Celebrating Yule (Jul, Jule, Winter Solstice)

I can be honest with all of you, my dear readers, right? I mean food blogging is all about sharing recipes, cultures and traditions, right? Well I would like to share with you some of my food traditions for this time of year, which are a bit personal. I celebrate Yule. Yule is the ancient [...]

Source: http://www.leftoverqueen.com/2010/12/21/celebrating-yule-jul-jule-winter-solstice

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2007 Sauternes & Barsac

Here you find the ratings of the 2007 Sauternes and Barsac wines from Robert Parker, Decanter and Wine Spectator:



Sauternes & Barsac
Decanter
Wine Advocate
WineSpectator
Price


Chateau d’Yquem
***** 19
96 - 98
97 - 100



Chateau Guiraud
**** 17,5
92 - 94
91 - 94



Chateau La Tour Blanche
**** 18
86 - 88
90 - 93



Chateau Lafaurie-Peyraguey
**** 18
91 - 93
91 - 94



Chateau de Rayne-Vigneau
***** 19
91 - 93
92 - 95



Chateau [...]

Source: http://www.wine4freaks.com/41/2007-sauternes-barsac/

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Plywood Report : sugarFish SM, Beachwood BBQ, Taberna BH

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/28/sugarfish_sm_beachwood_bbq_taberna_bh.php

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Wine Word of the Week: �levage

This week?s Wine Word of the Week is �levage. Official definition from Jancis Robinson?s The Oxford Companion to Wine: �levage is a French word that describes an important aspect of winemaking but has no direct equivalent in English. �levage means literally ?rearing?, ?breeding?, or ?raising? and is commonly applied to livestock, or humans as in [...]

Wine Word of the Week: �levage was originally posted on Wine Peeps. Wine Peeps - Your link to great QPR wines from Washington State and beyond.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/WinePeeps/~3/kTYTUsvNx2k/

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Eater Tracking: Following yesterday's news that downtown's Royal...

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/21/eater_tracking.php

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Benefits [Advantages] of Having a Mediterranean Diet

The Greek diet or Mediterranean diet is recognized worldwide. So, you’ve probably heard about its health benefits dozens of times already. But how can people keep their slim figures when regularly having olive oil, Greek yoghurt, cheese, bread and pasta?

It appears that there is something unique about the key ingredients used. Western culture promotes fast-paced or hi-tech living, and this has contributed to people’s negligence about their diets. It has become a regular practice for people to eat processed, artificial and pre-packed foods – which aren’t the healthiest food choices. These foods have less of the nutrients we need, but more calories. Conversely, the Mediterranean diet observed in Greece is the opposite.

Although the obesity rate in Greece is said to be climbing, and so is the number of fast food spots, the foundation of Greek cuisine conveys a healthy story.

More than 60 percent of Greek food is obtained from plants, like, legumes and fresh fruits and vegetables. On the other hand, only 7 percent are from animal sources. In Greece, having home-cooked meals and eating fresh fare is very important. You can find just about anything here, but nothing beats mom’s grilled lamb with fresh vegetables and rice.

Foods included in the Greek diet are all very healthful as they contain vitamins and antioxidants that are vital in promoting wellbeing and longevity. Olives and many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants which can fight free radicals that damage cells and cause cancer.

So next time you head out grocery shopping, consider going Greek. Just get some fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes and your favorite proteins. You can cook these with fresh herbs and olive oil. Add some zing to your dish with a dash of lemon and you’ll be feeling refreshed and healthier right away.


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What It’s Like to Be Brought Up in a Greek Home

Life has been modernized in Greece, just like it has in the rest of the world. For each Greek family, however, there are still many things enveloped in ancient traditions that are respected and valued.

In many cities, like Athens for instance, it is no longer a common sight to see young children playing outside as their mothers stand around and talk to each other. There are now issues on safety, although several parents and children still gather in local parks.

There is a very special Greek tradition – and that is the evening stroll. Families or mothers and daughters, friends etc. walk together around the squares and streets, catching up on each other’s lives and local gossip.  At this time, one can also find groups of young men who hope to catch the eyes of young ladies. It’s a fun time and everyone gets to enjoy a breath of fresh air. Belonging to a Greek family may seem like a challenge to most, usually the non-Greeks. But for Greeks, it is very common to belong to an extended family where you grow up knowing your uncles, aunts, cousins, grandparents and other members of the extended family. It is common for relatives to be involved in each other’s lives.

In Greece the women are the family managers, so to speak. The task of making sure the household is running smoothly is something that is proudly taken on by women. They are also the ones responsible for taking care of children. Greek women are also great homemakers, and part of this is preparing great food for the family. When you get an opportunity to sample some Greek home cooking, try Niko’s Taverna. Here, you’ll experience meals made with a mother’s touch. Greek children in contemporary society would benefit from a healthier diet if not for the upsurge of fast food chains everywhere.

The process of developing into adults is the same for all children. All children go through the same developmental milestones. They also have to go to school, to church and they also have to be exposed to social events with their friends and family. The cycle of life continues with getting a college diploma. Some may also choose to travel or to get a good and secure job. There are also others who pursue marriage in hopes of building a good family.

One thing that sets the Greek apart from others is the respect and importance that they give to family. The family is the primary institution where we first learn about patriotism, traditions and culture. It is also where we are first taught about religion and social manners. All of these play significant parts in children’s lives, and more so in their adult lives. People these days are enamored by modern devices, such as televisions and computers. Yet, there are those who pray and hope that what is great about Greek traditions will hold and will remain as they are.


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Spinalonga Island to Open Again Soon

If you’ve had the chance to read Victoria Hislop’s The Island, I’m sure it’ll encourage you to check out the isle that was used as the main setting of the story.

The island of Spinalonga is situated on the northeastern side of Crete, which is one of the more renowned isles in Greece. From 1903 to 1957, the island was a leper colony. Leprosy was a dreaded disease and those who were sick with it were exiled there until doctors finally discovered that leprosy was a curable bacterial illness.

The island fortress was soon deserted and became closed to visitors. Spinalonga Island became famous again after it was used as the main setting for Hislop’s book and the series that followed it. Brilliant artists like, Stelios Mainas, Katerina Lechou and Aimilios Cheilakis were all in the show. The TV program offered a fairly accurate historical account. So, when the show was aired, a lot of people were able to better understand the island’s past and how it was used as a leper colony. Hislop’s novel was a huge bestseller, selling more than 850,000 copies in the United Kingdom alone, and over seventeen countries bought the rights for the book. Both the book and its spinoff became immensely popular to people around the globe because of its moving and riveting story.

Moved by the island’s intriguing past, a lot of people are now attempting to revive the island and proposals have been submitted to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for their consideration. Plans are now being analyzed and hopefully finalized soon. Previously closed due to lack of staff, the island is open on weekends and hopes to enjoy an economic surge from visitors.

Tourism initiatives such as these can only help Greece’s weakened economy and job market. It’s unlikely that corporate schemes would fail. But if they do, another alternative to keep out of debt is to capitalize on the remarkable and impressive stories about Greece.


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Experience the Ultimate Honeymoon Trip in Greece

Let Cupid and Aphrodite inspire your honeymoon ideas, and spend some time enjoying the sights, tastes and true romance of Greece.

Explore All Themes

Even if honeymooners have different likes, it’s okay – because in Greece, we have it all. One can opt to go on outings to historic spots or culinary establishments. Other couples who just want to relax and enjoy the sun, sand and sea can also do that on great beach sides. Between the excitement and history of Athens and the beauty of the over 100 islands in the Aegean Sea you’re sure to find a honeymoon holiday to suit both your tastes.

