A Cocktail with History The daiquiri dates back to the late 1800s in Cuba, created by an American mining engineer who mixed rum, lime, and sugar—simple, yet genius. But it was Ernest Hemingway who helped turn this cocktail into a legend. Frequenting El Floridita bar in Havana, Hemingway loved his daiquiris tart and strong, ordering them without sugar and double the rum. His version, now famously called the Hemingway Daiquiri, adds grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur, giving it a sophisticated, slightly bitter edge. Celebrating with a Hemingway Twist There’s something undeniably refreshing about a well-made daiquiri. Light, citrusy, and perfectly balanced, this cocktail has earned its place among the greats. And what better day to celebrate than National Daiquiri Day? Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting friends for a summer evening happy hour, or simply unwinding after a long day, a daiquiri is a glass of sunshine in cocktail form. If you’ve only had overly sweet frozen daiquiris, today’s the perfect day to rediscover what this drink was meant to be—bright, crisp, and full of flavor. This version is smooth, tart, and not too sweet—exactly how Hemingway liked it. Perfect for sipping slowly on a hot summer evening. Please drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. This information is for people over the age of 21. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol. -As Noted by Me-

This is a summer favorite and most of you have your own version of this midwest classic. Mine has a touch of sweet, a touch of tart, and a sprinkle of fresh dill all combined in a creamy dressing. This is much requested by my family and I hope you love it, too!

Stirred, Shaken, and Celebrated Today we raise our glasses to one of the most iconic cocktails in history: the martini. National Martini Day is the perfect excuse to sip, savor, and explore both the storied past and the stylish present of this classic drink. A Quick Sip of History Few cocktails carry the mystique, sophistication, and cultural clout of the martini. Whether it’s perched in the hand of James Bond or served in a sleek coupe at a rooftop bar, the martini is more than a drink—it’s a statement. But where did this iconic concoction come from, and how did it become the epitome of cocktail elegance? Let’s raise a glass and dive into the fascinating history of the martini. The exact origins of the martini are cloudy—fitting for a drink that can be served “dirty.” Several theories trace the martini back to the mid-to-late 19th century. One popular story attributes its creation to a bartender in San Francisco who, in the 1860s, crafted a drink for a gold miner heading to the town of Martinez. That cocktail, known as the “Martinez,” was a sweeter combination of gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters. Over time, it evolved, dried out, and slimmed down into the sharper, crisper martini we know today. Another theory connects the martini’s name to Martini & Rossi, the Italian company known for its vermouth. While we may never pin down the exact birthplace, by the early 20th century, the modern martini had emerged as a combination of gin and dry vermouth—typically garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon. And then came the cultural boom. Thanks to James Bond, Frank Sinatra, and mid-century cocktail culture, the martini became the drink of icons—served cold, clean, and always with style. Modern Martini Favorites While the classic gin (or vodka) martini remains a staple, today’s martini menu has expanded far beyond the traditional. Here are a few contemporary favorites that continue to keep the martini alive, well, and endlessly delicious: Dirty Martini A savory twist on the original, the dirty martini adds a splash of olive brine for a salty, complex edge. It’s bold, briny, and often garnished with extra olives for good measure. I prefer mine with vodka and no vermouth. Lemon Drop Martini Bright, tart, and sweet, the lemon drop martini is a citrusy delight made with vodka, lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup or triple sec. It’s usually served with a sugar rim and perfect for those who like a zingy, refreshing cocktail. Cosmopolitan Martini Popularized by Sex and the City, the Cosmo is a stylish mix of vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec (or Cointreau), and lime. It’s fruity, balanced, and forever fabulous. Espresso Martini The go-to drink for coffee lovers and late-night revivers, this martini is made with vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur. Rich, slightly sweet, and seriously energizing—it’s dessert and cocktail in one chic glass. A Symbol of Style The martini glass itself—wide, shallow, and elegant—is as recognizable as the drink it holds. Though not always the most spill-resistant, it’s part of the ritual and romance. The martini is more than a drink—it’s an emblem of style, simplicity, and sophistication. It has survived Prohibition, World Wars, Hollywood reinventions, and craft cocktail revolutions. Whether you’re enjoying a dirty martini at happy hour or sipping a lemon drop with friends, today is the day to celebrate the legacy of this iconic cocktail. Host a martini tasting, explore a new twist on a favorite recipe, or visit your local favorite and order something classic with a modern spin. Martinis may have a long and sophisticated history, but their ability to evolve and inspire new flavors is what keeps them timeless. Happy National Martini Day from As Noted By Me Here’s to elegance, innovation, and the perfect pour. Please drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. This information is for people over the age of 21. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol. -As Noted by Me-

