GRAPE CRUSH BLOG

The Mama Mimosa

2011-05-06T12:40:00.002-04:00

Toast Mom on Mother's Day with the Mama of all mimosas...

Take your traditional Mimosa recipe and add a delicate splash of an orange liquer topped with crushed raspberry ice - this Mimosa is not called the "Mama Mimosa" for nothing!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
Orange Juice (1 half gallon carton)
Champagne or Sparkling Wine ( 750 mL Bottle)
Orange Liquer
1/2 cup fresh raspberries

Preparation:
Pour the carton of chilled orange juice into a 3 quart pitcher and then add the full bottle of chilled Champagne or sparkling wine. Next add 2 shots of orange liquer and stir the orange juice, Champagne and orange liquer until thoroughly mixed. Just before serving add the raspberry ice* to the pitcher and pour about 4 ounces of the mimosa mix into Champagne flutes or if you'd like to show off more of the raspberry ice pour the mimosa mix into regular wine glasses. * Raspberry ice - crumble fresh raspberries and place the crumbles into narrow ice cube trays, fill with water and freeze. Adds a very nice touch to any Mimosa... Cheers!

Recipe courtesy of About.com.

Cheers to Earth Day!

2011-04-21T12:34:00.004-04:00

April 22nd is Earth Day, toast with a glass of organic or biodynamic wines!

The good news is that organic wines are becoming much more widely available making it easy to discover the great taste and many benefits of "green wines" wherever you reside. These wines have come a long way in quality and acceptance, and that's great for the planet since grapes are among the most pesticide-laden produce.

So you can feel confident at a wine store or when dining out, here is a simple guide to what these emerging labels mean:

100% Organic carries the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic seal (the certifying agency must be listed) and indicates the wine is made from 100% organically grown ingredients and has been monitored throughout its entire production process. This wine can contain only naturally occurring sulfites (or sulfur dioxide, an antimicrobial substance) in less than 100 parts per million (ppm).

Organic also carries the USDA organic seal and indicates the wine has 95% organically grown ingredients (the other 5% must not be available organically). Again the certifying agency must be listed and the wine has the same sulfite requirements as 100% organic.

Made with Organic Grapes or Made with Organic Ingredients means the wine contains at least 70% organic ingredients. It can have artificial sulfites added, but it may not contain more than 100 ppm. (It does not have the USDA organic seal.)

Biodynamic is based on the precise observation and an attempt at balance of nature, a concept originated by the early 20th-century Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner. So, biodynamic wine is not only 100% organic, in addition, the grower has gone beyond to try to bring the farming process more closely in tune with nature. For instance, biodynamic wine growers may make their own compost and/or watch the stars and planets to time what they do.

How are you celebrating Earth Day? Do you have a favorite organic or biodynamic wine? We'd love to hear from you!

Cheers!

Join us this Sunday at St. Regis Atlanta!

2011-02-11T11:22:00.010-05:00

Sunday Wine Social
Feb. 13th from 4-6PM

Wine, Chocolate & Matchmaking
Looking to get lucky in love? Meet your own Headhunter for the Heart at our next Sunday Wine Social at St. Regis! Already in a relationship? Not to worry, snuggle up with your sweetie in front of the outdoor fireplace while enjoying a wine and chocolate tasting.

Plus, be among the first in Atlanta to sample Dexter Myers gourmet cookies loaded with chocolate, caramel and infused with strawberry flavor. It's the perfect pre-Valentine's Day soiree with your special someone or a group of friends!

RSVP today: http://winesocial.eventbrite.com

HOT UPCOMING EVENT:

Sunday, Feb. 20th from 2-6PM
www.winejazz2.eventbrite.com

Atlanta Winter Wine + Jazz Festival

2011-02-09T23:10:00.006-05:00

Sip, savor and jam at the 2nd Annual Atlanta Winter Wine + Jazz Festival on Sunday, Feb. 20th at the historic Georgia Freight Depot! Explore your passion for great wine, food and live jazz music while supporting local businesses and nonprofit organizations. This event is a prelude to Atlanta Food & Wine Month (April 1-30) and the Atlanta Jazz Festival (May 28-30). MORE

You're Invited: Sunday Wine Socials at St. Regis!

2011-01-06T11:27:00.007-05:00

SIP. SAVOR. SOCIALIZE.

Sunday Wine Socials
Upcoming Events: Jan. 16, Feb. 13

Join us on select Sundays from 4-6pm in the St. Regis Wine Room for personalized tastings around the marble-topped sommelier counter! Learn about the subtleties of fine wine and its history and traditions as we sample artisan wines from around the globe.

The January event features a special preview of the Atlanta Winter Wine + Jazz Festival (coming Feb. 20th!) including a live performance and ticket giveaways. Plus, great door prizes from our partners at Taste of Atlanta, High Museum of Art and more!

Tickets & Info: http://www.winesocial.eventbrite.com

Hosted by Grape Crush Productions and Harry Constantinescu, Wine Director at the St. Regis.

Thanksgiving Delights

2010-11-24T13:19:00.006-05:00

DID YOU KNOW? American wine drinkers consume more wine on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year. Wow!

On Thanksgiving Day we’re thankful for Our blessings all year through,

For family we dearly love,

For good friends, old and new.

For sun to light and warm our days,

For stars that glow at night,

For trees of green and skies of blue,

And puffy clouds of white.

We’re grateful for our eyes that see

The beauty all around,

For arms to hug, and legs to walk,

And ears to hear each sound.

The list of all we’re grateful for

Would fill a great big book;

Our thankful hearts find new delights

Everywhere we look!

Happy Thanksgiving from the Grape Girls!

Please be safe and drink responsibly.

What's the deal with screwcaps?

2010-11-17T12:58:00.006-05:00

Screwcaps, actually known as Stelvins in the trade, are quickly replacing natural cork in many wine bottles. Natural corks are, well, naturally irregular. Some produce great seals, others less so, resulting in different bottles of the same wine behaving differently as they age. In addition, natural corks are prone to becoming corked: a chemical reaction, which can happen when bleaching corks, that imparts wines with a taint known as TCA. Screwcaps are perfectly uniform and provide a perfect seal for your wine, avoiding the issues that might arise with cork-finished bottles. Many high-end wines now use screwcaps, and they are the wave of the future.

Click here for answers to more commonly asked wine questions.

Follow the Grape Girls on Facebook and Twitter.

Cheers!

You're Invited: New York Life - Atlanta VIP Reception!

2010-11-15T19:56:00.001-05:00

VIP CLIENT RECEPTION
SIP. SAVOR. GET INFORMED.

You are cordially invited to join us for a special evening featuring an exciting tasting of fine wines from around the globe courtesy of Grape Crush Productions, live entertainment and an informal presentation from New York Life.

Thursday, November 18, 2010
Cellar 56 Bistro & Wine Bar
-Buckhead's Andrews Square-
56 East Andrews Drive, Atlanta, GA 30305

Complimentary wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres from 6-8pm.

RSVP today: Send an email to RSVP@GrapeCrushEvents.com including your full name, address and phone number along with the full name of each guest. Space is limited!

Complimentary valet parking and street parking along East Andrews Drive.

Cheers to the good life!

------------------------------------
This is an informational and sales presentation. Neither New York Life nor its agents provide tax, legal or accounting advice. Please consult with your professional advisors concerning tax, legal or accounting advice.

Ga Representative Alisha Thomas Morgan - Book Signing & Wine Tasting on November 16th!

2010-11-15T17:34:00.009-05:00

Georgia Representative Alisha Thomas Morgan will be on hand to sign copies of her book No Apologies: Powerful Lessons in Life, Love & Politics at The Colors of Wine on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 6pm.

First elected at age 23, Representative Morgan quickly ascended as a political star on both the national and regional stages. Now, in her signature “truth-telling” style, Rep. Morgan’s debut book offers no apologies for standing up for what is right and provides practical insights for how other leaders can “live life unapologetically.”

“I’ve learned and experienced a lot during my eight years of service in the Georgia legislature,” said Rep. Morgan. “I’ve learned being a ‘trailblazer’ means more than meets the eye and that challenging the status quo can mean living through some very lonely seasons, but more than anything, I've learned to never, ever, apologize for my convictions.”

Visit The Colors of Wine to meet Alisha Thomas Morgan and enjoy a wine tasting with the Grape Girls featuring a variety of fine wines from around the globe. Click here to read an excerpt from the book No Apologies: Powerful Lessons in Life, Love & Politics.

RSVP now to attend the No Apologies book signing and wine tasting. Send an email to VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com with your full name and the full name of any guests. The Colors of Wine is located at 2355 Cumberland Parkway Boulevard, Atlanta, Ga. 30339. A $5 donation is requested for the wine tasting.

Join us for Sunday Wine Socials at St. Regis!

2010-11-05T11:10:00.006-04:00

SIP. SAVOR. SOCIALIZE.

Sunday Wine Socials
Upcoming Events: Nov. 7, Jan. 16, Feb. 13

Join us on select Sundays from 4-6pm in the St. Regis Wine Room for personalized tastings around the marble-topped sommelier counter! Learn about the subtleties of fine wine and its history and traditions as we sample artisan wines from around the globe.

On, November 7th we're featuring Italy's best grapes. Plus, enter-to-win fabulous door prizes including tickets to Friday Jazz at the High Museum of Art, a FREE home or office private wine tasting party (valued at $500) courtesy of the Grape Girls and special giveaways from William David Salon in honor of their new location in Buckhead at the Terminus building.

For more information and to RSVP, visit www.winesocial.eventbrite.com.

Hosted by Grape Crush Productions and Harry Constantinescu, Wine Director at the St. Regis.

How-To Host a Wicked Wine Tasting Party!

2010-10-28T13:17:00.001-04:00

I vant to drink your vine...

Halloween heralds the start of the holiday season - and where there is a party, there is wine! A wine tasting party doesn't have to be a stuffy affair, so mix things up a little by throwing a unique Halloween bash that is sure to be a treat.

Host a wicked wine tasting party in 5 easy steps:

Invitations - Get crafty and make your own wine bottle shaped party invitations. Use construction paper or poster board, flat sheets of cork to make a life-like cork stopper for the top, a label in the middle of the "bottle" should provide party details.
Decor - Create your very own haunted wine cellar with equal amounts of sophistication and spook factor. Use old wooden barrels to hold platters of food and wine and decorate with large glass jars, grapes, pumpkins, gourds, faux leaves, lots of candles and scary touches like fake spider webs and spiders.
Food - Set up a nice assortment of fruit, cheese, crackers, bread, nuts and a few heavier appetizers (think stuffed mushrooms or a hearty pumpkin soup). Be sure to label your assortment with toothpicks that have labels attached - use a ghoulish computer font or eerie hand writing for maximum effect!
Wine - Use an old wooden door, wine crates or designate a large coffee table to display your wicked wine collection. Be sure to include some spooky brands like Vampire Wines (from Transylvania!), Poizin Zinfandel (comes in a coffin shaped box), Owen Roe Sinister Hand or Evil Cabernet Sauvignon. Add some dry ice to the display area for a ghostly effect!
Attention to Detail - Be sure to have great music, lots of candy, plenty of dump buckets and bottled waters handy. Place small gift bags or containers near your candy station so guests can help themsleves to take-home treats as parting gifts.

Wine & Candy Pairing Tips:

• Almond Joy and Sparkling Wine

• Snickers and Sangiovese

• Three Musketeers and Ice Dessert Wine

• Hershey’s Dark Chocolate and Syrah

• Caramel Apples and Sauvignon Blanc

• Candy Corn and Chardonnay

With these spook-tacular tips from the Grape Girls you are sure to pull off the perfect Halloween wine party. So, dress up, party down and enjoy the wine. Cheers!

Taste of Atlanta 2010 Photos!

2010-10-25T14:27:00.006-04:00

Did you know? Grape Crush Productions provides more than 100 wine volunteers and professionals for the Taste of Atlanta VIP Wine Experience each year!

The 2-day foodie fest was filled with great food, fun and wine.
Cheers to Gil Kulers and Bob Townsend for great educational seminars all weekend including the Brashness of Barolo and Refinement of Ribera del Duero, American Craft Beer and Farmstead Cheese, Greatness of Greece, Passion of Paso and more!

Click here or visit us on Facebook for more photos.

Event Pics - Sunday Wine Social!

2010-10-19T23:18:00.009-04:00

Thanks for joining us for the October Sunday Wine Social featuring Antonio Hildalgo- winery owner and importer of Spain's best grapes.

Next event is Nov. 7th featuring the best of Italy!
More info: http://winesocial.eventbrite.com.
Use discount code BACCO to save $5 OFF tickets!

More pics: http//tinyurl.com/grapegirls

Join us for Sunday Wine Socials at St. Regis!

2010-10-08T15:10:00.006-04:00

SIP. SAVOR. SOCIALIZE.

Upcoming Events: October 17 & November 7

Join us on select Sundays from 4-6pm in the St. Regis Wine Room for personalized tastings around the marble-topped sommelier counter! Learn about the subtleties of fine wine and its history and traditions as we sample artisan wines from around the globe. Plus, enter-to-win fabulous door prizes including tickets to Friday Jazz at the High Museum of Art, Taste of Atlanta VIP Wine Experience and a FREE home or office private wine tasting party (valued at $500)! For more information and to RSVP, visit www.winesocial.eventbrite.com.

Hosted by Grape Crush Productions and Harry Constantinescu, Wine Director at the St. Regis.

Cheers!

Taste of Atlanta VIP Volunteers

2010-09-22T15:48:00.004-04:00

WANTED: ENTHUSIASTIC WINE VOLUNTEERS!

Grape Crush Productions is seeking experienced volunteers for the VIP Wine Experience at Taste of Atlanta on October 23 and 24, 2010.

The popular foodie event features "tastes" from the city's best restaurants, cooking demonstrations from national and local celebrity chefs and live entertainment. The event takes take place in an 8-block area of Tech Square located in the heart of Midtown.

A highlight of the 2010 festival is the VIP Wine Experience, open only to VIP ticket holders over the age of 21. The "Experience" will feature a series of highly anticipated wine tastings and educational seminars led by top industry professionals. Wine enthusiasts and experienced volunteers are encouraged to register to help with this one-of-a-kind event. Volunteers are rewarded with "taste" coupons to enjoy the festival after their shift.

VOLUNTEER:
Interested participants should send an email to volunteers@GrapeCrushEvents.com for more information.
Registration deadline is October 8th!

TICKET DISCOUNT:
Purchase tickets at www.tasteofatlanta.com.
Use our special discount code GRAPE to save $5 OFF VIP or General Admission advance online tickets!

