Wine With Wanda

Four Very Delicious Sparkling Wines for New Year's Eve

When the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, be sure your glass is filled with one of these delicious sparkling wines from around the globe. And, make a resolution to NOT only break out the bubbly on special occasions -  celebrate and toast life all year long. Happy New Year!

France - Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Réserve ($36)

Only sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France can be called Champagne. For a chic French sip that is delicious and affordable, you can't go wrong with Nicolas Feuillatte. Aged at least 3 years, their Brut Réserve is elegant and crisp.

Italy - Lamberti Prosecco DOC Extra Dry ($13.99)

Prosecco is always a great option and Lamberti packs plenty of flavor at an amazing price point. This lively and balanced bubbly is a crowd pleaser.

Spain - Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut ($12)

Freixenet remains a sentimental favorite - I toasted 2 New Year's Eves in Spain with their Cava. Known as the "Black Bottle Bubbly," Freixenet Cordon Negro is aromatic and fresh.

Argentina - Trapiche Extra Brut ($15)

I served this bubbly with dinner just a few days ago and it definitely made the meal more special. Trapiche Extra Brut has a hint of sweetness and a lovely finish - very easy to sip.




 

Three Muy Generoso Scholarships Available for Spanish Culinary Arts Program at ICE

“I’m very excited to announce these scholarships, with my friends and partners at Campofrio and sbe,” said Andrés. “The scholarships will be awarded to three students who are passionate about cooking and more importantly, passionate about learning about Spanish cuisine and culture. Together with The International Culinary Center, we are launching what is undoubtedly the most authentic Spanish culinary program in the country, if not the world. We believe the program will change the way Americans look at Spanish cuisine. These scholarships, in launching the careers of three deserving students, will translate into millions of dollars spent over a lifetime on food products from Spain as well as millions indirectly generated by creating jobs here in America and abroad.”
- Chef José Andrés

In September, I was thrilled to share news about the Spanish Culinary Arts Program at the International Culinary Center in New York City. Many of you shared my enthusiasm for this incredible opportunity to learn the fundamentals, history, and artistry of Spanish cuisine in this new program developed in partnership with Chef José Andrés. The inaugural class will even get to travel to Spain with Chef José Andrés!

Well, I am happy to share more amazing news - three lucky recipients will be awarded scholarships for the 11-week Spanish Culinary Arts program. The scholarships will be awarded to three recipients based on merit and financial need. The first scholarship, in the full tuition amount of $26,500, has been underwritten by Campofrio Food Group, one of the world’s leading cured meats company, based in Madrid. The second scholarship, in the amount of $20,000, has been donated by Sam Nazarian, his hospitality and entertainment company sbe, and the Y&S Nazarian Family Foundation. The third scholarship, also a full scholarship in the amount of $26,500, is being donated by The International Culinary Center’s Dean of Spanish Studies Chef José Andrés and his ThinkFoodGroup, in the name of their Spanish tapas restaurants Jaleo.

Applications are due January 11th and the Spanish Culinary Arts program begins on February 5th. Buena Suerte! Click here for more details.

Chef Manuel Berganza's Modern Spanish Cuisine Marvels Manhattan at Andanada 141

In the kitchen with Chef Manuel Berganza

New York City has countless Spanish restaurants but only Andanada 141 has Chef Manuel Berganza – the first chef in Spain to earn a first-time, two-star Michelin rating. Chef Berganza developed his passion for cooking as a child in Gijon where his mother and grandmother taught him the fundamentals of traditional Spanish cuisine. Chef Berganza honed his craft at culinary school and cooking alongside Chef Sergi Arola (a protégé of the legendary Ferran Adrià) in Madrid and at Chef Grant Achatz’s highly praised Alinea in Chicago. These influences combined with Chef Berganza’s own vision meld together in a marvelous way in the thoroughly Modern Spanish Cuisine he prepares at Andanada 141. 

 The presentations at Andanada 141 are precise and creative but not in that annoying way that almost defies you to eat it – Chef Berganza’s creations encourage you to dig in. And, you’ll be glad you did. Chef Berganza is all about flavors and he deftly delivers dishes where the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through and combine together in an appealing way. “It is not just important to be unique. Most important are the flavors," said Chef Berganza.

 

 

Rape Asado (Monkfish loin served with roasted potatoes and liver puree).
Hearty and satisfying - I loved the simplicity of this dish. Great ingredients + great flavors. It reminded me of the very best home cooked meal.  