There are quite possibly a million ways to say - "thank you for hosting" - "happy birthday" - "best wishes" - "let's celebrate" - and yet nothing can say it better than a good bottle of wine. Let's celebrate the reds, the whites and all of the amazing blushes and bubbles, too! I did a monthly series featuring two price points ( one sweet spot selection for under $25 and one special day for over $25)  of a different varietal each month and to celebrate National Wine Day I'm going to recap it for you. Cheers, friends! Celebrate all things wine! I'd love to hear some of your favroites, too. As always, thanks for follwoing along in my little blogging world. It's a fun little hobby and there's wine!!! January :: Riesling Sweet Spot Riesling Chateau Ste Michelle Indian Wells Riesling : $17.49 Washington Chateau Ste Michelle Indian Wells Riesling This selection would be a semi-sweet Riesling. I tasted notes of citrus, pear and also had a little floral too. Overall, this is a great wine for the price point. I never would guess this was under $20. Special Day Riesling Villa Thanisch Riesling Spatlese : $25.99 Germany Villa Thanisch Riesling Spatlese Classic flavors of peach, pear, apple and a touch of honey provides a lovely balance of sweetness with a long finish. This is a sweeter choice than our Sweet Spot choice this month and is more of what I consider a typical riesling; sweet and balanced. Check out the full post for food pairings - Sips & Snacks in January February :: Chianti, Sangiovese & Barolo Sweet Spot Sangiovese Castello di Albola Sangiovese 2022   : $16.99 Castello di Albola Sangiovese 2022 This month's Sweet Spot Sangiovese comes in under $20 and is a perfect selection to have on hand for the unexpected guest. It drinks like a much more expensive wine, has the most beautiful ruby color and is extremely flexible to serve with foods. I really enjoyed the slight smoky sage and the sweet, yet slightly tart cherry flavor. I would serve this with spaghetti, lasagna, or a charcuterie board . Special Day Barolo Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba 2018 : $59.99 Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba 2018 This month's Special Day Barolo is a difficult bottle to find. Grab one if you see one! This ready to drink Barolo is loaded with all the classic notes of smoke, leather, plum and spice and showcases a velvety texture and great balance. It's ideal wit h red meat dishes and medium or mature cheeses. Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in February March :: Merlot Sweet Spot Merlot Luc Pirlet Reserve Merlot 2021 - $13.99 Luc Pirlet Reserve Merlot 2021 This one is a lovely surprise. It is the perfect wine to enjoy for an everyday sip. Inexpensive wine doesn't always mean it's bad wine and I'm guilty of this thinking from time to time. It is full of dark plum flavors, spices and a touch of vanilla, yet still feels light. It is awesome with a piece of dark chocolate! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.  Special Day Merlot Silverado Merlot Mt George Vineyard 2019 - $44.99 Silverado Merlot Mt George Vineyard 2019 The choices are  many  at this price point. I decided on this one because it was the last bottle in the store and that made it even more appealing to me. To be honest, I love the "Mt George" part of the name. It sounds so fancy :) This hits more like a Cabernet blend. I got just a hint of the Cab punch and it's a bit more medium to full bodied. It is a perfect wine with a heavily sauced meal like a beef roast with mashed potatoes and gravy or smoky ribs. I loved the blackberry you normally get from a Merlot and it also had a kiss of spice and cocoa. So good! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in March April :: Chardonnay Sweet Spot Chardonnay River Road Unoaked Chardonnay 2022 - $14.99 River Road Unoaked Chardonnay 2022 This was a perfect unoaked selection that is aged in stainless steel. It is lighter than a normal Chardonnay, as it has green apple and is a bit crisp, yet it still has a Chardonnay feel. Did I mention it is under $15? Cheers! Special Day Chardonnay Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2022 - $69.97 Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2022 SMOOTH and buttery, yet somehow this amazing Chardonnay still stays away from the heavy oak flavors that often turn me off with Chardonnay. I found this to have a touch of fruit, but not too much. It is the perfect pair to lobster and date night. I hope you enjoy it, too! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in April May :: Viognier Sweet Spot Viognier 2021 Yalumba "Y" Viognier - $12.99 2021 Yalumba "Y" Viognier This Australian wine is a great way to introduce yourself to Viognier because of it's price point- it drinks like a much more expensive wine. I love the light touches of peach and lemon and yet somehow it stays smooth. I served it with fried chicken and it was PERFECTION! Special Day Viognier 2019 Bougetz Cellars 'Belle Reve' Yates Family Vineyard Viognier - $39.99 2019 Bougetz Cellars 'Belle Reve' Yates Family Vineyard Viognier This Napa Valley wine is a little harder to find, but worth it. It's an easy match with many foods, making it even more desirable. It is smooth, like the Yalumba "Y" Viognier, but has a subtly sweet touch that brings a touch of honey. This makes it awesome with both spicy and rich foods. Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in May June :: Rosé Sweet Spot Rosé Ava Grace Rosé 2021 - $8.99 Ava Grace Rosé 2021 This California Rosé (from the Pinot Noir grape) is fruit forward, delicate and not too sweet. It makes it a great option for the sangria this month. I liked the subtle hints of berries, apricot and citrus with this one and yet it stayed just a touch dry. This would be really good served with a spicy plate of nachos and at under $10, it is a steal! Special Day Rosé Whispering Angel 2022 - $24.99 Whispering Angel 2022 One of the most popular (and loved) Rosé options you'll find is our Special Day selection, Whispering Angel. It hails from the Provence Region of France and is produced using the Grenache grape. It has been referred to "The Standard" for a Provence Rosé. The pale, lovely color is the perfect precursor to the soft, peachy and strawberry forward taste, while staying crisp. Bring this to your next BBQ! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in June July :: Sauvignon Blanc Sweet Spot Sauvignon Blanc Kia Ora Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc - $13.99 Kia Ora Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc This New Zealand (Marlborough) born wine will get you hooked on Sauvignon Blanc with it's bright taste but balance in a light body. It's summer in a glass with the fruit you taste with the first sip. Serve this with a charcuterie spread or shrimp cocktail! Special Day Sauvignon Blanc Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc 2021 - $51.99 Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc A long time favorite of mine, Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc is the literal star of the show (even when the "Big Reds" show up). For a special occasion, my friends reach for this bottle again and again. This Sonoma County wine is fruity yet has more body than your average Sauvignon Blanc. I get a taste of honey within a glass of this, depending on what I'm eating while sipping. For your friends who don't think they like Sauvignon Blanc (or prefer Chardonnay) try this one! It offers the bright, acidic taste of a fruity Sauvignon Blanc while having an almost creamy Chardonnay balance, too. Serve this with strawberry shortcake for a perfect combination. Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in July August :: Shiraz/Syrah Sweet Spot Shiraz/Syrah - Luc Pirlet Syrah - Mourvedre - $13.99 Luc Pirlet Syrah - Mourvedre This French Syrah is blended with Mourvedre to make a perfect combination of the berries and plums you'd expect in a Syrah yet a touch of smoke and spice. It's perfect with a meal to complement bacon! Special Day Shiraz/Syrah -   Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy 2021- $62.99 Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy 2021 My Special Day  choice is my dear friend Sonia's favorite. I have enjoyed this one together with friends celebrating all things good. :) Named after the son of award-winning Australian winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis, this wine will impress you on all counts. It is a full-bodied dark fruit taste with just a touch of chocolate. It is the perfect wine to share for a celebration! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in August September :: Pinot Noir Sweet Spot Pinot Noir Domaine St Germain Bourgogne Rouge Vieilles Vignes Pinot Noir $19.99 Domaine St Germain Bourgogne Rouge Vieilles Vignes Pinot Noir Are you looking for a bottle for under $20 that tastes like it's $50? This is for you. It's hard to find a higher quality Pinot Noir (from France) that brings this much complexity. You'll find this medium body sip filled with hints of black cherry and berries, yet not sweet. I love it with a tomato pasta dish and you'll find it quite easy to pair with many foods. Special Day Pinot Noir Amici Pinot Noir 2022 - $44.99 Amici Pinot Noir 2022 This is one of the best Pinot Noirs I've ever tasted. I'm thankful the expert at Total Wine led me here :) It is a legit sexy sip  and feels balanced with berries, a hint of spice, and a velvety finish. This will be on my Thanksgiving table - it is made for that "big time" meal. I hope you love it just as much! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in September October :: Zinfandel Sweet Spot Zinfandel- Castoro Cellars Double Black Zinfandel Paso Robles - $13.99 Castoro Cellars Double Black Zinfandel Paso Robles A great value when looking for an easy drinking Zinfandel that pairs with many foods. This would be incredible with BBQ or your favorite Italian red sauce. It is dark fruit forward yet has the perfect amount of spice to balance the jammy sip. You'll love this one! It's the easy pour you're looking to put with any meal or snack. Special Day Zinfandel- Frog's Leap Zinfandel 2020 - $46.99 Frog's Leap Zinfandel 2020 Powerful and spicy, this incredible favorite of mine has more body than most Zinfandels but still has the fruity notes you expect from the varietal. With mild hints of vanilla and black pepper it makes this a lovely wine with spicy dishes, beef, game, and bbq. If you're wanting to celebrate something special, choose this one and if you're in Napa Valley you should visit the Frog's Leap Winery. It is at the top of my list each time we visit. The wine tasting and grounds are incredibly well done, and their gardens are a must see! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in October November :: Cabernet Sauvignon Sweet Spot Cabernet Sauvignon Valravn Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 : $17.99 Valravn Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 I found this one at Costco and was immediately drawn to the spooky, Halloween"ish" label. I also noticed its high 92-point rating from Wine Enthusiast  so I gave it a try. I'm thankful I did. This great priced Cab is full of ripe dark fruit flavors, like blackberry and plum, with hints of cedar and tobacco. It's a fantastic match for grilled steaks and savory dishes. It drinks like a much more expensive wine. Special Day Cabernet Sauvignon Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles $54.97 Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles This is the perfect wine to serve on Thanksgiving. Austin Hope's Cab has been a favorite at many special moments the last 10 years of my life. It is smooth, dark and complex without being "too much" of all those things that make a Cab just a bit "more" than other reds. I enjoy the fruit, warm spice and the very subtle touch of mocha, tea and tobacco. If you have not tried this pour, run out NOW and treat yourself on Turkey Day or on a day to celebrate an exceptionally good wine. You 're going to be so happy  and that makes me happy, too! Cheers! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in November December :: Champagne & Sparkling Wine Sweet Spot Champagne & Sparkling Wine- Chandon California Brut Sparkling Wine: $20.99 Chandon California Brut Sparkling Wine This California Sparkling wine offers the balance and elegance that has become Chandon's familiar style. The wine delivers complex apple and pear characteristics accented by citrus spice over notes of almond and caramel in the bouquet. This is a great one to keep on hand. There's always  something to celebrate. Special Day Champagne & Sparkling Wine Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne - $53.99 Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne Coming from the Champagne region in France my favorite old reliable is this Veuve Clicquot Champagne. The aromas of beautiful ripe fruit and light cream are always consistent and familiar. It has a medium body and isn't overly acidic, not to mention the iconic orange label is an indicator of the greatness you're about to enjoy.   Cheers! Check out the full post for food pairings: Sips & Snacks in December Please drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. This information is for people over the age of 21. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol. -As Noted by Me-

Wine Riesling -The history of Riesling- Serve at 40-45 Riesling is an aromatic white wine grape variety that yields a floral white wine with fruit flavors. The riesling grape originated in the Rhine River region, which runs throughout parts of Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland. Common characteristics of riesling wines include light body and aromas of citrus, stone fruit, white flowers, and petrol. Due to its naturally high acidity, Riesling is one of the most popular varieties used to produce late harvest wines. In general, riesling wines fall into four categories. Sweet Riesling . Most Rieslings have at least some level of sweetness. Due to terroir, German wines like Riesling are usually sweeter. Sweet Rieslings are best between 10 and 30 years of age. Dry Riesling . French, Austrian, and American wines tend to be drier than those made elsewhere, and riesling is no exception. The ideal aging period for most dry Rieslings is five to 15 years. Semi-sweet Riesling . Falling somewhere in the middle, semi-sweet Rieslings are well-balanced wines whose