Taste of Atlanta dishes up flavors to satisfy every taste. So, grab a fork and a glass and prepare to stimulate your mind, body and taste buds. Cheers!

Wedding Wine Tips

2010-06-08T15:28:00.011-04:00

Say "I Do" to fabulous wine on your wedding day...

Every bride and groom wants to put a mark on their memorable day. Set the tone of your wedding simply by personalizing the details. What is meaningful to you as a couple? A love of travel, or a memorable song or color... Use what is meaningful as a starting point for developing a theme that will carry through your wedding, reception and even the pre-event activities.

Here are tips for incorporating your love of wine into your wedding:

The First Impression
When guests arrive at your reception, the first thing they will look for is a beverage, which becomes the first impression of what's to follow. Why not have servers line up at the entrance with beautiful flower-adorned trays filled with sparkling wine.

Reception Wines
Wine tasting bars at receptions add an element of elegance, and can serve as an icebreaker at the beginning of the reception. Consider hiring a local expert, such as Grape Crush Productions, to help your guests with their wine experience. The wine station can be a preview of your honeymoon destination, favorite region or a collection of the couples' favorite varietals. We'll even take into account the food you are serving to ensure great pairings!

Cost-Cutting Tips
Doing it yourself or on a budget? Keep it simple by selecting one white and one red to serve. Best Bet: Chardonnay & Cabernet or Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Noir for wines your entire crowd is sure to enjoy.

Gift Ideas
When choosing wine for gifts, take the packaging into consideration as well as the taste. Choosing one with an attractive label can eliminate the need for gift bags - just tie a beautiful bow and personalized card around the neck. For an even more useful favor, simply attach a corkscrew engraved with the couple's names. A great gift for engagement parties or bridal showers is putting together the couple's first "wine cellar" by filling a wine rack with different bottles of wine designated for special occasions. Attach tags with pretty ribbon and notes such as, "Enjoy on your one-month anniversary" or "For a romantic movie night in." A group of friends can give this gift together, or family members can each contribute one bottle of wine with a special note.

Before the Big Day
If the bride or groom is a wine lover, consider making the bridal shower or bachelor party a private wine tasting event. Grape Crush Productions can bring the tasting room to YOUR living room or venue!

Contact us today for help in making your wedding or pre-event activity a wine lover's dream! Send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com.

EXCLUSIVE EVENT INVITATION: Join us on June 9th from 6-8p.m. at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square for a "Pre-Wedding" Wedding Party with Get Married Media!
Click here to read our latest newsletter for RSVP details.

Champagne & Culture in the City

2010-05-21T11:53:00.008-04:00

Friday, May 21, 2010
@103 West, 7-10PM
103 West Paces Ferry Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30305

Tour de Champagne features tastes from prestigious Champagne houses combined with samples from Atlanta's finest restaurants and chefs. This year's special silent auction will benefit Angel Flight of Georgia. The evening ends with a fin de soirée (after party) at Bluepointe where VIP guests will continue to mingle and enjoy live music and additional complimentary champagne and cognac. Guests may then head across the street for a nightcap at the St. Regis hotel which is offering special overnight and weekend packages to enhance the total experience.

Did you ever wonder who invented Champagne?

Well, here's a brief history of what some call "culture in a glass":

French monks were the first to bottle a sparkling form of wine called Champagne, named after the Champagne region of France. The method of making "mousse" (another name for bubbles) in a bottle was invented by the efforts of Frère Jean Oudart (1654 - 1742) and Dom Pierre Pérignon (1639 - 1715), Benedictine monks and cellarmasters at the respective abbeys of Saint-Pierre aux Monts de Châlons and Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers.

The region of Champagne has a colder and shorter growing season. Champagne grapes had to be picked late in the year, with less time available for fermentation. During fermentation yeasts are used to convert the sugars of the grape juice into alcohol and cold winter temperatures stopped the process. The monks developed a method of making Champagne wine by using a second fermentation process that took place in the bottle during the following spring. The second fermentation created carbon-dioxide bubbles that are the sparkle of Champagne.

TICKETS: Click here for more information or visit www.tourdechampagne.com.

For updates on local food and wine events follow the Grape Girls on Facebook and Twitter or join the Virtual Grape.

You're Invited: A Spring Wine Tasting & Bites on May 4th!

2010-05-03T18:07:00.007-04:00

Join Us for a Spring Wine Tasting...

Tuesday, May 4, 6:30PM
Social - 12 West Peachtree Place Atlanta, GA 30308
http://www.Socialintown.com

Located in downtown Atlanta, Social is comprised of two sprawling floors of scintillating Euro-Mediterranean flavors. A 25 foot marble bar and communal tables are perfect for an after-hours drink or neighborhood gathering. An elegant split level dining room overlooks the trees below on West Peachtree place, resulting into a perfect private culinary experience. Don't miss this fabulous tour of great wines from Bacco paired with yummy bites for only $25/person!

Wine Pairing Selections:

Giribaldi Gavi, Piedmont, Italy
Eggplant Caviar

Printhie Chardonnay, Orange, Australia
Mussels au Pernod

Mas de Bazan Rosado, Utiel-Requena (Valencia)
Roasted Portabella Mushroom

Heredad Hidalgo Tinto, Rioja
Grilled Chicken Livers on Toast

Mas de Bazan Bobal, Utiel-Requena (Valencia)
Andalusian Meat Balls

Bodegas Hidalgo Marqués de Pagollano, Cigales
Cheese Plate

RSVP:
Telephone: 404.525.2246
E-Mail: info@socialintown.com

Cheers!

Champagne Sabering Concludes Atlanta Food & Wine Month 2010 on April 30th!

2010-04-30T12:39:00.005-04:00

Champagne Sabering Ritual Closes Out the Month!
Friday, April 3Oth from 6-8p.m.

sa·ber: (verb) to strike with a heavy, one-edged sword

You're invited to a special reception at the prestigious St. Regis hotel to celebrate the conclusion of the 2nd Annual Atlanta Food & Wine Month series! The event will include an authentic champagne sabering ritual and a Proclamation from the City of Atlanta.

RECEPTION TICKETS & INFO: Click here for more information.

Join us for dinner immediately following the reception at Paces 88 American Bistro (located inside the St. Regis). Reception guests will receive a complimentary appetizer with the purchase of an entree. Offer is valid for tonight only - April 30, 2010.

DINNER RESERVATIONS: Please make your reservation now as seating is very limited. Call 404.563.7910 or visit Open Table for online reservations.

Cheers!

Food Network - Atlanta Open Call!

2010-04-26T18:46:00.005-04:00

Are you a hopeless home cook? Or is someone you know totally incompetent in the kitchen?

Food Network is looking for the most disastrous home cooks in Atlanta to participate in a very different culinary competition show and they've come to Grape Crush Productions to help spread the word!

This is the opportunity of a lifetime—to work with the best chefs in the country and learn to cook like a professional. Seeking people with a genuine inability to cook, but a need and desire to improve!

NOMINATE YOURSELF
• Has your wife told you it was probably better if you ordered take out?
• At the big potluck dinner, are you always asked to “just bring the napkins?”

NOMINATE SOMEONE YOU KNOW
• Is someone you know constantly offering you food that you have to turn down?
• If you know a dad/mom who can’t scramble an egg, a colleague who can’t convince anyone to try their culinary creations, or a guy friend who tries but can’t seem to get it together in the kitchen, this is your chance to get them the help you BOTH need!

OPEN CALL ATLANTA
W Atlanta Midtown
188 14th Street NE, Atlanta GA 30361
Saturday, May 1st
9am – 3pm
*Please bring a dish that represents your cooking

HERE’S HOW TO APPLY:
CASTING PHONE INTERVIEWS ARE THIS WEEK, SO PLEASE APPLY ASAP!
• Send an email to worstcooksatlanta@gmail.com
• State why you (or the person you are nominating) is the most disastrous cook in the country
• Include name, age, hometown, occupation, contact phone number, and a recent photo of the hopeless cook

Additional information and application available at http://worstcookscasting.com.

You're Invited: Shop, Sip & Savor!

2010-04-26T13:07:00.003-04:00

The 2nd Annual Atlanta Food & Wine Month (April 1-30) continues with the ultimate ladies night out - Shop, Sip & Savor! From sangria and shopping, to belly dance lessons and relationship advice, it's the perfect opportunity to get together with the girls.

Click here for tickets and more information. The online discounted ticket sale ends Tuesday.

Be sure to donate to the toiletry drive for your chance to win a FREE home or office wine tasting party!

Organic Food & Wine Tasting

2010-04-13T18:47:00.004-04:00

Lenox Square - Home Store
April 17, 2010 from 2-4PM

Join us for a special cooking demonstration and organic wine tasting. Come taste samples of sustainably produced local food and drink, and learn how to re-create at home. We'll also be giving you some ideas for how to dress up your spring parties with chic, eco-friendly style!

Chef Angela McKeller , our favorite "Kook", will demonstrate her party-starting, organic Red Apple & Cherry Wine tartlet as we sample artisan wines made with organically grown grapes. Plus, learn how to reuse your grocery bags for refuse, cut down on energy expense and the importance of finding multiple uses for
each ingredient - and the containers they come in! Angela has appeared on the Food Networkwith Paula Deen and loves to teach others how to make the kitchen their playground.

Tickets are $10 in advance online; $5 from each ticket sold benefits
Share Our Strength. Click here to purchase tickets today or vist
www.gogreenatl.eventbrite.com.

Artisan Wine Dinner at Paces 88!

2010-04-13T17:27:00.004-04:00

April 1 - 30, 2010

St. Regis Atlanta Turns One!

Their anniversary is your lucky day...

SPECIAL PRIX FIXE MENU

$50/person prix fixe menu; $75/person with wine pairing

Join us on April 14th at Paces 88 American Bistro (located inside the St. Regis Atlanta Hotel) to celebrate with an amazing four course Artisan Wine Dinner complete with amazing prizes and giveaways throughout the evening. The price is $50/person plus tax and gratuity or $75/person with wine pairing:

APPETIZER
(Choice of)

Lobster Bisque
Maine lobster and mushroom duxelle
2008 Albert Mann Pinot Blanc – Alsace

Goat Cheese Tart
Roasted tomatoes, caramelized onions, arugula
truffle & lemon vinaigrette
2007 J.L.Chave Crozes-Hermitage “Sybele” – Rhone

Intermezzo
Sorbet

ENTRÉE
(Choice of)

Osso Bucco
Red wine braised veal shanks, saffron risotto
2007 Margerum “Colson Canyon” Syrah – Santa Barbara

Scottish Salmon
Sweet corn & bacon ragout, spinach, basil oil
2007 Persimmon Creek Cabernet Franc – Georgia

CHEESE COURSE
A selection of 3 artisanal cheeses
Kluge Estate “Mélange Nouveau” – Virginia

HOMEMADE DESSERTS
(Choice of)

Crème Brulee
Chocolate Caramel Bar
Quinta do Portal 10yr tawny Port

Mention the word Anniversary and receive a discounted rate for your stay at the St. Regis for $199/night!

RESERVATIONS:

Please make your reservation today as seating is very limited.
Call 404.563.7910 or click here to visit Open Table for online reservations.

Complimentary valet parking available.

This is an official Atlanta Food & Wine Month event.

Join the Food Revolution!

2010-03-26T17:15:00.004-04:00

Ryan Seacrest and Jamie Oliver invite you to take a stand and change the way America eats, in our home kitchens, schools and workplaces with the thought-provoking new series, Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution.

Premieres: Friday, March 26th
9/8c on ABC

In the six-part series, Jamie heads to Huntington, West Virginia, the unhealthiest city in America. Through his efforts in this one town, he hopes to start a chain reaction of positive change across the country.

Click here to watch the trailer. Join the Grape Girls and sign the petition to show you care about this important issue.

Cheers!

Atlanta Food & Wine Month 2010 "Sips Off" on April 1st!

2010-03-19T13:45:00.004-04:00

Discover the Art of Wine! Join us for the Atlanta Food & Wine Month 2010 launch party on Thursday, April 1st at Kai Lin Art.

About Atlanta Food & Wine Month:

At Grape Crush Productions we believe the culinary arts are a vital part of a city's culture. In partnership with the City of Atlanta (Office of Cultural Affairs), we are celebrating the local food and wine scene for an entire month with exciting events at diverse venues. Atlanta Food & Wine Month, now in its second year, effectively fuses the love of food and wine with all art forms in a series of special events highlighting the best venues, chefs, restaurants, sommeliers, art galleries, retailers and more that our city has to offer. April is also Jazz Appreciation Month and many events will feature live entertainment from Atlanta's best jazz artists. From wine tasting parties at art galleries and clothing boutiques, to hot restaurant meal deals - locals and visitors alike are encouraged to eat, sip and savor all around town!

Click here for tickets or visit www.foodwine.eventbrite.com. Don't miss the early bird ticket specials!

Come on out to celebrate Atlanta's fabulous food and wine scene...

Cheers!

Eat Wine...

2010-03-13T15:19:00.005-05:00

Wine Cellar Sorbet - My New Favorite Find!

I can never leave Whole Foods without spending at least $80. I know, my husband doesn't get it either. I usually walk in the store with a short list of must haves for a quick dinner or impromptu gathering, but I simply cannot resist picking up and trying new things as I'm browsing the aisles. Which brings me to the point - Wine Cellar Sorbet. Yes, they have found a way to turn fabulous wines into a fabulous new treat!

Wine Cellar Sorbet creates sorbets with varietal wines as the main ingredient. A great selection of bold flavors include Sangria Rojo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Rosé, Riesling and Champagne. Dave Zablocki, the world's first Sorbet Sommelier, worked with vintners around the world to find the right wines to later spin into festive sorbets. The result is an extraordinarily refreshing frozen confection bursting with fruit flavors without being overly sweet. Did I mention the dessert is fat-free, dairy-free AND gluten-free?! The sorbets pair extremely well with a variety of foods (try the Riesling or Sangria flavor to cool off after a spicy meal) and are a great palate cleanser between courses. They can even be an interesting accompaniment for cheese. The petite one-pint packages retail at $6.99. For more information, visit www.winecellarsorbets.com or check the frozen section of your nearest Whole Foods Market.

A tasting of these fabulous sorbets will definitely be on the menu for my next dinner party!

Cheers!

Atlanta Food & Wine Month 2010

2010-03-12T12:35:00.002-05:00

Savor the Date...

Atlanta Food & Wine Month 2010 sips into town on April 1st with the Art of Wine kick-off reception!