Pastrami de Presa Iberica (Iberian Pork Cooked Pastrami Style) - a very creative dish inspired by Manhattan. The pork is juicy, perfectly seasoned, and practically melts in your mouth.


Torrijas con Helado de Tomate (warm torrijas with tomato ice cream)
Torrijas are reminiscent of french toast - a sweet, fried bread. Chef Berganza's pairing of torrijas with his homemade tomato ice cream is a winning combination.

Andanada 141 offers fine dining in a casual ambiance and the dining room is pretty and welcoming. The front part of the restaurant is perfect for ordering tapas at the bar or at one of the communal tables.  Andanada 141 only serves wines from Spain, so this is a great way to familiarize yourself with some of the country’s amazing vinos. The rear dining room is quite lovely and a mural of a bullfighter in motion graces the wall.  In fact, the name Andanada refers to the highest seating area in the bullfighting arena. The andanada offers a birds-eye view of the action and attracts the liveliest, most enthusiastic bullfighting fans. Andanada 141 aims to capture that enthusiasm (minus the bullfighting!) by offering diners a prime seat in the midst of the modern culinary magic that Chef Berganza creates. He’s only been in New York a few months but I have a very good feeling that Chef Berganza is on his way to being the talk of the town.



Andanada 141 is located at 141 West 69^th Street in NYC. The restaurant is very close to Lincoln Center, making it a great place to enjoy a meal before seeing a performance. To learn more, visit the Andanada 141 website.

A Taste of France for the Holidays in NYC: Maison Eric Kayser Bûche de Noël

Eric Kayser Bûche de Noël - Almost too pretty to eat but you must! 

If you find yourself in New York City this holiday season, take your tastebuds on a festive journey to one of my favorite places - Maison Eric Kayser. In just a few months, world-famous French master baker Eric Kayser has enchanted the Big Apple with his first location in the United States.

Maison Eric Kayser serves up chic and tasty treats everyday but their artistry is even more dazzling during the holidays -  a stunning Eric Kayser Bûche de Noël (yule log) is certain to wow your guests! Serving 4 ($26), 6 ($39), or 8 ($52), these stunning desserts range from the heartier Bûche Kayser: dark chocolate mousse, dark chocolate glaze, crème brûlée, and chocolate biscuit, to the lighter Bûche Polaire: citrus fruit mousse, Christmas fruit compote, and spice biscuit, serving 6 for $42. Other delicious seasonal specialties, including the Mendiant “Pain du Mois” ( flavorful fruity and soft bread loaf, $4.50) and Stollen (traditional fruitcake filled with dried fruits and topped with powdered sugar, $23) will also be available during the holiday season.

Maison Eric Kayser is located at 1294 Third Avenue at 74th Street and is worth the trip from wherever you may be in NYC. 

To learn more about the man behind these superb breads and pastries, click here to read my interview with the wonderful Eric Kayser.

Wanderlust Wish List: Villa Le Scale on the Isle of Capri, Italy

The latest addition to my Wanderlust Wish List is the luxurious Villa Le Scale on the Isle of Capri, Italy. This exclusive destination looks like the perfect antidote to my winter blues.


One of the few remaining historic houses on the Isle of Capri, Villa Le Scale dates back to the early 19th century and was once the summer home of the Barone Monti delle Corte.

Villa Le Scale was left abandoned and in disrepair for many years but it has been lovingly restored into a chic boutique hotel by the new owner.

Each of Villa Le Scale's seven rooms & suites has a unique design and is lavishly decorated with antiques and fine furnishings. (The owner, Signora Anna Maria Coronato, is an arts & antiques dealer.) Most of the rooms and suites open on to a flower decked terrace or patio and offer a view of the sea. The fully staffed villa is also available for exclusive rental.

Villa Le Scale is located in Anacapri on the Isle of Capri, a short distance from the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento and Naples. The island is accessible by hydrofoil, ferry or helicopter. Villa Le Scale is happy to arrange transfers by private boat or helicopter at your request. The nearest international airport to Capri is Naples Capodichino.

For more information, visit the Villa Le Scale website.  If you get there before I do, send a postcard!
images of Villa Le Scale: Umberto d'Aniello

Dresses, Drinks & Drama: Get Glam for the Holidays

Whether you are in Manhattan or Milan, Paris or Phoenix; chances are that a holiday party or two is on your itinerary. Bring the drama with the perfect little black dress, bold red lipstick, showstopping eyelashes, and plenty of champagne!  

