The Chianti Wine Regions

The region of Chianti is a tiny area in the heart of Tuscany between Siena and Florence and overlooks the Elsa Valley.  The land is fertile with olive groves, green forests, and those delicious grapes just waiting to be picked off the vine and smashed into the most heavenly of drinks-Chianti wine.

For many years, Italians have enjoyed the prestige of being recognized for having the largest harvest of grapes and the finest vintages of wine in the Mediterranean.  The present day farmers can thank the Phoenicians for bringing vines to this area.  They named the area, ''Oenotria'', the ''land of wine''.  The ripe fields, combined with the sun and Tuscan air led many others to this area to cultivate the grapes including, the Greeks, Etruscans, and Roman.  In many cases, these cultures brought their own vines to mingle with the originals.

A plague of insects, called phylloxera, swept through Europe in the18th century effectively halting wine production in the area.  The insects were known to feed on the roots and leaves, destroying the vines.  Eventually Italian vintners triumphed over the insect and recovered from the loss.

In the late 1960's the land of the Chianti area was in a down cycle and parcels of land were sold for very little.  Visionaries, seeing the obvious advantages of such beautiful countryside and fertile soil, rebuilt the vineyards to become some of the most credited vines in the world.

What makes the land unique in the area is the climate of the region.  The warmth which is constant, lasts much of the year with little rain fall.  The soil is dry and full of stones infused with limestone providing many nutrients and minerals for the grapes.  In addition, the clever vintners of the area only allow a limited amount of irrigation through the fields; therefore the vines have to delve deep into the ground to acquire water and nutrients.

The Italian government has its own classification for wine making with specific requirements for growing and making the wine.  DOCG, which stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, and is similar to the French AOC.  These government standards control the techniques from each of the eight regions of Chianti, keeping the regions wine making unique.  The regions of Chianti are Chianti Classico, Colli Arentini, Colli Fiorentini, Coli Senesi, Colli Pisane, Montalbano, Rufina, and Montispertoli.

Chianti Classico is the most widely known wine of the region, not only for its name, but also for the superb quality.  This wine comes from the vines species called vitis vinifera, which is the starting point for 99% of the wines in the world.  Of this vine, Italy grows more than 100 official varieties.

In the Chianti region, of which there are roughly 25,000 acres, two thirds of the land is given to the production of the Chianti Classico, and uses at least 80% of the Sangiovese grape.  In the other 20% of the region other wines are made using Sangiovese blended with Canaiolo and Colorino.  For the white wines a Trebbiano or Malvasia are used.  Again, the government controls the yields to nine tons in order to maintain a premium wine.

The lush red wine of the Chianti that pours into a glass like pooling velvet grows darker when aged.  The flavors that wash across the tongue are dry, slightly tannic, with an intense aroma, sometimes hinting of violet.  The vintners have no requirements mandated by the government regarding the aging process, but most use aged oak casks for their most savory bottles of wine called Riserva wines.  They are 12% alcohol content by volume.

Like the Romans, the Chianti has stormed the land making it known to all points of the world.  Yet it is the humble vintner creating this amazing wine under strict regulations that has the wine world at their feet.

Make Eating Healthy Foods Fun

Children everywhere in the world have an on-going love affair with junk food such as hamburgers, pizza, candy, soda and salty foods like potato chips and french fries.  Unfortunately, it's hard to find a single child who has these same strong feeling for the healthy food that they need such as grains, vegetables, fruits and foods reach in nutrients such as meat, beans, fish and nuts.

Fortunately, there is one tied and tested strategy to make kids eat the kind of healthy food that some of them may not want -- that's by making it fun.

That's right, make eating healthy food fun.  And how do you do that?  Here are some tips:

1. The Sneak Attack.  Try sneaking in some of those fruits and vegetables along with the kind of food they like, say, making muffins out of bananas or apples.  There are lots of vegetables the you can throw in when you're serving the kids pizza.  You could also make them look funny by arranging them creatively on a plate or making them stand up like people.  Sure, some people don't want their kids playing with food, but if it will help them get healthier, it may be worth the effort.
2. Funny Name Game.  If your kids are below the age of four, here's a nifty trick that gets them every time.  Give the fruits and vegetables funny names and concoct elaborate stories.  Some stories will end with these funny-named vegetables getting swallowed alive by the giant child.  In another version, the vegetables run for cover and hide from their enemies by entering a big cave that happens to be your child's mouth where they quickly get gulped down.
3. The Taste Test.  Kids dislike vegetables because they don't like the taste.  Therefore, make the healthy foods taste better and your child will love them.  For instance, put peanut butter on celery or add a dash of flavor to broccoli with ranch dressing.  I'm sure you can think of dozens of ways to spruce up healthy food.

The key is to find creative ways to make your children enjoy eating healthy food.  And once they've acquired a taste for it, eating healthy foods will be second nature to them.

Live Longer With The Mediterranean Diet

One of the biggest problems EU leaders have to find ways to overcome is the fact that the "old" continent is in fact becoming old.  As the European birth rate has been dropping at a rapid rate over the last couple of decades, the European continent will become soon a continent inhabited by a increasing majority of seniors.  Since this demographic trend develops, EU reforms and retirement policies try to address the issue and give Europe its chance to maintain its productivity levels high and its overall outcome on surplus.  Thus, contemporary ethnographic studies support that keeping Europeans health at high levels, especially for those over the age of sixty, is not only a social policy act governments should focus on providing, but also a wise economic policy that will keep Europeans able to continue being productive members of society and thus, lowering the negative outcomes of an alarming EU reality.  One method to keep older people healthier is to focus on their dietary habits and introducing new nutritional practices that can increase life expectancy levels.  According to researchers, one of the choices an aging person has to keep being healthy and active is to follow the Mediterranean diet.

In fact, the Mediterranean diet is associated with longer life expectancy among the elderly, because it is characterized by a high intake of vegetables, legumes, fruits, and cereals.  Furthermore, one of the basic nutritional elements shared across all Mediterranean cultures is the high intake of fish and the low consumption levels of saturated fats.  On the other hand, olive oil, which belongs to the unsaturated fats category, helps the human organism function and provides all the necessary ingredients for the aged part of the EU's population to continue being healthy and thrive.  Furthermore, the low intake of dairy products and meat and the modest consumption of alcohol have helped the elderly in countries like Spain and Greece to live longer and healthier lives and maintain their productivity levels high close to the end of their lives.

As current evidence suggests, such a diet is beneficial to the health of all individuals regardless of their age group or residence location.  Scientists, after examining a variety of factors like diet, lifestyle, medical history, physical activity levels, and smoking have recognized the importance of the Mediterranean diet in keeping the body fit and the mind working properly.  In fact, a higher dietary score was associated with a lower overall death rate and evidence suggests that people who follow such a dietary plan are expected to live longer and suffer less from illnesses.

What is alarming though is that the younger generation of Europe that has began following the Western type of diet-larger portions, fewer meals, less vegetable and fruit intake-have experienced problems associated with weight gain and are now battling against disfiguring their body types.  Modern way of living, stress, less available time to prepare a proper meal and other problems, have led parents to neglect the nutrition of their children and has led them to fight problems such that of youth obesity and low self-esteem.  Educating seniors should be a combined effort with educating youth as both age groups are considered currently to be the future of the "aging" European continent.

Hot Sauce Collection -- An Anthology Of Delight

Archimedes had his brainwave while in the bathtub.  Newton had his when he was relaxing beneath an apple tree.  Great ideas come in flashes.  The idea of starting a hot sauce collection came to Hot Sauce Harry's while vacationing in the Caribbeans.  Wanting to avoid the stereotype souvenirs, they found the notion of gifting hot sauce quite appealing.  Thus were planted the seeds of a massive hot sauce collection.

Hot Sauce Harry's house their formidable hot sauce collection at their flagship store in Dallas Farmers' Market.  Greenhorn hot sauce collectors can make their forays from here.  The store has sauce collections that span the entire Caribbean, Mexican and Louisiana gamut.  Name a hot sauce and get it here.

Hot sauce collectors can begin their sauce collections in two ways.  They can go for sheer numbers where the more, the merrier it is.  Thus, they can build up a voluminous hot sauce collection in no time at all.  Or they may choose to be nitpicky, concentrating only on specific hot sauce types.

There is beauty in numbers.  Therefore, you grab every hot sauce that you can lay your hands on.  However, have your hot sauce collection catalogued right down to the minute detail.  This way you can keep track of where your sauce collections are heading.  Carry your list wherever you go so that you do not end up paying a fortune on a duplicate hot sauce.