There are many things to do in Greece for your honeymoon. Board a yacht or go sailing, try diving or take a drive.

Peaceful villages and busy cities are ready to be explored, while ancient historic sites lie in wait for its visitors. Beaches full of black or white sands give joy to many devoted beach bums. Spend time enjoying some ouzo or Greek wine in a taverna overlooking the sea, or dress to impress and enjoy Greece’s notorious nightlife. Or if the two of you just want to relax, check into a luxurious ocean view suite and forget about the world outside.

Spending Time in the Greek Islands

There are over 100 islands paradises in Greece, ranging from towering cliffs to long, sandy beaches. As the sun beats down, the waters of the Aegean seem to twinkle like diamonds in a symphony of turquoise undulating under clear skies. The isles are vibrantly green and the whitewashed houses make for a wonderful contrast and a great set for picture taking.

The isle of Santorini offers everything: beaches, shopping centers, dining and nightlife, and other picturesque scenes. In Perissa, you will have the chance of gazing at a wonderful sunset as you sit for dinner on a volcano’s rim. There are also black sand beaches that gleam under the sun. One can go diving or go on an exploration of the Minoan ruins in Akrotiri. Homes and accommodations that hang over rugged sea cliffs show a vast expanse of turquoise seas.

For those have an active nightlife, Mykonos – which is in the Cyclades group of islands - is the perfect place for you. The beaches in Mykonos are magnificent, but at times packed full of tourists. And at night, people come alive and participate in the island’s lively nightlife. It only takes a ferry ride to Crete, Syros or Tinos from Mykonos. Delos is also one of the more fascinating Greek isles.

If you want something a little more commercial and familiar check out Crete. Crete offers a selection of goods and services, such as, restaurants, shops and rooms. Crete is a big isle that holds great treasures at every corner. On the western part, there are pristine beaches, while you can drive around and enjoy the views of quaint villages that dot its countryside. There are also impressive ruins from the Minoan civilization and some operating monasteries in Crete. You can also take a closer look at these places.

Another well-known Greek gem is the isle of Rhodes. The medieval walled city and castle are fascinating. Rhodes also has plenty of great nigtlife, beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts perfect for a honeymoon getaway. Since you’re already there, why not make a short stop at the Valley of the Butterflies.

You can base yourself from these or other main islands in Greece and then take ferries all over to some of the less inhabited islands. You can visit many nice spots. It’s all up to you and your partner.

Seeing the Sights of Greece

Before traveling to Greece, check out a few facts. Don’t fall prey to the mistaken notion that Greece is balmy and warm the whole year round. It’s best for couples to schedule their trips during the summer months. Still, the most opportune time to visit Greece is during spring and fall as these seasons aren’t as busy as the summer months. During winter you’ll likely run into rain and wind.
Greece offers a selection of transportation devices. There are ferries for when you want to travel to other islands and buses when you want to travel around the mainland to explore tourist spots or beach sites. You could also rent a vehicle on the mainland and tour yourself!

It’s not difficult to see why Greece is a renowned honeymoon getaway. Still, there are many pristine and isolated spots that you and your partner can enjoy. The islands especially cater to honeymooners and you’ll find stunning luxury resorts and hotels and some fantastic authentic Greek restaurants and tavernas. Greeks are gifted with a wonderful and rich nation and a truly impressive history. And it is here where newlywed couples will feel like a god or goddess as they create good memories of their own.


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Gyros - It’s Greece on Your Taste Buds

One well-liked lunch item is the gyro. It is a dish wherein meat is set and cooked on a vertical spit and it usually comes with tomatoes, onion, and a generous helping of tzatziki sauce. For a perfect midday meal, get an order of gyros. It’s scrumptious and nutritious since everything in the food pyramid is represented well.

Getting to Know the Greek Gyro

“Gyros” is a Greek term, meaning “spin,” which connotes to how gyros are actually cooked. Pork, veal and lamb are the most common types of meat used when cooking gyros. The choice of meat is stacked on a vertical rotating spit and roasted. Chicken is another common ingredient. The meat is always moist due to the layers of fat in it, while it remains crispy because of the heat. The meat is sliced very thinly from the cone and put inside a pita with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki, a yoghurt, garlic and cucumber sauce.

When cooking gyros, spices are of prime importance. A mixture of paprika, oregano, salt, pepper and garlic is mixed in with the meat. The gyros’ meat flavor generally depends on the preference of the individual cooking it. For instance, aside from the usual blend of spices, there are others who prefer to add parsley, allspice and cumin to their meat. 

This is how traditional gyros are done. Nowadays you can find all kinds of fillings. Fried potatoes are popular fillings for gyros in Greece, too. And there are also gyros made with falafel, not meat, for vegetarians. So, gyros are simply flavorful sandwiches. Pickled vegetables, lettuce and mayonnaise are also common substitutes.

Greece offers various types of pita. There are the plain ones, Cypriot and Arabic. Plain pitas are the most common and it has the thickest bread of the three types cited. The Cypriot pita is thinner and it splits in the middle to make a pocket, while the Arabic pita is the thinnest of the three and it’s very crispy.

How it All Began

Generally, people have the mistaken notion that gyros originally came from Greece. This isn’t so. Although the name, pronounced as ‘yee-ros,’ is itself Greek.
Gyros actually come from Turkey. It was created during the 19th century and was originally known as a döner kebab. It was later brought to Greece. In Arab countries, shawarmas are quite popular, which are very much similar to gyros.

The first gyro in the United States was made in Chicago in the mid 1960s. There are some disputes as to whoever made the first gyro in Chicago. According to an article in The New York Times dated July 14, 2009, it was John Garlic who made the first gyro. In any case, how gyros came to the US is not such a big deal because the taste for the dish became widespread, and to this day, it continues being a known and well-liked lunch fare.

How to Make Your Own Tzatziki

While you can put all kinds of sauces on gyro, Greek tzatziki is still the best. Tzatziki sauce is creamy and heavy with garlic flavor, but the taste of garlic and other spices are offset by the coolness of the cucumber.
Tzatziki is an easy and effortless sauce to prepare. It can also be used as a sandwich spread, a veggie dip or a salad dressing.

Recipe for simple tzatziki blend

Mix together 1, 16 ounce container of Greek yoghurt (regular yoghurt is too runny), half of a finely chopped cucumber, and two cloves of finely chopped garlic. Salt and white pepper may be added according to taste. Some prefer to add chopped fresh dill and a little squeeze of fresh lemon for added flavor.

Yes, there are a lot of food choices out there. But gyros are really a step above from all those fast food items. With the exclusion of fried potato fillings, gyros are generally the healthier alternative. Not only that, they are made with the freshest ingredients and are flavored really well. On all accounts, it’s really better than an expensive burger. They’re packed full of flavor and when cooked the real way, over a vertical rotisserie, there’s nothing better.


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Greek Cuisine and Wine Variety

One of the main beauties of the world is how different we are to one another. Each person belongs to a distinct group that has its own language, traditional beliefs, gastronomy and even music – all of which are parameters that aid in recognizing such group. In Greece, food and wine are both essential elements of everyday life. Greeks love to pair specific foods with certain wines, a practice that they have inherited from their ancestors. In the beginning, though, food was not merely just for pleasure or survival. During Ancient Greece, food was often sacrificed to the Gods before consumed and on other occasions, some foods were even shunned if it was believed that the Gods did not like them. Nowadays, many of us are aware of the different traditional foods which are enjoyed by the Greeks due to tourism and trends in eclectic foods. Accordingly, if you want to try out uniquely great-tasting Greek food and wines, here is an overview of what you may find.