We are celebrating the local food and wine scene for an entire month with exciting events at diverse venues. Atlanta Food & Wine Month effectively fuses the love of food and wine with all art forms in a series of special events highlighting the best venues, chefs, restaurants, sommeliers, wineries, art galleries, retailers and more that our city has to offer. April is also Jazz Appreciation Month and many events will feature live entertainment from our city's best jazz artists. From wine tasting parties at art galleries and clothing boutiques, to hot restaurant meal deals - locals and visitors alike are encouraged to eat, sip and savor all around town.

Limited opportunities still exist to:
• Add your April food and wine event to the calendar - 100,000+ calendars distributed across metro Atlanta!
• Sponsor the opening and closing receptions
• Showcase your business, product or service at select events
• Donate door prizes and silent auction items
• Volunteer to staff an event

Contact us for details, send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com with Atlanta Food & Wine Month in the subject heading. The participation deadline ends soon!

Stay tuned for event details.

Cheers!

Thanks for attending!

2010-03-11T18:42:00.005-05:00

Atlanta Winter Wine + Jazz Festival

30+ Vendors * 50+ Wines * 300+ Guests

Thanks to everyone who attended the

1st Annual Atlanta Winter Wine + Jazz Festival!

The event serves as a prelude to Atlanta Food & Wine Month (April) and the Atlanta Jazz Festival (May). Congratulations again to our honorees (Harry Constantinescu - Top Sommelier, Jane Garvey - Grape Guru), and a special THANK YOU to our seminar leaders (Ted Field - Vinicode, Rob Beecham - Montaluce Winery & Estates) and each and every event participant, vendor, volunteer, sponsor and team member who helped make the event a success.

Click here to view a photo slide show.

We'll see YOU next year at our new, bigger event home!

SIP. SAVOR. JAM.

You're Invited to a VIP Wine & Dessert Reception!

2010-03-05T13:46:00.007-05:00

Tie on your aprons and join the fun at the 3rd Annual Great American Baking Contest as we raise funds for Share Our Strength, a national organization working to ensure no child in America grows up hungry. Professionals, amateurs and children will compete for cash prizes courtesy of Domino Sugar.

Share Our Strength’s Great American Baking Contest
Presented by Domino Sugar
March 11, 2010
Strength.org/bakingcontest

Not a baker? Buy your tickets today to attend the judging and Wine and Dessert reception at The Cook’s Warehouse Midtown, featuring tasting by Atlanta’s premier pastry chefs as well as our amateur entrants.

VIP Reception Host & Emcee
Jenn Hobby, Q100

Judges for Professional Category
John Kessler, Food Writer, Atlanta Journal Constitution
Mary Moore, Founder and Owner, The Cook’s Warehouse

Judges for Amateur and Children Categories
Jonathan St. Hilaire, Chef and Owner, Bake Shop
Alon Balshan, Chef and Owner, Alon’s Bakery & Café
Kathryn King, Pastry Chef, Aria Restaurant

To learn more about Share Our Strength and buy tickets, please visit: strength.org/bakingcontest

GENERAL ADMISSION: $25 per person to attend the event judging and dessert tasting; reduced price of $35 for VIP tickets which includes an hour earlier admission to the event and a special reception with
Q100’s Jenn Hobby.

We hope to see YOU there...
Cheers!

Join Our Hunger Walk Team!

2010-03-02T11:23:00.004-05:00

Grape Crush Productions is joining the fight to end hunger by participating in Hunger Walk 2010 - and we hope you will join our team!

This event is one of the most important hunger relief efforts of the year for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The money we raise will go a long way in touching the lives of our neighbors in need.

We know times are hard, but that's all the more reason to support the Hunger Walk. We all know someone who has been affected by this economy, and many people are seeking food assistance for the first time in their lives.

We need your support. If you can't join our team, please consider making a donation on our behalf. Click here to view our team page to join or donate today.

Thanks so much, we hope to see you March 14th!

Wine & Chocolate Tasting Party

2010-02-05T14:17:00.007-05:00

SIP, SAVOR & SHOP!

Lenox Square Mall - Feb. 10th from 5-8p.m.

Level 2

We're treating YOU to a wine and chocolate tasting!

The Grape Girls will share the basics of wine and chocolate pairing as you enjoy fabulous shopping deals. Here's a taste of the fun:

Sample delectable chocolates and fine wines

Purchase $1000 or more in Bloomingdale's New View's fresh spring looks from your favorite designers to receive a $200 splurge card and a pair of tickets to Diana: A Celebration, the new exhibit honoring Princess Diana at the Atlanta Civic Center

You'll also receive spring's most stunning new accessory, an exquisite multi-media necklace (a 125.00 value!) with your purchase (while supplies last) and complimentary alterations

Buy more, Save more in Ladies Shoes, Fashion Accessories and Handbags

Click here for more information.

RSVP: Send an email to VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com with your full name and primary email address no later than Noon on February 9th. Please, no more than 2 guests per party. Must be 21 and older with valid ID to attend the tasting.

UPCOMING EVENT: The Atlanta Winter Wine & Jazz Festival sips into town on Sunday, February 21st. Come on out to sip, savor and jam with the Grape Girls and friends! Click here to purchase tickets, or vist http://winejazz.eventbrite.com.

Cheers!

WANTED: Volunteers for the Atlanta Winter Wine & Jazz Festival!

2010-02-02T12:29:00.007-05:00

WANTED: Experienced Special Event Volunteers!

Grape Crush Productions invites you to volunteer at the Atlanta Winter Wine & Jazz Festival on Sunday, February, 21st!

Volunteers must commit to a 4 hour shift and will assist with set up, break down, registration, hospitality, wine tasting, beer tasting and other general duties. In return for your service, you will be able to enjoy the event at no cost and participate in volunteer-only prizes and giveaways. Great opportunity for young professionals, wine/beer enthusiasts and volunteer organizations!

Follow these instructions to be considered:

Send an email to Volunteers@GrapeCrushEvents.com with your full name, mailing address, primary email and phone number no later than Feb. 10, 2010.
Indicate if you prefer to work the early shift (11:30am - 3:30pm) or late shift (3:00pm - 7:00pm).
Be sure to state your past volunteer experience and list the last 3 events you worked.

You will be contacted with a confirmation (if selected) and more information. Space is limited, so submit your interest today!

Would you rather attend the event than work? Click here to purchase tickets or visit http://winejazz.eventbrite.com/. The event benefits the Children's Restoration Network.

Cheers!

Atlanta Winter Wine & Jazz Festival - Showcase Your Business!

2010-01-27T13:56:00.007-05:00

Sips into town on Feb. 21st...

Last call to sample or "show and sell" at the upcoming Atlanta Winter Wine & Jazz Festival!

A partnership with the City of Atlanta (Office of Cultural Affairs), this event will provide access to hundreds of Atlanta area foodies, wine lovers and luxury shopping consumers. The event takes place on Sunday, February 21st at the historic Trolley Barn located in Inman Park and serves as a prelude to Atlanta Food & Wine Month (April) and the Atlanta Jazz Festival (May).

Event Highlights:

Recognition of Atlanta's top sommeliers

Fine wines from around the globe

Tasty treats from local restaurants, bakeries and specialty food vendors

Indoor Street Market (Art, Books, Fashion, Jewelery, Etc.)

Community Corner (Nonprofits and Associations)

Men's Lounge with craft beer tastings

Live entertainment, book signings, door prizes and more

The event benefits the Children's Restoration Network.

For participation details or more information, send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com.

Tickets on sale to the public Feb. 1st.

Cheers!

Italy: Wine Guide, Events & Travel!

2010-01-08T16:10:00.010-05:00

Hundreds of wines are produced in Italy each year, making it hard for most of us to select the right bottle for a pasta dinner or simply warming up in front of the fireplace. It can be a bit intimidating!

From Sangiovese to Trebbiano, wine guru Stacy Slinkard's Italian Wine Guide helps decipher Italian wine terms, interpret Italian wine labels, discern grape varietals and more. Click here for easy pointers to navigating wine shop shelves or a restaurant wine list.

Looking for first-hand knowledge of Italy's viticultural variations?

Well, sip and savor with the Grape Girls at our Italian Art & Wine Tasting event at the High Museum of Art on January 21st from 5-9pm.

Guests will enjoy complimentary admisson to the Leonardo da Vinci exhibit, Italian wine samples, live entertainment and favoloso prizes and giveaways. While there be sure to pick up details of the upcoming Grape Escape travel excursion to Italy coming September 2010.

Click here to register today or visit http://italianwine.eventbrite.com/.

Salute!

Happy New Year - Our Gift to You!

2010-01-05T17:25:00.006-05:00

Thanks for voting Grape Crush Productions one of Atlanta's Best Businesses of 2009 - what an amazing honor!

You're invited to become a Grape Guru and have even more fun with wine! A Grape Gurus club membership is the perfect opportunity to expand or develop your love of wine.

Grape Gurus enjoy:

*FREE and discounted wine tastings, wine dinners and special events
*Wine education opportunities
*Advance notice of special events and travel excursions with priority registration
*Complimentary welcome gift and more

SPECIAL OFFER: Join for only $20.10 (Reg. $59, a $250 value) and enjoy complimentary admission to the Atlanta Winter Wine & Jazz Festival coming February 21st. To receive the special discount link, send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com.

This offer has been extended thru Monday, January 11th.

Cheers!

Italian Wine & Art at the High Museum

2009-12-28T12:39:00.005-05:00

Ciao bella... It's Grape Crush Night at the High!

Thursday, Jan. 21 from 5-9pm
High Museum of Art Atlanta

Celebrate Leonardo da Vinci: Hand of the Genius and all things Italian! Join us for this special wine tasting and enjoy various wines from Italy.

Your ticket includes:
Admission to the Leonardo da Vinci exhibition
Favoloso door prizes and giveaways courtesy of Grape Crush Productions
Three wine samples or one full glass
Italy Grape Escape (Sept. 2010 travel excursion) details and early registration deals

Click here for more information or visit http://italianwine.eventbrite.com.
Use discount code GCP10 to save $5 OFF tickets now thru Jan. 2.

Toast the Season: Affordable Sparkling Wines!

2009-12-17T16:53:00.008-05:00

'Tis the season to celebrate!

There's nothing like a glass of Champagne. Whether alone, or with a favorite meal or dessert - it always fits the bill. However, paying the bill can be a problem!

So, with New Year's Eve right around the corner, I have scoured local stores and online resources in search of affordable sparkling wines that will give you as much joy as Champagne without breaking the bank.

Outside of the Champagne region, France is an amazing source of delicious, high quality bubbles. Look for Crémant on the label, to identify wines made in the same manner as Champagne.
Spain and Italy produce enormous quantities of sparkling wine, the most common being Cava from Spain and Prosecco from Italy. The trick with either is to avoid the cheapest wine on the shelf; it's almost always awful. Stick to safe, middle price ranges, roughly $12 to $25. US wineries make good sparklers. Roederer Estate, owned by Champagne giant Louis Roederer, sets the standard for American sparkling wine, and gives French Champagne houses a run for their money. Also, New Mexico's Gruet Winery is a new discovery that won't disappoint - surprisingly!

Here are some of my favorites to share with your friends:

France
NV Pierre Boniface Les Rocailles Brut de Savoie ($15-$19) Jacquère, Altesse, Chardonnay. As crisp as a day in the French Alps, and much more affordable!

2007 Domaine Clavelin Brut Comté Chardonnay, Cremant de Jura ($15-$19) Chardonnay. Rich and commanding, with toasty notes of baked apples and lemons.

Spain
2006 Gramona Gran Cuvée, Cava, Penedes ($15-$21) Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Chardonnay. Creamy and full-bodied, with layers of flavors.

Italy
NV San Giovanni Prosecco di Valdobbiadene DOC, Veneto ($18) Prosecco.

Fruity and light-hearted, but flavorful enough to stand up to anything.

United States
NV Gruet Blanc de Noirs, New Mexico ($13.75) Pinot Noir.

Medium bodied and perfectly balanced, with flavors of yellow apples, citrus flowers, and biscuits.
2002 Roederer Estate L'Hermitage, Anderson Valley, California ($45) Chardonnay, Pinot Noir. Powerful and elegant. Full-bodied, with commanding and complex flavors of fruit, flowers, fresh cream, and toast. Can stand up to a steak, but delicate enough not to overpower anything.

Cheers!

Holiday Rum Cake Recipe

2009-12-14T16:27:00.006-05:00

Go "beyond the bar" this holiday season...

Cooking with wine and spirits can be a unique enhancement to an average weekday meal, or a grand special occasion. Try this recipe for Bacardi's Original Rum Cake to WOW your guests and instantly add a little holiday cheer to your next soiree. Bake one to enjoy with your family and friends and a few more to give as unique holiday gifts!

Bacardi Rum Cake:
1/2 cup Bacardi Gold Rum
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 - 18 1/2oz pkg yellow cake mix
1 - 3 1/2 oz pkg vanilla instant pudding mix
4 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup cold water

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan or 10-cup tube pan. Sprinkle nuts over bottom of pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, Bacardi Gold Rum, oil & water. Using an electric mixer, beat at low speed until moistened. Beat at high speed 2 minutes. Pour batter over nuts. Bake 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes, then invert onto serving plate.

Glaze:
1/2 cup Bacardi Gold Rum
1/2 stick butter
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup water

Melt butter in saucepan. Stir in sugar, water & Bacardi Gold Rum. Boil 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Prick top of the cake with a fork. Spoon and brush glaze evenly over top and sides. Allow cake to absorb glaze. Repeat until all glaze is absorbed.

NEW: Join the Virtual Grape, a new social network connecting Atlanta wine lovers and foodies. Post a profile, get exclusive event invitations, share your best recipes, get wine tasting tips, and more! http://virtualgrape.ning.com/

Cheers!

Holiday Style Soiree Photos!

2009-12-09T17:08:00.006-05:00

The Grape Girls and fashion stylist Amanda Atkins "decked the halls" of Bloomingdale's Perimeter Mall on December 2nd to spread a little holiday cheer! The event featured exquisite wines from Montaluce Winery and Two Friends Imports, styling tips, informal models, sweet treats by Chay J's New Orleans Candies, hot shopping deals and cool door prizes.

Click here to view event pics.

Featured Wines:

WHITE WINE FLIGHT
2008 Montaluce, Viognier
2008 Montaluce, Chardonnay
2007 Bovin Chardonnay

RED WINE FLIGHT
2005 Popova Kula, Vranec
2005 Popova Kula, Merlot
2005 Popova Kula, Cabernet Sauvignon
2008 Montaluce, Cabernet Sauvignon

BONUS: Tree of Life Pomegranate Wine

Don't miss our next "Grape" event! Click here to join our email list today.

