Pop the Cork on the Holidays!

Pop the Cork on the Holidays!

Pop the cork on the holidays! The holiday season is officially here – and word is that it’s the most joyful time of the year. The time for celebrating with food, family, friends, and of course, wine! Sharing and creating memories together over a glass of wine and easy, festive appetizers and sweets is truly the essence of the season. With all of the holiday hubbub, planning and prepping, we’ve got you covered with some great tips to set the table, plus two awesome ideas for quick & simple party bites.   First, The easiest way to please everyone? Have a wide selection of unique varietals on hand:
  • With a wide selection of artisan wines, you’re sure to find something for those who prefer reds, whites, sweet whites or big bold reds.
  Want wine in time for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving dinner? Place your orders by contacting your Wine Consultant today.
  • Last day for ground shipping: November 17th
  • Last day for 3-day shipping: November 20th
  • Last day for 2-day shipping: November 23rd
  • Last day for 1-day shipping: November 24th
  Then,
Keep your holiday table simple, yet festive.
Plain unscented candles add ambiance. Simple white plates on a solid color tablecloth and placemats will help the dishes stand out. Pinecones, pomegranates, clementines, pears or apples make easy edible decorations. Clear vases filled with branches, twinkle lights or holiday ornaments make a statement. Elegant stemware that’s perfect for both red and white wines are an essential for any holiday table. Finally, Easy appetizers that can be prepped ahead of time & served at room temp. A variety of cheeses, olives and crackers are just right for starting out the evening. Then, as guests mix and mingle, make an entrance and serve a couple of special bites that impress.   Cheese Straws   Cheese Straws: Savory, cheesy twists of flaky pastry. Your guests won’t be able to eat just one! Pair these with a dry bubbly like the Grand Cadeau Sparkling Wine.
  • 2 sheets (1 box) frozen puff pastry, thawed overnight in the refrigerator
  • 1 extra-large egg
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup finely grated gruyere cheese
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Roll out each sheet of puff pastry on a floured board until it's 10 by 12 inches. Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush the surface of the pastry. Sprinkle each sheet evenly with 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1/2 cup Gruyere, 1/2 teaspoon thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt and some pepper. With the rolling pin, lightly press the flavorings into the puff pastry. Cut each sheet crosswise with a floured knife or pizza wheel into 11 or 12 strips. Twist each strip and lay on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until lightly browned and puffed. Turn each straw and bake for another 2 minutes. Cool and serve at room temperature.   Chocolate Bark   Chocolate Bark: This may be the easiest, most eye-pleasing way to satisfy sweettooths and chocoholics alike. Top this basic recipe with your favorites. Dried chopped apricot, dried cranberries and pistachios make a great combo. For those with a sweet & salty vice, try pretzels, roasted salted cashews and a drizzle of white chocolate. These can be made way in advance and make a great gift as well. Pair it with the holiday favorite – the Ceres Decadence, a bold red with natural chocolate flavor.
  • 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
Melt the chocolates in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the paper and spread to form a loose rectangle. Sprinkle with toppings. Set aside for 2 hours until firm. Break the bark into 3-inch pieces and serve cold or at room temperature.
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