Most Greek cooking uses top quality ingredients like olive oil, fresh seasonal vegetables and meats, such as lamb. Greek cuisine is, not surprisingly, recognized for being aromatic, tasty, and fresh, and infused with a balanced mixture of spices, and meats and vegetables. As with other societies, the Greeks hold that good food have the power to cure ordinary illnesses. This is a common food enjoyed within Greece in when recovering from common colds or when trying to stave off illness. Most Greeks also have a sweet tooth. A Greek celebration is not so without the proper dessert and an element that is always present during events is the Loukoumades, or traditional honey puffs. These mouthwatering sweets may be topped with honey, cinnamon or sugar. One more delightful dish is the Baklava made with paper-thin layers of flaky filo pastry stuffed with honey and nuts.

The Moussaka is another very popular Greek recipe. A Greek casserole recipe, the Moussaka oftentimes makes use of eggplants, potatoes, onions, red wine and a type of meat, too. The Souvlaki is another Greek dish that also makes use of meat. Many tourists love this dish which resembles a kebab. Vegetables are also thoroughly loved by the Greeks and so plenty of fresh, seasonal vegetables are incorporated into meals as often as possible either as a side dish or as part of the main meal. An example is the Horiatiki, which accompanies many types of main preparations. Generally, when people think of salads, they immediately see lettuce with a selection of fresh salad vegetables and dressing. Oftentimes, Greek salads include tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese, seasoned and simply dressed with olive oil. Greek salads seldom use lettuce. Besides refreshing vegetable salads, the Greeks also love pita bread. It is often a side dish served with many types of dips, like yoghurt, cucumber and garlic.

Together with food, wine is also greatly enjoyed by the Greeks, and it has been this way ever since the ancient times where wine was believed to be the drink of the gods. Greece is known to grow about 300 types of wine producing grapes that provide unique blends of Greek reds, whites and blanc de gris, which are all patronized by locals and tourists. For instance, the Retsina, also known as white or rose wine, is quite popular. It is liked by locals but not by some tourists because the resin in it gives it a certain taste. Red wines are generally very appealing to Greeks. Two of the more preferred reds are the Brusco, a dry red house wine, and the Xinomavro or acid black wine, which is a product of northern Greece. It gets better with age and it has a rich woody bouquet and flavor. Another famous wine is the Agiorghitiko, which is named after St. George. It is from the grapes cultivated in the Peloponnese area and its piquant cherry-like taste makes it very distinct.

Greeks are people who love the ultimate pairing of food and wine. Greek gastronomy is not only about singular cuisine, but also about tradition and history. So, if you do find yourself in Greece, you will not only be filled with admiration about the nation’s history and culture, but you will also come to know and love Greek cooking.


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Exploring Arrays of Greek Food

For many individuals, being able to travel is a rare chance that gives them great opportunities to delve into new environments, discover other cultures and gather one-of-a-kind experiences that will all be cherished for all time. For food lovers, though, traveling is not only about fun, learning and gathering memories. It is also about experiencing the tastes of local delicacies and gaining first-hand insight about unique fares from specific nations. Greek visitors will surely be able to indulge themselves in superb Mediterranean foods which are evocative of Ancient Greece with a modern twist on flavors. Yet it is regrettable that only a few are able to truly experience local gastronomy because of their fear of eating something ‘wrong.’ Greece, like most tourist destinations, offers a variety of food choices to cater to different palettes, but it is easier for people to patronize places they are familiar with, such as the usual burger place or cafes. One must always remember that in order to understand a culture distinct from one’s own, a person must be open to new experiences. Embracing another culture is not just about taking pictures or buying souvenirs; it is also about tasting exceptional food and delicacies.

Greek food is recognized worldwide as a cuisine that offers variety, savory blends and great nutrition. That is why its gastronomy is identified as one that is very healthy and nourishing. Greeks love food and traditional fare is often central in family gatherings, further illustrating how food is ingrained in Greek culture and history. Though centuries have passed, the basics in Greek cooking remain the same, but with a bit of modern interpretations. Still, olive oil is the most widely used ingredient of all time.

Traditional Greek food is often served in tavernas. So, it will be to your advantage if you do choose to visit a Greek tavern that primarily caters to locals. Restaurants that cater to locals are great choices if one wants to try out authentic Greek cuisine. Here, you will not be given a menu in 30 languages, which is a good sign since this is a signal that you will not be served the very common ‘steak and chips.’ Instead, expect distinct Mediterranean fare that you will surely remember. A great way to start your Greek food trip is to order mezes or mezedakia, which are like tapas. These are fun Greek appetizers that one can have as a starter or as part of a main course. Mezes are best paired with traditional spirits, like ouzo. Tsatsiki is a widely appreciated starter. Tourists and locals alike love this dish made from yoghurt, garlic and cucumbers.

Greek cooking offers an array of food choices to choose from – from meat dishes, fish dishes to other traditional fare. There are a number of well-known Greek foods, such as, Moussaka which is a type of casserole that uses tomatoes, eggplant, and minced meat. Giouvarlakia is a meat ball soup dish, and Dolmades is a kind of foodstuff wherein vegetable leaves are stuffed with a filling made from rice, meat and grain. Britzoles or pork chops and Britzoles Mosharises or veal are types of grilled meats; while Souvlaki is a meat kebab. Also, since Greece is composed of emerald isles surrounded by the sea’s bounty, one can expect offerings of various types of fish dishes. Fish recipes, however, are oftentimes overlooked by tourists because of misunderstandings in spellings that confuses eaters on what type of fish are available. In Greek restaurants and taverns, one can usually find Tsipoura or sea bream, Maridaki also known as the Atlantic Whitebait fish and the Kolioi or mackerel. Other selections of seafood commonly served in Greece are: Kalamaris or squid; Htapodi or octopus, which is usually boiled or grilled; Gavros, a certain type of anchovy; and Galeos, which is a kind of fillet generally served with a side of garlic salad and beetroot. Fish lovers may also like traditional Greek fish soup such as Kakavia which contains some of the most delicious fish with a mixture of vegetables such as onions, carrots, potatoes and celery with the all important Greek ingredient, olive oil. Widely recognized Greek desserts include the traditional Greek yoghurt with honey and the Baklava. 

Sampling Greek fare is not simply another part of one’s travel experience. It is, more importantly, a very valuable approach if one wants to gain genuine understanding about Greek culture and history.


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The Significance of Greek Cookery

Greek cookery is not only about satisfying one’s stomach. But most importantly, it aims to please the palate of people from all walks of life. The cuisine offers morsels that are both flavorful and nutritious. Usual food preparations normally make use of fresh vegetables and meats, such as, chicken, lamb and pork. This is why, in general, the Greeks are said to live longer than other nationalities because of their healthy gastronomic practices. The taste of Greek cooking is very unique, which can mostly be credited to their generous use of herbs, spices and other ingredients that heighten the taste of food, such as, lemon, olives and garlic. These elements are also commonly used in nearly all traditional dishes and family recipes. Food is also a great part of social and family traditions. Known for their warm family ties and great get-togethers, the Greeks often celebrate with food and comforting fares are always served during special events or religious festivals, wherein fresh, savory and scrumptious foods paired with good wine are expected and greatly enjoyed by many.

