The Swirling Dervish

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Category: Yes! They’re samples!

February 13, 2020 theswirlingdervish

Tara Atacama: Coaxing Lovely Wines from a Most Challenging Landscape

December 4, 2019December 4, 2019 theswirlingdervish

More than a Blending Grape: Cabernet Franc Deserves the Spotlight!

November 8, 2019November 10, 2019 theswirlingdervish

Spicewood Vineyards: A Taste of Texas for Wine Pairing Weekend (#WinePW)

November 7, 2019 theswirlingdervish

Celebrating 100 Years of Nino Franco #Valdobbiadene DOCG Prosecco

August 1, 2019 theswirlingdervish

Kin & Cascadia: Wines for the Long Nights of Summer

April 1, 2019 theswirlingdervish

Panthera Chardonnay and Lion Tamer Red Blend: The Big Cat Wines of the Hess Collection

March 23, 2019 theswirlingdervish

A Quick Trip to Abruzzo: The Wines of Codice Citra

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On this day, way back in the 1970s, my family celebrated three things: my brother’s christening, my great-grandmother’s birthday, and my first communion. As you can see from the photo, I was thrilled. But I love this picture: me standing between my mom and my grandmother, both of whom are gone but remain strong influences in my life. These days I find myself thinking about family and friends; the ties that bind, and the memories we make when we’re not even looking. I remember this day so well: I was mad at my mom for making me wear leotards and a stupid bow on my head. We had a huge cake from the bakery. And we were still getting used to having a baby in the house. (I imagine he was trying to get used to us, too!) During this sheltering in place, which may get worse before it gets better, let something as simple and silly as a random photo from years past bring a smile to your face. . . . #family #mothersanddaughters #firstcommunion #memories #matriarchs #70sfashion #waybackmachine #smile #havealaughonme #womensupportingwomen #grandmothers

As we get more accustomed to sheltering in place, I treasure my few moments outside, walking alone on almost-empty streets. It’s a strange feeling: at once liberating and isolating. My spirits have sagged a little more each day and I look for relief wherever I can find it. There are three things, though, that never fail me: good books, exercise, and music. Lately I’ve made a routine of listening to my favorite playlists while I make dinner. There’s the blast from the past, “Valleybrook Days,” which reminds me of childhood summers at our neighborhood pool. And then there’s “Don’t F@$# with Me,” a metal and rap combo that kept me sane during my divorce. And, more often than not I click on “My Favorites,” which has me dancing around the kitchen, singing out loud. And it works. What are you doing to keep your lid on as the world gets smaller and more stressful? If you have an awesome playlist, I’d love some suggestions! Stay safe and sane, my friends. And let’s not forget to be kind and patient with everyone - including ourselves! . . . #shelterinplace #musictherapy #keepyoursanity #playlists #wereinthistogether #bekind #thursdaythoughts #serenitynow #breathe #safetyfirst

Some days you just need Tavel. Am I right? Rosé, it is, but this ain’t no dainty, delicate sipper (not that there’s anything wrong with that.) Tavel comes from the village of the same name, in the Southern Rhône Valley of France. Yep, the same neck of the woods that gives us the powerful wines of Châteauneuf du Pape. The 2018 Château d’Aqueria is a bold choice on a day when you need a boost. Look at that deep coral color! The blend is Grenache (45%), Clairette (20%), Cinsault (15%), Mourvèdre (8%), Syrah (6%), Bourboulenc (4%), and Picpoul (2%). Did you add those up? A full-bodied rosé with more structure than most, this almost drinks like a red and, in fact, we poured it alongside rare steaks and a salad. Flavors are a melange of ripe red cherry, herbes de Provence, and a savory, meaty quality. It’s big, but not too big; ripe, but balanced by acidity, and very, very tasty. Takes me to my happy place! Thanks to @floridawineacademy @aleesteves7 and @305wines for bringing this beauty to my front door. Miami friends, they deliver; to those of you located outside the 305, they might send you some. If you’re nice! #WIYG this Monday evening? . . . #rosé #tavel #305wines #floridawineacademy #winelife #winestagram #chateaudaqueria #kobrand #wineblogger #miamiwine #brickellliving #drinkpink #roseallday #sippin

As a new week begins, I’m practicing gratitude and wishing peace, health, and a calm state of mind for all of us. If you’re shopping, take just what you need; if you have a few minutes, call far-away friends - especially the elderly and health-compromised. Try to have patience with others and most of all with yourselves as we navigate this unfamiliar path. I’m looking for the good in everything, hoping for better news this week than last. Take care and be well, my friends. . . . #mondaymotivation #gratitude #mentalhealth #wellness #newday #patience #loveyourneighbor #communitylove #breathe #progressnotperfection #haveagreatweek

E is for Extra! And that’s how I think of my hometown Miami: colorful, musical, redolent of sugar and spice and everything nice. And sometimes a little more caliente just for the fun of it. In my latest post I show a quieter side of the Magic City; the toned-down version that is our reality during this time of social distancing. And there are a few neon-bright photos thrown in for good measure! As the stress of Coronavirus builds and we contemplate what’s ahead, it reassured me to know that even in a slowdown, Miami still has her magic. And she’ll be back at full-volume in no time. . . . #magiccity #miamilife #brickellliving #extra #citywalks #downtown #localsonly #notourists #socialdistancing #coronavirus #slowingdown #stayhome

Dining out is a no-no in this time of #coronavirus but many restaurants are keeping their doors open for take-out and delivery orders. Here in Miami, we are trying to support local businesses as best we can. Our most recent discovery and a new addition to the Brickell scene is @dcpiecobrickell which bakes delicious pizza to suit any taste. And this meatball/onion pie was out of this world! When we stopped by to pick up our order, it was impossible not to notice how quiet the city was. Of all the places I’ve lived, there’s no city more vivid and extra than Miami. Sad to see her so toned down. Until life returns to “normal” - whatever that might mean - make an effort to support the folks who are trying to succeed in a really tough time. . . . #pizza #pizzalover #localbusiness #dcpieco #eatlocal #yumyum #miamieats #deliveryavailable #takeoutfood #lifegoeson #brickellliving

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The Swirling Dervish

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