The hot sauce debutants may start with the Ass Kickin Kit.  An assortment of five hot sauces, Ass Kickin' Original, Candy Ass, Kick Yo Ass, Pain In The Ass and Smart Ass, they make great collectibles.

Specialty hot sauce collectors may fancy the limited edition hot sauce.  Alternatively, they may go in for representatives from each region, state or province.  They may choose to house in their sauce collections only hot sauce mementos like those released for special occasions and festivals or the hot sauce picked up while vacationing.  These fastidious people avoid the run-of-the-mill hot sauce.

Fussy hot sauce collectors they may be, but whatever be their sauce of specialization, even they cannot resist the lure of 357 Mad Dog Collectors' Edition.  Sporting the tag of The World's Hottest Hot Sauce Ever Made, this hot sauce is akin to the Penny Black among the philatelists or a Rembrandt among the art collectors.

The specialty hot sauce collectors would do well to purchase some literature on hot sauce.  There are some exhaustive guidebooks on the matter like The Hot Sauce Collector's Guide:  A Book for Collectors, Evans and Dewitt's The Hot Sauce Bible.  These books will enlighten you on the various hot sauce brands, both the blue-blooded and the off the shelf types, their history and the names and addresses of hot sauce vendors.

Know your hot sauce well before starting on your sauce collections, so that you can distinguish the vintages from the fakes.

Heat up your hot sauce collection.  Before you know, you'll have a showstopper in hand.

Healthy Low Fat Chicken Recipe | Andy's Famous Chicken

Anyone concerned with getting fit, staying fit, or fitness in general is usually looking for ways to eat more healthfully.  Chicken breasts are one of the most diet friendly lean protein sources you can find and they do taste pretty good.  Lean protein sources are extremely important for all fitness enthusiasts.  Lean protein builds muscle and helps to burn fat.  Here's a low fat healthy chicken recipe that you can vary to suit your mood.

Andy's Famous Chicken

3lbs. package of boneless, skinless chicken breasts -- still frozen
1 12oz. bottle of fat free salad dressing or Lawry's marinade
1 11 x 14 baking pan

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Place frozen chicken breasts in the baking pan.  Pour dressing or marinade over frozen chicken.  Bake chicken at 400 degrees for about 1 to 1½ hours or until chicken is lightly browned on top.

That's it!  That's the whole healthy low fat chicken recipe.  This chicken recipe is dead easy and especially wonderful when you want a nice dinner but you have piles of chores left to do and don't want to be chained to the stove all evening.  Serve Andy's Famous Chicken with side dishes such as steamed veggies and brown rice or other whole grains and you have a fast, healthy meal that actually tastes good.

This healthy low fat chicken recipe is particularly good with fat free Italian dressing.  Any fat free or low fat salad dressing may be used to maximize the flavor variations that are possible with this dish.  Another good choice would be any flavor Lawry's marinade since that brand tends to be lower in fat and calories.

For those folks who are not quite so fitness oriented, regular botled dressing can be used and the resulting dish will be just as tasty.  Another easy way to go would be canned or bottled curry sauce.  It makes a great spicy dish.  Andy's Famous Chicken is a great recipe for week night dinners and would also be nice enough to serve company.

Grinding Coffee: For Coffee Lovers

If you are a coffee lover, perhaps it is time for you to learn to grind your own coffee.  If you don't have the slightest clue of where to start, then this article is for you!  To begin, there are two main types of coffee grinders on the market today:  burr grinders and blade grinders.

Blade grinders grind the beans unevenly and without consistency in the grind.  Since there are no settings on blade grinding units, you basically grind until you achieve the coarseness or fineness you need.  The blade grinder causes static electricity and tends to make the process a bit messy if you aren't used to doing it.

Burr grinders, on the other hand, grind the beans evenly and are much cleaner and easier to use; especially if you are just learning.  Burr grinders have settings that allow you to choose an exact uniform size and consistency.  They are often recommended for espresso grinds, but can also be used for other types of grinds as well.

If you are concerned about price, blade grinders are the cheaper of the two and sell for roughly $20 each.  On the other hand, burr grinders often cost between $60 to $125.  The extra money for the burr grinder would be well spent since you would be getting a better quality cup of coffee and the clean up would be quicker and easier!

Each coffee brewing method requires a different grind size.  Drip coffee, for example, requires a medium size grind.  Espresso requires a fine grind.  The French press requires a much larger grind size.  The following is a general guideline describing the basic grind requirement for use in coffee makers:

Coarse grind:

Coarse grind is used in a percolator.  The percolator boils the water and forces it over the grounds in a metal filter that has holes in it.  This grind would not be recommended for optimum flavor, as it over-extracts bitter oils and acids.

Medium-course grind:

Medium-coarse grind is used in a French press or metal mess coffee maker that has gold or stainless steel filters.  These coffee makers force grounds to the bottom of the canisters after steeping the water/grounds mixture for several minutes.  This would not be recommended for optimum flavor because it over-extracts bitter oils and acids and is a bad percolator.  However, it is a good choice if you like a strong brew and don't mind a bit of sediment.

Medium grind:

Medium grind is used in drip coffee makers.  These coffee makers pour the water over the grounds in a flat bottom filter.  You may have to experiment with the grinds if you use an electric maker, as this is the only way to control the extraction.

Fine grind:

Fine grind is used in espresso machines, which are considered the most efficient method of brewing.

Extra-fine grind:

Extra-fine grind is used in vacuum pots or some older Espresso machines.

In order to get the best extraction for your coffee enjoyment, grinding the coffee beans properly is the key.  Freshly grinding the coffee prior to brewing is one of the most important steps to a great cup of coffee.  Just remember, the coffee beans should not be ground more than two minutes prior to the beginning of brewing.

Gourmet Seafood Is A Great Gift!

Many people have distaste for the word “gourmet” until they learn the actual meaning of it.  A gourmet is simply a person with a detailed knowledge of the finest food and drink.  The term originally came from the French word “groumet” which is a valet in charge of wine.  Gourmet seafood, then, is the finest seafood.  Sending gourmet seafood as a gift is a special and unique way of showing a person that you care for them.

Gourmet seafood can be a gift to customers, clients or employees.  There are many companies that offer a pleasing and tasty selection.  Careful attention should be paid in order to make the best choice for your important customer.  Sending the gift of gourmet seafood is giving the gift of the prize of New England.  Your employee or customer will be very pleased and delighted with the surprise of gourmet seafood arriving on their doorstep.

You should carefully consider which company you choose before placing an order of gourmet seafood.  Some firms can be easily contacted about the details of your shipment and readily give information about when it will be arriving to your customers and employees.  Many companies even offer discounts on a large order, for example, if your gourmet seafood order totals over $500.

The packages you can order include such favorites as Lobster Lover’s Feast or Surf and Turf.  How about a Maine Lobster Party, or maybe just one or two live Maine lobsters?  A hearty Shrimp and Steak Classic, rustic Australian Rock Lobsters or a Classic New England Clambake can also be ordered.  Of course, the prices of these gourmet seafood packages depend on the quantity and the distance it’s being sent.

How to Order Your Gourmet Seafood

1. You should fill out a corporate gift order form and fax it in to the company.  Or, if you prefer, the customer care line would be happy to take your order.
2. Make sure your billing address and the address your credit card company has on file are the same.
3. Make sure you place an order well in advance, at least 48 hours prior to when you need it to be shipped, in order to avoid any emergencies.  If your gourmet seafood company cannot process your order, they should contact you immediately and provide you with other options.  Always ask for a confirmation of the corrected order if this happens.
4. The gourmet seafood company will contact you just before they process the order to your credit card, in order to get your final confirmation.
5. If you receive a discount, the gourmet seafood company will deduct it from the total, usually before the shipping charges are added.
6. Many gourmet seafood companies will notify the recipient via email, so they’ll know when they should expect their package.  They will also send you an email when the package has been successfully delivered.

Get Romantic With Tea

When it comes to romance, many set the mood with a glass of pinot noir, or a bubbly flute of champagne.  Don't forget that "tea for two" can also brew romance, if you pay mind to the presentation.

Tea can be poured in a porcelain mug, a metal goblet or a shallow saucer.  Some like to gulp it down, others swish and slurp, while some take the time to delicately sip their tea from fine china cups placed atop dainty saucers.  The likes and dislikes of tea drinkers may vary, but tea accessories are becoming a big part of the tea-making exercise.

Making a great cuppa means starting with the basics.  The kettle is where every fine brew begins.  Some people have boiling water for years in the same metal kettles.  Others enjoy the tea of generations in their inherited kettles.  These people have been using the same kettle for years and are quite content with the results.