In Greek culture, food also plays a significant role in religion. The people of Greece prepare for the Easter holidays by cleaning their bodies on the first day of Lent, also known as ‘Clean Monday.’ There are restrictions in the Greek diet during Lent. Only foods labeled as ‘nistisma’ are eaten, which further signifies that the food is not prohibited. During Lent, traditional recipes are prepared, such as the Tsoureki and Greek Easter cookies. The Tsoureki is a type of sweet-tasting Easter bread, while the Easter cookies are baked and are meant to be shared with visitors and loved ones. Easter Sunday is a well celebrated day during which Easter soup called Mayerista is enjoyed, made with lamb organs and elegant seasoning. Greeks are also known for their sweet tooth and Easter and Christmas are perfect occasions to make sweet treats, like the Melomakarona, which is a delightful cookie dribbled with a bit of honey and sprinkled with some walnuts.

Ingredients used in Greek gastronomy that give the cuisine a unique and luscious appeal are from recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. One such element is the filo dough, which is a thin and flaky pastry used in making many types of appetizers or snacks. This is a familiar part of Greek food and it is normally often used in baking delicacies like the Spanakopita or spinach pie and Baklava, which is a rich cake stuffed with honey and nuts. The pita bread is also another all-round ingredient as it can be used for Greek-inspired sandwiches or it can be eaten as a side for main courses. Pita breads are commonly used with dips such as yoghurt and cucumber or olive oil and lemon juice and due to their versatility; they can be used as part of a main meal or a quick snack. Lemons and olives are commonly used in Greek cooking. But olive oil is the most popular ingredient, as it is used in most dishes from simple salads to main courses, and even in marinades and dips. The regular use of lemons in Greek cuisine lends that extra zesty refreshing taste to dishes.

Most Greeks prefer lamb meat, which is often spit-roasted. Lamb can also be incorporated in several dishes, from casseroles to Greek sandwiches and wraps. Another popular Greek foodstuff that is usually served at home or in restaurants is the Souvlaki, which mostly resembles the kebab, a kind of skewered food. When preparing Souvlaki, one can bring together different types of meat, like: chicken, pork, beef and fish. This is then cooked with a variety of fresh vegetables. Greek main meals incorporate a chosen meat with a wide range of fresh vegetables, such as Moussaka which is a popular casserole style dish consisting of eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, onions and in some cases, a type of meat although it can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian meal. Greek meals are often accompanied by refreshing vegetable dishes or salads, but preparations vary according to the availability of fresh vegetables. During summer, for instance, favorite Greek fares come with scrumptious fresh salads, like the well-liked Greek salad. It is a combination of olives, feta cheese and tomatoes, seasoned and dribbled with generous amounts of olive oil. Nuts and other types of garnish can be incorporated in salads, too.

Greek foods are distinct because of its wonderful flavors and aroma, and most especially its benefits to health and wellbeing.


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Greece: Its History and Its Wine

When talking about Greece, what comes to mind are some of the most historical and iconic figures or events in human history, such as the first Summer Olympics in Athens in  1896 or the impressive Acropolis in Athens, and even its Mediterranean cooking have all come together and heightened the nation’s reputation as a remarkable tourist destination. At present, though, people frequently fail to notice that Greece is one of the finest and most recognized wine providers in the world. A sad matter is that the wonderful and great-tasting wines from Greece are not patronized, and more often than not, they are overlooked.

The main advantage Greek wines have over other more popular wines on the market today, is that they are both some of the oldest yet newest wines on the market today. The country is home to over 300 decadent varieties of wine grapes, many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world and possess elegant and fruitful flavors. The Greeks’ love affair with wine is as ancient as the Greek isles. However, war and political unrest have hindered the development and production of wine. When the seventies arrived, large numbers of Greek wines were manufactured in a workshop that also made a famous Greek spirit – the retsina. Most locals prefer this wine, but the hint of resin taste was not thoroughly appreciated by others. However, the wine’s popularity in Greek tavernas gradually extended the taste of the retsina over to tourists. Since the beginnings of that factory, the Greek wine industry has flourished, producing wines which follow suit of those once enjoyed by the Gods.

Whereas other producers of wine have followed the popular trends of producing carbon copied Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignon wines, Greece have instead, opted to use their own, unique grapes in order to produce wines that are like no other and are completely unique to the country, helping to make the current wine industry much more diverse. Passionate vintners may recognize the name Ksinomavro or Xinomavro, which is known as the best Greek grape. This grape only grows in Naoussa where there weather is colder and mountainous which helps to seal in the taste of the grape. This grape also goes by the name of ‘acid black.’ The flavor has hints of cherry laced with spice, and this red wine is said to taste better after 20 years.

The Peloponnese region also boasts of the Moschofilero, a white grape with a spicy flavor. With its spicy taste, this white spirit is a great aperitif and an excellent pair to faintly spiced seafood recipes. Another white wine is from the Lagorthi, a rare grape which has a hint of lime taste, and there is also the Malagousia which has a peachy flavor. White wines from Greece are generally full, fruity and refreshing. Red wines, as well, are quite popular as seen by the extensive selections of reds, which are also preferred by most Greeks. The Nemean red wines vary in taste depending on age. It can be light and fresh or plumy and spicy, depending on how old they are. Since this wine gets really better with age, you will be assured of tasting a range of flavors of piquant, woodsy and refreshing flavors. All Greek wines act as the perfect accompaniment to food so in order to fully enjoy your spicy red or fruity white, inquire as to the best wine to go with your chosen dish.

Greek wines are gaining more popularity and they are now easier to come by in western nations, like the US, and in states, such as New York and Chicago, where there are flourishing Greek populations. Yet, the best experience will be having a glass of wine while looking at the beautiful vista where the grapes are born. Picture yourself in Greece, with the scent of the Mediterranean in the air and a glass of best-tasting wine on your hand – nothing will be able to top that.


If you enjoyed this article then check out the website of the best Greek Restaurant in Westchester County, NY maybe even the world by clicking on the link in this sentence. You may also visit their blog over here: Greek Food Takeout.

Tasting the Wonders of the Greek Seas

Only a few are lucky enough to get a chance to taste the succulent seafood morsels of Greece. Greek foods, particularly seafood dishes, are known for their simple but full taste. Greek food is always best if paired with a bit of Greek spirit – ouzo or retsina. It will better enhance you Greek experience.

Enjoy Refreshing Seafood

The seas that encircle Greece and its isles are still producing vast amounts of fresh seafood, even though overfishing is a major and ongoing threat. More often than not, restaurants will inform patrons on whether a fish is fresh or frozen. Frozen food is also labeled ‘kat.’ If you are on vacation, it can’t hurt to spend a little extra on the ‘fresh’ alternative. It is much better.

Greece presents succulent variations of seafood dishes because the place boasts of fresh foods from its rich seas. The shores that surround most of Greece are dotted with tavernas serving authentic Greek seafood dishes. So, it’s quite easy for tourists to find the perfect spot where they can enjoy Greek seafood.

Small fishes, such as: mackerel or kolios, sardines or sardeles, and anchovies or gavros, are widely popular. These can be fried or grilled, or made into sushi after being marinated for some time and then crusted with salt.

Greek sea fare also include favorites, such as: squid or kalamari, octopus, swordfish or xifia, sea bream or sargos, sea bass or lavraki, cod, red snapper, tuna, lobster and many kinds of shellfish.

Traditional Greek Seafood Cuisine

Whether you may be in a taverna in Greece or in a Greek restaurant somewhere in the world, there are widely familiar Greek dishes that are modern expressions of ancient Greek recipes.