Cheers!

Fun & Fashion at Festivity Boutique!

2009-11-30T23:21:00.005-05:00

Thanks for joining us for Shop for a Cause on Nov. 19th at Festivity Boutique in Buckhead!

The Grape Girls joined Ginger Emas, author of Back On Top - Fearless Dating After Divorce, for a unique charity shopping event to benefit the Atlanta Women's Foundation.

The event featured a wine tasting and preview of Tree of Life's pomegranate wine (3 times the antioxidants of other red wines!), makeovers, fabulous door prizes and great shopping deals.

Click here to view event pics.

UPCOMING EVENT:

Wednesday, December 2, 5-8pm

Holiday Style Soiree & Wine Tasting

Bloomingdale's Perimeter Mall

YES Level 2

RSVP required, click here for details.

NEW:

Join the Virtual Grape social network and connect with Atlanta foodies and wine lovers! Create a profile, get exclusive event invitations, share news and more: http://virtualgrape.ning.com.

Cheers!

Red & White Friday - Skip the Mall Madness!

2009-11-26T00:31:00.008-05:00

Skip the Black Friday mall madness and enjoy our stress-free Red & White Friday special!

We have the perfect holiday gift for that special wine lover in your life who has everything. A Grape Gurus Wine Club membership is the perfect opportunity to expand or develop your love of wine. Whether you or your fave wineaux is an industry veteran, a foodie or hobbyist, or simply enjoys the occasional glass of vino - membership has its benefits!

Grape Gurus enjoy:

*FREE and discounted wine tastings, wine dinners and special events
*Wine education opportunities
*Advance notice of special events and travel excursions with priority registration status
*Discounts at affiliated restaurants and businesses (NEW in 2010)
*Complimentary welcome gift and more

Red & White Friday Special Offer: (click to purchase)

$49.00 - (Single) Grape Gurus Annual Membership
$69.00 - (Couples) Grape Gurus Annual Membership

Our discounted 12 month memberships are over a $250 value!
Gift certificates are available. Offer is valid thru Friday, December 4, 2009.

Thanksgiving Delights

2009-11-25T16:37:00.003-05:00

DID YOU KNOW? American wine drinkers consume more wine on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year. Wow!

On Thanksgiving Day we’re thankful for Our blessings all year through,

For family we dearly love,

For good friends, old and new.

For sun to light and warm our days,

For stars that glow at night,

For trees of green and skies of blue,

And puffy clouds of white.

We’re grateful for our eyes that see

The beauty all around,

For arms to hug, and legs to walk,

And ears to hear each sound.

The list of all we’re grateful for

Would fill a great big book;

Our thankful hearts find new delights

Everywhere we look!

Happy Thanksgiving from the Grape Girls!

Please be safe and drink responsibly.

Holiday Style Soiree & Wine Tasting

2009-11-25T15:37:00.005-05:00

"Holiday Style Soiree" with the Grape Girls & ALA Styles

Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Bloomingdale's Perimeter Mall
YES Level 2, 5-8PM

Learn how to make over your look so you sparkle and shine in every holiday setting. Join us as we launch the fabulous style of Amanda Atkins, Atlanta's newest "Rachel Zoe" inspired style maven. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting with the Grape Girls and enter to win a FREE home or office wine tasting party courtesy of Grape Crush Productions.

RSVP: Send an email to VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com with your full name and primary email address, along with the names of your guests no later than Dec. 1st.

Shop for a Cause with the Grape Girls!

2009-11-16T18:26:00.010-05:00

Click here to enlarge or visit the Virtual Grape social network for details.

2009 Midtown Atlanta Shop & Dine Week

2009-11-13T14:46:00.002-05:00

Come Shop, Dine and Stay in Midtown Atlanta!

The trendy restaurants and retailers of Midtown Atlanta have joined forces to present the 2009 Midtown Atlanta Shop & Dine Week, November 13-22. Atlantans are encouraged to spend the day and night in Midtown shopping, dining and enjoying cultural activities. Participating fine dining restaurants are offering 3-course meals for $25 per person, plus tax and gratuity; casual restaurants are featuring two meals for $25, plus tax and gratuity. Retail shops, hotels and cultural attractions are featuring discounted rates and fees. Offers will vary at each participating business.

For a complete list of the participating establishments and the special menus or discounts they are featuring, please click here or visit http://www.midtownatlantashopanddineweek.com.

Esquire Magazine Invites You to Celebrate Paces 88 at The St. Regis!

2009-11-09T13:22:00.009-05:00

You're Invited!

Thursday, Nov. 12 from 6-9pm

Paces 88 - The St. Regis Atlanta

John Mariani, Esquire Magazine's Food and Travel Correspondent & Mark Alba, Chef De Cuisine, invite Grape Crush VIP's to celebrate Paces 88 - recently named to Esquire's Best New Restaurants in America list!

Savor a selection of hors d'oeuvres created by the St. Regis Atlanta Culinary Team. Festive attire, must be 21 and older.

RSVP is required. The guest list is extremely limited, you will be notified if you are confirmed for the list. Mailto: VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com no later than Wednesday at Noon.

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SNEAK PEEK - Check out The Virtual Grape - a new social network connecting Atlanta's wine lovers and foodies! Create a profile, share news and stay updated on local tastings and events.

http://virtualgrape.ning.com/

Wine is the Ultimate Health Drink!

2009-11-09T00:22:00.006-05:00

"Among the dietary beverages used by man through the centuries, the next in importance to milk has been wine."

~Dr. Salvatore Lucia, professor of medicine at the University of California School of Medicine

It has been said that wine is mankind's most ancient medicine. Cheers to that indeed!

There are few passions in life that are both enjoyable and beneficial to health at the same time. It is perhaps why wine drinking is becoming such a fad in even the non-traditional regions of the world. While there were initial claims that the benefits of wine were folklore created by wine makers to propagate wine drinking, increasing research by many reputable research centers have concluded that it is indeed true. In fact, they've discovered many benefits of wine.

Here are some of them:

Heart Disease: Wine is a vasodilator that helps reduce the risk of cardiac diseases including angina and stroke. It helps in two ways. Red wines have HDL (a good cholesterol) that drives the bad cholesterol from the arteries. Red wine also contains an antifungal compound called Resveratrol that can lower serum cholesterol.

Digestion: Wine stimulates flow of gastric juices to enhance the digestive processes. It has also shown that wines kill cholera bacteria and can combat typhoid.

Vitamins and Minerals: Wine contains utilizable minerals of potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, Vitamin B and P.

Viruses: Red wines have polyphenols that are effective against some viruses.

Aging: Elderly people who drink moderate amounts are less prone to disability due to mental illness. Some attribute it to the mineral boron which helps older women to maintain their estrogen which in turn enables them to absorb calcium.

Cancer: Red wine contains a strong anti-cancer agent known as quercetin which becomes active in the body when the grape juice ferments or the body digests food. Wine also contains gallic acid, an acknowledged anti-carcinogenic.

Stress: Wine is a mild tranquilizer that can help reduce stress, which in turn can help prevent certain forms of cancer and other illnesses.

Kidney: Wine can enhance the alkaline reserves, effectively combating kidney acidosis.

Migraine: Red wine inhibits an enzyme called PST-P which detoxifies all sorts of bacteria in the stomach. The absence of PST-P is linked to migraine.

As with all beverages containing alcohol, don't overindulge and please don't drink and drive.

Cheers!

8th Annual Decatur Wine Tasting Festival

2009-11-07T13:23:00.004-05:00

The Decatur Arts Alliance and Decatur Package Store host the 8th Annual Decatur WineTasting Festival on Saturday, November 7th from 1pm until 4pm. The event is located downtown on the Old Courthouse Square in Decatur, Ga. Festival guests will enjoy over 350 wines from around the world, samples from area restaurants and live music. Attendes are encouraged to use Marta - it's Smarta and Green!

Click here to read the full story!

The Proper Wine Glass

2009-11-06T15:36:00.010-05:00

As a Grape Girl, I firmly believe there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to enjoying wine. We like what we like! However, there are some things you can do to enhance your tasting experience. Serving wine in the proper glass is one of them!

Pairing wine with the proper glass can be just as important as the food pairing or even the wine itself. If you are at a public tasting event or hosting a large dinner party, you might not have the opportunity to select the proper glass, but try to make the effort when possible.

Here are a few tips:

12 oz. White Wine - Sauvignon Blanc
Designed to offer a long finish to this dry, elegant, herbaceous wine.

14 oz. White Wine - Chardonnay
Shaped to highlight the wine's velvety, supple texture, this glass emphasizes the fruitiness and ensures a long, balanced finish.

20 oz. Red Wine - Bordeaux, Cabernet, Merlot
Designed to bring out the full flavor of these complex red wines, the tulip shape is the perfect, all-purpose glass, superb for white wines, too.

22 oz. Red Wine - Burgundy, Pinot Noir
Designed to highlight the rich fruit and calm the acidity, the large bowl captures the wine's aromatic nuances.

DID YOU KNOW?

When pouring wine only one-third of the glass is meant to be filled, the perfect amount for swirling, sniffing and savoring wine!

UPCOMING EVENT:

Pre-Holiday Wine Mixer

You're Invited to Sip-Off the Holiday Party Season in Style!

November 18th from 6-8PM at WineStyles

Early bird ticket sale ends Monday, Nov.9th
http://www.winemixer.eventbrite.com/

Cheers!

Bloomingdale's Shopping Benefit

2009-11-05T11:17:00.013-05:00

Thanks for attending the Grape Girls wine tasting at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square Mall on October 29th - a "grape" time was had by all!

(Photos by Laura Deas)

In addition to sampling exquisite wines from Montaluce and Tree of Life, along with tasty treats from Lenox Square Grill, our audience was treated to fashion shows, makeovers, merchandise discounts and more. Local author D ebra Shigley was even on-site to greet guests and sign copies of her new book The Go-Getter Girl's Guide: Get What You Want in Work and Life (and Look Great While You're at It).

Featured wines:

2008 MONTALUCE, VIOGNIER
The Northern Rhones premier white grape has clearly found a home in North Georgia as evidenced by Montaluces first Viognier. The delicate perfume suggests ripe peaches, apricots and acacia. On the palate, the wine is surprisingly rich and nearly full-bodied, delivering flavors of tangerine, baked apples with nuances of sweet spice. Stylish and beautiful, try this fresh white with rich seafood dishes or as an aperitif.

2008 MONTALUCE, CHARDONNAY
Aromas of green apples, pear and lemon zest announce the arrival of Montaluces inaugural Chardonnay release. What follows are nuances of smoke, walnut and honeysuckle. On the palate, the soft texture is supported by ample acidity and persistent fruit flavors while picking up distinctive slate mineral notes. Exceptional balance and an impressive finish make this crisp white a table worthy candidate for poultry, fish and fresh summer salads.

2008 MONTALUCE, CABERNET SAUVIGNON
After spending three months in an oak barrel, this Cabernet has had ample time to nurture a delightful dark chocolate note. The deep violet color is a testament that North Georgia ecology has passed the muster for Cabernet cultivation. A great companion to hearty beef dishes like pot roast and stews, grilled meats, and even chocolate desserts.

TREE OF LIFE, POMEGRANATE WINE
Up to 3 times more antioxidants than red wine!

This wine is perfect served chilled on its own or blended with your favorite mixers. It makes great wine spritzers, mix it with champagne or even make a wine punch! Pair the wine with soft cheeses, chicken dishes and even chocolate.

The event supported the following nonprofit organizations:

Amy's Holiday Party - Atlanta Film Festival - Atlanta Union Mission, My Sister's House - Bright Futures Atlanta - Chemoflage, Inc. - Girl Talk - HERO for Children, Inc. - Kate's Club - Senior Connections - Shallowford Presbyterian Preschool - Share Our Strength - Shepard Center Auxiliary - St. Jude's Recovery Center, Inc. - Students Without Mothers -Young Survival Coalition

Cheers!

You're Invited: Pre-Holiday Wine Mixer!

2009-11-03T18:41:00.010-05:00

Sip-Off the Holiday Party Season at WineStyles on November 18th!

Join the Grape Girls to explore fine wines, artisan cheese and delectable desserts while mingling with local wine enthusiasts. Plus, make a donation to our food drive for your chance to win fabulous door prizes including a FREE home or office private wine tasting party! Click here for more information or visit http://winemixer.eventbrite.com/.

Sip and savor fine wines
Learn how to select cheeses to complement your favorite wines
Sample delicious desserts and place holiday orders
Donate to our food drive
Purchase specialty wine gifts
Live entertainment
Door prizes
and much more!

Early bird tickets are only $15, special offer ends Monday, November 9th. Click here to purchase a ticket and help us spread a little holiday cheer. Food donations benefit the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Complimentary admission for Grape Gurus wine club members - RSVP by Nov. 16th: VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com.

Not a member? Click here to join today and reap the rewards! The Wine Stimulus Plan ends November 30th so consider giving the gift of an exclusive club membership - gift certificates are available.

Come on out to mix and mingle with local wine enthusiasts - all for a good cause!

Ask the Grape Girls: Wine & Spaghetti?

2009-11-02T13:00:00.004-05:00

QUESTION
Bobby A. wrote: Hi Ladies, I had a great time at your wine tasting at Bloomingdale's. You mentioned that you would recommend wines to drink with meals and local stores to purchase the wines from. I've been having a taste for turkey spaghetti, what would be the perfect wine pairing? Thanks!

ANSWER
Hi Bobby, thanks for attending the event. Nothing bridges the gap from Fall to Winter like a hearty pasta dish and a great glass of wine! Substituting turkey for beef is a nice twist on a classic spaghetti dish and great for the waist line too. Normal pairings with pasta and meat sauce are chianti, merlot, cabernet and shiraz. Turkey will of course lighten up the dish so you might even try a pinot noir or experiment with a white wine. However, the real answer to your question lays in the sauce! Is it tangy, herbaceous, or acidic? Is it cheesy or loaded down with veggies? Here are a few wine pairing suggestions based on the type of pasta sauce you fancy:

Butter and cheese: Chianti or Barbera

Garlic, olive oil, parsley, hot pepper flakes: Pinot Grigio

Basil pesto: Cabernet Sauvignon

Fresh goat cheese, peas, mint: Sauvignon Blanc

Fresh tomatoes and basil: Sangiovese

Pancetta, onions, garlic, canned tomatoes: Syrah

Mushrooms, prosciutto, canned tomatoes: Zinfandel

Once you have narrowed down the elements of your sauce, take the above recommendation to your local wine retailer. A knowledgeable employee can help you pick the best varietal based on your budget and taste. Try Colors of Wine , Total Wine & More or WineStyles - all have fabulous selections and great staff.