If you're not so lucky, it's time to seek out a kettle to brew your perfect tea.  When shopping for a kettle, ensure that the lid fits tightly.  If the lid is loose, there is the risk of hot water blowing into your face.  Ensure that the handle won't get hot, and that it is securely fastened to the body of the kettle.  The size of the kettle is equally important.  If you are only going to brew one or two cups at a time, don't buy a big kettle.

The teapot is another very important accessory, and great care must be taken in choosing the right one.  A two- or four-cup porcelain teapot is perfect for black teas.  Green or oolong teas should be brewed in a Japanese or Chinese teapot.  Herbal infusions are best suited to clear glass teapots.

When choosing your new teapot, be sure that it has a tight-fitting lid, balanced proportions, a smooth and polished surface and a spout that doesn't leak.  Nothing spoils the mood like a leaky teapot.

The tea infuser is another must-have accessory for true tea lovers.  The most common form is the wire mesh style, but there are also ball infusers, infuser presses and traditional bamboo infusers available.  An ideal infuser should fit the entire mug or extend deeply into the teapot.

Those who truly love their tea or are a tad finicky about their brew might also have a measuring teaspoon, thermometer, digital timer, tightly sealed storage containers, a delicate tea cozy and elegant cups and saucers.  The tea tray is the last link in the chain of tea accessories, and the one that holds it all together.

When romance is brewing, pour some tea for two, and dazzle your love with all the right accessories.

Food On Tv

For some time now I have been watching an Emmy-winning television personality and author who hosts at least four different programs on U.S. cable television's Food Network.  Rachael Domenica Ray, has become one of my favorite culinary experts as her energetic personality and her smile have been enough to keep me in front of the TV screen to watch her teach simple recipes that she claims can be prepared in thirty minutes or less.

Being an amateur cook myself, I was pleased to discover that she shared the same view that I have in relation to food measuring.  As she emphasized, ''it takes away from the creative, hands-on process of cooking''.  Her ''eyeball it'' expression has stayed with me every time I am about to experiment with something new and taste my efforts.  Even though she has been heavily criticized for her appearance, her voice, her gestures and her energetic manner, I declare to be one of her funs, at least in relation to her recipes.

But over and above Rachel, I was amazed to discover that the U.S. television has a cable channel totally devoted to food preparation, at-home entertaining, restaurants, food and eating habits.  The New-York based Food Network reaches more than 85 million households and it is broadcasted to other countries as well due to its interesting programs and live shows.

One of the most famous this channel broadcasts is that of ''Emeril Live''.  As a kid, Emeril Lagasse worked in the local Portuguese bakery and today he is one of the most famous culinary personalities.  After opening a series of successful restaurants, hosting popular TV shows and becoming one of the most recognizable chefs of all time, Emeril Lagasse remains devoted as ever to using fresh, top-quality ingredients and employs cottage industry ranchers, farmers and fishermen to ensure that he always gets the best.  He constantly invents new recipes, much to the delight of his regular customers and the fans of his Food Network specials and shows ''Emeril Live'' and ''Essence of Emeril''.

From what it seems, the Food Network is committed to exploring new, different, and interesting ways to approach food -- through pop culture, adventure, and travel -- while also expanding its repertoire of technique-based information.  The only thing I have to wish to its management team and its shows is the best of success for the rest of 2006 and for the years to come.

Eating Tips For Keeping Fit

When it comes to keeping fit, there are a host of responsibilities that you must taken on in order to ensure that the diet and exercise that you maintain has positive effects on the health of your body.  In this article, we'll be talking about some simple ways to change your life in order to allow your lifestyle to be more beneficial to your level of fitness.

• Get your nutrition from a variety of sources.  The wider the range of the foods you eat, the better your body can get the various nutrients and minerals that it requires to function properly.  Sticking to a picky diet of the same foods over a long period of time can have negative consequences when it comes to your health.
• Whenever possible, include garlic as an ingredient in what you eat.  Garlic is a veritable wonderfood, helping the body in a large number of ways.  Garlic helps the immune system to function more properly, aids the thinning of the blood, and allows the body to produce hormones more readily.
• Keep your alcohol consumption to a minimum.  In addition to increasing your risks of cancer and other health problems, alcohol has a lot of calories and little to no nutritional value.  In addition, when you drink alcohol, your body's store of B-vitamins is decreased.
• Eat small meals throughout the day.  Those who are totally in condition with their body tend to eat small meals roughly around 6 times per day.  This allows the body to have a steady flow of nutrients throughout the day, and it also helps the body to regulate insulin, allowing better metabolism of fat and greater chance of building muscle.
• When you can, eat organic foods.  While there aren't millions of options available when it comes to organic foods, they are the only known types of foods that are beneficial to health.  Many of the ingredients found in common store-bought manufactured foods have not been thoroughly researched over long periods of time, and by eating organic, you ensure that your body is getting what it needs with no damaging additives.
• Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.  Getting a lot of water consumption helps the body to eliminate toxins more readily, which can help the body to operate in prime condition.

Of course, it takes more than a proper diet to find fitness in your life.  However, following the above tips can be a great supplement to a regular exercise routine.  Your body is your responsibility -- take the reins today!

Delicious Cocktails To Please Your Guests

When having a dinner party, a large aspect of its success is determined by the cocktails that you make available.  You can really turn your party into a night to remember if you can expose your guests to some delicious drinks that they'll never forget.  In this article, we'll relay some cocktail recipes that can surprise and impress your guests.

A commonly-used twist on a classic drink is known as the "Purple Haze".  Based off of the Long Island Iced Tea recipe, the drink gets its name from the famous Jimi Hendrix song since it is purple in color.  While the drink shares many of the same ingredients as a Long Island, it features a distinct taste that provides a good dose of alcohol while still tasting delicious.  To make a Purple Haze, you're going to need the basic liquors that go into a Long Island -- tequila, rum, vodka, and gin.  In addition, you're going to need the secret ingredient that gives the Purple Haze it's color -- Chambord, which is a raspberry-flavored cordial.  You'll also need a lemon-lime flavored soda and sweet and sour mix.

To make a single Purple Haze, mix ½ oz of the four Long Island liquors with ½ oz of Chambord.  Add in an ounce of sour mix, and top it off with a splash of lemon-lime soda for a little carbonation.  That's all you have to do!  The result is a drink that packs a punch while still being very delicious.

Are you looking for an adventurous cocktail that can really add some flair to the evening?  The Flaming Dr. Pepper can be a great addition to an evening, especially for a Tiki-themed party.  Be forewarned -- the drink involves lighting a liquor on fire.  The end result will shock you and your guests, however -- it tastes almost exactly like Dr. Pepper!

To make a Flaming Dr. Pepper, you're going to need a bottle of 151 proof rum as well as a bottle of amaretto and plenty of light beer.  The preparation of the drink can be easily ruined, so take heed for the following directions:

Take a shot glass and fill it ¾ full with amaretto.  Top the shot with 151 -- it should end up layered on top.  Fill a pint glass halfway full with light beer.  Now comes the showmanship part -- using a lighter, carefully light the top of the shot on fire.  The 151 will burn off the top of the shot, and once it's lit, you need to drop it into the pint glass.  The concoction will fizz up, and you need to down it as soon as you can.  By some act of God, the drink actually tastes amazingly like Dr. Pepper -- shocking, considering there isn't a single non-alcoholic ingredient in the mix!

These two drinks can add a delicious and exciting aspect to your next get together.  Exercise caution when making the Flaming Dr. Peppers, and be sure to take the keys of anyone who has been drinking too much.  Enjoy!

Do Aphrodisiac Foods Exist?

Many of us have heard that sea-food excite the human senses or that walnuts and honey are the best aphrodisiac.  But do certain types of food affect the human erotic impulse?  Can specific food categories be the cause of the increase or decrease of male or female libido?  Is there any scientific evidence that suggests some types of foods can help the sex life of today's individuals, or all these are just a legend that goes back to the ancient times?  Although a balanced diet is considered today to be the best aphrodisiac, this article can help you spice up your life and answer some of your questions on the subject of aphrodisiac food materials.

• What is the role our brain plays?

  The sexual disposition and activity of a person are directly related with the brain's activity.  Crucial for the transferring of sexual stimulus are considered the neurotransmitters, the chemical substances that transfer messages to and out a person's brain.  These neurotransmitters contribute to one's good memory and ability to focus, increase the good mood one carries and improve the levels of euphoria, while at the same time they are responsible to release sexual temper.

