Wine With Wanda

Three Terrific Gifts for Wine Lovers

The only gift that wine lovers adore more than a great bottle of vino is an accessory that enhances the drinking experience. From techy tannin tamers to artsy bottle openers, here are three great gifts that will inspire the recipient to raise a glass in your name! 

 
The Velv Wine Oxygenator ($300) 

Decanters and aerators are the classic methods of unlocking a wine's flavor but the process can take up to a few hours for an especially "tight" wine. The Velv Wine Oxygenator can unlock a wine in just a few minutes by harnessing the power of pure oxygen. A high-tech gadget that is simple to use, just insert the Velv Wine Oxygenator into the bottle and turn it on. 99.5% pure oxygen is released into the bottle and your wine will be fully awakened and ready to enjoy in just a few minutes.


I took the Velv on a test run with a bottle of Chianti and there was a discernible difference - the tannins were softer and the aromas and flavors were heightened. With the Velv, red wines can reach their flavor peaks in about 5 to 7 minutes - dryer & fuller-bodied white wines can be prepared in about 3 to 5 minutes. The Velv has some pretty impressive fans - Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan, Master of Wine, says, "I can see the benefit of the Velv Wine Oxygenator for the casual wine enthusiast. For young, tight wines it releases aromatics, for tannic wines it can smooth those harsh edges and make it more velvety, in just minutes.” 


SAVED Wines Corkscew by Scott Campbell ($125)

Spread some "good juju" this holiday season with this gorgeous solid brass corkscrew carved with patterns and sigils created by renowned tattoo artist and SAVED Wines creator Scott Campbell. Scott's work is very inspired by symbolism and the designs on the corkscrew represent the potential to manifest inspired ideas and the focus and determination to act upon them. Truly a work of art, this gleaming & substantial corkscrew was designed in collaboration with the acclaimed Detroit based manufacturer Shinola.

Bonus gift - For a truly spectacular presentation, pair this impressive corkscrew with a bottle of robust, juicy and delicious SAVED Red Wine ($25) - a luscious blend of Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Zinfandel, and small amounts of other red varietals. 



 The Wine Check Luggage by Lazenne ($112.50)

Shopping for wine during your travels is always a thrill but figuring out how to schlep the bottles home can be stressful. Fret no more - this nifty bag makes packing a cinch and keeps your wine safe. This specialized and lightweight airline-approved luggage can be checked onto a plane and holds 12 bottles of wine, champagne, beer, cider, hard liquor, or olive oil. A practical present with panache!  

Soaking Up the Sun in Los Angeles and La Quinta

At the La Quinta Resort & Club beyond Palm Springs. Sunshine and stunning desert landscape by Mother Nature. Little black dress by H&M, suitcase by DELSEY.

Yours truly just returned from a three-day business trip to California, but of course, I packed my little black dress and made time to have some fun. After the endless snow storms we've endured in NYC, it was nothing less than therapeutic to shed my coat and feel the golden sunshine on my skin. Here are a few highlights from my West Coast whirlwind.

In Los Angeles, I stayed at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel - a 90-year old property that evokes the glamour and grandeur of old Hollywood and the city's Spanish heritage. With it's marble fountains, colorful frescoes, and ornate ceilings; the Biltmore has a yesteryear level of opulence not seen in most new hotels. You can vividly imagine the Hollywood stars that roamed the grand rooms of the Biltmore - the hotel hosted the Oscars several times in the 1930's and 40's.



No visit to the Biltmore would be complete without a visit to their famed Gallery Bar.  Sit back and enjoy a cocktail crafted for you by legendary bartender Greg Guzelian. If you're craving a sip that is pretty, pink, and potent, order Greg's signature creation - the French Kiss. Sweet but not overbearingly so, this flirty libation is made with Grey Goose Vodka, Chambord, Peach Schnapps, and Fruit Juices.



