Archive for June, 2011
Around the Web in Wine Accessories: Wine Cork Roundup
by Erika S., Wine Enthusiast Companies
Here at Wine Enthusiast, we know that exciting content is written every day about wine accessories. We strive to stay on top of it for our own benefit, but we want you to be in-the-know, too! As such, we are introducing an exciting new series on Winston’s Wisdoms: Around the Web in Wine Accessories, where we feature rundowns on the latest tips and ideas in various wine accessory topics. First up, our wine cork roundup!
Do-it-yourself cork projects are ever evolving in their creativity and practicality. We’ve compiled some of our favorite examples of inspiring wine cork creativity and wrapped them up in this page-length package to share with you. Below you’ll find ideas for key chains, picture frames and almost everything in between – the options for recycling and reusing your wine corks are seemingly endless. If we happened to miss a good post, or if you have some creative ideas to share of your own, feel free to drop a comment below!
Without further delay, the DIY craft ideas that we love the most…
Key Chains
Bring your favorite bottle of Riesling with you everywhere you go.
Key Chain from Cleverly Inspired
For your Home
Who thought you could dry your feet with those old bottles of Cabernet?
For the Kids & You
Don’t worry, there is fun for all ages here!
Dolls from Increations
Pens from Recycled Crafts
Incredible recycling projects for those with an interest in design and typography.
Monograms from My Happily Ever After
Monograms from Green is Universal
Fashion
You are a wine enthusiast, and you’ve got the accessories to prove it.
Pins and Hairclips from Kara Paslay Designs
If craftiness isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to recycle your wine corks. ReCork is an organization that takes recycled corks and then reprocesses them into sandals by partnering with the Sole shoe company. They have drop-off centers in the U.S. and Canada, including our own headquarters in Mount Kisco, NY.
For more great DIY projects, check out our Wine Cork Crafts section to shop our selection of kits to make trivets, serving trays and more.
Filed under: Corks
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10 Tips for Toast of the Town Attendees
by Erika S., Wine Enthusiast Companies
Our final Toast of the Town event this year is this Friday, September 23rd in Miami, and the enthusiasm is off-the-charts! Whether a new attendee or a seasoned veteran, we’ve compiled 10 helpful tips to make your night memorable. Cheers!
10. Arrive early.
When possible, it’s best to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all of the spectacular wine and food—and beat everyone else to it! Being “fashionably late” will not do you any good. The event begins at 6:00 for VIP ticket holders and 7:00 for Grand ticket holders.
9. Be comfortable.
You will be on your feet for a few hours, tasting wine and food from all corners of the world. The last thing you want ruining a delectable tuna tartare is foot pain. Look nice, but comfort is key.
8. Blaze your own trail.
Groups of people will typically crowd around certain dishes and wines. A kobe beef burger or a 2004 Brunello will surely be popular, but wait for your moment to get a taste. Blaze your own trail to the hamachi with chive oil and return to the kobe beef once everyone has moved on.
7. Be Social.
People from all areas come to Toast of the Town for a chance to taste exotic treats. Why not mix and mingle over some of your favorite dishes? Chat up wineries and restaurateurs as well, they may have their own interesting stories.
6. Make it memorable.
After tasting a multitude of wines, things may start to get fuzzy. Take every opportunity you can to take business cards and menus from restaurants that you particularly enjoy. These will be useful devices in the morning, when you’re trying to recall who made the oyster shooters or which Riesling was your #1 choice. Jot down tasting notes in your booklet for your favorite sips.
5. Be Daring.
It’s a tasting event after all, so taste something new! Go outside of your comfort zone by seeking out unique wines like Gruner Veltliner or maybe a Pinot Noir from Chile. This is a great chance to broaden your horizons, so take advantage of it.
4. Bring A Novice.
One of the joys of wine is being able to share your knowledge with friends so that they may appreciate it as much as you. Use a wine/food tasting event as an opportunity to introduce someone you love to the world of wine.
3. Bring Accessories.
This wine glass holder necklace may look unorthodox, but it can make a world of difference. (Just read the customer reviews.) Rather than juggling a plate and glass, you can be hands-free while enjoying your food. Can’t beat that!
2. Don’t Miss a Thing!
A guide to the Miami event is available for you to download at the bottom of the page here. Preview all the wine and food before Friday and make sure you hit all the tables on your wish list!
1. Be Responsible.
Nobody wants to be remembered as the guy/gal who fell asleep in the guacamole. It’s great to return for more of your favorite wines, but remember that this is a “tasting” event, not a drinking spree.
I’m sure many of you have honed in on your own tricks of the trade. If you have anything to add, please share with the rest of us!
Filed under: Uncategorized
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