May 17, 2012

ANNIE Comes to Temecula

Annie

When you think back to your childhood, was there one musical that really stuck out at you?  Was there one play that you memorized the words to, the songs to?  If so, what was that one artistic piece for you?  For me, it was and is “Annie,” the story of a little girl living in an orphanage with a woman that does not really like little girls, waiting … [Read more...]

Get to Know Bel Vino Winery in 2012

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By now, many people have heard that boutique winery Stuart Cellars was sold and is now Bel Vino.  (And if you haven’t, then you heard it here first!)  When winery ownership changes hands, people end up wondering who the new owners are, what’s going to be different, and – most importantly to those who consider Stuart Cellars a “must-visit” when in … [Read more...]

The Wise Bird Knows – It’s All in the Glass

Variety

I’ve been asked by various birds on my wine flights what glass goes with what wine.   First of all the glass should always be large enough to contain a full serving without approaching being halfway filled.  The bowl of a wine glass should be transparent and without design that might obscure or prevent observing the color and clarity of the wine.  … [Read more...]

New Year’s Resolutions From ToT

Cartoon

The celebration of the New Year is actually the oldest of all holidays. It was first observed in ancient Babylon about 4000 years ago.  Then around 2000 BC Babylonians celebrated the beginning of a new year on what is now March 23, although they actually had no written calendar.  The tradition of making New Year's resolutions at the beginning of the year … [Read more...]

Last Minute Party? Have No Fear – The Roving Wino is Here!

Toasting

Are you throwing a last minute New Year’s Eve party?  Don’t despair! You can give the perfect party without spending a lot of money or time and still make the evening memorable.  The secret to a successful fete is to get organized, serve simple finger foods and delicious cocktails. With a little creativity and a few good friends you’ll design an … [Read more...]

Christmas Lights in Temecula

IMG_1021

ToT Photographer Amanda Bussen captured a nice variety of Christmas lights as they lit up the Temecula night.  Enjoy! … [Read more...]

Tis the Season to Give… Back. The Brewer Boys “DREAM BIG,” Benefit Concert by Sara Hastings

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On the evening of December  18th, one of Temecula wine country’s newest winery, Monte De Oro was pleased to host the Brewer Boys in a benefit concert as a chance to give back to the community. Brothers Justin, 18, and Nathan, 14, have emerged as a new and fresh musical duo, and have recently appeared on USA’s “The X Factor,” as well as toured … [Read more...]

A White Christmas in Temecula?

Valley News photo

The Temecula area has so much to offer by way of good food and beverages, a little night life and wine but one thing that is missing from this gorgeous town is the true change in seasons; especially the beauty of a white Christmas. Temecula seems to acknowledge the fact that California is lacking when it comes to the need for mittens and ear muffs during … [Read more...]

Cozy Up This Holiday With Mulled Wine

Mulled wine in two cups

Start a new tradition, be the hit of your holiday party, or just relax on the couch while the kids unwrap their gifts with a warm and spicy mug of mulled wine!  This recipe is fast and simple, with the hit being the wine (preferably from the Temecula region!) Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 25 … [Read more...]

Fabulous Holiday Cookies!

Cookies

The traditional sugar cookie with a recipe that has been in my family for generations, frosting recipe included. Cookie Recipe Ingredients: 1 1/3 cup white sugar 1 1/3 cup shortening 4 eggs well beaten 2tsp vanilla 4 cups of flour 1 tsp salt 3 tsp baking powder Instructions: Cream shortening and sugar together Add eggs, … [Read more...]