Just a few blocks from the Biltmore is a fantastic patisserie and restaurant - Bottega Louie. Their macarons are marvelous and you can also be seated for a full meal. Bottega Louie is a great spot for people watching and the service is excellent.
 

Of course, California is all about cruising (traffic permitting!) along the freeway in a great set of wheels. Alas, I did not get to travel in the red Mustang convertible of my daydreams but the red Toyota Corolla we rented did provide a smooth ride for the three-hour trip from LA to La Quinta.

How could I not love this view from my private deck at La Quinta?

Located at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains, La Quinta Resort & Club has provided a luxurious desert oasis for Hollywood and other luminaries since 1926. I was only there for one night, but what a night it was. I fell in love with my spacious Deluxe Casita with its king-sized bed and private deck. Golf, dining, shopping, and spa treatments are all available at La Quinta and I can't wait to explore more on my next visit.

P.S. A special thank you to DELSEY for providing me with such a fantastic suitcase. This California trip gave me the chance to finally test-drive the bag they sent me and it performed beautifully. Lightweight, sturdy, and with plenty of compartments, the double spinner wheels made it very easy to navigate through the airport. As always, I packed more dresses than I needed (a lady has to be prepared!) but there was still plenty of room in my DELSEY.

A Mantra for Frustrated Flyers

A completely full overhead bin on a plane can frustrate the calmest of travelers. Here's a little mantra to help you through it!

Gifts with Ooh La La: Delsey Luggage, a Catherine Malandrino LBD, and Paris!

Delsey's very lightweight U-LITE bag comes in 4 colors, including this dazzling red. On sale for $140 (usually $199)

Doesn't a new piece of luggage absolutely inspire you to set off on an adventure? I was recently gifted with a wonderful suitcase from Delsey and I can't wait to fill it with little black dresses for my next getaway - hopefully back to France! A French company, Delsey has been making stylish and innovative luggage since 1946 and sources tell me that a Delsey bag is sold every 10 seconds! Available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and styles; all Delsey bags are designed to make packing more efficient and travel less burdensome. You can shop for Delsey online or at retailers in 110 countries.

I haven't had a chance to take my Delsey on the road yet but I know that it will be perfect for my next jaunt to Paris. On my last trip to the City of Lights, I stayed in a lovely private home that my travel companion found on Airbnb but next time I'll opt for the pampering and amenities that come with a hotel stay. Flipping through my trusty Michelin Guide for options in the chic Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood (6th Arrondissement);  the three-star boutique Hotel Millésime sounds like a great option. Michelin describes it as "sunny colours complement fabrics and furniture chosen to create a warm atmosphere in the gorgeous rooms of this hotel."

 

 

 

 

Paris, Summer 2013

And, of course, I would make sure that my Delsey included a fabulous little black dress for my Parisian adventure. I think a sexy frock by French designer Catherine Malandrino is perfect for a night out in the City of Lights. $395

 

Pretty Practical: Sonia Kashuk Luxe Collection Ooh La La Valet

One of the challenges of packing is finding practical pieces with panache. Recently, I had a chance to visit cosmetics icon Sonia Kashuk's Manhattan studio and, in addition to her keen eye for color, Sonia is a lady who really understands women on the go. I imagine that part of it comes her experience traveling as a celebrity makeup artist, but each season Sonia offers a great selection of travel friendly makeup and cases. One bag that I will definitely be purchasing for my next trip is the Ooh La La Valet from her Luxe Collection. Portable, pretty, and priced at only $24.99, the Ooh La La Valet packs plenty of storage in a stylish case. Made of sleek and easy to clean black ballistic nylon, the Ooh La La Valet features two removable pouches that velcro in and out, a zippered pocket, sections to store makeup brushes, a fold down shelf, and a swivel hanger.  And, I'm crazy about those silver studs on the front - a very chic, very Sonia detail! Available at Target.
 