• The secrets of ancient Greeks:

  Ancient Greeks are legendary for the particular focus they portrayed in the dinner preparation, making it resemble to a ritual as they devoted long periods of time to eat.  The information we have available show that they used all of the five senses in an effort to create a sensual environment.  Moreover, the food served was carefully selected and prepared and they used to grab food with their hands, as they supported that this practice creates a very interesting sensation stimulating also the brain.  Additionally, ancient Greeks were firm believers that the food on the table had to be served with the right order and paid special attention to its appearance on the plate.  The food smells and appearances were considered important stimulators for the functions of a healthy brain.

• Vitamin E, the "love" vitamin:

  As scientists and ancient civilizations have found, vitamin E is one of the most important vitamins one should consume daily.  Since vitamin E protects the blood cells and directly affects the sexual activity and the fecundity of a person, it is also known as the "fertility vitamin" and is recommended by physicians to treat the reproductive organs' malfunctions of males worldwide.  Nuts, olive oil and avocado are great resources of vitamin E, and one should consume approximately 15 mg a day of these types of food.

Indeed, as contemporary researchers indicate, the consumption of certain food categories is related to the activities of the human organism.  Dieticians specifically state that people wanting to have a balanced sex life have to include these special types of foods in their diet.  As experts agree, exercising often and maintaining a balanced diet are the secrets to reduce stress and enjoy a better and healthier sex life.

Coffee Machines

Coffee has long been a staple for waking up on sleepy mornings and getting through busy afternoons.  Coffee houses are places to meet friends, make new acquaintances, plan futures and talk about the past.

It's no question that coffee is important in our lives.  From decaffeinated brews to cap a quiet evening, to rich espressos to finish a meal, to supercharged cappuccinos, there are literally hundreds of coffee choices.  Many of the more unique blends require special coffee machines to create the perfect brew.  Hand-brewing machines and old-fashioned presses have enjoyed a renewed interest by coffee lovers.  Many coffee drinkers are now using pod brewers that infuse hot water through coffee pads, while others prefer the old-fashioned drip machines.  Cappuccino and espresso machines are also popular choices.

Drip coffee machines, however, are still the most popular because they are easiest to use.  With this method, coffee rookies and aficionados alike can easily brew the perfect pot.  The key to success in using drip coffee machines is to choose a permanent filter, such as gold and nylon models.  With a permanent filter, the flavor molecules from the coffee grinds can pass freely through to the water.  Another important advantage is that permanent filters leave no unwanted flavours.  Cleaning a permanent filter after every use is required, but the delicious results are well worth the effort.

The problem with using paper filters in coffee machines is that they leave an unpleasant aftertaste in the coffee.  Additionally, paper filters can absorb some of the special flavour molecules and aromatic oils from the coffee beans, essentially losing that rich aroma and tantalizing taste.  If you must use paper filters, try rinsing them with hot water first, to wash away some of the aftertaste.

The best coffee brewed in drip coffee machines comes from a medium to fine grind.  Measure the coffee carefully according to your coffee bean package or machine manufacturer's suggestions, and use water that is between 195 degrees and 205 degrees.  This range of temperatures ensures the best extraction from your ground coffee ...

Expert coffee makers will tell you that one of the tricks to brewing a great cup is to remove the filter and grounds before the last few drops of water have filtered through.  In doing so, your java will be less likely to taste bitter or over-extracted.  When the coffee has finished brewing, stir the pot before serving.

Coffee lovers agree that morning, noon or as a nightcap, anytime is the best time to enjoy a great brew.  Using good quality ground coffee beans in the right coffee machines can help to ensure success in every pot.

Cuisine Inspired By The Culture Of Mexico

Love Mexican foods?  You're not alone.  Mexico-inspired fare has been enjoyed by people around the globe for centuries.  But if you've worried that you're just not a good-enough cook to put together a dish reminiscent of warm, tropical Mexico, fear not.  Below are some quick dishes that anyone can put together.  Your guests (or family feasters) will definitely say, ''Ole!'' when they taste these tidbits.

Quick Enchiladas

What shouts ''Mexico'' more than a good enchilada?  You can make some very quickly with this fast recipe.  Though it's not exactly what you'd find in Mexico City, it'll sate the appetites of your ninos and ninas.

Ingredients:  broiled or grilled chicken (you can even get this pre-made and pre-cooked;  all you have to do is warm it up!);  shredded lettuce;  diced tomatoes;  diced onions;  low fat sour cream;  low fat Monterey jack cheese;  sliced black olives;  sliced green olives;  salsa (mild, medium, or spicy);  and numerous 10'' or 12'' flour burritos.

Directions:  Assemble your burritos by laying down a flour burrito, spreading the sour cream in the middle of it, then layering all the other items except for the cheese and salsa.  Wrap it up and put it on a baking sheet.  Continue making enchiladas until all burritos have been used.  Then, sprinkle salsa and cheese on top of the enchiladas.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes to melt the cheese and warm them up.  Enjoy!

Mexico-inspired bean dip

This bean dip is quick to assemble and tastes amazing.  Serve it warm and watch it disappear.

Ingredients:  one can of low fat refried beans;  one small container of low fat sour cream;  one 8 ounce package of Monterey jack cheese;  one small jar of sliced black olives;  one jar of salsa (your favorite);  and low fat baked tortilla chips.

Directions:  In a casserole dish, layer the items as follows: beans, half the container of cheese, both jars of olives, sour cream, rest of cheese, and salsa.  Then, warm up the casserole for about 15 minutes (or until the cheese is melted) in a 350 degree oven.  Serve with chips.

Homemade Tortilla Chips

Ever gotten fed up with your tasteless tortilla chips?  Try these homemade versions on for size!  You won't have to travel to Mexico -- you can get them in your own kitchen.  And the folks who get to enjoy them will be happy to call you a talented senora, senora, or senorita.

Ingredients  -- one package of 12'' flour burritos;  olive oil;  Mexico spices (often, major spice makers will offer a blend of Mexico-inspired flavors);  low fat sour cream;  low fat (or homemade) guacamole;  and salsa (your choice).

Directions:  Using a pizza cutter, slice the burritos into quarters (thus, there will be four small ''triangles'' for each 12'' burrito).  Lay them out on a baking sheet (make sure they don't overlap).  Brush each triangle with olive oil, then lightly sprinkle with Mexico-inspired spices.  Bake at 350 degrees for about 12-15 minutes until just browned.  Serve warm with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Coffee Grinders

All coffee drinkers have their own opinions on what's involved in brewing the perfect pot.  For many, it's a combination of cold, clean water, and freshly ground coffee beans.  Coffee grinders are the perfect kitchen accessories for these caffeine connoisseurs.

Coffee grinders work so well because they unleash the bean oils and create a delicious aroma before you even brew a pot.  It's like opening a fresh can of ground coffee each and every morning.

Of course, there's more to cooking up a great cup of joe besides simply grinding the beans.  There are different techniques for storing the coffee, measuring the grounds.  The type of coffee maker and water you use can also mean the difference between so-so and simply delicious.

Coffee gurus recommend adding two heaping tablespoons of whole beans to the grinder for every six ounces of water you plan to use.  If using a drip coffee maker, you should measure the water before starting the brewing process.

To get the strongest, richest flavour, freshly ground beans work best in press pots or those with permanent filters such as gold cones.  Truly fussy coffee drinkers do not use paper filters, as they can create an aftertaste and absorb the special aromatic oils from the coffee beans that are essential for creating superb taste.  If you must use paper filters, try rinsing them with hot water beforehand to wash away the aftertaste.

Knowing how long to let your coffee brew is another important factor.  Freshly ground coffee is very delicate, and if left in contact with the water for too long, it can become overly bitter.  On the other hand, if the grounds don't spend enough time with the water, the coffee may lack the full and robust flavour you're hoping for.

After brewing the perfect pot, don't leave it sitting on a burner or hotplate for too long.  After twenty minutes the coffee will "burn", take on a terribly bitter taste, and take a real toll on your stomach.

Coffee grinders make it easy to start every day with a brilliant brew.

Choosing The Right Pair Of Wine And Cheese

Wine and cheese parties from the seventies are returning.  They are easy to set up.  You don’t need a reason for the party.  They can be brought together at any time, no matter the weather and there is nothing like the pairing of cheese with wine.

Most people can get overwhelmed.  To begin with there are a wide range of choices in wines and cheese.  Then there is figuring out what wine goes with what cheese.

The first thing to remember when you set about buying your supplies is never by cheap boxed wine.  It may be easy to open but the flavors of cheese or any other food cannot be brought out with cheap wine.