While waiting for your dinner, order mezethes to get started. Greece provides a great selection of appetizers – from grilled or fried kalamari, anchovies or smelt, baked sardines with a lemon, oregano and olive oil dressing, to the richer and more adventurous taste of taramosalata, which is a great dip made from fish roe. Lakerda is another popular appetizer. Lakerda is made by pickling a fresh kingfish in a blend of salt, lemon juice and olive oil. Generally, this is done for a few days. After which, the fish can be served after washing and again seasoning it with a few drops of olive oil and a splash of zesty lemon juice. Most seafood dishes are served dressed with olive oil and lemon or vinegar.

In some Greek tavernas, the best assurance that you are having fresh seafood is to actually point out live fish that you want cooked for you. Many traditional Greek tavernas give visitors this wonderful freedom. This is part of the memorable experience of dining out Greek.

For seafood lovers, the psarosoupa or fish soup is a wonderful choice. The soup has a slightly thick, but delicious and refreshing broth flavored with eggs and lemon. It can be served with a variety of vegetables and herbs, like potatoes, carrots and parsley. The fish can be added in the soup or it can be served separately. It’s very tasty and it’s good for the health, too.

A variety of mussel and clam dishes are served in various Greek restaurants, even in places like Lesvos and Athens. Shellfish are usually simply steamed or cooked in a saganaki, which is a type of frying pan. A saganaki-style dish is often served with tomato sauce and it has a feta base. Shrimps are cooked like this, too.

In Greece, one can expect fish dishes to be light and refreshing. These are also vital elements in the world-renowned Mediterranean diet, though meats and meat dishes are enjoyed, too. The usual pairings for grilled fish are rice and vegetables. Dishes are flavored with olive oil, lemon and herbs, like parsley and oregano.

If you’re lucky and feel like splurging test the lobster. Lobsters captured around Greece may not be as tasty as those from the Atlantic, but still, eating lobster is a wonderful treat. Lobsters in Greece are typically steamed.

The bounty of the Greek sea is best enjoyed with a glass of Greek spirit. A glass of ouzo, retsina or any Greek wine will help bring out food flavors and will further enhance your Greek dining experience. If you want to enjoy an honest bite, try Greek foods because dishes are not covered in heavy sauces or intense relishes. In Greece, a splash of lemon juice and a bit of olive oil go a long way in intensifying the flavor of simple and clean foods.


If you enjoyed this article then check out the website of the best
White Plains Restaurant County, NY maybe even the world by clicking on the link in this sentence. You may also visit their blog over here: White Plains Delivery.

ExpansionWire: NYC's ancient watering hole and saloon,...

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/21/expansionwire.php

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Three Key Wedding Traditions from Greece

Greek weddings are wonderful events. These events not only celebrate the union of two people, but these also commemorate Greek history and family values, particularly since weddings are filled with ancient symbolic practices. Significant rituals are often repeated three times because the number ‘three’ is representative of the Holy Trinity.

Before the Ceremony

A Greek Orthodox practice involves having a formal engagement before the wedding, which is called the Service of Betrothal. This focuses on the ring exchange between the bride-to-be and groom-to-be.  The girl’s mother will then present a gift, which is often an article that aids in housework. The groom also asks the father of the bride’s permission for his daughter’s hand in marriage.

The blessing of the rings is done twice. One is made during the formal engagement, and the other is during the wedding ceremony. After being formally engaged, the couple will then wear their rings on their left hands. Following the wedding ceremony, the rings will then be worn on the couple’s right hands.

Today, more customary practices are being changed to fit the times. Yet, there are some that still hold fast and remain true to Greek traditions. A number of important practices are emphasized in this article, although there may be some variations in how you experienced them.

Getting the Wedding Underway

In most wedding rituals, vows are exchanged. But this is not so in a Greek wedding, which makes it quite unique. There is trust that the couple getting married are there for the exact reasons stated in vows, and that there is no need for vows to be read aloud.

Greek wedding ceremonies are both sentimental and representational. Traditional values and unity are exemplified in all aspects of the wedding, like those in other cultures.

Before the ceremony officially starts, wedding guests are asked to wait outside the church for the bride and groom. Guests will be seated as soon as the bride and groom arrive, since visitors will be following the couple as they enter the church. Significantly, the bride will be seen in a veil of orange or red, which is believed to ward off evil spirits. Guests will be all seated together, not separated according to families like in most cultures.

Two key ceremonies are performed in a Greek wedding: first is the Service of Betrothal followed by the Service of the Sacrament of Marriage. During the engagement ritual, the priest will bless the wedding rings, which will be worn on the couple’s right hands.

The Ceremony of the Sacrament of Marriage encompasses a sequence of prayers led by the priest, at which time the couple has to join their hands to symbolize their union.

Another beautiful part of the wedding ceremony is the crowning. The stefana or wedding crown will be presented to the bride and groom. A stefana is generally made with orange or white flowers, made with a single white ribbon, and this is also interlaced with ivy at times. The crowns signify God’s honor and the ribbon signifies the bride and groom’s unity. The Koumbaro or Koumbara, the religious sponsor, assists in interchanging the circlets between the man and wife’s heads.

When the crowning ritual is done, it is followed by the common cup rite. The priest then reads the Gospel, bringing to life Jesus’ first miracle – converting water into wine in a wedding at Cana in Galilee. The priest also does the same ritual by presenting wine to the couple and they drink from the cup three times.

The ceremonial walk follows as the couple, adorned with their crowns, circle the altar three times, signifying their first steps as husband and wife. The throwing of rice signifies fertility and blessedness, which is why guests pelt newlywed couples with rice. The crowns are then taken off and the priest places a Bible between the intertwined fingers of the newlyweds. This signifies that only God has the power to break what He has blessed and united.

At the Wedding Reception

Greek wedding receptions focus on the family. It is a time filled with music, laughter and dancing – a celebration of the union of two loved ones. Although each party is unique, there are certain rituals that identify them as purely Greek.

One difference is in the wedding dance. The Isaiah is performed by the bride and groom, while the Kaslamantiano is performed by the couple and guests forming a circle.

A Greek reception is not complete without vast amounts of good food. Distinct to wedding parties are almonds swathed in sugar. These candies are handed out in odd numbers to visitors. The odd number is a sign that the couple’s union cannot be broken. Traditional meals and beverages are also served.

Greek weddings are very traditional and poetic. The solemn rituals and the symbols all stand for unity between a bride and groom. Greek weddings are quite unique since these are centered on family, friends and, most importantly, ancient Greek traditions.


If you enjoyed this article then check out the website of the best Greek Restaurant in Westchester County, NY maybe even the world by clicking on the link in this sentence. You may also visit their blog over here: White Plains Lunch.

Alan Richman's Favorite Desserts: Food writer and self-admitted altacocker Alan...

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/22/alan_richmans_favorite_desserts.php

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Wine Lessons Learned from the Tea Party and the TSA

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore.”  That’s the consumer rights lesson I’ve learned this year, and bar none, the wine-related hot button issue potentially affecting consumers this same year has been HR 5034, a part of the wine niche headlines since April.  Yet, a consumer-led backlash AND HR 5034 haven’t exactly been two predicates sharing the same subject.  I’ve learned the backlash lesson elsewhere … and it’s a lesson all wine lovers would do well to learn, as well.

HR 5034 is a well-chronicled would-be affront to consumer access to wine, as prepared by the National Beer Wholesalers Association, in a lobbying function, before being introduced into the House of Representatives as a bill for consideration as law.

HR 5034, for all intents and purposes, is an attempted circumnavigation of federal law (including Granholm vs. Heald, the landmark 2005 Supreme Court decision that prohibited out-of-state wine shipping discrimination against wineries while granting them the same consumer access liberties afforded to in-state wineries). 