Perk Up Your Packing: Practical & Pretty Organizers

Any frequent traveler will tell you that the secret to packing well is having a system that keeps you organized. In addition to maximizing space, a well-organized bag makes it easier to locate items. Here are two items that make it a little more fun to get your bag perfectly packed.

ShowOffs Travel Bags
Available at Brookstone.com and ShowOffsTravelBags.com
$14.99 - $35.99 (a single kit of ShowOffs is currently on sale at Brookstone for $11.99)
Created by a lady who shares
my frustration with the TSA's insistence that any liquids carried on a plane must be packed in a quart-sized Ziploc bag, ShowOffs meld style with compliance. Resealable and reusable with a leak resistant closure, ShowOffs come in a variety of fun colors and patterns and are available in quart and gallon sized. Each set comes with a combination of bag sizes and refillable 3 ounce plastic bottles. Practical and pretty!

CupCase Your Bras
$24.95
A good bra can cost a small fortune so protect your investment with a CupCase. Instead of just tossing your bras in your bag, secure them in a CupCase to prevent creasing, crushing, and crimping. How does it work? CupCase Your Bras™ “butterflies-open” with one easy zip and stores up to three bras with additional safe storage for hair ties, jewelry, and other small accessories. Pretty clever!

Ready for Adventure: New Essentials for the New Year

Happy New Year! I hope that 2012 takes each of you on glamorous adventures, near and far. My resolutions include to dream big, travel far and do good. That sounds pretty simple, but sometimes I let the mundane details of everyday life distract me from my goals.

A wise friend sent me a lovely New Year's note that told me to get ready for the success that will come my way. That is a powerful message and it made me think about both the little and big things I can do to prepare myself for an amazing year. With that in mind, each of the items listed below is not only pretty but serves as a reminder to be ready for adventure when it comes my way!

Aspinal of London Metallic Gold Snakeskin Passport Cover
$35
One of the things that I must do soon is renew my passport before it expires in September 2012. Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip and I have known of people to be turned away at the airport for not meeting this requirement. When I get my new passport, I think it will look fabulous in this snazzy silk lined leather cover from Aspinal of London. It can even be personalized with initials.

Samsonite xSpace Exandable Spinner
On sale at eBags.com for $159.99. Also available in red.
My favorite red Samsonite is still sturdy and has been on some amazing trips with me but I've been coveting a bag with spinner wheels. These multi-directional wheels allow 360 degree upright rolling - making it much easier to navigate in tight spaces. And, I love the powerful purple color - it will stand out in a crowd!


Nuova Vita Cotton Jersey Dress
$155
Of course, a new year requires a new little black dress! I'm already a proud owner of a Nuova Vita long evening dress but this short version is perfect for travel. Made of washable cotton with a touch of spandex, this flirty little frock can be dressed up or down.

Sonia Kashuk Animal Print Travel Duffle
$39 at Target
This colorful duffle is perfect for a spur of the moment weekend getaway. Lightweight and roomy, this is the bag I carried when I spent the holidays at my Mom's. It includes two medium sized removable clear plastic pouches that make it easy to organize and locate toiletries.

In The Bag: Stylish Essentials for Ladies on the Go

Did you pay to check your luggage last year? If so, the airlines owe you a box of bonbons and an upgrade because in 2010 they made a record $3.4 billion from baggage fees! Unbelievable.

Now more than ever, air travel is not just about packing light but packing smart. With the right carry-on bag, gadgets, and toiletries, it is possible to fit all of your essentials in a carry-on. Here are a few fun and functional items that will keep your hard-earned money in your wallet and away from the greedy airlines!

Lug Life Shuttle Bus Weekender Wheelie Bag
$139.99 at eBags
A cute and functional bag can make all the difference between travel bliss and a world of stress. Available in nine colors, this carry-on has tons of pockets, including a separate compartment for your shoes.