Remember strong wines go with strong cheese and mild cheeses go with mild wine.  Neither drink nor food must dominate.  The flavor of each bite of cheese on your palette is replaced with a sip of the wine.

Wines that are acidic complement pungent cheese such as Chardonnay with Brie or a Savignon Blanc with goat cheese.  A soft cheese like Camembert goes well with sweet wines like Vouvray or Chenin Blanc.  And hard cheeses like Parmegiano, Romana or Regiano are wonderfully matched to full bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Red Zinfandel and Red Bordeaux.  Sweet wines like Vermouth, Port or Sherry may be combined with the a the well known, much loved cheddar cheese.  If the cheddar is aged then its sharp taste compliments an equally tangy glass of Shiraz Cabernet.

Remember, that the best guide of what cheese and wine combinations to go for, you should rely on your tastes.  If it seems to work together then serve them together.  Don’t worry about the errors you make, they will only help improve your abilities in the long run.

Choosing The Right Meat

To a person that does not commonly purchase meat, the deli counter can be a very intimidating place to be.  There are so many selections to choose from when you are trying to find red meat, and many people don't know where to look when it comes to purchasing good cuts of meat.  In this article, we'll discuss some of the common features of steaks to look for when purchasing beef so that you can know how to choose the right cuts for you and your family.

First off, you need to understand the USDA's grading system when it comes to steak.  There are three grades of beef sold under the USDA guidelines -- Prime, Choice, and Select.  Prime is the most expensive cut of beef, and it is usually from younger cows and features extensive marbling.  Marbling is an aspect of beef that is important to understand.  When small levels of fat permeate through the meat, causing it to have a ''marbled'' appearance like the stone of the same name, the beef is often very tender and consequently highly desired.  It can be tough to find Prime USDA beef outside of restaurants, with only specialty butchers usually carrying the meat.  The next step down in the quality of beef is Choice.  Choice beef is the most commonly found grade in the marketplace, and while it has less marbling than Prime beef, it still tends to be desirable.  Select is the lowest grade of beef, featuring limited marbling throughout the beef, usually resulting in tough meat that isn't very juicy.

Another important aspect to consider when buying beef is the cut.  One of the most commonly purchased high-end steak cuts is known as filet mignon.  Also commonly referred to as beef tenderloin, these cuts are amongst the tenderest cuts of beef available.  They are often round in appearance, and you can expect to pay a pretty penny when purchasing filet mignon.  New York Strip Steaks are also often desirable, featuring a long marbled cut of meat with a strip of fat along the side.  T-Bones and Porterhouses represent the bigger cuts of steak, with 20 ounces being a common size for the Porterhouse.  They feature a bone along the center with plenty of marbled, tender meat/ throughout.

When choosing an individual steak, there are some things to look out for.  Purchase beef that is bright red in color, signifying a level of freshness not found in most steaks.  The package that the steak comes in should be cold, and there shouldn't be much juice floating around the package -- that denotes that the meat may have been on the shelf for too long of a time.  The meat should be firm to the touch, with soft meat possibly being on the shelf too long as well.

Now that you know what to look for when shopping for a steak, you can more accurately pick the cut of meat and the choice steaks to keep you and your dinner guests pleased.

Choose An Outdoor Barbecue Grill

Outdoor barbecues are popular all around the world.  They are enjoyed for the camaraderie as well as delicious eating.  Barbecues can be informal family get togethers or tough culinary competitions.

There is one thing they all have in common though, and that is the need for an outdoor barbecue grill.

The outdoor barbecue grill has a cooking surface that is composed of metal bars.  The bars are mounted above the fuel source which puts out intense heat with temperatures in the 500 degree Fahrenheit range.  This intense heat is the distinctive feature of grilling.

Just as there are many types of outdoor barbecues, there are also many types of barbecue grills.  The two most commonly used are the gas grill and the charcoal grill.  They come in various shapes and sizes with a variety of features.

These types of grills are easy to obtain and can be purchased at most shopping centers.  Let's take a look at these two types of outdoor barbecue grills.

Gas Barbecue Grills

Just like the name suggests, the gas barbecue grill uses gas for a power source.  This type of grill is typically more expensive than the charcoal grill.  Fuel for it is fairly inexpensive and readily available.  It is easy to set up and even easier to get it ready for cooking.  Just light it and place your meat on.

They don't make much smoke at all but the flames will flare up, therefore care must be taken when choosing a safe location for your grill.  The temperature can be easily controlled which is a nice feature and makes cooking easier.

Charcoal Barbecue Grills

Charcoal barbecue grills are the cheapest grills you can buy.  You can get a small table top model or a larger one which stands on its own base.  They are easy to put together but sometimes are not very stable.  The drawback to charcoal grills is that you have to allow heat up time for your charcoal to become ready to cook over.

Sometimes getting the charcoal to catch fire isn't easy either and requires the use of lighter fluid or starter, which ads an element of fire danger.  Charcoal barbecue grills are probably not for you if you need to prepare meals in a hurry or need a consistent cooking temperature.

Charcoal grills create smoke and have flames which flare up and should be placed in a safe location and never used indoors.  This type of outdoor grill can be messy to clean up after cooking also.

However, charcoal grills are extremely popular and are easy to transport which makes them the logical choice for camping trips and the occasional outdoor barbecue.

Burgandy, France -- Famous For Its Wines

The terroir is a group of vineyards or vines from the same area which have a common soil and climate.  And nowhere else, other than Burgundy in France, is it held so fondly.

Burgundy is a region situated in central east France, which experiences bitter cold winters matched with beautiful warm summers.  It is the home of 1.6 million inhabitants.

Burgundy (Bourgogne) is famous throughout the world for its wines.  Spanning over 31,500 square kilometers (over 12,000 square miles), with a 360 km (225 mi) strip stretching 100km (60 mi) south of Paris, down from south of Dijon to north of Rhoône, houses 99 different wine appellations.

Ranging from the vibrant red Pommard and Corton to the medium Beaune -- to the sparkling whites, the dry Chablis or Chassagne Montrachet, over 180 million bottles of some of the fines wines are made in this region.

As an aftermath of the French revolution the vineyards belonging to the monasteries were broken down to smaller plots -- which exist even today.

The finest quality wine, designated as “Premier Cru” -- is available from 600 of the vineyards in the region while 33 of them is credit to produce the even more classy “Grand Cru” wines.  Among these the most renowned are Montrachet, Chambertin and Clos Vougeot.

Made from the pinot noir grapes, the burgundy red wines taste best with Boeuf Bourguignon or pheasant.  On the other hand a Chablis or their sparkling white wines go best with anything from shrimps to goat cheese.

The famous white wine called Chablis derives its name from a village of the same name.  These are dry whites with an acidity that refreshes.  The special Chardonnay grapes thrive in limestone that has been made richer with remains of fossils.

As an accompaniment to lamb or grilled chicken, the best choice is the fruity-flavored, world famous Beaujolais made from the Gamay grape.  These grapes grow in granite limestone.

The ever-popular and delicious red is grown in Volnay for the last 8 centuries.  The grapes are Pinot Noir grown across 600 acres which is responsible in producing 1.3 million bottles of this amazing wine which has the flavors of raspberries and violets.

And then there is Meursault, located close by, famous for its Premier Cru labels of finest white wines.  2.5 million bottles of the finest wine, Chardonnay, aged anywhere between 3 to 15 years is grown in just over 1000 acres.  Fish in white sauce go extremely well with this fine wine with its almond and apple flavors.

But what still makes the headlines is the red Pommard with its tannic and manly flavor, staging a comeback after many years of decline.  From just 780 acres of Pinot Noir grown in limestone and red clay are produced 1.8 million bottles of this wine with the flavors of black cherry and black currant.  Goes excellent with game venison and roasted red meat with Livarot cheese, these can age from 5 to 15 years.

Whatever your taste buds need, there is very little chance of returning home disappointed with a Burgundy.

Boost Your Energy Levels

If you woke up last Tuesday feeling tired and are still feeling run down, do not think that this is the end of the world and that your energy levels have been exhausted completely or that your age is catching up with you.  Everyone has at least once felt too tired to get up, dress, drive, work, and come back to the house ten hours later after performing a variety of functions, only to continue cleaning up, filing, cooking, and execute all those routine activities we have learned to complete on a daily basis.  But although you tried to sleep your tiredness away, the feeling of fatigue has prevailed and you are now in a worse state than ever before.  Do not panic, but instead seek a doctor's advice and perform a medical check up.  If all seem to be fine on the physical level, apart from the low energy levels you have been experiencing, then follow these tips and boost your energy to skyrocket heights.

