Summer and wine is nearly its own pairing. When I stand in front of my BBQ or smoker with a glass of wine, I feel like Leonardo Di Caprio on the front of the Titanic…with my arms out wide…I’m the king of the world! 

Often times I will pour myself what I call, dinner making wine. You know that glass that just gets things going. It might be the glass one might pour for guests when they first arrive, that cheese pairing wine, …something refreshing on a Summer day. Might I suggest Albarino as a great go-to ...

Wine Pairing Ideas for Valentines - 

If you want to avoid the crowds, bad service and "special menu" that is inflated for 24 hours, celebrate at home.

• Plank roasted copper river salmon    /     Hahn Family SLH Pinot Noir $30

Oysters on the half shell    /

     Montmassot Picpoul de Pinet $10(Ask Your Wine Shop For Languedoc Wines For Big Value)

Roasted rack of lamb        

Landmark Vineyards Overlook Pinot Noir $30

Steamed Lobster with drawn butter    

Balleto Sparkling wine $42

Balletto Rose is for drinking while you cook, light meals, salads, or aperitif. $20 

Pan seared filet mignon crusted with fresh ground pepper, rosemary ...

Last year's Food and Wine Challenge was my very first time attending, and it was an exciting event. The Ventura Wine Trail puts on this annual event showcasing the synergistic impact of wine pairings. Local wineries pair with local restaurants to show case their goods and take a spin at winning both the judges votes, as well as tickets holders for the People's Choice Award.

This is not your typical wine event as it is held on a Thursday night locally, and makes for an easy date night....well, that's what I am doing.

2014 Teams ...

Superbowl BBQ sauce! Here is a little something to get you and your guests ready for the big game!

A few years of my life I lived in Texas. Many have heard something along the lines of "there are three things in Texas…..God, football, and BBQ, and not always in that order." 

From my time and experience living in the Dallas area, I can verify this is in fact true. High schools have sold out football games with scoreboards better than many colleges in other States. There is a church on just about every corner. Anyone on the block ...

Superbowl food and wine pairing -  

Saying the word "Superbowl" instantly gives thoughts, feelings and images to many of us. I view the Super Bowl as a special holiday that includes: friends, family, food, alcohol, commercials, and maybe even acid reflux. Maybe it would be better said if I just used the word "party."

Whenever there are parties that involve feeding large groups of people, I often begin to think about the "how." I look for ways to provide tasty foods that are easy preparation, wines that pair, and if possible not to break the bank. 

Here are my top 10 ...