best age is between 10 and 20 years. Sparkling Riesling . Called “sket” in Germany since the late 1800s, sparkling riesling is still a popular option in its home country. Sweet Spot Riesling Chateau Ste Michelle Indian Wells Riesling : $17.49 Washington This selection would fall into the semi-sweet category listed above. I tasted notes of citrus, pear and also had a little floral too. Overall, this is a great wine for the price point. I never would guess this was under $20. Special Day Riesling Villa Thanisch Riesling Spatlese : $25.99 Germany Classic flavors of peach, pear, apple and a touch of honey provides a lovely balance of sweetness with a long finish. This is a sweeter choice than our Sweet Spot choice this month and is more of what I consider a stereotypical riesling; sweet and balanced. Food Pairing If a lovely glass of your favorite Riesling was searching for the perfect mate, here is what should be on that list. Meats: smoked pork, smoked sausage, duck Seafood: sea bass, salmon, lobster Veggies/Fruits: apricots, pears Spices/Herbs: rosemary, ginger, curry Cheeses : havarti, gouda Sauces: sweet bbq, spicy Dessert: apple pie, caramel sauce Serve my Lobster Bisque as a show stopper with a chilled glass of a less sweet Riesling, like our Sweet Spot choice this month. Cocktail Fireside Old Fashioned Mocktail Per Se Old Fashioned Per Se Old Fashioned Mocktail Crafted with a decadent blend of malty tea and warm spices, this sophisticated alcohol-free cocktail delivers a punch. Notes of caramel and chocolate create a smooth, velvety finish that evokes the classic character of a traditional Old Fashioned without the alcohol. Perfect for sipping and savoring. Get a 4 pack of these for $13.99. Please drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. This information is for people over the age of 21. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol. -As Noted by Me-

Happy Cinco de Mayo from As Noted By Me Celebrate accordingly with my favorite margarita. The perfect ratio in any margarita is: 3 - parts tequila 2 - parts fresh lime juice 1 - part Cointreau (I like to add a little agave syrup or simple syrup too)

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, I went in search of some of the best margaritas on the Las Vegas Strip. It was a hard assignment (insert laugh), but I did the extensive field research to bring you my list of the best on the Las Vegas Strip. Happy Cinco de Mayo! Cabo Wabo Cantina Miracle Mile Shops 3663 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 https://www.cabowabocantina.com/vegas/events/ The Cocorita at Cabo Wabo Cantina I asked the incredibly awesome bartender, Lousia, to make me her favorite margarita to kick off my quest. She, without pause, made me this one! Ladies and gentlemen, meet Cabo Wabo's Cocorita . Yes, that is toasted coconut on a honey tipped rim. This was so good!! Go try it! Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville 3555 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 https://www.margaritavillelasvegas.com/menu The Perfect Margarita at Jimmy Buffet's Margartiaville Next stop down the strip was Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. I asked the bartender to make me the most requested margarita on their menu and he made me The Perfect Margarita . It was a strong morning wake up. This was an all day excursion so this was my second stop and only 9:30am. This Perfect Margarita was more along the lines of the traditional margarita. Canonita Located along the Grand Canal in the Venetian & Palazzo Las Vegas https://canonita.com/ The Pineapple Margarita at Canonita Situated along the canals inside the Palazzo Resort, you'll find Canonita. It's a great spot to meet up with friends for a margarita and their food is great, too. This is one of my favorite spots in Vegas, so I already knew the margarita to order. You will love the refreshing Pineapple Margarita or if you want to try their popular flight it is always a great choice, too! Hussong's Cantina 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89119 https://www.hussongslasvegas.com/eats-booze Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita at Hussong's Cantina Located in The Shoppes at Mandalay Place you'll find Hussong's Cantina for a great margarita. Their menu was stacked with so many great options and our waiter recommended this Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita . It was just the right amount of sweet and heat. I recommend this one and a side of their awesome chips and salsa. Javier's ARIA Resort & Casino 3730 Las Vegas Blvd. South Las Vegas, NV 89158 https://www.javiers-cantina.com/las-vegas The Pepino Margarita at Javier's Javier's is easily my favorite Mexican restaurant in Las Vegas. It is not an easy reservation to get, so I tried to plan my visit according to busy times. My sister and brother-in-law joined me for this portion of my adventure. We got to sample three incredible choices at Javier's. I ordered The Pepino. It had a great mix of cucumber and lime. It was by far my favorite drink of the