People that experience a low energy period usually comfort themselves by resorting to sleep and adding extra hours of bed time in their attempt to find their lost energy somewhere in-between their bed sheets and covers.  This is usually not the right strategy.  If you have maintained a steady sleeping schedule, prior to this recent development, which suited your needs perfectly, the extra sleep you are planning to have will not help you increase your energy levels and take control of your life again.  On the contrary, if you decide to sleep when your body does not need that extra sleeping time you are increasing the feelings of being tired and lethargic.  Thus, instead of sleeping, try to exercise.  Energy needs energy to be produced.  By performing simple exercises, like walking or swimming, your body will increase its metabolism which will help you get your energy levels again up.  Try introducing exercising as part of your daily routine and you will be witnessing a tremendous change in your energy levels as well as mind awareness.

Do not forget to consume fluids and particularly water.  Additionally, by adding more vegetables, complex carbohydrates and proteins into your diet, you will see your energy increase and you will feel much better about yourself and be actually healthier than before.

Another tactic to boost your energy levels is to start working on something you have been postponing for a long time, but would love to see yourself doing.  Hobbies, interests, volunteer work or house improvement projects can help you get rid of boredom, which can be a very good reason why you feel the way you do.  You can invest time in doing things that are fun and relax your body and mind.  Going camping, fishing, playing with your or the neighbor's kids, can assist you increase your recently dropped energy bucket and become involved again.

Most importantly, you have to get started.  If you begin doing something that can take you away from that couch or bed, you will witness the difference in your energy levels instantly.  Do not procrastinate.  Act today and boost your energy levels back up where they belong.

Antioxidant Food Sources

Antioxidants are substances that help our bodies fight free radicals-natural but toxic chemical reactions that occur in our bodies and damage our cells.  Different antioxidants combat different free radicals, so it's wise to know and use a wide range of antioxidant foods and vitamins that help preserve health and vitality.

Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant vitamin.  Foods that contain the antioxidant properties of Vitamin C include oranges, lemons, grapefruits, cantaloupe, many leafy greens, broccoli and peppers.  Beta carotene, found in carrots, is another antioxidant nutrient.

Garlic is another food known for its antioxidant properties.  Garlic actually has many healthy properties and can even be used as an antibacterial.

Berries of almost every type are excellent antioxidants.  Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries all have antioxidant properties.

Although cooking can dilute the nutrients in food, most foods have more than enough to last.  The antioxidant properties of red grapes are even found in wine, so it's not necessary to eat raw foods in order to get antioxidant benefits.

And speaking of antioxidants that you can drink, don't forget about tea.  All different kinds of tea have these good-for-you properties, not just green tea, as was originally thought.

While nutritional supplements are available to help us get the nutrients we aren't getting from food, the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day (especially if those vegetables are broccoli and spinach) should provide most of the antioxidants you need.  Especially for children, it's wise not to get in the habit of relying on supplements when a naturally varied diet can provide for most nutritional needs.  As we get older, however, it may become necessary to supplement certain vitamins and minerals;  for example, some older people lose the ability to naturally synthesize enough Vitamin B12.  Vitamin D is another vitamin that may need to be supplemented in older people.  Your doctor can do blood tests to determine if you could benefit from vitamin supplementation.

Wineries Focus on Corporate Gift-Giving

According to Wine Spectator, wine consumption has increased over the years, making wine a more desired gift during the holidays.

There is also an increased interest in high-end wines and small wineries, like California's Viansa Winery in Sonoma and Kirkland Ranch Winery in Napa.  Viansa and Kirkland Ranch wineries have focused on the following corporate gift-giving ideas to help customers make a statement with employees and special clients:

• Create a lasting impression.  Pair your corporate identity with exclusive wines and olive oils for a strong reminder of your company to those valuable business relationships.  You can put logos, photos, images and slogans on any private label wine from Viansa and Kirkland Ranch wineries.
• Add a touch of elegance.  Etching bottles can be used during the holidays, for promotional gifts year-round, for weddings, anniversaries or celebrating new babies.
• Sweeten the deal.  Indulge your clients and colleagues with the perfect pairing of wine and chocolate.  Viansa wine bottles are hand-dipped in Belgium chocolate and then wrapped for an elegant presentation.  Add chocolate medallions with your corporate logo or a personal message.
• Give a subtle reminder.  Share an exclusive Taste of Tuscany with business associates each month and enjoy the opportunity to subtly remind them of your business.  Viansa's Tuscan Club offers a unique wine and food experience reflective of Californian and Italian wine country living every month.  Members also enjoy a 25 percent savings on all wine purchases, 10 percent on gourmet foods and gift baskets, and a complimentary subscription to Tuscan, Viansa's full-color monthly magazine filled with entertaining ideas, wine information and recipes.  The Kirkland Ranch Wine Club will deliver six shipments per year, each containing two bottles of estate wine, family recipes that complement the wines, a newsletter and winemakers' notes.  Members also enjoy 20 percent savings on all purchases.
• Indulge them in flavor.  With gift baskets like Viansa's Classic Cal-Ital, you can share the tastes of fine Italian wines and artisan cheeses.

Whether it's a hard-working employee, a dedicated client or someone who has referred business to you, a gift of wine can create a lasting impression.

Wineries Buzzing About 'Cal-Ital' Varietals

Cal-Ital refers to Italian varietals grown in California and is the new buzzword among some winemakers.

California's wine country was largely built on Italian-American grape growers, like Sam & Vicki Sebastiani of Viansa Winery, specializing in Italian varietals.

To learn of the intricacies of Italian wines, Viansa Winery offers a few Italian varietals worth tasting, along with some tips on how to pair them with foods for a complete epicurean experience.

• Sangiovese:  A versatile wine, adaptable to many different foods, from pizza to hearty minestrone.  "Piccolo" Sangiovese is a medium-bodied wine with a bouquet of raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and a hint of smoky tar to a plum-like flavorful finish.  "Thalia" Sangiovese is a complex, full-bodied wine blended with 80 percent Sangiovese, 16 percent Merlot, 4 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, and less than 1 percent Cabernet Franc.  Aged for 15 months in oak barrels, "Thalia" is recommended to be decanted for an hour before serving with selections like veal or grilled duck breasts with cherry chutney.
• Barbera:  Viansa's blend of 93 percent Barbera and 7 percent Nebbiolo, the "Augusto" Barbera has flavors of cherries, raspberries and strawberries.  It's the perfect wine with cheese and salami.  It also pairs well with lamb and rabbit.
• Nebbiolo:  With distinctive aromas of strawberries, roses, mint and tar, this red wine is an ideal choice for dishes featuring the earthy flavors of mushrooms and truffles.
• Vernaccia:  Viansa is one of the few producers of Vernaccia in the United States.  This white wine is famous to the Tuscan region of Italy.  It displays flavors of star fruit, mild melons and a crisp acid finish, along with flavors of pineapple, banana, hints of pear, dried fruit and creamy butterscotch, making it perfect to sip by itself.
• Pinot Grigio:  Harvested from Viansa's Sonoma Valley Estate, the 2004 "Vittoria" Pinot Grigio has light flavors of apricots, pears and green apples with hints of orange, lingering hazelnut and macadamia flavors.  This wine pairs nicely with shellfish, white fish, chicken and veal.
• Tocai Friulano:  A new white wine for Viansa boasting aromas of apricot, guava, pineapple and glazed nuts.  Viansa pressed whole clusters of fruit and fermented the wine in stainless steel in order to preserve the bright fruit flavors.  This new wine is the perfect companion for shellfish like oysters and mussels.

Wine Tasting Can Be Challenging

The art of tasting the wine is naturally as old as the art of wine-making itself.  Nowadays the activity of wine taster has turned in an appreciated career for some.  If the ancient people used to taste wine before they consumed it now we have experts that taste the wine for us and tell us which wine is better than the other.

One of the challenges of this ''job'' is to be able to translate the taste of wine into language.  Greeks used different words to describe wine but today with so many more wines to elaborate upon describing the taste of a wine is a real challenge.  Sometimes, fruit, flowers and vegetables are used as a reference.  Some experts use the smell of food to describe the wines.  As Victoria Moore advises in one of the Guardian's articles, the ''terrifyingly organised Angela Mount applies the same exactitude to the discussion of food smells in wine''.  She describes the taste of Zonte's Footstep Shiraz Viognier 2004 as 'figs' and baked apricot, cooked in the oven with a few dabs of butter."