Maggy London Sequin & Mesh Dress
$178
  Your little black dress is probably working overtime this season so don't wait for Santa - treat yourself to a fab new frock. The sequined bodice paired with the mesh skirt on this Maggy London dress is a dazzling combination - classic glamour all the way!

Lancome Hypnôse Star Mascara ($28)
Dramatic and sexy eyelashes can help transform the meekest wallflower into a sexy femme fatale. Mascara is one of my beauty essentials and the more dramatic the better!  Inspired by the sensuous femininity of 1930’s Hollywood films and animated bombshell Betty Boop, Hypnôse Star is a real powerhouse mascara.The rich formula volumizes lashes and the dual-sided brush builds intense volume at the lash line. I've been using Hypnôse Star for about a week and love the results - plenty of length, curl and va va voom!

 

Givenchy Rouge Cancan Lipstick ($30)
With the help of a very patient Sephora sales consultant, I decided on this luxury lipstick from Givenchy as my red of the season. The shade is a true classic red and the formula is very moisturizing - perfect for those moments under the mistletoe!

  Pol Roger Brut Reserve "White Foil" NV ($39.95)
Is it really a proper celebration without Champagne? This is the season to enjoy really beautiful bubbly and Pol Roger is one of my favorites. Founded in 1849, Pol Roger is one of only a few Grande Marque Champagne houses that remains family owned and operated. Subtle notes of citrus with hints of pear and a mellow minerality make this a perfect pairing with caviar. A truly elegant Champagne, Pol Roger was a favorite of Winston Churchill's and was served at the Royal Wedding of Kate and Will.

 

Wine for the Holidays: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon and Sparkling Brut

Deck the halls, hang the mistletoe, and don't forget the wine! Wine & spirits flow in abundance during the holidays but you don't have to break the bank to toast the season. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Brut California Sparkling Wine and Woodbridge 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon are two great options for wines that deliver big flavors at a fair price.

Pleasingly priced at $9.99 per bottle, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Brut California Sparkling Wine is a budget friendly bubbly that doesn't skimp on quality. Made from 100% Chardonnay grapes,this sparkling wine satisfies with lively flavors of crisp green apple, pear, lemon, and pineapple. The bubbles are on the larger side but gentle on the palate and the flavors linger nicely. Sometimes less expensive sparkling wines scream cheap because they are way too sweet but the Woodbridge is nicely balanced. I love the versatility of the Woodbridge Brut - it stands on its own as a great toasting wine but also pairs nicely with shellfish, chicken, and fruit desserts. This is also a great base for mixing up Bellinis and Mimosas at your holiday brunch! Overall, I think this bubbly is a crowd pleaser.



Rule Number 1 for hosting a successful dinner party - serve good wine. Rule Number 2 - don't run out of that good wine! A magnum of Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (only $14.99) will make sure that your fête doesn't fall flat! A magnum (1.5 liters) is the equivalent of two standard bottles so buy a few of these to keep the vino flowing. Lightly oaked, Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon wows with flavors of dark berries, plums, and a hint of spice. Bold with a smooth finish, it will pair nicely with hearty meats and spicy dishes. A really lovely wine.

Click here to learn more about the complete portfolio of Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi wines.

Great Gifts for Globetrotters

Are you still not sure how to spoil your favorite traveler (or yourself) this holiday season? From space-saving luggage to a sleek black leather jacket, here are a few suggestions that are sure to please the pickiest of jetsetters!

Biaggi Foldable Luggage
Living in a not-so-big Manhattan apartment, storage space is very precious to me. My current bulky luggage takes up way too much space so I'm hoping Santa brings me one of these brilliant folding bags from Biaggi. Available in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles; Biaggi "travels big and stores small." Suggested retail prices range from $79 for a fashion tote to $339 for a 30” ballistic nylon packing case.


"Londra" Tote by Patricia Nash
$198
A great tote is a must whether you are commuting to work or crossing the globe. The Londra tote was inspired by Patricia Nash's passion for travel and visiting with purveyors of timeless handbags. Made from rich Italian leather, her utterly modern bags celebrate Old World craftsmanship such as hand-dying and hand-sewing. The Londra Tote is also available in natural buff with black. Celebrity fans of Patricia Nash bags include January Jones, Garcelle Beauvais, and Giuliana Rancic.

Luxury Beauty Products from b-glowing.com
Second only to my passport and money, lotions and potions are a must when I hit the road. b-glowing.com is a luxury online retailer that showcases hard-to-find niche brands and well-known products. Chapped lips aren't cute anywhere, so gift your favorite traveler with the Sara Happ Red Velvet Lip Scrub & Lip Slip ($40). A gorgeous pucker is guaranteed with this deliciously scented duo that works together to exfoliate and moisturize.