In essence, HR 5034 would significantly restrict (or eliminate) consumer access to wines in their state for anything that wasn’t provided directly through a distributor (a lawyer by day, see Palate Press Publisher David Honig’s, excellent breakdown of the legal context for HR 5034).  Temporarily shelved with the recent November elections after initial hearings in late September, it’s expected that the bill (and proposed law) will be re-constituted (no pun intended) in January for additional review by the House Judiciary Committee.

With small ripples of consumer opposition, the net-net of HR 5034 is this: 

• Is the will of the people stronger than the will of special interest lobbying group’s intent on protecting and expanding their financial interests? 

It’s an interesting question because our rule of land – democracy—is by any theoretical measure, “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”  Does HR 5034 follow this most basic of US principle? 

Not so much.

A funny thing learned while observing HR 5034 over the last seven months: 

• Its introduction into the US House highlights how ill-prepared consumers are in understanding the nuances of our government and how we can affect change that reflects democracy’s fundamental premise. 

• Our media absolutely has to assist in publicly fomenting consumer opposition above and beyond core constituents of an issue.

With HR 5034, aside from the obvious wine-related coverage the story has received, the proposed bill measured just a blip on the national radar.  I never got a sense that a real consumer coalition was happening—that credible, legitimate, populace-based mindshare was fomenting.  Ditto that lack of mindshare as facilitated by the media.

Not that it wasn’t attempted.

Amongst many people, Tom Wark, Executive Director for the Specialty Wine Retailers Association, did fantastic job leading HR 5034 opposition, including being a pivotal leader in thought-leadership, the first person out of the gate to create both a central hub for consumer information as well as a Facebook Fan Page for interested consumers.  This activity led to pockets of media coverage.

Yet, those efforts notwithstanding, Wark also realized the need for a broad line consumer organization.  He is developing the American Wine Consumer Coalition to represent the views of wine drinkers across the country.  This is good, noble and something I wholeheartedly endorse and will support with my participation and my money.  Yet, there is still something missing … something missing related to, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore.”

In a year filled with political cacophony, tea partiers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) search related headlines, the missing bullet for a successful kill shot on HR 5034 is a publicly-led backlash with enough sensationalism to capture the media’s interest.

Consider:  Were it not for loosely organized rallies, costumes, and hand-lettered placards, the Tea Party would not (could not) have achieved the wide recognition they have received, fueled by the media.  This is, after all, a movement that is still without central leadership, or ideology.

Consider:  Were it not for national media making John Tyner of “If you touch my junk I’m going to have you arrested” fame there would not have been a media fueled “National Opt-Out Day” creating awareness for consumer rights against invasion of privacy at airport security checkpoints.

In addition, as an aside, without national media would we have “Black Friday,” the fledgling “Small Business Saturday” or “Cyber Monday?”

This all leads me to my central point, underscored by the Japanese proverb, “Knowledge without wisdom is a load of books on the back an ass.”

In practical terms, we have the knowledge that HR 5034 is bad for consumers, but do we have the wisdom to do what is necessary to counteract it?

Do we have the wisdom to organize an event that is sensational in nature that will be picked up by mainstream media to carry the message to greater awareness?

My suggestion is the online wine community dumps all of these friggin’ Zinfandel, Pinot, Cabernet, and Champagne Days on Twitter and does something meaningful.

How about, “National I Want my Wine Shipping Rights Day”

It’s really not that hard to organize and the genius is all wine lovers can participate in willful disobedience.

You see, the real secret here in the wine shipping wars is there is no enforcement—its fear by intimidation by states and the feds based on winery and retailer licensure (and potential seizure). 

Yet, there are retailers (plenty of retailers) who ship across the country, door-to-door, and thumb their nose at the TTB and state governing bodies. 

To wit, here’s the language on the shipping page from one prominent east coast retailer who places ALL of the shipping risk on the consumer:

”-Company Name Redacted- does not, as a business, ship wine outside of New York State. We are happy, however, to coordinate shipment of your wine, by you, to any location in the U.S. or abroad (for international shipping, see below). By authorizing shipment of your wine, you are allowing -Company Name Redacted- to engage a third party common carrier on your behalf. We provide all shipping coordination as a free service and do not profit from any shipping arrangements we make for you. Insurance (for breakage only) will be added to ALL shipments at an additional charge unless you assume all responsibility for breakage during shipment.”

What a beautiful dodge! 

So, a mass coalition of consumers gets together and says, “I’m ordering wine on this day, having it shipped to me and I don’t give a damn what the laws say about it.”

Don’t tread on me; don’t touch my junk and stop messing with my ability to buy the wine that I want to buy from where I want to buy it!

Instead of making this a fight in the halls of government presided over by lobbyist money; let’s make this a fight in the streets based on the will of the people, amplified by media ready to exploit a cause.

Regardless of whether a “national” wine consumer backlash day ever happens for wine shipping, you understand my point – empowered people must assume power.  Until wine consumers rise up with broad mindshare, carry a stick, and demand logical action that serves the interests of the majority, we’ll always be subject to the whims of big money lobbyists protecting the few.

But, it doesn’t have to be that way ... because ... I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore.

Who is with me?

Photo credit / Associated Press / Licensed by WSJ

Source: http://goodgrape.com/index.php/site/wine_lessons_learned_from_the_tea-party_and_the_tsa/

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Listage: Why Foie Gras is Not Unethical; Good Girl Dinette's New Hrs

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/16/why_foie_gras_is_not_unethical_good_girl_dinettes_new_hrs.php

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Valley Inn liqour transfer approved

Source: http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/dining/reviews/blog/2010/12/valley_inn_liqour_transfer_app.html

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Alan Richman's Rules: After noticing that both of Alan...

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/16/alan_richmans_rules.php

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Source: http://thecaveman.blogspot.com/2009/03/two-greek-vin-de-pays-de-tegea-2005.html

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Greek Sauces

A description of the different Greek Sauces found in the Greek Cuisine.

Source: http://www.ultimate-guide-to-greek-food.com/greek-sauces.html

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Honey and Cheese Cake Recipe

This Honey and Cheese Cake recipe is a Greek Island specialty, a type of Greek cheesecake.

Source: http://www.ultimate-guide-to-greek-food.com/cheese-cake-recipe.html

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The Top Legal and Political Wine Stories of 2010

This year has been one of the most active and consequential for wine-related politics and legal issues. Below is my list of top Political and Legal Stories of 2010. 1. HR 5034 Written, promoted and paid for by America's beer...

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FermentationTheDailyWineBlog/~3/KjQNFDlPa-g/2010-wine-politics-law-2010.html

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Holidays Wine Gifts ? A Very Cool Wine Book to Consider

Here is idea for someone who enjoys wine and is perhaps not easy to please. It is a wine book: ?The Art and Design of Contemporary Wine Labels.? I know it sounds a bit boring but once you open the book to any page describing a label, it is very fun and interesting Continue reading →

Source: http://www.winecountrygetaways.com/napablog/holidays-wine-gifts-%e2%80%93-a-very-cool-wine-book-to-consider/

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Dry Comal Creek Vineyards ? Order of the Purple Foot? Grape Stomp

Time is getting near for Dry Comal Creek?s 8th Annual Grape Stomp at Dry Comal Creek ? Aug 7-8 & 14-15 As of this post the Sat Aug 14 day has been sold out as per their web site.  Sat Aug 7,8,15 are still open.  What a great way to spend a weekend get away [...]