day! My sister ordered The Granada and it was pomegranate and orange flavor and so great with a twist of lime. My brother-in-law The Granada Margarita at Javier's ordered The PINA, Javier's The Pina Margarita at Javier's version of a pineapple margarita - we all ordered another round! They were the best of the day and you NEED to stop at Javier's when in Vegas. China Poblano The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas 3708 Las Vegas Boulevard South https://www.chinapoblano.com/menus/#beverage-menu Our second to last stop of the day took us to China Poblano inside The Cosmopolitan. My sidekicks decided to finish the trek with me so we got to enjoy three different margaritas here, too. I ordered The Salt Air . It is Chef Jose Andres' creation and I added the pomegranate upgrade. It is so hard to explain the "salt air" but the beautiful frothing is truly salt air. I loved it. The Salt Air Margarita at China Poblano My sister ordered The Ron Cooper . It came with a little kicker (as if we needed more). It was more of the classic margarita flavor. My brother-in-law ordered The Flaca and the combination of the fresh orange and lime won the award for the best margarita at China Poblano. Overall the atmosphere and fusion of cuisine was fun. We we definitely be back! The Flaca Margarita at China Poblano The Ron Cooper Margarita at China Poblano Ghost Donkey The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas 3708 Las Vegas Boulevard South http://www.ghostdonkey.com The Watermelon and Basil Margarita at Ghost Donkey Our last stop on the tour took us to the hidden "speak easy" inside the Cosmopolitan. I highly suggest this cute little find. It is small, so be aware that seats are hard to find. We found three great spots at the bar and were lucky enough to watch the talented staff create almost every drink on the super fun menu. We chatted with our server about our day, packed full of margaritas, and he recommended this Watermelon & Basil Margarita and it did not disappoint! It was the best presentation of the day and was my second favorite margarita of the day. Happy Cinco de Mayo!!! Cheers

Wine Chianti, Sangiovese & Barolo -The history of Chianti, Sangiovese & Barolo - Serve at 55-60° Chianti is not a grape varietal; it is a term to describe wines produced in a particular region of Italy and Chianti is made predominantly using Sangiovese grapes. Confusing?? Yes. Chianti has a rich history dating back to at least the 13th century. Originally, it was a white wine, but by the 18th century, it evolved into the red wine we all know today. The name Chianti itself is from an ancient Etruscan family that lived in the territory of Tuscany over 3000 years ago.  You may think of Chianti by it's old-style wine bottle, characterized by its distinctive round shape and straw basket covering. It was originally designed to protect the thin glass during transport. The fiasco has now become a cultural symbol of traditional Italian wine, especially Chianti. It is often associated with rustic Italian dining and old-world charm. A historical remnant of past times, the fiasco has now been replaced mostly by modern bottles. Most bottles available on the market are produced with 100% Sangiovese using a process called “ in purezza ,” meaning using a single variety of grape in the production of wine.  Chianti is famous for its forward red fruit flavors, particularly cherry, red plum, and raspberry. These fruit flavors are often vibrant and fresh, providing a juicy and approachable quality to the wine. Sangiovese can also frequently exhibit a touch of herbal notes, such as dried herbs, thyme, and oregano. As Chianti and Sangiovese wines age, they develop more complex secondary flavors like leather, tobacco, or cedar. What Is Barolo Wine? Barolo is a wine produced in the appellation of the same name. It's located in Northern Italy's Piedmont region and is required to be made exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape variety. Nebbiolo, of course, is also grown in other countries around the world, but Barolo can only come from the Barolo DOCG (Denominazione d'Origine Controllata e Garantita) and must be produced following a strict set of rules and regulations, most notably that it be composed entirely of Nebbiolo that was grown on hillsides. These wines are known for their high acidity, which is a key characteristic of Sangiovese and Nebbiolo grapes. This high acidity gives the wine a bright, refreshing quality and makes it particularly food-friendly, especially with tomato-based dishes and rich meats. Why Sangiovese? Sangiovese wines, often high in acidity and intense aromas, pair well with Italian dishes like pasta, tomato-based beef dishes, and pizza. They can also complement Chinese spicy and sour dishes, such as sour and spicy fish. Sangiovese wines aged in oak offer more weight and complexity, making them suitable for steak, lamb chops, and grilled meats. Why Barolo? Young Barolo's boasts berries and cherries that are supported by mouthwatering acidity and forward, but not generally thick, tannins. There