Another challenging part of the wine taster job is the ability to spit or gob.  Victoria Moore helps us again with information about this difficult ability to gain.  In wine circles the ability to spit like an Icelandic geyser is a critical social skill.  As a wine taster you can even be labeled by this ability and the inability to perform this important part of the job is deployed as the most final and cutting of insults, and at tastings there is a very clear spitocracy.  ''The most experienced and revered palates scour the tables at great speed, swirl, gargle, then, with something of the swagger with which a cowboy might draw his pistol, their glance flicks in the direction of the spittoon and, at long range, a jet of liquid arcs suddenly into it'' explains Victoria Moore.

Wine Tasting -- Understanding The Wines Of France

Are you baffled by the huge variety of French wines and completely lost when it comes to deciding which wine will best suit your needs?

Each of the eight wine producing regions of France specializes in producing wine of a particular type and flavor and this simple overview will hopefully make choosing French wines a little easier.

Burgundy

Burgundy wines are produced from the black Pinot Noir and Gamay grapes and from the white Chardonnay grape.

The Pinot Noir is probably one of the world's oldest grape varieties and is notoriously difficult to grow.  It does however produce some of our best wines which are full-bodied and rich and at the same time can be light, soft and velvety.  Pinot noir wines often have an aroma of cherries accompanied by a spiciness that is reminiscent of cinnamon or mint.

The Chardonnay grape is a very popular grape which produces light, delicate dry wines with a distinctive but often difficult to describe aroma conjuring up a vision of apples, peaches or lemons.

Bordeaux

The wines of Bordeaux are based upon the related black Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, found particularly in the Medoc district of Bordeaux, and the black Merlot grape.

Cabernet Sauvignon wines improve greatly with age and are often amongst the world's truly great wines.  With age the distinctive blackcurrant aroma of wines from this grape develops overtones of cedar, violets and leather and the wines, which are characteristically deep in flavor, often become smooth and soft.

Wines made from the Merlot grape are very similar to those produced from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape but have a less distinctive aroma and flavor.

If it seems strange that white wines should be produced from black grapes then bear in mind that grape juice, whether from black or white grapes, is essentially colorless and it is the skin of the black grape that gives the wine its color.

Rhone

The grape varieties most often seen in the Rhone valley are the black Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes and the white Muscat grape.

Syrah grapes produce intense rich wines which are almost black in color and which have an aroma that is spicy in nature.  The Rhone Syrah grape forms the base for many blended wines including the well known Chateauneuf du Pape

The Muscat grape gives rise to intense, sweet wines with a strong and easily recognized aroma.  In addition, and unusual for a wine, wines from the Muscat really do taste of grapes.

Loire

The grapes of the Loire include the black Pinot Noir and the white Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris grapes.

The Sauvignon Blanc grape is grown all over the world today and it is very widely used for blending.  In the case of the Loire however it is used to make a distinctive unblended dry white wine with a characteristic sharp and aggressive smell.

Pinot Gris wines often display a slightly floral and lightly lemon flavor and, depending upon the ripeness of the grape at harvesting, wines that are either light and tangy or rich, round and full bodied.  Pinot Gris makes one of the few white wines that can be said to age well.

Alsace

Although the grapes of the Alsace are similar to those used in the Loire, growing conditions in this region tend to produce wines which bear the characteristics of many German rather that French wines.

The wines in this region are similar to Riesling and the sweeter German wines.  Some rosé wines are also produced in Alsace.

Champagne

The main grapes of the Champagne region are the black Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and the white Chardonnay.

The wines of the Champagne region can best be described as thin and tart and provide the perfect base for what many believe to be the world's finest sparkling wine.

Beaujolais

Beaujolais wines are made from the black Gamay and white Chardonnay grapes.

The wines of this region are often light in nature, fresh tasting and with a somewhat fruity flavor.  Many Beaujolais wines are also slightly fizzy in nature.

Wine Tasting -- A Preference For Red Or White

For many of us wine is something of a mystery and when we are buying wine it comes down to a simple choice between red and white and what our local supermarket has available in its "special offer" bin.  But wine really isn't such a mystery at all and, in this area at least, a little knowledge can get you a very long way.

The starting point is to understand the different types of wine available and here we can divide wines into five main groups.

Red Wine.

Red wine is fermented from what many people would refer to as red grapes but which are in fact more correctly named black grapes.  In the case of red wine the grapes are used whole for fermentation, that is to say complete with skin and pips, and it is the skin which gives the wine its red color.

There are a wide variety of black grapes available each with its own distinctive flavor which is derived principally from the soil and climate in the region where the grapes are grown.  This, together with the winemaker's art of mixing, allows us to enjoy a range of red wines from the deep blackcurrant color of the full-bodied and intensely flavored wines produced from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape to the lighter cherry and raspberry taste gained from the Pinot Noir grape.

Rosé wine.

Rosé wines are again produced from black grapes but, in this case, the juice is separated off part way through the fermentation process and at the point at which the winemaker determines that the juice contains sufficient color to give the finished wine the pink color that he is looking for.

Once again the flavor of the finished wine depends very much on the grape used for fermentation and some of the finest rosé wines are produced from the Grenache grape.  Often thought of as a French grape, Grenache noir is the world's most widely planted grape and probably originates from Spain.  As well as often being used to produce rosé wines, it is also commonly used as a base for many blended wines including such well known names as Chateauneuf du Pape and Cotes du Rhône.

Blush wine.

Blush wine is sometimes referred to as California's version of rosé wine and is produced in much the same way as rosé wine.  In this case however the grape most often used is the Zinfandal grape which produces a slightly sweet pink wine which also shows a somewhat blue color.  The Zinfandal grape originates in Croatia but has been grown widely in the US for more than 150 years now and is considered indigenous to California.

White wine.

Believe it or not white wine can be made from either white or black grapes, as the juice from either grape is colorless and it is only the skin of the black grape that gives red wine its color.

The flavors available across the range of white wines vary tremendously according to the grape used, the winemaker's art and the degree to which different juices are blended to create the finished wine.

Dry white wines often come from grapes such as Muscadet or Sauvignon Blanc while richer fruit-flavored wines are more likely to be based upon the Chardonnay grape.

Sparkling wines.

Sparkling wines, of which Champagne is clearly the best known example, are based upon a dry white wine.  Here the wine is bottled and a solution of sugar and yeast is added before the bottle is sealed.  The sugar and yeast solution causes a secondary fermentation and sealing the bottles at the start of this process traps the gas produced by this fermentation within the wine to give it its sparkle when the bottle is opened.

Wine Racks: Choosing The Right Wine Rack For You

Wine racks have become something that just about anyone wants to purchase and have within their home.  They are supplied in a wide selection of styles, shapes and sizes to fit just about anyones requirements.

Adding one to a home can heighten the residences value and set it apart from other homes.  It can also help to keep wine fresh, undisturbed and easy to access when you need it.  You dont have to be a wine lover to find the value in adding a wine rack of some sort to your home.

Selection:  Selecting The Best Wine Rack For You.  Since there are so many various types of wine racks to select from, it makes sense that you would need a little help knowing which is the Best one for you.  Here are some of them and a little info that you need about each one.

Top Of The Line:  The top of the line wine racks are those that can be custom assembled in a cellar of your residence.  These are fantastic choices for individuals who have room to add a room in a cool area of the home and those that adore wine.  They can be custom built out of the wood types of your preference, fitted for the area that you have chosen and shaped in virtually any form that fits your needs.  The bad news is that with any custom work you will also have to pay quite a bit more for it.

Metal Wine Racks:  For a more fashionable way of displaying your wine, consider a metal wine rack.  These are available in a wide range of sizes and can be used to display your wine in a beautiful way, as you would other dcor within your residence.  They are often purchased to stand on the floor or they can be purchased as counter top sitters as well.  The number of bottles they will hold depends greatly on the size of the wine rack you purchase.  Often, they can be purchased in the style you are after.  The one drawback to these is that you will need to find a location, out of the way of children, to place it.

Hanging Wine Racks:  To take care of that problem with room, you can add a wine rack to your wall or hang it from your ceiling.  These are great choices when it comes to adding a little style to your kitchen.  Again, they come in a wide selection of sizes and styles, depending on what you like.  If you choose these, you will likely get less storage than you would any other method but if you only keep a few bottles on hand, this is ideal.

Environmental Controls:  If you are a wine connoisseur, you should consider investing in an environment controlling unit.  If you were to build a wine racking setup in a cellar, you would be able to add to it climate control.  If you are looking for a way to control the environment in your kitchen, you can do this with a wine chest.  These fit under counters like your dishwasher can or they can be stored above the counter in smaller units.  They are a crucial appliance for your kitchen.  These are much more pricey than wine racking systems but can keep your wine at the best temperature.