What's on YOUR mind? If you've got a question for the Grape Girls, just send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com and you could be included in an upcoming blog post!

Introducing Lenox Square Grill!

2009-10-28T10:02:00.005-04:00

Grape Crush Productions welcomes new partner - Lenox Square Grill!

The new Buckhead eatery is a concept from CentraArchy, the company that brought Atlantans The Tavern at Phipps, Joey D's, and New York Prime.The full-service restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in a lively, stylish atmosphere and since opening this Fall has quickly come a celebrity spotting site. The menu features imaginative, yet classic comfort foods such as the signature Mac Skillets - Cajun Shrimp, Barbecue Chicken, or Cheeseburger - the creative side of homemade macaroni and cheese. The signature cocktails and great wine list make it a new favorite for both business gatherings and social events alike.

Lenox Square Grill is located at Lenox Square Mall in the space formerly occupied by Clubhouse. It features seating for more than 300 guests, an extensive outdoor patio and private dining rooms.

Location: 3393 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30326

Phone: 404.841.2377

They're open daily until 2a.m. and have a live DJ on the weekends. The Grape Girls invite you to sample tasty tidbits from Lenox Square Grill at Bloomingdale's Shopping Benefit (Lenox Square Mall) on October 29th and other upcoming events. RSVP required - click here to visit our blog for more information.

We'll see YOU there!

Introducing Montaluce Winery!

2009-10-27T20:13:00.005-04:00

Grape Crush Productions welcomes new partner - Montaluce Winery & Estates located on the Dahlonega Plateau, one of the emerging wine-growing regions of the United States!

Blessed with some of the steepest, well-drained hillsides to be found in the U.S., North Georgia's topography, elevation, and long growing season creates an extraordinarily climate well-suited for premium wine grape cultivation. This climate, coupled with the classic "Terra Rosa"

wine- growing soils of the region, serves as the foundation for the new wave of Georgia vintners producing wines of truly exceptional quality. Montaluce is North Georgia's finest!

The more than 35 acres of Montaluce's vineyards include varieties of premium vinifera grapes including, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Sangiovese, and others. Montaluce is dedicated to growing and making premium wines which compete favorably with artisan wines around the world.

The Grape Girls invite you to sample the quality and taste of Montaluce at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square Mall on Thursday, Oct. 29th from 5-8pm in the Ladies Shoe Department for THE SHOPPING BENEFIT. RSVP required, send an email to VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com by Thursday at Noon. Be sure to state your full name, guest names, email address and phone number. Must be 21 and older to participate. Click here for more information.

Cheers!

Wine-Down at Bloomingdale's on Oct. 29th!

2009-10-23T12:50:00.003-04:00

THE SHOPPING BENEFIT
Fashion, Fun & Fundraising!
Thursday, October 29, 2009

Bloomingdale's at Lenox Square Mall hosts its 12th annual charity shopping night to benefit nonprofit organizations in Atlanta. Join the Grape Girls from 5-8pm in the Ladies Shoe Department (Level 2) for a sampling of fine wines. Plus, you could be the lucky winner of a private home or office wine tasting party!

Your $10 donation to one of the featured local nonprofits at the event that evening gives you access to complimentary:

Fine Wine and Food Pairings
Book Signings
Fashion Shows
Live Entertainment
Makeovers & Pampering
Merchandise Discounts
Prizes, Giveaways & More!

Featured Nonprofits:

Amy's Holiday Party
Atlanta Film Festival
Atlanta Union Mission, My Sister's House
Bright Futures Atlanta
Chemoflage, Inc.
Girl Talk
HERO for Children, Inc.
Kate's Club
Senior Connections
Shallowford Presbyterian Preschool
Share Our Strength
Shepard Center Auxiliary
St. Jude's Recovery Center, Inc.
Students Without Mothers
Young Survival Coalition

Click here for more information. RSVP required for wine tasting, please send an email to VIP@GrapeCrushEvents.com. Be sure to state your full name, guest names, email address and phone number. Must be 21 and older to participate. Space is limited, RSVP today!

Give a little, Get a lot!

How-To Host a Wicked Wine Tasting Party!

2009-10-18T19:02:00.018-04:00

I vant to drink your vine...

Host a wicked wine tasting party in 5 easy steps:

Invitations - Get crafty and make your own wine bottle shaped party invitations. Use construction paper or poster board, flat sheets of cork to make a life-like cork stopper for the top, a label in the middle of the "bottle" should provide party details.
Decor - Create your very own haunted wine cellar with equal amounts of sophistication and spook factor. Use old wooden barrels to hold platters of food and wine and decorate with large glass jars, grapes, pumpkins, gourds, faux leaves, lots of candles and scary touches like fake spider webs and spiders.
Food - Set up a nice assortment of fruit, cheese, crackers, bread, nuts and a few heavier appetizers (think stuffed mushrooms or a hearty pumpkin soup). Be sure to label your assortment with toothpicks that have labels attached - use a ghoulish computer font or eerie hand writing for maximum effect!
Wine - Use an old wooden door, wine crates or designate a large coffee table to display your wicked wine collection. Be sure to include some spooky brands like Vampire Wines (from Transylvania!), Poizin Zinfandel (comes in a coffin shaped box), Owen Roe Sinister Hand or Evil Cabernet Sauvignon. Add some dry ice to the display area for a ghostly effect!
Attention to Detail - Be sure to have great music, lots of candy, plenty of dump buckets and bottled waters handy. Place small gift bags or containers near your candy station so guests can help themsleves to take-home treats as parting gifts.

Wine & Candy Pairing Tips:

• Almond Joy and Sparkling Wine

• Snickers and Sangiovese

• Three Musketeers and Ice Dessert Wine

• Hershey’s Dark Chocolate and Syrah

• Caramel Apples and Sauvignon Blanc

• Candy Corn and Chardonnay

With these spook-tacular tips from the Grape Girls you are sure to pull off the perfect Halloween wine party. So, dress up, party down and enjoy the wine. Cheers!

Pinot, Pearls & Poker: Facebook Pre-Sale Ends Saturday!

2009-10-15T13:10:00.009-04:00

The Grape Girls Present...

Pinot, Pearls & Poker

A Sophisticated Ladies Night Out

Saturday, December 12th at 6PM
-Private Event Location-

5 Wines - 5 Cards - 5 Times the fun!

Pinot, Pearls & Poker offers all the fun, glitz, mystery and thrills of Sin City without the risk:

*Interact with other fabulous women

*Explore the country's "trendiest" grape and enjoy tasty treats

*Learn the basics of poker or advance your game

*Win cool prizes for the best (and worst!) hands

*VIP "Lady Luck" spa lounge and deluxe goodie bags

Ante Up for a unique wine tasting fundraiser featuring a fun-filled evening of games, girlfriends and good times! The event benefits Atlanta's Young Survival Coalition (YSC).

YSC Greater Metro Atlanta was formed at the end of 2000 by a 22-year old college student facing a breast cancer diagnosis. YSC Atlanta currently serves 11 counties in the Metro Atlanta area. They focus on education and outreach opportunities and provide peer-to-peer support for newly diagnosed young women. YSC Atlanta provides educational programs, support and long term survivorship planning for a young woman from the moment she is diagnosed throughout her life. For details, visit www.youngsurvival.org/atlanta.

FACEBOOK PREVIEW SALE: Use our special discount code GGYSC to save $10 off ALL ticket levels - this week only!! Special offer ends October 17, 2009. Visit www.ppp.eventbrite.com for tickets and more info. Click here to fan us on Facebook!

Don't delay, purchase your event ticket today!

Two Great Foodie Festivals!

2009-10-14T13:24:00.015-04:00

So, 2 of my favorite food and wine events have come and gone! Harvest Midtown was held on October 4th and Taste of Atlanta took place October 10th & 11th - both in new locations this year. Click here to visit our Facebook fan page and view photo albums.

The 6th Annual Harvest Midtown Festival moved to the newly renovated Georgian Terrace hotel and took over ballrooms, mezzanines and terraces for the day. The event gave oenophiles the opportunity to select samples from some 200 wines and tastes from the city's top intown chefs. In between sips and bites, Harvest M idtown presented a variety of live entertainment, vendors and art for the enjoyment of all. An elegant hotel with fabulous food and wine on display - all overlooking the lively Peachtree Street in Midtown - if only I could spend every Sunday this way!

The 8th Annual Taste of Atlanta was truly a foodies delight! The 2 day outdoor festival encompassed eight acres and ten city blocks of Tech Square in the heart of midtown. Taste of Atlanta featured more than 80 of Atlanta's finest restaurants, cooking demos from local and national celebrity chefs, a "farm to table" market, kids activities and more. Grape Crush Productions was an official partner of the highly anticipated VIP Wine & Beer Experience and provided 200 enthusiastic volunteers! I had the opportunity to "talk wine" with Atlanta's leading experts including Gil Kulers, Atlanta Journal Constitution wine columnist, and Gina Hopkins, sommelier and owner of Holeman & Finch Public House and Restaurant Eugene. Gil and Gina's engaging seminar - King of Pinot: Burgandy vs. Oregon - even sparked a 2010 Grape Escape. Hopefully you can come with us to explore Oregon's renowned pinot noirs - stay tuned for details!

Click here to join our mailing list to stay "sipped in" on upcoming food and wine event news. Click here to view more event photos.

Cheers!

We've been nominated...

2009-10-07T17:16:00.014-04:00

Wow, we've been nominated for Atlanta Tribune's People's Choice Award as Atlanta's BEST specialty business of 2009. Please help us by submitting a supporting nomination via email, it only takes a few seconds!

Grape Crush Productions is a minority and female owned mobile wine tasting service. The Grape Girls specialize in wine tastings, events, education and excursions. We are the creators and producers of Atlanta Food & Wine Month (held each April) and the Winter Wine & Jazz Festival. We are also partners with the City of Atlanta (Office of Cultural Affairs), Taste of Atlanta (VIP Wine & Beer Experience), Taste of Marietta and support other local, regional and national festivals and cultural events.

As the leaders in food and wine themed special events and fundraisers, we pride ourselves on bringing the “tasting room” to living rooms, offices and venues all across the country. Wine tasting events are great traffic drivers for businesses of all types, and perfect for home parties too!

Please email your supporting nomination today! Simply cut and paste the following information into an email if you think we are the BEST of 2009:

Grape Crush Productions - Best Specialty Business
Wine Tastings, Events, Education & Excursions!
Contact: Kyla Cox, 770.579.0808
Email: info@GrapeCrushEvents.com
Web: www.GrapeCrushEvents.com

###

Mail your nomination to kmines@atlantatribune.com by October 23, 2009. Be sure to include our website and email address.

Thanks for your support. Cheers!

Wine Enthusiast Mag Announces Top 100 Wines Under $15!

2009-10-07T15:17:00.005-04:00

Wine Enthusiast Magazine editors select the best value-priced wines of the year!

The November 2009 issue announces the Top 100 Best Wine Buys. The tasting panel’s job is to "blind" judge and rate wines based purely on quality, with no inkling of producer or price. Lucky for us, these are economical finds - all wines on the list are $15 or less! Only about 10% of the 10,000 wines they review annually merit the "Best Buy" designation, so enjoy these fantastic finds.

Didn't think you could find an outstanding Cabernet for $15, or a knockout Sauvignon Blanc that won’t break the bank? Well, you can!

Click here to view the full list or visit www.wineenthusiast.com/templates/2009_BestBuy.pdf.

A Guide to Wine (and Beer!) Tasting

2009-10-05T23:50:00.006-04:00

Today was a great day! We conducted orientation for 100+ Taste of Atlanta VIP Wine & Beer Experience volunteers. Taste of Atlanta is a 2-day outdoor food festival at Technology Square in Midtown encompassing eight acres & ten city blocks including Spring Street and 5th Street.

Enhance your VIP Experience by knowing the basic steps to wine and beer tasting:

How to Taste Wine - Know the 4 S’s!

1. See - Observe the color and clarity of the wine. Notice if the wine is clear and brilliant or cloudy and dull. Notice the depth of color. Is it watery and pale or deep and dark? Looking straight down into the glass, can you see the bottom? White wines vary from clear, through light green and all shades of yellow, to deep golden brown. They naturally gain color as they age. Red wines range from red, ruby to purple, garnet and brick. As they age, they lose color and begin to brown. Also, observe the body of the wine by the way it coats the sides of the glass. If the "legs" trickle down slowly, it has more body. If it falls down in sheets, it has less body.

2. Swirl - Swirling wine in the glass exposes it to a larger surface area. This increases wine’s contact with air and intensifies its aromas. Swirl your wine by holding the glass by the base or by the stem.

3. Smell - What is the very first thing you think of when you smell wine? The smell of wine is referred to as its nose, bouquet or aroma. Common aromas include different fruits, spices, herbs and flowers. While different people will smell different things in the same wine, there are general smells specific to certain varieties. Be sure to smell the wine several times. A wine with great complexity will offer different aromas each time, as well as several scents at one time. There are hundreds of smells in wine!

4. Sip - The overall "taste" of a wine is a combination of smells and flavors, so don't skip the smelling stage to get to the tasting. Different parts of your tongue are designed to taste different things! Roll the wine across your taste buds, keeping in mind that a balance of the following characteristics is ideal: Body, Acidity, Tannin, Sweetness (if there is no perceived sweetness, a wine is "dry") and Fruitiness.

After sipping, either swallow or spit (perfectly acceptable)! The better the wine, the more defined the finish. Good finish will linger on your palate for quite some time and will reflect the flavors of the wine or have flavors on its own.

How to Taste Beer – 5 Easy Steps!

Just as in wine, one tastes beer to appreciate its qualities. Observe the color, the head, the aroma and the bouquet, the multiple aspects of its flavor and the aftertaste.

1. Appearance - Note whether the head is dense or thin. Heads are sometimes described as rocky if they are especially dense with dips and peaks forming as some of the bubbles pop. The color of the head is also worth noting and can range from pure white on Pilsners to light or medium brown on some stouts and porters. Examine the appearance of the beer itself. Hold the glass up to the light and note the color and whether it is cloudy or clear.

2. Aroma - Note whether it smells primarily of hops or malt. Generally speaking light colored beers will smell more of hops while darker beers tend to have a pronounced malt, roasted, chocolate or coffee aroma. Many ales have a hard to pin down spiciness or fruitiness from their yeasts. Take your time with the aroma. Try to take three good sniffs before your first sip. If you're taking notes, stop to write your impressions before the first sip distracts you.