is often a touch of floral, as well as something savory. Spice notes and tobacco are also common. With age, Barolo emerges with notes of tar, roses, mushrooms like truffles and porcini, and fruit in the cherry and berry family. Sweet Spot Sangiovese Castello di Albola Sangiovese 2022 : $16.99 This month's Sweet Spot Sangiovese comes in under $20 and is a perfect selection to have on hand for the unexpected guest. It drinks like a much more expensive wine, has the most beautiful ruby color and is extremely flexible to serve with foods. I really enjoyed the slight smoky sage and the sweet, yet slightly tart cherry flavor. I would serve this with spaghetti, lasagna, or a charcuterie board . Castello di Albola Sangiovese 2022   : $16.99 Special Day Barolo Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba 2018 : $59.99 This month's Special Day Barolo is a hard one to find! Grab one if you can find it! This ready to drink Barolo is loaded with all the classic notes of smoke, leather, plum and spice and showcases a velvety texture and great balance. This special day selection is ideal wit h hearty red meat dishes and medium or mature cheeses. Cheers! Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba 2018 : $59.99 Food Pairing If a lovely glass of your favorite Chianti, Sangiovese or Barolo was searching for the perfect mate, here is what should be on that list. Meats: meat lasagna, spaghetti & meatballs, steak, pork Seafood: mussels, cioppino (seafood stew) Veggies/Fruits: eggplant, mushrooms, bell peppers Spices/Herbs: rosemary, thyme, oregano, basil Cheeses : parmesan, asiago, grana padano Sauces: classic tomato sauce, arrabiata (spicy tomato), creamy mushroom Dessert: cannoli with ricotta, dark chocolate, wine poached pears For a fun twist on an Italian meal, especially in these cold winter months, serve my Lasagna Soup with a glass of our wine from above. These both would be the perfect pairing for this soup. Cocktail 21 Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño Tequila & Cointreau Mocktail This N/A option for a margarita is spot on! I just added a fresh squeeze of lime to brighten it up before serving in a prepared glass. You can find this popular brand in many locations. $12.99 4 pack/12 fl oz cans Mingle N/A Margarita Please drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. This information is for people over the age of 21. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol. -As Noted by Me-

- dancing through the last summer - This is our last summer before our last baby bird flies the coop, leaves the nest, busts outta dodge. She turns 18 this week – ugh, she turns 18 this week! How did that happen? Some days it seems as simple as “the days are long, but the years are short” and I don’t disagree with that statement. Yet, the demands of busy schedules and having other children in the house had previously provided us the perfect distraction from “the day”. You know “the day” I am talking about. That day presents itself to each household in a different set of circumstances. To some, “the day” might be the day your new high school graduate moves to an apartment across town to start their new job or the day they leave to serve our country. It could come in the form of the first day you walk past their room and realize that they did NOT oversleep for the weight room or early practice because they have played their last game. To us, it will happen when we drive out of Ames, after leaving a piece of our heart in her dorm room. The transition is something we all knew was coming. It’s been a storm on the horizon that was just out of sight. It was on the radar, but just far enough in the distance to not be alarmed. It’s the last summer before our family of five changes forever. It’s the last summer before I say “see you soon” to my last one. The dynamic of our family will forever be changed. Everyone who has gone through this knows what I'm talking about. I’ve done this twice and I should know how things will go, right?? Well, sound the alarm, the last summer has arrived. As we all know, after a storm there is the promise of a sky full of sunshine. I’ve made myself a few promises that I am going to keep this summer. I won’t cry EVERY day . I am kidding…maybe. I promised myself I would try (and when I say that I mean it, I will TRY) to celebrate the lasts with them during their senior year and not be a sobbing mess. Knowing it is the last time they will be on the field or on the stage or in the recital is HARD, but it’s a necessary step in what it means to be growing up. It’s that crazy mixture of pride for them, sadness it’s over and excitement for what is next. I also want to acknowledge that we (as parents) are DONE with the volunteering, the team snacks, the pre-game meals, and the washing the uniforms at all hours of the night. That is worth a little celebration! I will support (and not judge) others as we navigate the transition. I cannot tell you the number of girlfriends that have reached out to me asking how in the holy hell I got through my last two drop