MBeze Natural Deoderettes 
$10
Who knew deodorant could be so chic? Don't let the pretty packaging fool you - MBeze Natural Deoderettes keep you smelling fresh as you're dashing through the terminal to make your flight. Available in 10 scents, including fragrance-free, MBeze are made with all natural and organic ingredients. Other travel-friendly goodies in the MBeze line include Dabber Dust Natural Underarm Powder ($6), and Roll On Perfume.  I've been enjoying my samples of these great products.

Dermalogica Solar Defense Wipes SPF 15
$22
No matter where you travel, sunscreen is a must. Dermalogica's pre-moistened sunscreen wipes can be used on your face and body for easy, no mess protection from the sun's rays.

Travelite Luggage Scale with LED Flashlight
$24.85
Ok, let's face it - sometimes, no matter how hard we fight it, bags have to be checked. Ugh. This clever little scale helps you avoid excess baggage fees by giving you the exact weight of your luggage and can weigh bags up to 100 lbs. The built-in flashlight is a great feature. I actually won this scale from the blog Apples & Rubies -  thanks -  looking forward to using it on my next trip!

SweetRiot 100% Dark Cacao Nibs Dunked in 50% Dark Chocolate
$19.99 for a Three Pack
Don't argue with me, dark chocolate is a must. Feeling stressed on the road? Nibble on these satisfying little drops of goodness to rev up your endorphins. Packaged in a reusable tin, SweetRiot candies are all-natural and sourced from Latin America. Each piece only has 1-2 calories - just 140 calories per tin!

'Tis the Season: Twelve Gorgeous & Great Gifts for Gals on the Go

Sometimes the true meaning of the holidays gets lost in all of the shopping chaos but you don't need to max out your credit cards to show someone you care. Traveling ladies appreciate functional gifts that make life on the road easier. I've put together a list of twelve great gifts that will bring a holiday smile to the jetsetting divas in your life without sending you to the poor house. After all, you need some money leftover to treat yourself too!

Samsonite XSpace Expandable Spinner Carryon
on sale at Ebags for $161.99 and free shipping.
Samsonite may not be the sexiest luggage on the market but their bags have a stellar reputation due to their sturdiness and functionality. Also available in Galaxy Black and Mars Red, this brightly colored carry-on has multi-directional wheels that provide 360 degree upright rolling. The case expands but fits easily into overhead bins. 

Le SportSac Large Weekender
$81.48 at Endless.com
Perfect for a weekend getaway, this lightweight bag has a playful pattern, plenty of compartments, and a roomy interior. Various patterns available. 


Packable Down Jacket in a Pouch
$119 at TravelSmith
Water-repellent, tear-resistant and windproof, this sleek down jacket comes in a  drawstring
pouch that can double as a pillow on the plane. Also available in black.

Flip Video Mini HD Camcorder
$199.99 at Amazon
Capturing travel memories on video is super-easy with this compact camcorder. Tiny enough to fit into a pocket or purse, the Flip is big on features, including HD quality video and easy uploads to Facebook and YouTube.




Juicy Couture Leopard Laptop Sleeve
$78.00 at Endless.com
Animal print is all the rage this season  - protect a laptop in fierce style with this glossy vinyl leopard sleeve.


Very Hollywood by Michael Kors Gloss & Rollerball
$18 at Sephora
Glam touch-ups on the go are a cinch with this chic lipgloss and fragrance combo. Airline approved, slip this into your bag to spritz and slick anywhere.

Invicta Women's Limited Edition Diamond Chronograph Watch
On sale for $129.99 at Endless.com (regular price is $695)
Missing a flight is next to impossible with this gorgeous watch on your wrist. Keep track of time in style. Blinged out with 16  hand-set diamonds and a mother-of-pearl face, this watch is also sturdy - it has a stainless steel case and is water resistant up to 330 ft. 