3. First Sip - When taking your first sip, try to note the initial sensation as the beer enters your mouth. Think about whether it is sweet, bitter or something else. Beer, especially ale, can be very complex. There can be quite a difference between the first taste and the finish.

4. Mouthfeel - This is the texture of the beer or how it physically feels in your mouth. Beer ranges from silky dry stouts, to thick and chewy Scotch ales to thin and fizzy Berliner weisses. This is an important characteristic of a beer.

5. Finish - Note the lingering flavors after you swallow the drink. Often it can be bitter from the hops or a lingering malty sweetness.

TIPS:

Cleanse the palate with water or crackers between tastings. If you're tasting a number of different wines or beers, let the color be your guide. It is best to taste from light to dark with both beer and wine.

NOTE:

Use our special discount code GRAPE to save $5 off VIP or General Admission tickets! Click here for complete details and to purchase tickets or visit http://www.tasteofatlanta.com/.

Our Grape Escape was a Hit!

2009-10-03T09:22:00.005-04:00

Last Saturday The Grape Girls hosted a Grape Escape to Wine Over Water in Chattanooga, TN. We had the best time and the weather even held out for us.

The day started off with a nice coach bus picking us all up and before taking off having a wine toast to a great trip. The trip over to Chattanooga was a little wet outside but inside was full of laughter and games to get to know everyone. After the short trip we got to Chattanooga where the festival was held on the Walnut Street Bridge over the Tennessee River. We were then able to taste some great wines and food as we walked on the bridge--in all there were over 200 wineries in attendance. Some of my new favorites:

Legado Malbec
Ortman Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Ortman Cuvee Eddy
Michael-David Incognito Rouge (Red Blend)
Candor Merlot
Penelope Sanchez Garnacha-Syrah
La Mano Mencia Roble

To finish the trip back, we all relaxed while watching the movie Sideways.

Some comments from those that went on our first Grape Escape:
"Sippin' Sistas had a blast, thanks again Grape Girls for such a well organized trip. We're looking forward to the next Grape Escape! Cheers! "

"Thanks again Grape Girls! BTW Gerri, Sippin' Sistas are so stealing that Ice Breaker game that we played on the way to Tenn! That was a blast."

"The Grape Escape trip was a blast! I am looking forward to the next event. Thanks to you all."

"I had the time of my wine life!"

You won't want to miss our next Grape Escape either! Cheers!

Get a Taste of Atlanta!

2009-10-01T09:35:00.009-04:00

Grape Crush Productions is a proud partner of Taste of Atlanta's VIP Wine & Beer Experience!

We invite you to enjoy the ultimate experience
at Taste of Atlanta 2009 - upgrade to a VIP pass for this year's event!

Click here to use our special discount code GRAPE to save $5 OFF your VIP or General Admission tickets!

VIP ticket holders will enjoy the exclusive Wine & Beer Experience featuring scheduled seminars led by top industry professionals, tastings from more than 100 different wine varietals and beer types not to mention tastes from some of Atlanta most prestigious restaurants. You'll also receive 5 bonus Taste Coupons (total of 20) and the first 500 VIP ticket holders on site each day will receive Taste of Atlanta's VIP gift bag filled with special merchandise, samples and discount offers.

The series of scheduled wine seminars will cover a diverse array of topics. Limited to 60 people per session, patrons will be able to sample select wines and beers, along with food pairings from Taste of Atlanta restaurants, as the moderators and guest speakers discuss them. Seminar registration begins at 11:00 at the Seminar tent and spots will fill up early! The wine and beer seminars will be moderated by Gil Kulers and Bob Townsend. Gil Kulers is a Certified Wine Educator, writes the popular wine column, Kulers Uncorked, for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and is a contributor to Golf Index Digest magazine on all matters of food and wine. Bob Townsend has been writing about beer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for the better part of a decade and is currently editor of Southern Brew News, a bimonthly beer publication distributed throughout the Southeast.

Here's a sneak peek of topics and guest speakers:

Saturday, October 10

12:30 - 1:15
The Zen and the Art of Pairing Wine with Spicy Asian Dishes
Kristen Cooper Vinifera Wines
Tastings from Top Flr

2:00 - 2:45
The History of Sparkling Wine in 45 Minutes
Eric Crane

3:30 - 4:15
Chefs and Brewers, Ruminations on Beer and Food Recipes
Dave Larkworthy, 5 Seasons Brewing
John Roberts, Max Lagers

5:00 - 5:45
Farm to Cocktail
Greg Best, Holeman & Finch Public House
Eric Simpkins, DRINKSHOP

Sunday, October 11

12:30 - 1:15
The Kings of Pinot-Burgundy and Oregon
Gina Hopkins, Restaurant Eugene and Holeman & Finch Public House
Gil Kulers, WineKulers.com

2:00 - 2:45
Country Fried Wine-Powerful Pairings for Soulful Southern Food
Seth Roskind, 4th and Swift

3:30 - 4:15
Beer vs. Wine, A Food Pairing Showdown
Crawford Moran, 5 Seasons Brewing
Todd Rushing, Concentrics Restaurants

5:00 - 5:45
Single Malt & Scotch Whiskey Tasting
Michael McLaren, Chivas Brothers

Click here for full details on this year's Wine & Beer Experience. Don't forget, save $5 with our special discount code GRAPE!

VIP tickets are limited and generally sell out prior to the festival so get yours today! Tickets are on sale now at www.tasteofatlanta.com.

My First Grape Escape: Wine Over Water!

2009-09-21T13:29:00.011-04:00

Hello, my name is Saniyyah "Sunny" Griffin. I'm one of the newest additions to the Grape Crush Productions team as an Account Executive and today, I couldn't be more excited! Only five days stand between me and my chance to go on my very first Grape Escape wine excursion to Chattanooga, TN. Why Tennessee you ask? For "Wine Over Water" of course!

"Wine Over Water" is Tennessee's Premier wine-tasting festival, and with all proceeds benefiting Cornerstones for Historic Preservation in Chattanooga, you can drink to knowing your helping benefit a great cause. This Saturday, we'll take the two-hour ride from Atlanta, (in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle), to beautiful Chattanooga. Upon arrival, we'll stroll Chattanooga's historic Walnut Street Bridge spanning the scenic Tennessee River – one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges – while sampling wines from over 100 world wineries. The annual festival features top wineries, live music, restaurant tastings and more! I am super excited! Three of my favorite things all in one: Wine, Water and Food! Now, that's my idea of an excursion!

If you aren't already, I encourage you to follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/grapegirls. I'll have a glass of vino in one hand and my PDA in the other, so I can give you all up-to-the minute updates via Twitter. I'll upload some great photos, show off the scenic views, and also tell you all about the great wines we're tasting.

Also, if you're interested in attending this awesome Grape Escape to Chattanooga, TN with the Grape Girls, then click here today! Late registration ends tomorrow, so there is still time. Only a few slots remain and we'd love for you to come out and take part in all the fun!

Cheers!

Sunny

Give a Little, Feed A Lot!

2009-09-15T22:42:00.005-04:00

Don't forget that September is Hunger Action Month. This is a very worthwhile cause with the Atlanta Community Food Bank so please participate in our virtual food drive if you have not done so. Click here to donate now!

Staggering facts about hunger in community:

Approximately 4.5 million different people receive emergency food assistance from the America's Second Harvest system in any given week.

36.4% of the members of households served by the A2H National Network are children under 18 years old.

8% of the members of households are children age 0 to 5 years.

10% of the members of households are elderly.

36% of households include at least one employed adult.

12% are homeless.

42% of clients served by the A2H National Network report having to choose between paying for food and paying for utilities or heating fuel.

35% had to choose between paying for food and paying their rent or mortgage.

32% had to choose between paying for food and paying for medicine or medical care.

Will Work for Wine

2009-09-14T11:52:00.010-04:00

WANTED: VOLUNTEERS FOR VIP WINE, BEER & COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE!

Grape Crush Productions is seeking experienced volunteers for the
VIP Wine, Beer & Cocktail Experience at Taste of Atlanta on October 10 and 11, 2009.

The popular foodie event features "tastes" from more than 80 of the city's best restaurants, cooking demonstrations from national and local celebrity chefs and live entertainment. The event will take place in an 8-block area of Tech Square located in the heart of Midtown.

A highlight of the 2009 festival is the Wine, Beer & Cocktail Experience, open only to VIP ticket holders over the age of 21. This Experience will feature a series of highly anticipated wine and beer tastings, along with mixology demonstrations, educational seminars and the semi-finals of the Taste of Atlanta Barcraft Competition.

This full-bodied VIP Experience pairs tasty cuisines with a wide selection of wines from around the world, the best brews and hand-crafted cocktails. Wine and beer enthusiasts and experienced volunteers are encouraged to register to help with this one-of-a-kind event. Volunteers are rewarded with "taste" coupons to enjoy the festival after their shift.

VOLUNTEER:
Interested participants should send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com for more information by September 16th.

TICKETS:
Purchase tickets at www.tasteofatlanta.com, or by
calling 1-877-725-8849.

DISCOUNT:
Use our special discount code GRAPE to save $5 OFF VIP or General Admission advance online tickets!

Taste of Atlanta 2009 promises to dish up flavors to satisfy every taste. So, grab a fork and a glass and prepare to stimulate your mind, body and taste buds!

September is Hunger Action Month

2009-09-01T12:18:00.004-04:00

Be a part of the solution. Participate in our virtual food drive, click here to donate now!

Everyone should have enough to eat, but there are many among us who don't. From children and the elderly to the working poor, hundreds of thousands of families and individuals in the Atlanta region are suffering from food insecurity and hunger.

More than 200 Feeding America food banks across the nation will participate in Hunger Action Month, a call-to-action for Americans to get involved in fighting hunger.

As part of Hunger Action Month, the Grape Girls are hosting our first-ever virtual food drive in support of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. So please, give a little to feed a lot! Any amount is appreciated. Click here to make a donation today.

FACT: 93 cents of every dollar donated to the Atlanta Community Food Bank goes directly to services in the community to help fight hunger. (ACFB, 2008)

Click here for more information or visit http://acfb.convio.net/grape_girls.

Wine Making Meets Reality TV

2009-08-12T15:15:00.008-04:00

Just when you were about to write off reality TV, here's come a new show that will make you think twice!

THE WINEMAKERS gives twelve men and women the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make their wildest dreams come true - to become a winemaker. Living in a house and facing various challenges, Big Brother style, the strangers compete for a chance to create and launch their own wine label nationwide. From viticulture and enology, to sales and marketing, the grueling challenges are devised by real world winemakers, as well as top chefs, sommeliers, restaurateurs and industry leaders. And they'll be judged every step of the way by some of the toughest critics around.

The stakes are high and the competition is fierce. But in the end, only one will earn the title they all aspire to - only one will become "The Winemaker". The show will begin airing nationwide on PBS in September 2009 during California Wine Month.

Click here for more info.

Cheers!

Get Cooking with Julia Child

2009-08-07T12:51:00.009-04:00

Meryl Streep is Julia Child and Amy Adams is Julie Powell in writer-director Nora Ephron's adaptation of two best selling memoirs: Powell's Julie & Julia and My Life in France, By Julia Child with Alex Prud'homme.

Julie & Julia, based on two true stories, intertwines the lives of two women who, though separated by time and space, are both at loose ends until discovering the recipe for success in life - passion, fearlessness and butter!

Don't miss this celebration of culinary legend Julia Child and her impact on an aspiring amateur cook - Julie & Julia opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, August 7, 2009.

Click here to view the trailer. Click here to tackle some challenging recipes.

Bon Appétit!

Grape Escape: Wine Over Water!

2009-08-03T20:10:00.001-04:00

COUNTDOWN

Join a Grape Team: Account Executives Wanted!

2009-08-03T15:24:00.006-04:00

Here we grow again! If you are results oriented, dedicated and ready to contribute - we want to talk to you...

Job Snapshot
Location: Based in Atlanta, GA
Type: Independent Contractor
Expertise: Hospitality, Sales & Marketing, Public Relations, Special Events

Education: 4 Year Degree
Experience: 5+ years
Contact Information: info@GrapeCrushEvents.com
Ref ID: Account Executive (GCP) – Atlanta

About Us
National Party Starters, a leading event planning, marketing and management firm, is looking to add new talent to our team. The company has built a solid reputation for providing cost-effective marketing programs, special events and consumer promotions to businesses of all types. We currently have career opportunities available within our newest division - Grape Crush Productions (GCP)!

GCP specializes in wine tastings, events, education and excursions. Our mission is to demystify the wine tasting experience, food pairing and selection process making great food and wine accessible to all. As we continue to grow our operations, we are looking for talented, passionate people with great ideas to join the team. We aim to create an environment that is supportive, diverse, and as fun as our brand. If you want direct compensation for your efforts, a challenging but fun business environment and no micro-management then this opportunity may be for you!

The Ideal Candidate
GCP Account Executives are extremely polished professionals responsible for the sales, marketing and management of wine tastings, culinary events, travel excursions and special programs across the nation. You will strategically develop and grow our client base within the hospitality, retail, nonprofit, auto and other designated industries. The ideal candidate is considered an industry expert, has a large sphere of influence and existing contacts in our niche markets, as well as a proven track record of growing and developing new business. Sponsorship sales experience is a plus. This is a great opportunity for a full-time career or 2nd income!

For a complete job description, send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com with an overview of your credentials.

Clo Wine Bar - Where Tasting Meets Technology

2009-07-30T14:51:00.012-04:00

Clo Wine Bar in NYC's Time Warner Center is the most high-tech wine bar in the world.

The people at Clo believe wine isn't just a beverage - it's an experience. The flagship location is an edgy, sleek, and vibrant space combining cutting-edge 21st century style with the intimacy and inviting ambiance of a wine cellar. Clo boasts stunning views of Columbus Circle and Central Park and is surrounded by world class restaurants - Per Se, Masa and Porterhouse.

Since opening in 2008, guests have flocked to this energetic space to interact and experiment with wine in a whole new way. A unique eno-tasting system is at the heart of Clo. A modern dispensing technology showcases more than 100 wine selections creating the opportunity for guests to sample, explore and enjoy 4 oz. tasting pours of a broad spectrum of wines from around the world. Featuring tables with interactive, wine-serving touch screen computers, customers can select vino by region, flavor, body, color and year until they get the perfect glass of wine. All the wine is self-service and stored under glass in a temperature-controlled wine preservation system.

Clo successfully integrates curation, education, technology and value to provide the customer with a truly unique wine experience. They also share a common goal with the Grape Girls - to make the world of wine engaging and accessible to everyone.

