Bordeaux and the Perfect Quail 9.5.2016

It was Labor Day 2016.  First, the wine group FAMILIES descended upon the Davis home for snacking, swimming, and warm-up drinking.  I don't have any photo proof of this, but it did happen.  And it was wonderful!

Then we sent the kids home, rested up a bit, and reconvened for the serious stuff, which was some top notch French dining and wine.

Jed was in the groove as he doled out NOLA inspired dishes that had our mouths watering.  The most notable dish was, of course, this perfect tiny quail:

I could stop right there.

But I won't.  Because we also had other amazing dishes like crawfish beignets, smothered scallops, sweet potato cakes with roasted kale, and creme brûlée (which made farm boy Cody so very happy.)

And I was even surprised with a little birthday movie featuring some photos and video from my birthday bash in Ft. Worth- thanks for putting that together, Jed!

A good time was had by all

So Much Wine 9.3.2016

For kicks, I went back through all the photos from EVERY wine dinner and pulled all of the pics that have someone holding wine in their hand (or wine glasses front and center.)  Judging by the photo evidence, we've had a good time.

Birthday Break 8.13.2016

We interrupt this regularly scheduled wine blog for some unexpected and most exciting birthday news.  I turned 40, and since I write this baby, I can write about anything I want, right?

Besides, it involves the same cast of characters- our wine group gathered for a mystery birthday weekend to celebrate my birthday.  Cody arranged it all, and I loved every minute of it!

We started at the Kimball museum in Fort Worth where we received a private tour from our very own docent.  She was incredible.  I loved hearing all the interesting facts and details about the art she showed us.

We checked into the historic Ashton hotel then headed for dinner at Ellerbe Fine Foods.  Oh. MY.  The entire menu was delicious and we had so much fun together.  We even brought along some Domaine Serene for the occasion. 

The next morning, I was totally shocked to discover Cody had planned a segway tour.  I was nervous at first, but it wasn't too hard to get the hang of it.  It was a blast!  I want to do it again sometime!

The best part of the weekend was that I was surrounded by friends who love me.  I felt incredibly spoiled and tremendously loved.  Thank you everyone for making it a birthday I will never forget!

At Vestals 5.6.2016

We gathered at J and E's catering hub for the royal treatment, and it did not disappoint.  We enjoyed a many course meal surrounded by the peaceful ambience of candles and a beautifully set table.

Because I am writing this 4 months after it happened, the details are a little fuzzy.  I mostly remember some very good wine, excellent food, top notch service, and the warm feeling I experience when I think of time spent surrounded by friends who love and care for each other so deeply.

Life (like wine) is best experienced in the company of true friends.

Is It Chile In Here? 2.27.2016

The theme: Chile.  The food: better than typical Chilean food, thanks to Paul and Jackie.  The wine: running the gamut from bold Cab Savs to Carmenere blends.  The table conversation: Quotable.
The laughter: Unstoppable.

All Hands On Deck 11.2.2015

The deck was finally finished so Cody and Becky did the best possible thing to christen it.  They hosted a wine dinner outdoors.  It was dark.  It was winter.  It wasn't too cold, though.  In fact, I know the guys weren't feeling any chill around the fire pit, especially thanks to the hard liquor.

Thanks for helping us break in the new deck everyone!

Sushi Sake 4.6.2015

Jed and Greta graciously treated our group to a private table at Sushi Sake for an evening of great food and wine.  We were relieved to find the table had an underground opening for legs and that we would not be spending the next 3 hours on knees or criss cross applesauce.

Paul and Jackie came in costume (of course…overachievers!)

A beautiful evening was enjoyed by all.