Archive July 27, 2007

Happy Hour - Tapenade

I was recently at a friends outdoor happy hour and ate some amazing home made Tapenade. I don't know if it was the company, the lush backyard full of gorgeous flowers and plants or the tasty wine and food, but I was so happy. So happy that I decided that's exactly what I'm going to serve at my own happy hour! After all it's the end of another month and time for you to try something new that is easy to make.

Here's what will be at my happy hour tonight:

Drink this:
Zardetto NV Prosecco Brut, Veneto, Italy
It's always fun to pair wines with food from the same country. This a popular and must-try Prosecco. It's 95% Prosseco and 5% Chardonnay. It's very light, crisp and refreshing with hints of honey and lemon zest. Pair with most appetizers and cheeses. Retail $14-18

Falesco Vitiano '05, Umbria, Italy
When it doubt, go with a blend, especially an Italian blend. This is a marvelous blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a deep ruby red color and tastes of dark cherries and blackberries. Pairs with anything from olives to pizza and more. Retail $11-14.

Serve this:
Tapenade
1/2 pound pitted mixed olives
2 anchovy fillets, rinsed
1 small clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons capers
2 to 3 fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Either chop everything or throw it into a food processor. Serve with baguette or crackers.

So grab your vino and manja manja!

Cheers!

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