Clo Wine Bar
Time Warner Center
10 Columbus Circle, 4th Floor

New York, NY 10019
212.823.9898

Join us for Wine Over Water on Sept. 26th!

2009-07-27T18:27:00.006-04:00

WINE OVER WATER 2009
-Wine Tasting Day Trip-

Join the Grape Girls for a "grape escape" to Wine Over Water - Tennessee's premier wine-tasting festival! Early bird $99 rate ends on August 3, 2009.

Stroll Chattanooga's historic Walnut Street Bridge spanning the scenic Tennessee River – one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges – while sampling wines from over 100 world wineries. The annual festival features top wineries, live music, restaurant tastings and more!

This "Grape Escape" includes:

Central metro Atlanta meet-up location and secure parking
Complimentary glass of wine at check-in
Luxury, air-conditioned transportation to and from the event with snacks
A sampling of red, white, rosé and sparkling wines from around the globe
Commemorative wine goblet
Sample fare from area restaurants serving "tastes" on the bridge - restaurant fare is not included in the ticket price - taste tickets are available at the event
and much more!

Singles, couples and all levels of wine enthusiasts are welcome. Grape Guru wine club members receive an extra $10 OFF!

Departure Time: Meet at 2PM for check-in, depart at 2:30PM
Festival Info: 5-8PM
Return Time: Approximately 10PM
Departure and Return Location: You will receive detailed instructions prior to the trip
Bring: Cash for restaurant taste tickets and other festival activities (Wine tasting is included in the cost of the trip)
Wear: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate casual attire

Click here for more information, or visit http://www.winetrip.eventbrite.com/.

Cheers!

Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week 2009

2009-07-27T15:25:00.003-04:00

July 27 - August 9, 2009

Atlanta's most anticipated week is bigger, better and the perfect opportunity to explore Atlanta's culture thru its food! Many restaurants are offering special dining promotions of three-course dinners for $25.00 per person, plus tax and tip. Click here to read more.

Host a Home Wine Tasting Party!

2009-07-23T21:40:00.007-04:00

The Grape Girls are bringing the tasting room to your living room...

Hosting a private wine tasting is easy - and so much fun!

With the help of our wine consultants, you can turn your living room into a private winery. Simply invite your friends and family and we'll do all the work. At the wine tasting, you and your guests will enjoy sampling exclusive limited-production wines not available in stores. And did we mention the rewards? Just for opening your home you will also receive special discounts on wine, special host gifts, and seasonal recipes.

When you host a private home tasting, you'll discover our fabulous selection of wines, catch-up with friends and family, and experience for yourself a taste of wine country living right at home!

Wine tasting parties are great for:

Anniversary and Birthday celebrations

Girls/Guys "Night In"

Showers

Weddings

Any excuse to get together with family and friends!

Benefits of hosting a home wine tasting party:

A fun and easy way to entertain friends
Access to handcrafted wines not available in stores
Free shipping on case orders placed at your Tasting for you and your guests
Online invitation system - Invite your a guests and view responses online
Learn helpful tips on wine and food pairing
Have fun sampling wines in a comfortable setting before you buy
Convenient home delivery of orders to each guest

Hosting an at home wine tasting is simple:

Contact the Grape Girls to reserve a date
Invite your friends
Provide simple appetizers
Relax and enjoy the Tasting!

We provide the wine glasses and suggestions for cheese and chocolate pairings.

SPECIAL OFFER: Take advantage of our special rates and host a wine tasting party for up to 16 guests for only $59! Contact us for info and pricing on larger wine tastings and fundraisers.

SPA PARTY ADD-ON: We have partnered with Spa Parties Atlanta, the leader in mobile spa services. You can add on a spa party (facials, massages, reflexology and more) at the time of your booking!

This is the most economical way to entertain-at-home and enjoy a unique experience.

Contact us today, send an email to info@GrapeCrushEvents.com with "Wine Tasting" in the subject heading. We are booking now for August and September!

Home wine tasting parties - edutainment at its best with recession buster prices!

The Day Atlanta Turned Pink!

2009-07-17T20:30:00.009-04:00

On July 15th, the Grape Girls hosted the cast members of Legally Blonde The Musical at a special meet and greet at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square.

The event supported Girl Talk - an Atlanta, GA based 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization with chapters in 21 states reaching over 30,000 girls.

The event, produced by Atlanta Party Starters, featured hand treatments from Spa Parties Atlanta, a wine tasting led by the Grape Girls, refreshments from Chocolate Pink Cafe and Vitamin Water and of course fashion and beauty makeovers. Six lucky winners received tickets to the July 16th performance including the newly crowned "Delta Nu Queen and Princess" from the pink carpet fashion throwdown!

Click here to view more event photos. Click here to read the full article.

Legally Blonde the Musical continues at the Fox Theatre thru July 19, 2009.

Click here for tickets and details.

Meet the cast of "Legally Blonde the Musical" on July 15!

2009-07-14T12:53:00.004-04:00

It's shaping up to be a grape summer!

The Grape Girls host Legally Blonde the Musical cast members Cortney Wolfson, Rhiannon Hansen, Crystal Joy and Lauren Ashley Zakrin at a very special appearance at Bloomingdale’s at Lenox Square on Wednesday, July 15.

The party will take place on the second floor in the Y.E.S. Department from 5-7 pm and will include a visit by the “ladies of Delta Nu” who will teach the famous Bend & Snap. There will be contests, store specials, and even a pink carpet! For more details: www.pink.eventbrite.com. The event is free and open to the public, but with a special Pink Power Pass for only $10 you get extra goodies, spa services and wine tasting - and a part of the proceeds will benefit Girl Talk.

Theater of the Stars presents Legally Blonde the Musical, the hit broadway show, at the Fabulous Fox Theatre from July 14-19. Tickets are available for all 8 performances of the musical at Ticketmaster.

Event RSVP required: www.pink.eventbrite.com

Special Announcement: Vino & Spa Party Launch!

2009-07-09T16:45:00.008-04:00

Atlanta's leading event marketing company and mobile spa service team up to offer luxurious wine tasting and spa parties!

Grape Crush Productions and Spa Parties Atlanta today announced a partnership designed to give Atlantans a new way to party -and save! Merging the Napa Valley wine tasting experience with rejuvenating spa services, the new Vino & Spa packages are the ultimate entertain-at-home option.

The growing entertain-at-home consumer is looking for a "wow factor" and unique entertaining ideas for home parties.
Vino & Spa parties are an ideal way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, girls/guys "night in", or provide an excuse to get together with friends and family.

In addition to home parties, the Vino & Spa packages are perfect for corporate and nonprofit events, employee or client appreciation events, pre-function activities, fundraisers, art show openings and retail events.

For more information, click here to read the press release or contact us via email at info@GrapeCrushEvents.com.

Do you think "inside the box"?

2009-07-08T21:08:00.002-04:00

Did you have a problem when wine bottles started using synthetic corks, then they started using screw off tops...well now we are going back to wine in a box! And why...because the cost is attractive--some as low as $4 for the equivalent of a standard 750-milliliter bottle--and the wine is actually good!

Here are some of the latest that have gone to "wine inside the box":

1. Fish Eye 2007 Chardonnay

2. Banrock Station 2007 Chardonnay

3. Black Box Monterey County 2008 Chardonnay

It looks like the white wines are doing better than the reds right now in boxes but only time will tell for our red wine drinkers :)

Three Atlanta Chefs Journey to Sin City

2009-07-08T15:17:00.004-04:00

Bravo TV's Top Chef, the #1 food show on cable, has announced its sixth season - and the competition will be sinfully delicious!

Top Chef: Las Vegas, premiers Wednesday, August 26th at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

The new chef'testants take on Sin City this season to see if they have what it takes to become Top Chef.

Three of the hopefuls are from Atlanta - Kevin Gillespie from Woodfire Grill, Hector Santiago from Pura Vida, and Eli Kirshtein from Eno.

Top Chef offers a fascinating window into the competitive, pressure-filled environment of world-class cookery and the restaurant business at the highest level. The series features seventeen aspiring chefs who compete for their shot at culinary stardom and the chance to earn the prestigious title of "Top Chef."

Will one of Atlanta's own make the cut, or will all three be asked to pack up their knives and go home? Stay tuned!

NOTE: Be sure to take our latest blog poll and cast your vote for favorite "Foodie TV" challenge series.

Red, Wine & Blue

2009-07-02T18:10:00.009-04:00

Have you read our June 28th blog posting on finding the right wine? Well, try the recipe below to dazzle your friends and family with your new favorite at this weekend's BBQ!

WINE COCKTAIL SPRITZER:

Ingredients
2 teaspoons sugar
1 orange, sliced
A good shot brandy
5 to 6 ounces of YOUR favorite wine
Splash lemon-lime club soda

Directions
Add sugar, 2 orange slices and a good shot of brandy to a cocktail shaker. Muddle together until the sugar is dissolved. Add ice cubes to the shaker along with the wine. Shake and strain into a martini glass and top with a splash of lemon-lime club soda. Garnish with an orange slice.

Share this recipe with your friends and family, or take all the credit for it yourself!

Cheers and Happy 4th of July!

Please be safe and drink responsibly.

The Best Thing I Ever Ate!

2009-06-30T10:49:00.005-04:00

What makes everything better? Well, according to Food Network stars like Guy, Duff and Aida it's BACON! We'd like to think it's wine, but to each his own. :)

Tune in tonight (Tuesday, June 30 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT) as our favorite foodies chat about The Best Thing I Ever Ate and where to get these pork-a-licious dishes. Featured is Atlanta neighborhood bistro JCT. Kitchen & Bar's "Angry" mussels made with peppered bacon, Serrano chile and onion.

The episode will air again on July 1 at 12:30 a.m. ET/PT and July 11 at 6 p.m. ET/PT.

TIP: Check out JCT. Kitchen's Thursdays on the Terrace for live music and drink specials, or Sunday Suppers for a fancy meat and three deal of gourmet comfort foods!

JCT. Kitchen & Bar
Westside Urban Market
1198 Howell Mill Road Suite #18
Atlanta, GA 30318
404-355-2252
www.jctkitchen.com

Fourth of July!

2009-06-28T19:03:00.003-04:00

Fourth of July is the perfect time to celebrate our nation! Whether you are having a cookout, a four course meal, or just watching the fireworks on your back porch there is a wine to help you in this celebration. Here is a great article to find the wine for you!

Perfect Wine Matches for Summer’s Grilled Fare
By Stacy Slinkard, About.com

Grill-friendly Red Varietals to Consider:
Zinfandels will be able to handle a wide variety of red meats. This bold red wine bellies up to meaty, smokey flavors – allowing the varietal’s black pepper spice, acidity and ripe tannins to carry the meat’s fats and texture to a new dimension. A Zin will also work well with barbeque sauce, steak sauce and mild salsas – if there is too much spice in the sauce the two will compete and both the wine and the sauce end up as losers.

Merlot is the spicy sauce answer to the above dilemma. With the characteristic fruit-forward flavor profile, this varietal will support the spice and not aggravate it. Grilled pork chops, chicken and garden-variety salads with lighter dressings also mingle well with Merlot.

Shiraz/Syrah another varietal that makes the grill-friendly wine list. This varietal is delicious with just about any red meat. Offering dynamic, somewhat aggressive fruit flavors, balanced with more mellow tannins and a softer-fuller body – this wine’s place to shine is definitely at a barbecue gathering! Rhone Syrahs tend to have a smokier flavor characteristic and lend themselves extremely well to smoked brisket.

Cabernet Sauvignon is made for steaks with a higher fat content and burgers of beef or turkey will pair equally well. The tighter tannins are significantly mellowed by the meat’s fat, producing a palate pleaser to remember! Top your burgers with bold cheeses, like blue or sharp cheddar and this varietal gets even better!

Pinot Noir a flexible varietal that is known for being extremely food-friendly. Can go from grilled fish to a juicy burger in a single sip! Pinot Noir is an ideal candidate for grilled fish – especially salmon, burgers and chicken both bare their best in the presence of Pinot Noir. If you aren’t sure if what wine will work with your grilled dinner, Pinot Noir will likely be your best bet.

Grill-friendly White Varietals to Consider:
Chardonnay will work wonderfully with grilled fish (including shellfish), chicken with creamy sauces, and grilled corn on the cob with lots of butter!

Riesling the perfect varietal for grilled brats, shrimp, barbecue chicken, grilled pineapple and a variety of grilled veggies.

Sauvignon Blanc has a herbaceous quality that supports marinades and sauces with similar attributes. For example, grilled chicken that has been doused in Italian dressing or a citrus marinade will be unbeatable with a Sauvignon Blanc. Likewise, roasted peppers, veggies in fresh herbs, grilled fish with dill and lemon will all be highlighted in tandem with a Sauvignon Blanc.

Gewurztraminer often offers a balance to spice with its slightly to moderately sweet character. This varietal would be a great choice to go with blackened Mahi Mahi, or grilled Cajun chicken with fresh mango salsa.

Chef Rob's Caribbean Cafe - Journey to Jamaica!

2009-06-27T18:06:00.009-04:00

We recently had the pleasure of dining at Chef Rob's Caribbean Cafe, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Sandy Springs, at the owner's invitation. We knew we were in for a treat, but little did we know we would be transported on a culinary journey straight to Jamaica!

Chef Rob is an expert at caribbean-fusion cuisine. Jamaican, Asian and southern American flavor inspirations merged into unique dishes that tantalized our taste buds. We munched on the sampler platter which included conch fritters, coconut shrimp, jerk chicken egg rolls and jerk chicken wings with a variety of house-made dipping sauces. Customer favorites include the jerk chicken caesar salad, cajun seafood pasta and curried goat. Vegetarians will enjoy the "Rasta Pasta" and Bob Marley's "Vegetarian Delight" - assorted grilled vegetables, fresh rosemary, butter beans in a light vegetable broth served over fettuccine pasta with a sweet chili sauce or caribbean jerk.

Now, when one thinks of the Caribbean, wine is definitely not the first thing that comes to mind. Chef Rob's is best known for pouring marvelous mojitos, but the bar manager treated us to a special flight from the new wine list. Although the list is small and still being fine-tuned, they offer a few options that traditionally pair best with spicy foods. Look for aromatic whites like Gewürtztraminer (pronounced guh-VOORTS-truh-MEE-nur), Pinot Grigio (PEA-no GREE-jzhee-o) and Riesling (REEZ-ling).

TIP: Well-chilled, crisp, fruity whites work better than reds overall to combat the rich, spicy flavors of caribbean dishes. Hot food in general should be paired with wines that have a somewhat sweet element to them. Look for refreshing dry-sweet or lightly sweet wines for a great pairing experience.