Source: http://thegrapesaroundtexas.com/2010/08/03/dry-comal-creek-vineyards-order-of-the-purple-foot-grape-stomp/

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EaterWire : Mani's on Maple Scales Back Hours, Tequila Party at Las Perlas, Lucky Baldwin’s Trappiste Pub in Pas, MORE!

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/13/manis_on_maple_scales_back_hours_tequila_party_at_las_perlas_lucky_baldwins_trappiste_pub_in_pas_more.php

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Source: http://thecaveman.blogspot.com/2009/02/scallop-entree-jasnieres-2004.html

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StarWatch: Roger Waters, Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem at Il Sole, MORE

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/10/roger_waters_penelope_cruz_javier_bardem_at_il_sole_more.php

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Haydn?s Review of the Hard Row to Hoe Shameless Hussy Sangiovese Dry Rose

Winery: Hard Row to Hoe Appellation: Lake Chelan AVA (just established last year!) Price: $22 Haydn gives this wine: 90pts You can buy this wine: Hard Row to Hoe’s website At least for me, when it comes to summertime, the rose wine jumps right up to the top. Along with those crisp whites (hello New [...]

Source: http://www.beyondnapavalley.com/blog/haydns-review-of-the-hard-row-to-hoe-shameless-hussy-sangiovese-dry-rose/

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Watana Siam-- South Slope Thai

Watana Siam
420 7th Ave (13th/14th st)
Park Slope, Brooklyn
718. 832.1611

Our local Thai restaurant really does it right. As a side note, can't believe I haven't written about a thai place yet, as Thai is one of my favorite types of food! Watana Siam is a small place that feels open-air in good weather when they open all the windows/doors and if you sit in the front you are basically on the edge of the street, great for people-watching. The dark wood interior and gold decorative accents make it feel classy and refined, and the byob policy suits the times when you are on a budget. Tables are fairly close together and when it's really crowded can be a bit loud, but otherwise very enjoyable atmosphere.

For starters, the satay is ok. The veggie dumpling with "sweet black garlic sauce" is divine. Their pad thai hits the spot; nice balance of peanut, lime, sprouts. The green curry is also very nice and classic, and chicken basil is decent to mix it up sometimes. If you are looking for good thai in the south slope, look no further.

Source: http://52flavorsnyc.blogspot.com/2007/11/watana-siam-south-slope-thai.html

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Source: http://thecaveman.blogspot.com/2009/02/science-of-smell-dear-caveman-when-i.html

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Happy 2010 from Family, Love, Wine!!

Wishing you all of the love, success, happiness and new wine discoveries in the New Year.� I hope to continue to evolve both my business and the content here to bring you more consistent and helpful info.� I’d love to connect and help you with questions via Twitter @MelissaDobson, on Facebook at facebook.com/MelissaDobsonPRMarketing , or [...]

Source: http://familylovewine.wordpress.com/2010/01/05/happy-2010-from-family-love-wine/

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Source: http://thecaveman.blogspot.com/2009/02/old-franc-chinon-1996-clos-de-lolive.html

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2007 St. Emilion Premier Grand Cru Class�

In this post you'll find an overview of the ratings of the 2007 Medoc 2. Grand Cru Class�. We have gathered all ratings from Robert Parker, Decanter and Wine Spectator.

Source: http://www.wine4freaks.com/35/2007-st-emilion-premier-grand-cru-classe/

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Easy Soup Recipes

Our Easy Soup recipes range from nourishing, complete meal in a bowl to delicate creamy soups ideal for a light lunch.

Source: http://www.ultimate-guide-to-greek-food.com/easy-soup-recipes.html

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Maple Cr�me Caramel

If olive oil is liquid gold, then maple is liquid amber. A true gift from the gods ? thick, sticky and sweet. Ambrosia? Maybe. A beautiful natural resource? Absolutely. I adore all things maple. Maybe it is because I live in a well known Maple State. Or is it due to my overwhelming love of [...]

Source: http://www.leftoverqueen.com/2010/11/08/maple-creme-caramel

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Virginia peanuts for the holidays

Source: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dailydish/2010/12/mmmm-virginia-peanuts-for-the-holidays.html

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Win 2 Tickets to Morton's Napa Tasting Event

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Wine Riot ticket giveaway earlier this week.  We've got another one for you today...

There's a lot of wine events this time of year - here's another one for your consideration.  Morton's The Steakhouse Back Bay Boston location is offering a Five of This with Five of That event this coming Monday.  They've partnered with Ruby Wines to Host a Monthly ?Uncorked? Tasting Series and this month's theme is red wines from Napa - one of my favorite categories.

I attended an event in this series earlier this year and wrote up my thoughts.  I hope that gives you an idea of what to expect.

Morton's has offered up a pair of tickets to giveaway on this site!  To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post -or- E-mail me saying you'd like to be entered in the contest:
wellesleywinepress@gmail.com 

To increase your chances of winning, tweet a link to this blog post and you'll get a 2nd entry.  Click here to pre-populate a Twitter status update (you'll have a chance to edit before sending the tweet).

Get your entries in by 11:59pm on Friday, October 22nd 2010 and I'll do the drawing Saturday morning.  Good luck! 

What:
Morton?s The Steakhouse Back Bay invites Boston wine lovers to indulge their palates with selections from Ruby Wines alongside pairings of Morton?s signature dishes. Gusts enjoy samples of five wines paired with five hors d?oeuvres.  This month?s tasting features red wines from Napa Valley. 

When:
Monday, October 25
6:30 pm ? 8:00 pm 

Cost:
$40 per guest, inclusive of tax and gratuity 

Reservations:
Required. Please call 617-266-5858. 

Where:
Morton?s The Steakhouse (Back Bay)
699 Boylston Street
Boston, MA
617-266-5108 

Parking:
Valet parking and nearby parking garage available.

Visit the Morton's Back Bay event page for more information on this event and to make a reservation.

Update:

We received 5 comments (entries 1-5), 4 E-mail entries (entries 6-9), and 5 entries via Twitter (entries 10-14).  I generated a random number between 1 and 14 and the winning number drawn was 3:

Congratulations to the 3rd comment received which was from Beverly!  I'll follow-up via E-mail.

Thanks to everyone who participated in this contest.  If you're interested in attending the event Monday night, you can check with the restaurant at 617-266-5108 to check availability.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/WellesleyWinePress/~3/TTnTdyzrj4Y/win-2-tickets-to-mortons-napa-tasting.html

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Melomakarona - Honey Cookies with Walnuts

Happy Saint Nicholas Day!!

If I were pressed to name one Greek cookie that reminds me of Christmas, this would be it.

Though the name is hard to pronounce, Melomakarona (meh-loh-mah-KAH-roh-nah) are delicious and not very hard to make.

...

Read Full Post

Source: http://greekfood.about.com/b/2010/12/06/melomakarona-honey-cookies-with-walnuts.htm

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THE Guide To California Wine

Allow me to quote Charles Olken from the preface of his newest book "The New Connoissuers' Guidebook to California Wine & Wineries": "It is now three decades since my first book, The Connoissuers' Handbook of California Wine, appeared in print."...

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FermentationTheDailyWineBlog/~3/nPfrmed_BlE/connosseurs-guide-olken.html

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From Chelsea to Vienna

This blog will be mainly dedicated to the upcoming European Wine Bloggers Conference (EWBC) in Vienna over the next week or so – assuming I find a moment to write thoughts down. However, I am also writing a bit on my Posterous blog (which is easier to write from my iPhone) which will, I hope, [...]

