Posts

Showing posts from October 29, 2024

In Icy Michigan, Fennville AVA Is a Grape-Growing Goldilocks

Image
The influence of bodies of water on viticultural regions can be dramatic, often serving as the key environmental factor behind the unique terroir and wine styles of various regions. Lakes, in particular, play a foundational role in tempering climates, such as the regions of Finger Lakes AVA , Austria’s Neusiedlersee and the shores of Lake Michigan , which cradles Fennville AVA, the United States’ fourth-oldest AVA. Nestled within the southwest corridor of Michigan, Fennville AVA enjoys an advantageous position along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan’s widest point. Though the state is known for its brisk winters and ample snowfalls, Fennville’s specific location means it benefits from what’s referred to as the “lake effect,” which plays a pivotal role in moderating local climate, often by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This natural phenomenon, courtesy of Lake Michigan’s vast and cold post-winter waters, delays bud-break typically until May, thus protecting the vines from frost. Conver

How Wine Enthusiast Survives the Holidays with a Little Help from Wine—and Sugar

Image
Photography Marshall Troy, Food Styling Barrett Washburne, Prop Styling Paola Andrea How Wine Enthusiast Survives the Holidays Hint: Wine helps—and so does sugar. By The Editors of Wine Enthusiast We asked the team here at Wine Enthusiast to share their sugar plum-tinted memories of holidays past. You could wait until the end of the meal to indulge in these sweet treats, but you probably won’t. You have days and days to dig in. How long has that panettone been sitting there? Are those cookies really for Santa? And when did he start preferring Madeira to milk? Photography Marshall Troy, Food Styling Barrett Washburne, Prop Styling Paola Andrea “On Orthodox Christmas Eve, when dairy and other animal products are forbidden, my mom makes djul pita— basically baklava’s drier, meaner cousin. You choke it down because tradition says so, but it’s like eating soil. Every year we down drinks (most likely my mom’s mulled wine, but I’d prefer a bottle of the juicy Beaujolais m

German Chocolate Cheesecake

Image
German Chocolate Cheesecake  is a rich and impressive dessert! It has an Oreo cookie crust, a chocolate cheesecake filling, and a classic German chocolate topping to finish it off! The gooey coconut pecan topping takes this cheesecake to the next level! Recipe Tip Rich and Decadent Recipe: If you love German chocolate, this cheesecake is for you! It’s rich and decadent, and you’ll love every bite— especially the topping ! Step-by-Step Instructions:  Homemade cheesecake requires some extra time, but the result is SO worth it ! My instructions and photos are easy to follow, so your cheesecake will turn out perfectly. Great For Special Occasions:  This dessert is a special treat from holidays to birthday celebrations! Impress your guests with this delicious beauty! Ingredients to Make German Chocolate Cheesecake There are quite a few ingredients, so make sure you have your shopping list ready. Every ingredient makes every layer taste incredible! There is nothing better than