We now understand why music moguls (Chef Rob developed the concept of Justin's Restaurant for Sean "P-Diddy" Combs) and locals alike flock here when they need a culinary escape. Lively music, vibrant decor, daily food and drink specials, nightly events and a courteous staff are awaiting you. So, if you can't take a quick getaway to Jamaica, Chef Rob's Caribbean Cafe is the next best thing!

Oh yeah, did we mention they cater? Visit www.chefrobscafe.com for the address, menu and event schedule.

DON'T FORGET: Father's Day is this Sunday!!!

2009-06-17T20:05:00.002-04:00

Looking for the perfect Father's Day Present?

Why not get him a wine basket from WineShop At Home! We've created two special baskets to celebrate the Fathers in our lives – for all those special people who nurture, mentor, encourage and protect us. He'll never forget your thoughtfulness on this very special day. Visit www.wineshopathome.com/grapegirls today!

Great Red Wines for Summer

2009-06-02T18:04:00.013-04:00

So, you're a red wine lover but not sure if that's the best option when its 90° outside? Well, don't despair - some red wines will actually help you beat the heat!

These light-bodied reds will give you less tannins, but great red wine flavor, and are delicious in the summer when chilled:

Beaujolais [BOE-zjoh-lay]

Beaujolais is the "fun" wine on most wine drinker's lists. It's not too heavy, fruity, and very approachable even for non-drinkers. It's also one of the few red wines that benefit from being served slightly chilled. Best of all, almost all Beaujolais is very inexpensive. You can get a great bottle for $8 - $15. Geographically, the Beaujolais region lies immediately south of Burgundy proper. Unlike Burgundy, Beaujolais grows the Gamay grape for red wine. The wine itself is made via a process called carbonic maceration (whole berry fermentation). This enables winemakers to extract the juice with an absolute minimum of tannin; it is this lack of tannin that makes Beaujolais so easy to drink. Bursting with ripe strawberry and raspberry flavors, this is a terrific "day" or picnic wine that will complement everything from a roast beef sandwich to barbecue chicken.

Pinot Noir [Pee-noh-n'wahr]

This fickle grape demands optimum growing conditions - warm days consistently supported by cool evenings. Pinot Noir is a lighter colored and flavored red wine. Pinot Noir’s forerunner and modest inspiration hails from red Burgundy, one of France’s most prized wines. Today, Pinot Noir is planted in regions around the world including: Oregon, California, New Zealand, Australia, Germany and Italy. Due to the stringent growing requirements for Pinot Noir, it is produced in much smaller quantities than other popular red wines. So, you might pay a little more due to the “supply and demand” theory. However, excellent values can be found like the Mark West Pinot Noir at just $10! Flavors are reminiscent of sweet red berries, plums, tomatoes, cherries and at times a notable earthy or wood-like flavor. Pinot Noir pairs well with poultry, beef, fish, ham, lamb and pork. It's also a great complement to creamy sauces, spicy seasonings and may just be one of the world's most versatile food wines.

So, get out there and enjoy your red wine, even on the hottest summer day.

Cheers!

The Grape Girls Do The Grape!

2009-05-22T10:49:00.012-04:00

The Grape Girls recently visited The Grape @Atlantic Station. Part wine bar, part bistro, part retail store - we were truly in our element!

The Grape offers a variety of delectable small-plates and over 120 wines to taste by the bottle or glass. We met with the General Manager (Steffan) and the Regional Marketing Manager (Kevin). During our business meeting we were treated to a wine flight (Italian wines were featured) and a menu tasting of artisan cheese, flank steak, shrimp flatbread and chicken quesadillas. We thoroughly enjoyed the new menu offerings, as well as some of our old favorites.

Great wine, great food, great service and live music on the weekends - what could be better?! Get some friends together and make The Grape @Atlantic Station your next stop for lunch, brunch, happy hour or dinner.

The Grape Girls at the The Grape - it's a perfect marriage! :)

Cheers!

The Grape @Atlantic Station
264 19th Street
Suite 2140
Atlanta, GA 30363
404-815-0090

Rosés for Memorial Day!

2009-05-19T12:52:00.004-04:00

REFRESHING ROSÉS FOR MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day (Monday, May 25) signifies the unofficial beginning of the summer season for most Americans. The weather warms up and we immediately begin to think of leisurely picnics, patio parties and backyard barbecues!

Rosé wines are perhaps the most versatile, food-friendly wines around and provide a great wine value for the money. Despite a serious image problem in recent years (thanks in part to the run of "White Zin"), Rosé wine sales are on the rise as savvy grape gurus have discovered that many of these pink wines fall into the definitively "dry" category and are not sugary sweet. Rosé wine hues come from the short contact time that the grape juice has with the grape skin.

So, "think pink" this weekend and pick up a few bottles of refreshing Rosés to complement scrumptious summer salads and seafood, or even heavier grilled meats. Always serve chilled.

Are you having a big bash this Memorial Day? Well, stretch your wine dollars even further with our quick and easy Strawberry Sangria recipe - it's sure to be the hit of any summer soiree!

Recipe Prep Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
1 Bottle (750 ml) of Rosé wine (to keep to the Spanish origins of Sangrias, opt for a Rosé from Spain - a Rosado)
1/2 cup white sugar (optional)
1 1/2 cups strawberry lemonade
1 cup sliced strawberries (may use frozen strawberries in a pinch)
2 cups ginger ale

Preparation: Pour wine in the pitcher and add sliced strawberries. Next add sugar, strawberry lemonade and stir gently. Add ginger ale and ice just before serving.

If you'd like to serve your Sangria right away, use chilled wine and chilled ginger ale - serve over lots of ice.

Cheers!

Real Causes: Fight Homelessness on May 14th!

2009-05-07T18:40:00.012-04:00

Local Real Estate Pros, Business Owners, Media and Concerned Citizens Help End Homelessness in Atlanta.

Please join us on Thursday, May 14th at the Wine Loft (6pm) for a wine tasting, complimentary refreshments and live jazz music as real estate professionals, local business owners and everyday citizens unite to end homelessness in Atlanta!

This official 31 Days of Jazz event features a charity clothing drive and networking opportunities. Plus, the 1st 50 event attendees will receive a complimentary pass to a private preview screening of THE PROPOSAL (starring Sanda Bullock) at Phipps Plaza on May 18th! Click here to view the trailer.

TICKETS: Visit www.realcauses.eventbrite.com
Use discount code RC01 to save an extra $5 off the early bird ticket price thru Tuesday! FREE for Grape Guru members.

Grape Crush Productions is a proud sponsor of Real Causes!

And the survey says....

2009-05-05T23:55:00.013-04:00

WINE POLL RESULTS, NEW SURVEY POSTED!!!

We asked... and you told us what was on your mind!
The Grape Girls blog has had a lot of activity as people across the country voiced their opinions on a wide range of topics - from wine regions you'd most like to visit, to whether or not the recession has hindered your entertaining.

And the survey says.....

Has the recession affected your wining and dining?
33% Yes; 37% Somewhat; 30% No

What wine region do you most want to visit?
A whopping 53% said Italy - over France, Napa Valley and South Africa!

What's your favorite Spring patio wine?
Well, 46% indicated Riesling was your favorite warm-weather varietal, with Chardonnay at a close 2nd (26% of the vote). Merlot and Zinfandel garnered less than 5% of the vote each!

Thank you for your time and continued support of Grape Crush Productions! Your answers to our polls help us decide on upcoming travel excursions, wines to feature at events, and may even help our restaurant and retail partners decide what to stock on the shelves!

NEW POLL: Do you recycle empty wine bottles?
Grape lovers can "Go Green" too! Cast your vote in our latest poll now (top right corner)! Please invite your friends and colleagues to make their voices heard too. If there are no recycling facilities available in your area, your response could help us in our efforts.

Click here to follow us on Facebook.

Great Wines for Cinco de Mayo!

2009-05-03T17:02:00.003-04:00

Looking for something a little different for this year's Cinco de Mayo celebration? Do you want a great wine for your festive feast before ending the night with margaritas and tequila shots?

Well, pairing wines with spicy foods and diverse flavors can be tough but the Grape Girls have got you covered!

Here are our suggestions for great wines that will pair nicely with your Mexican meal:

Whites

Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Viognier

Reds

Beaujolais, Grenache, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir

The above wines can handle a wide range of flavors, from sweet and salty to sour and spicy, but don't go loco when trying to decide on the perfect pairing. Cinco de Mayo is all about mixing it up, trying new things and having FUN!

Click here for a little Cinco de Mayo history.

Click here to follow us on Facebook.

Share Our Strength - End Childhood Hunger!

2009-05-01T15:46:00.005-04:00

The Grape Girls will host "purple carpet" wine and chocolate tasting parties this summer at local restaurants, boutiques and other upscale venues in support of Share Our Strength's national campaign to end childhood hunger. Do you know of the perfect location in metro Atlanta? Contact us today to co-host or sponsor an event!

Click here to read the media advisory.

Mailto: info@GrapeCrushEvents.com with "SOS" in the subject heading.

It's a Wrap!

2009-04-26T20:04:00.006-04:00

Atlanta Food & Wine Month (April 2-30, 2009) had the entire city sipping around town at wine tastings, art galleries, restaurants, shopping parties, community service projects and more! Please join us at Thrive Restaurant on Thursday, April 30th for the official closing event. We'll break out the bubbly to say farewell to the April festivities and head into 31 Days of Jazz and the Atlanta Jazz Festival this May. Click here for more information or visit us online at www.GrapeCrushEvents.com.

Get a "Taste" of Marietta on April 26!

2009-04-24T16:28:00.004-04:00

Grape Crush Productions is a proud partner of Taste of Marietta. Please join us for the 16th annual event on Sunday, April 26th. Cobb county's largest food festival features 50 restaurants, four stages with live music, cooking demos and more! Visit www.tasteofmarietta.com for details!

The Grape Girls Do Wine and a Musical!

2009-04-21T20:06:00.003-04:00

"Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris" is currently playing at the Alliance Theatre. As part of Atlanta Food and Wine Month, Grape Crush Productions' followers received a ticket to the show and a glass of wine at a discounted price. What could be better than enjoying a nice glass of wine while you are taking in the arts.

The stage was fabulous as a Parisian cabaret with 2 live bars that patrons could actually order from before the show started and at intermission. Hanging from the ceiling was over 3 dozen chandeliers--they said they had borrowed from every theater in Atlanta! And then to top it off, the voices of the 4 performers throughout the entire show were amazing! The songs were various love songs--some incredible sad and some where you couldn't stop laughing. All in all it was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Red Sky Tapas & Bar

2009-04-15T19:57:00.017-04:00

This cool little East Cobb spot (my fave OTP find) features caribbean infused cuisine, live entertainment and 1/2 price bottles of wine every Wed and Sun!

Click here to check out the menu. My top picks are the crab cakes, blue cheese calamari and lamb chops. The wine list - lots of new varietals to try starting at only $5/glass!

Click here to visit us on Facebook to view the photo album from my evening at Red Sky - hope to see YOU there soon!

PHOTO: Kyla with Chef Bryan (left) and Owner Terry (right)

---------------------------------------------------------------
What's YOUR favorite hotspot (in Atlanta or around the world)?
Tell the Grape Girls and we just might drop in to visit!

Visit our blog frequently for updates and special offers from our favorite hotspots:
http://grapecrushevents.blogspot.com/

The Grape Girls are now on Facebook!

2009-04-12T18:31:00.004-04:00

Follow the Grape Girls on their wine-ventures...

We'll keep you posted on what's new and hot on the food and wine scene as we

eat, sip and savor all over the globe.

Become a fan of our Facebook page to receive exclusive invitations to

upcoming wine events and FB only ticket discounts and special offers!

Click here to join us today!

Ash Bash Event Photos! (April 9, 2009)

2009-04-11T22:32:00.005-04:00

Atlanta's movers and shakers came together to "wine and roll" during Atlanta Food & Wine Month! Click here to view the event pics!

Be sure to join our email list or sign-up to follow our blog for details of the Summer Ash Bash!!!

Grape Gurus Wine Membership Club

2009-04-08T00:41:00.011-04:00

SPECIAL OFFER:
Join the Grape Gurus wine membership club and receive FREE admission to the following Atlanta Food & Wine Month events:

April 9 - Cigars & Wine @Ash Cigar Co.
Visit www.ashbash.eventbrite.com for details

April 10 - The Art of Wine @Studio Clout Fine Art Gallery
Visit www.artofwine.eventbrite.com for details

Offer ends Thursday, April 9th at Noon so act fast!!!!

Visit our blog frequently for "Grape" deals - http://grapecrushevents.blogspot.com.

Kosher Wines for Passover

2009-04-06T08:56:00.001-04:00

From The Vineyard Wine Market (www.thevineyardwinemarket.com)

2005 Baron Herzog Cabernet Sauvignon, California
This is a very approachable Cabernet Sauvignon with berry and plum notes finishing with fruity blackberry and spice flavors. It is light in the mouth with food-friendly acidity and tannin and hints of sweet French oak on the finish. Grapes for this wine are selected from vineyards in California's Central Coast areas of San Luis Obispo and Edna Valley and the northern coastal areas of Sonoma.
Kosher for Passover

2006 Baron Herzog Chardonnay, Central Coast
This Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing, perfect for summer. Smooth textured yet lively on the palate, our Central Coast Chardonnay serves up a fine array of apple, pear and vanilla-like flavors. This wine is a blend of Central Coast and Russian River Chardonnay. The central coast fruit displays tropical fruit, citrus, and chamomile. The barrel fermented Russian River fruit contributes oak notes in the nose and mouth and body.
Kosher for Passover

2006 Baron Herzog Sauvignon Blanc, California
This wine exemplifies Sauvignon Blanc, which should be crisp and light and show hints of citrus and herbs. A very refreshing quaff. The grapes for this wine were hand harvested from selected Central Coast vineyards in the Santa Barbara and Edna Valley appellations. The wine is very light in the mouth with distinctive lychee, pear and green components. Bright, crisp acidity leads to a lingering tropical finish. Kosher for Passsover

2008 Bartenura Moscato D'Asti, Italy
The Moscato grape is naturally rich in perfumes, and the production of this wine is geared towards preserving these aromas in the finished wine. Only the best grapes are used, and fermentation takes place at a low temperature in order to give a wine with fresh, peachy perfumes and a light, grapey fruit. Ideal on its own, as an apertif, or with fruit or light deserts. Serve chilled and drink young. Kosher For Passover