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheWineConversation/~3/Ary9e56xxlg/

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Almost Freebie Alert: Today Ruby's Diner rocks out for...

Source: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/06/almost_freebie_alert.php

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We are located at 287 Central Avenue in White Plains, NY 10606.

The goal of our restaurant is to provide the most authentic Greek family experience possible. This includes of course, the food, the wine, family, friends, atmoshpere, decor, and friendly, welcoming attitude that the Greeks are known for.

this paragraph is only a test to see if my wordpress plugin was configured properly.

I have a cold today so staying home. My 2 daughters are also sick but my wife has eluded the germs thusfar. Let\\\'s hope that she does not get sick like the rest of us because that is a big workload to have to pick up the slack for. ugh


HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

greek restaurant

We are located at 287 Central Avenue in White Plains, NY 10606.
The goal of our restaurant is to provide the most authentic Greek family experience possible. This includes of course, the food, the wine, family, friends, atmoshpere, decor, and friendly, welcoming attitude that the Greeks are known for.

this paragraph is only a test to see if my wordpress plugin was configured properly.

I have a cold today so staying home. My 2 daughters are also sick but my wife has eluded the germs thusfar. Let\'s hope that she does not get sick like the rest of us because that is a big workload to have to pick up the slack for. ugh

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Greek Wines – A Gift from The Gods

Do you think people have wondered where the reference to wines being the “nectars of the Gods” comes from? It comes to us from the myths of the ancient Greeks of course where wine was revered as part of many ancient religious festivals known as Bacchanals and where it was a wonder cure all that was also known to restore virility, bestow mortality and revive the dead.

Perhaps this ancient Greek population knew how healthy red wine really is for you and that is why their citizens revered it so much. In fact the reason that many Americans seek out eating in a Greek restaurant such as the beautifully rustic Niko’s Greek Taverna in White Plains, New York is to sample the healthy wines which also have the well-known side effect of making you feel quite euphoric, robust and nicely settled as well.

Greece in general boasts an extensive roster of popular wines that features classic wines from Nemea, Pelopponese and other famous parts of the country especially in the southern part. These delicious wines feature grapes grown in salty seaside air on mountain slopes. The finest Greek wines are made of different Greek grape types such as mavrodaphne,moschofilero, agiorgitiko, assyrtiko, moscato and xinomavro and you can sample them in restaurants like Niko’s where the management goes to the trouble of collecting the very best Greek Wines possible.

Dionysus – The Greek God of Wine.

They say that whenever you drink red wine you are getting in touch with the spirit of the Greek God Dionysus. He is the ancient Greek God of the grape harvest and the ruler of madness, ecstasy, festivals, celebrations, dining well and the theater.  Aside from grapes and a big goblet of wine he was also thought to rule over with Satyrs – the mythological half man, half goat creatures that were known for being overly romantic.

Once you get over the drama, the romance and the exaggerations in the Greek myths you come to know that in the end, drinking red wine is about what it always has been – celebrating and having a good time with your loved ones!

The Famous Wines of Greece

If Dionysus had wines he preferred back then they would have probably been wines that come from the Pelopponese region that has a history of wine cultivation that goes back as far as 7,000 years.  The wines made here come from seaside vineyards that are located on the slopes of nearby mountains. A couple amazing ancient grape varieties, known as the Agiorgitiko and the Moschofilero come from this area.

Argolida is a area in the northeast part of the Pelopponese that is also known for excellent wine made from Agiorgitiko grapes.  The Meden Agan, which was created in 1979, is now one of the most famous contemporary wines in foodie history.

In Mantinia which is at a higher elevation than Nemea there are fertile plateaus at 600 meters above sea level that produces fine wines made from at least 85% Moschofilero grapes.  One highly renowned products of these nectars is a wine named Cambas.

More modern wines come from the region of Nemea which is in the southern part of the country. It is famous for the Agiorgitiko grape which is grown in a mountainous zone vinyards.  Nemea is one of the oldest locations in ancient Greece and a place where many bacchanals were held in honor of the Greek God Dionysus.

There are many more vineyard areas in Greece that historically supplied a nectar to humans that was also fit for Godly consumption.

You may know that olive oil was also considered to be one of the nectars of the Greek Gods. No wonder red wine just seems to go down so well with so many of the great tapenades, salads, bakery products that are associated with traditional Greek cuisine.

If you enjoyed this article then check out the website of the best Greek Restaurant in Westchester County, NY maybe even the world by clicking on the link in this sentence.  You may also visit their blog over here: Greek Restaurant.

Olive Oil – From Greece To the World

 Olive oil is a staple in Greek culture and food. Greek food was constructed on olives and olive oil. Greece is home to more types of olives than any other country. From Kalamata to Peloponessos, no matter the variety, you can be sure you will be getting a different and exquisite experience each time you bite into a Greek olive.

                                           

From all these wonderful olives comes olive oil - an olive oil so wonderful, that the Italians actually used to buy it from the Greeks. Olive oil is used extensively in Greek cooking, and it is also wonderful to drizzle over salads, dip bread in, and use in stews.  

People eat more of the delicious oil in Greece than any country in the world - about 26 liters per person, every year. Just to compare, people in Italy and Spain eat an average of 14 liters a year per person.

Health Benefits of Greek Olive Oil

All of this olive oil is perhaps one reason that Greeks often remain so healthy - olive oil has a staggering amount of health benefits. Olive oil has a component that is called monounsaturated fatty acid, which can reduce your cholesterol. Antioxidants, flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin E also can help prevent heart disease, increase digestion, reduce inflammation and even help fight colon cancer. And, it tastes good too! It's no surprise that olive oil is such a popular ingredient in Greek food.

Olive Oil Has A Special Place in Greek Mythology

The goddess Athena planted the olive tree as a way to get in good with the people of Acropolis. Acropolis quickly became known as the birthplace of olive oil. While the Armenians and Egyptians were aware of the olive tree, the Greeks were the first to pioneer the full scale cultivation of the olive into olive oil, between the 7th and 3rd centuries BC.

According to mythology, the goddess Athena created the olive tree to grow up so that she could win the favor of the inhabitants of Acropolis. Hence, the Acropolis is always depicted with an ancient olive tree growing on it.

Olive Trees Are Revered In Greek Culture and Families

In many Orthodox religion, olives and olive oil were a symbol of peace and love. These were a part of many religious rites, such as baptism. Olive trees are planted when a child is born, as a symbol of something that will grow and develop like the child will. When children grow enough and start school at age seven,  the trees start producing olives.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The Best Greece Has To Offer

There are many kinds of olive oil, used for different things. Extra virgin olive oil has always been known to be the best class of Greek olive oil. It is used on salads for dressing, for dipping bread into, and sometimes for simmering at low heat. It is made mechanically instead of being chemically created, and is known to have the best taste of any olive oil. When extra virgin olive oil is heated, it can lose its flavor and start to break apart, so it is not generally used in cooking. Extra virgin olive oil is the least acidic of any kind of olive oil.

Virgin olive oil has slightly more acidity, but still a tiny amount; and is still thought to have a good taste. Olive oil is refined and usually chemical extracted from the olives. This is the form of olive oil usually used in cooking.

Different olives create different flavors in olive oils, and most Greeks have their favorites. No matter what type of olive oil you choose, though, you can't go wrong. Olive oil lends a delicious and polished taste to almost any dish. Greek food would not be Greek.

If you enjoyed this article then check out the website of the best Greek Restaurant in Westchester County, NY maybe even the world by clicking on the link in this sentence.  You may also visit their blog over here:  Greek Restaurant.