July 2014 Reading & Tasting

Book

On July 1st, Friendship by Emily Gould comes out. I selected this book because it focuses on what happens to friendships as you reach your 30's-- something that a lot of us can relate to, and a topic that goes undiscussed. The story follows two friends, Bev & Amy, and I think it will make excellent summer reading. 

Wine

We'll be pairing this summery book with one of my favorite summer wines-- Riesling. I think Riesling can get a bad rap because there are a lot of bad overly sweet, syrupy rieslings out there. But when you find a drier one-- it's the perfect balance of sweet and crisp-- totally refreshing. 

June 2014 Reading & Tasting

Book

In the spirit of summer, we'll be reading Emma Straub's The Vacationers, which comes out tomorrow. It's all about a family's 2 week vacay in Mallorca, and the secrets, joys, and jealousies that go along with it. 

Wine

And what better way to celebrate the warm months than with Sangria? Sangria originates from Spain & Portugal, and consists of wine, chopped fruit, a sweetener, and brandy. 

 

May 2014 Reading & Tasting

Book

Frog Music by Emma Donoghue. It's a murder mystery that takes place in 1876, following a French burlesque dancer that tries to bring her friend Jenny's murder to justice.

Wine

Albarino, made from a variety of grapes grown in Northwest Spain. It has notes of apricot and peach, and is a bit more acidic than other white wines. The NY Times dubbed it, "The Little Spanish Grape that Could." 

March & April 2014 Reading & Tasting

Book

Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch, a New York-based non-fiction about a 13-year-old boy who miraculously survives an accident that kills his mother, and his journey into adulthood. It's on the longer side, but moves quickly. 

Wine

Beaujolais is more fruity and bright, as it's made with the Gamay grape. Beaujolais is named for its region in France, near Burgundy, and can be paired with almost anything, from fish to chicken, to steak, but is particularly delicious with tomatoey dishes. 

February 2014 Reading & Tasting

Book

Goodbye to All That: Writers on Loving & Leaving New York edited by Sari Botton. It's a collection of 28 writers' New York stories, all in response to Joan Didion's 1967 essay, "Goodbye to All That." I think most of us think about leaving New York from time to time, or at least consider what our other alternatives could be, but also have a passion (and kind of an addiction) to the city; this book shows that love/hate relationship through the short stories. 

Wine

A wine that warms from the inside out, a Sangiovese. It's traditionally a Tuscan wine, but is now often grown in the US too. I like the earthiness, the notes of cherry, and that it pairs well with rich foods, from mac & cheese to lamb chops. It's also super tannic, so best when eaten with food. 

December 2013 & January 2014 Reading & Tasting

Book

Night Film by Marisha Pessi. It's new and has been featured in several New York publications since the author is a New Yorker. A thriller, Night Film tells the story of a journalist who becomes obsessed with the mysterious death of a young prodigy. 

Wine

Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine that comes in both white and rose varieties. Cava is best paired with rich foods, whether that's a a hearty meat like duck or pork, or pasta with a decadent sauce. Another unique pairing to try is Cava with fried foods. I interviewed a California winemaker once and she said surprisingly, Cava with fried chicken, potato chips, or french fries is fantastic.