The World Traveler Note Card by She's Got Papers
$3.00 per card or $12 for a set of 6.  Set of 6 personalized cards is $36.
Even in a high-tech world, a handwritten note still has major impact. Give a set of these whimsical cards to your favorite jetsetter so she can send you a note full of juicy details about her latest getaway. After all, secrets are too sacred for a postcard and should be placed in a sealed envelope!

Kate Spade Foiled Again Medium Leila Cosmetic Case
$60 at Endless.com
Flashy and classy at the same time, this medium sized cosmetics bag is a fun way to keep makeup organized. And, that flash of gold will make it easy to spot in the most cluttered tote bag! Also available in silver.

Kushyfoot Flats to Go
$8.99 at Kushyfoot.com
These fun flats are the perfect stocking stuffer for every traveling lady on your list. Made of soft and flexible faux leather, Kushyfoot Flats to Go come in a convenient plastic carrier that slips easily inside a purse. I keep a pair in my bag for instant relief whenever my feet start aching. Available in black, gold and silver.

Little Black Convertible Dress
$155 at NuovaVitaonline.com
One flirty little black dress with 12 different looks is a dream come true for a traveler! Light and flowy, this functional frock is comfy and cute.

PEACE Black Sheer Jersey Chemise
$36 at Peace Love World
Give your favorite traveler a wearable message of peace in this triple-threat chemise that functions as sleepwear, a tank or a dress. With the word "Peace"  imprinted on the bottom, this garment is a perfect sentiment for the holiday season and always.

Luggage Lust: Five Fab Bags at Endless.com

Confession - luggage lust hits me whenever I see a stylish bag cocooned in the overhead bin or boldly cruising down the conveyor belt.

A friend recently told me about Endless.com, an online boutique that sells chic shoes, accessories, and bags (for men and women) at great prices - they also offer free shipping on all new styles. I like my luggage functional and cute but I don't want my suitcase to cost more than my vacation so Endless seems like a fantastic option. Here are five fab bags featured on Endless.com that caught my eye.

Halsea Kona Koi Weekend Bag - $295
"nautical-inspired print canvas is made from pure cotton and laminated for durability"

LeSportsac Sidney Overnighter - $81.51
"cool fabric in a colorful palette with plenty of space and a couple of pockets for the little things"

The SAK Artist Circle Weekend - $76.18
"eco-minded in its fabrication (half the exterior and all of the interior are made from recycled fibers) while combining a blissed-out print with cool webbing accents and other pretty trims"

Jimeale New York Weekend Tote - $59.95
"A roomy interior and attachable shoulder strap make it functional, but practicality nearly pales in comparison to the appealing look of its prettily printed satin exterior."

Swoop Weekend Bag - $38
"The zip-around design allows you to open the bag and lay it flat on a countertop. Inside, you'll find two vinyl zip pockets for organization and convenience."

Pack with Style: Luggage Trends and Deals

Are you packing your favorite frocks in a beat up old suitcase? Doesn’t your dream vacation or weekend getaway deserve luggage as stylish as you are? Some of the biggest names in fashion, including Diane von Furstenberg and Nicole Miller, have luggage lines that are colorful and stylish. Best of all, if you do your research, you can get these bags at a fraction of the price at discount retailers. This great DVF Marlene 21” Rolling City Bag is currently available at E-Bags for $89.99 and I found the same bag at Marshalls for $65. Considering that the suggested retail price is $200, both of these are great deals.

For more tips on finding the hottest new luggage, I reached out to Pamela Pekerman, BagTrends.com founder and handbag expert. Pamela says, “For playful designs, vegan style and beyond affordable prices I'm hooked on Jane Marvel. I can't live without her Puddle Jumper bag in stars/sky print.”  (Retail:$118)

Pamela also has rave reviews for Kipling. “Kipling's Madison 22 Wheeled Duffel in Georgia Peach is such a fresh color to see at the airport. The best part is that it collapses flat - perfect for storage in a 300 sq ft Manhattan apartment!” (Retail: $235)

For more handbag and luggage scoop, check out www.BagTrends.com.