offs with my boys. I am clearly putting off the “she’s going to really struggle with this” vibe and I DID STRUGGLE and I STILL DO STRUGGLE . Every goodbye is hard for me. Some days I cry and some days I put on a smile - and often, it depends on how much sleep I’ve had. Judge me all you want – I am ok with that judgement. The judgement doesn’t mean anything more than we are navigating this “empty nest” thing differently. I am so excited for those of my friends who are living their best life as empty nesters. They’ve seemed to find a new normal quite nicely and I am happy for them. But I am not envious. I am embracing my squiggly, not even close to straight line, journey to a new normal. Just know I will celebrate and support your journey to get there, too. Call me, text me, email me at all hours of the day or night. We need each other – this is not the same journey for everyone. I won’t count our days. I’m sharing my girl these days. The pull of those things that make her so undeniably happy is natural and I’m proud to see her navigate this maturing and adulthood. It is a hard chapter to read when you know how the book ends. Our job as mothers never really goes away, but it changes (quite dramatically) in each stage of childhood. Just think about the infant, toddler, pre-teen (eek), and teenager needs that we’ve met as mothers. This next phase involves LETTING GO. We go from feeding, changing, making sure they brush their teeth, wake up for practice, and do their homework to LETTING GO! Logically, I know she’s ready and this is the goal as a parent, right? DUH, what is logic? Sometimes, I desperately want to go back to those days when they complained about taking their baths and doing their reading assignments before an 8pm bedtime. Sometimes, I want to fast forward to a time when I know they’ve all entered the phase of life where our grandkids are eating pancakes at our kitchen table, the same table that those reading assignments were begrudgingly completed. Yet, ultimately, I’m learning more about motherhood by living in the moment with all of them. The hard times when I know they are making the wrong choices, the good times when they studied so hard, and it paid off, the great times when you see how excited they are to be home for the weekend and even those tough goodbyes, after a long winter break, when you just got used to having them around again. Letting go is all about living in the moment and not counting the days. I am by no means a parenting expert. I screw up daily (probably multiple times a day) and I pray my family gives me grace. I am the kind of parent that tells them what they NEED to know and not what they WANT to hear and that’s difficult on both ends of the conversation. My biggest wish is that they always want to come home and they always know they can come home. The goal is to raise them to fly and for them to know the nest is always theirs, too. This is the last summer and I promise to live in the moment. When our first son went to college, my dear friend Mel gifted me this book. You will love it, too! Release My Grip - by Kami Gilmour Hope for a Parent's Heart as Kids Leave the Nest and Learn to Fly

Ham Balls by As Noted By Me Ah, the Midwestern staple...ham balls. Almost everyone I know has their own version of these scrumptious little bits of goodness. If you're able to shop at Fareway, they have the "ham loaf" already pre-mixed at the meat counter and you would only need to add your own beef. If you're not so lucky to have a Fareway nearby, the mixture is one part ground ham, one part ground pork, and one part ground beef. They are baked in the BEST sauce that hits a bit sweet and a bit tart. My family loves it scooped up with their potatoes, so I always double the sauce. Enjoy these ham balls with your favorite sides. We like to serve it with my Wilted Salad (recipe below). It has become our tradition on the Easter table. Enjoy!

Today, we give thanks to the brilliant minds that invented WAFFLES . I mean, let's be honest, not many things are as perfect as a waffle. They're hot off the waffle iron, crispy on the outside yet perfectly soft on the inside. I'm sharing an old favorite, my Loaded Cornbread Chili Waffles to celebrate. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Tuna Salad by As Noted By Me The first time I had this next level, "fancy" tuna salad was from a Whole Food's Market premade salad section. I immediately started trying to replicate it at home. Over several years, I added my own twist to make it something I crave and enjoy each Lenten season. It has earned a spot in my year-long rotation, too! When I want to stay on track with health"ish" eating this is an easy lunch for me. I eat it with crackers or on a bed of lettuce or sliced tomatoes. I give it a nice drizzle of good olive oil before serving and it is perfection. You can easily sub Greek yogurt for the mayo for a healthier version and it is very good with chicken subbed for the tuna, too. I hope you enjoy this "dressed up" tuna salad. It is packed full of flavor and is a good one! Enjoy- Jos