your upcoming holiday party.

De Chanceny Brut and Oyster Rockefeller

Suggested to those that enjoy: Cava

De Chanceny Cremant de Loire: $13.99