Any and all wine racking systems can be purchased online.  You will find that custom made options as well as those that are a simple hanging racks are offered to you in the sizes and styles that you really want to have.  Wine racks are an excellent choice for upgrading your residence.

A toast to the top wine rack!

Wine Gifts -- Elegant, Thoughtful & Elite

Wine gifts are considered as one of the best gifts for men.  They come in a variety of tastes, vintages, colors, wrappings, baskets, labels, corkscrews, stoppers, etc.  Many types of wines are available in the market and a variety of vintage wines are sent as gifts.  Sending a wine gift is considered elegant and reflects upon the thoughtfulness of the sender of the gift.  Wine gifts have become a symbol of elite gifting and hence are on the rise.

Generally four types of vintage wines are considered best for gifting for anniversaries, birthdays, diamond weddings, retirements and other special occasions.  They are Madeira, Armagnac, Sauterne and Port.  Madeira is a fortified wine.  It has a long history, it was used to toast the American Declaration of Independence.  It does not go bad with changes in temperature and can be stored up to 200 years.  Armagnac is in essence a brandy and is made from distilled white wine in Bordeaux, France.  Sauterne is a type of sweet wine distilled in an area near Bordeaux named Sauterne.  Sauterne can be stored up to 100 years.  The alcoholic content of this wine is less compared to other wines.  It is sweeter than other wines due to its sugar content.  Port wine is a fortified wine made in many different styles.  They are stored in oak casks up to 100 years.  It may be noted that the wines are stored for a long time in special containers in special conditions for them to improve or cure and once the bottle is opened it is to be consumed within a day or up to a week depending upon the type of wine.  There are wines other than the ones mentioned above like champagnes, red table wines, malt scotch whiskies and “celebrity wines” which are also gifted.

Wine gifts are generally given in a wine basket along with lobsters or other sea foods depending upon the taste of the recipient.  Wines also have a proper serving temperature which vary according to the type of wine and is written on the bottle.  Wine gifts are wrapped in attractive wrappings and sometimes designer cork lifters and wine stoppers are also gifted.  An assortment of wine related gifts are available in the market like crystal ice buckets, ice tongs, crystal glasses, wine racks, wine cabinets, wine furniture, wine decanters, wine totes, wine bags etc.

With the advent of internet wine gifts can be purchased online and are delivered on required date to the recipient.  Sending gifts by road works out much cheaper than sending by air, hence booking in advance is more cost effective.  When the recipient’s wine taste is not known, presenting a wine gift certificate is better as the recipient will choose from an array of wines according to his liking on the company’s website.  There are many websites and companies providing gift certificates and door delivery.  The wine gifts are available in a wide range of costs ranging from under $35 to over $100.  Some companies customize the label on the wine as per order.  Wine gift deliveries are not made to hospital patients and there are laws in different states on wine gift delivery.

Wine Accessories -- A Wine Lover's Mark

The popularity of wine spreads all over the world.  This drink loved by all, is perhaps one of the oldest alcoholic beverages available.  A true wine lover not only loves to drink it, but also loves to serve it to other people.  For a wine connoisseur, a wine rack is a must to have in his house.  Wine racks are both decorative as well as utilitarian.  It is for holding your collection of different wine bottles, and for many it is like a display which they always are proud of.

Wine racks:

There are so many different designs of wine racks you can find.  Depending on your taste, whether you want an old classic look or a modern touch, you can choose the wine rack.  Wood is still the most loved storage wine rack.  There are a few wine racks that are even made for storing wine inside the refrigerator.  Wine bottles have to be kept and stored with utmost care.  These wine racks hold the bottles in contact with the cork, thereby preventing any loss of taste or smell of delicate liquids.

Wine racks can be made up of wood, metal, wrought iron, etc.  It is said that wrought iron racks are best, as they can not only be made into different artistic designs, but they are also sturdy, thus providing good support for your wine bottles.  For a classic Victorian look, go for a wooden wine storage rack.  This is also safe to use as it can go with any kind of furniture you have at home.  You can also buy table top racks if you are short of space in the house.

Things to remember:

For those who have a large collection of wine, you can also go for a refrigerator wine storage rack, as the refrigerator will keep the temperature under control.  There are a few things that you should remember while buying a wine storage rack:

• Decide on the place where you want to keep the rack, be it your kitchen or your dining area.  Depending on that, you can decide on what type of rack you want.
• If you have a big space, you can have choices as to what type of racks you want, but incase you are short of space, you can go for a hanging one or a wall rack.
• Check out the size, shape, and the number of bottles you want, and then you can decide whether you will need a big rack or if a small one will do.
• Find out the different price ranges and compare prices from all different dealers.  Buy the one that suits your budget.

A wine rack cannot be complete without wine accessories.  The most common ones include wine glasses, corkscrews, wine totes, coolers, wine stoppers, wine bottle holders, corkboards etc.  A wine corkscrew is an important tool.  There are many types of corkscrews available, though all serve the same purpose.  One end has to be screwed directly into the cork's center, and then the handle is used to lift the cork out of the bottle.  Now you can also find decanters for enhancing the look of your display.  They are glass bottles with designs on them, and they are also great for maintaining the flavors of wine rather than to keep in open bottles in your rack.

These wine accessories also make a perfect gift for someone who has a taste for fine things in life.

Waterford Crystal -- Improve The Taste Of Any Wine.

Wine tastes better when the correct shape glass is used.  It tastes even better from lead crystal glasses, I cannot explain this, it just does.

Waterford Crystal is deservedly the most acclaimed lead crystal ware in the world.  There are many imitations, but none matches Waterford glass for design, cut and clarity.

Lead crystal resonates easily.  You can demonstrate this by running your finger around the top, you will feel the glass hum.  This is the effect that film producers imitate when you see old films of glasses shattering when a soprano singer holds a note for a long time.  The glass resonates and tries to vibrate in sympathy to the note, but it is not a strong material and shatters as a result.

Lead crystal glass has a higher refractive index than ordinary glass.  Light kinks when it goes from the air into glass and again when it passes out of the glass into air.  The higher the refractive index, the more the light kinks.  White light is made up of red, blue, green and yellow light.  These all have different properties so are kinked by different amounts.  It is THIS that gives cut lead crystal its distinctive bright appearance.

Lead crystal also feels softer to the touch than ordinary glass and there are many who are convinced that wine tastes better from a lead crystal glass than an ordinary moulded one.  It is certainly a more pleasant experience overall, because the cut lead crystal glass interacts with the light passing through the wine in such an attractive way.

Lead crystal is hand-cut by craftsmen.  Every glass is different and you will find small asymmetries in the cut design as the craftsman has adjusted the design to fit the space he has left.

Lead crystal is not always cut and facetted.  Modern designs are emerging that are also attractive, but in a different way.

Lead crystal glass is used in chandeliers for its refractive properties.  The light appears to come through the crystal with different colors.  With any chandelier it is important to use clear light bulbs, rather than frosted ones, to get the intense light source necessary.

Viansa Winery Reaches Out to Indy Racing Crowd

If horse racing is the sport of kings, then car racing could conceivably be dubbed the sport of the average Joe.

Traditionally, events like the Indianapolis 500 are accustomed to selling more beer and hot dogs than Starbucks coffee and veggie burgers, but times are changing and so is the motor sporting crowd.

According to a research study conducted by Nielsen Media Research for the Indianapolis Racing League -- the governing body of the open-wheel racing series that counts the Indy 500 as its centerpiece -- the average racing fan is 39 years old, college-educated and has a median household income of $81,000 or more.  This indicates that the face of motor sports fans in general, and specifically the Indy Car series, may be changing.

To this end, the IRL is catering to its growing fan base by providing not only traditional fare, such as hamburgers and sodas, but also treating fans to a fine-dining experience by offering more upscale cuisine.

Through gourmet "kitchens on wheels", or mobile restaurants as they are more commonly called, chefs prepare lavish meals for drivers, crew members, team guests, and of course fans, at select tracks across the U.S.  The most recent racetrack to accommodate this change was the Miami-Dade Motor Speedway earlier this year.

Supporting this trend are companies like Viansa Winery and Marketplace.  The winery, based in Sonoma, Calif., is attempting to appeal to motor sports' wine fans with its sponsorship of the Vision Racing Team.  Members of the Tuscan Club, Viansa's wine and food club, have been invited to attend the racing events as guests of the company.

Vision Racing was formed early last year when IRL founder Tony George purchased the assets of Kelley Racing from Tom Kelley.  Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey is a co-owner of the team.