Wallis Black Leather Biker Jacket
$185 (was $270)
Add a sleek edge to any outfit with this chic black leather biker jacket. The snakeprint pattern and gold metal zips and trims will really rev up your look. Wallis first opened in London in 1932 and now their fashions are available online in the US for sizes 4-16 and petites. They have great dresses and accessories too!

AFAR Magazine
$20 for six issue subscription
A great gift doesn't have to cost a fortune. Spark some serious wanderlust with a subscription to the wonderful AFAR Magazine. This is absolutely one of my favorite publications - I do a little happy dance when I spot AFAR in my mailbox. Wonderful writing, gorgeous photos, new takes on familiar locations, and captivating coverage of off-the-beaten path locales, AFAR is something special.

Glam Giveaway: Win The 5 to Survive Holiday Edition from Skincare by Alana

Wouldn't you love to win this fabulous collection of travel friendly beauty products from Skincare by Alana?

Well, just in time for the holidays I will be selecting one lucky reader to win this chic collection of goodies valued at $135.99. And, unlike Santa, I don't care if you've been naughty or nice. In fact, naughty people are encouraged to enter!

Voted best of organic skin care on the web by InStyle Magazine in 2010, Skincare by Alana was started by esthetician Alana Mitchell. Her 5 to Survive Holiday Edition includes five fabulous products that will keep you glam through the festivities (and occasional stresses) of the holiday season. The collection includes:

Youngblood Pressed Eyeshadow Quad in Eternity ($43) -  The shadows in Youngblood’s Eternity Pressed Eyeshadow Quad use only the finest natural minerals. The blush tone, pink and brown hues will flatter all skin tones and will add radiance to your look this season! This sleek compact fits easily in your purse.

Divaderme Lash Extender ($22.99) - This age-defying eye product is your answer to longer, healthier,  and more voluminous lashes. Divaderme Lash Extender will curl, lengthen and separate lashes with just a few strokes.

Eminence Organics Bright Skin Masque ($54) - Eminence Organic’s Bright Skin Masque uses the finest organic ingredients to help brighten your skin and to reduce the appearance of dark spots. 

Glo Minerals Lip Gloss in Brown Sugar ($16) – Give your lips a holiday-shimmer shine with this antioxidant-infused lip gloss by Glo Minerals. No annoying flavors, fragrances, or stickiness but plenty of shine and moisture. 

Rhonda Allison Aloe Matte Moisturizer ($14) - This is a fantastic moisturizer - it absorbs quickly and imparts a soft glow. Rhonda Allison’s Aloe Matte Moisturizer balances excess oil build up and provides your skin with water binding moisture to prevent dehydration all winter long! This is a great antidote for those stuffy airplane cabins that dry out your skin.

How to Enter the Giveaway: I've made this contest very easy to enter. Just leave a comment below by Wednesday, December 12th, 5pm EST. One winner will be selected at random. Prize can only be shipped to addresses in the United States. Winner must respond with a valid mailing address within 48 hours of notification or another winner will be selected.

 

Dresses, Drinks & Destinations: Prohibition Style in Philly

                                                
This dashing couple enjoys a quiet moment in a cozy nook at Philadelphia’s Victorian-inspired bar The Farmers’ Cabinet. You can put together your own vintage inspired look with fashions from Philly's Smak Parlour, Commonwealth Proper, Cultured Couture and Curated Goods.
Credit: Photo by H. Saleh for GPTMC

If you're a fan of that boozy bygone era the 1920's, a visit to American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition is a must. This world-premiere exhibition at the National Constitution Center brings the whole story of Prohibition vividly to life and spans the dawn of the temperance movement, the Roaring ’20s, and the unprecedented repeal of a constitutional amendment. And, if you really want to get into the spirit of things (pun intended), inspiration is easily found at Philadelphia's many bars and shops that pay homage to this storied period. I love the idea of getting dolled up in a 1920's inspired ensemble, visiting American Spirits, and then heading out for cocktails. Doesn't that sound like a great day? American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition is on view until April 28, 2013.

Strolling down Philadelphia’s townhouse-lined Delancey Street, these two models are dressed to impress in 1920's inspired fashions. Stop by Philly's Smak Parlour, Decades Vintage, Shauntele and Curated Goods to find your perfect flapper frock.
Credit: Photo by H. Saleh for GPTMC

  For more tips on shopping, dining, and sightseeing in Philadelphia, go to VisitPhilly.com.