Wine-loving sweets
nosh & sip
Amy Ruis has traveled many of the wine countries and has passed the first step in becoming a Master Sommelier. She owns Art of the Table, a specialty food, beverage and tabletop store, and co-owns Aperitivo wine, cheese and charcuterie.
— or how about a red velvet rendition? Marry it with a crystal clear glass amply filled with the pear-hued Clos du Gravillas – Douce Providence Muscat (375mL for $24). It’s a fortified wine, meaning the fermentation stops by adding a grape spirit, finding the juice sweet but pure, paying homage to pineapple and roses, and giving a burst of round flavor as a nice full match to the delightful frosting. Innocent Bystander Pink Moscato (250mL can, $5.50) is light pink and shows light raspberry and strawberry notes with a touch of orange sweetness. Since it’s a single serving, it’s all yours (or your sweetie’s.) This is especially convenient if one of you isn’t so sweet on the sweet. The other person could have their own half bottle of L. Mawby Blanc de Blanc (375mL for $15). Pair these with pears poached in Fenn Valley’s 42 Ice Wine and whip up some mascarpone and butterscotch drizzle. No matter what you love to drink by the fireplace, find something new to try. Pick up your favorite dessert and then ask your favorite wine retailer to suggest what to drink with it. You should have a lovely time! — aMY rUIs
PhotoGraPhy by Johnny Quirin
Try Cakabakery’s delightful vanilla cupcake frosted with vanilla bean butter cream — or how about a red velvet rendition? Marry it with a crystal clear glass amply filled with the pear-hued Clos du Gravillas – Douce Providence Muscat.
a day desigNed For sWeets, sweeties and matchmaking required me to do my own research on matching fun local desserts and wines. Love’s Ice Cream’s TCHO Chocolate (spiked with Madcap coffee) goes well alongside a small snifter of your favorite port. I especially love Warre’s Warrior port (375mL for $13). A rich and deep mystery blend represents black currants and chocolate with an underlay of youthful cherries and plums. It’s deep on the palate with great tannic structure and terrific length. Try Cakabakery’s delightful vanilla cupcake frosted with vanilla bean butter cream
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