She is Never Lost...But at Least She Has Wine

The rolling hills of Jordan with painted rocks dating back to the beginning of time it feels. When I visited the ancient city of Petra it was one of the greatest sights for very sore eyes! Wine of the Week: Cabernet Cortis 2018A very nice red wine. The nose is strong with a note of blackcurrant. The same on the palate. Gentle tannins, moderate acidity. Follow the Story Daily on Social Media www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com   Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

I know! That's half the fun of traveling is showing off all the amazing places you saw in social media! But when you can't take the perfect IG photo to share you might think "what's the point?" Well in this episode I share some tips to take great solo photos while traveling! Wine of the Week: Henri Weber 2020 Riesling Alsace is a wine-growing region in Northeast France that borders Germany. Because Alsace is proximal to Germany, cradled in the shadow of the Vosges Mountain range and just east of the Rhine River, it shares many common grape varieties. Riesling is the darling of Alsace, and a favorite of wine lovers worldwide, for it, is both versatile and budget-friendly.

I have to say that Poland was the first country I ever visited in the Eastern Block of the EU! When I visited last year it was absolutely captivating! Listen to hear a fun idea for an itinerary! Wine of the week: La Gioiosa Rose ProseccoPleasingly delicious rose, this Prosecco offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio and it is certainly worth a try. Salmon pink color, the nose of strawberry and raspberry, with a very light citrus touch. The body is what impresses me the most. Not too light, with expected apple and strawberry touch, coupled with creamy hints. Then a light pomegranate kick is on the back leading to a dry and restrained ending. Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

As a photographer or aspiring photographer I know that it is nice to get tips whenever you have the chance so today I am sharing some tried and true tips that I've used as a professional photographer on how to get outstanding photos on the beach. This could be portraits or landscape photography you can use these same tips! Blog post to read more: https://thebackpackermom.com/2020/12/06/how-to-take-fabulous-beach-photos/ (Click Here) Wine of the Week: Ruiz Torres Mar BlueTo be honest, I had no idea how my taste buds processed this wine, it was sweet but had a little aftertaste of chemicals. If I made this into a wine smoothy I think that the wine taste would have made more sense but this was one of the most unique wines I've ever tried. Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

With travel opening up again worldwide, more people are booking flights as fast as they can while prices are cheap! Living in Europe though I've learned the pain of budget flights and how they nickel and dime you for EVERYTHING! So, to avoid painful fees or tips on traveling lightly, you'll love this episode! To check out my blog post about this subject and the items I highlight in this episode: https://thebackpackermom.com/2021/06/23/essential-packing-list-for-air-travel/ (https://thebackpackermom.com/2021/06/23/essential-packing-list-for-air-travel/) Wine of the Week: Pata Negra Valdepeñas Gran Reserva 2012 Oak, vanilla and some red berries. I'm giving 4 stars to this wine because the wine itself is quite light but still very good taste of oak & vanilla. Amazed about the price for this wine if you think about age. Follow the story on Social: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my online courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Have you ever dreamed about taking a hot air balloon flight? For me? It always looked like a dream! But I learned a few things along the way on how best to prepare for taking your first flight. Wine of the Week: https://www.bethanyvineyard.com/ourwine (Bethany Vineyard & Winery )https://www.bethanyvineyard.com/ourwine (2018 Reserve Chardonnay)Nose: sweet and a little earthy Mouth: acidic and a bit flabby. Long finish Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about the wonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Have you ever been to the amazing and magical city of Amsterdam? If you haven't or you never ventured out of the city while you were visiting, let me share my favorite little day trip from Amsterdam to the region of Holland! Wine of the Week: https://www.rtvelisi.com/our_products?id=7 (RTVELISI ALAZANI VALLEY Medium Sweet Wine - Georiga)Mouth-filling black fruit on the palate with notes of damson. The palate is finished with a rounded, creamy, sweet, and well-balanced aftertaste. Follow the Story Daily on Social Media www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about the wonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

In this episode, I am going to share some of the top apps that I use all the time when I travel! These are apps that I've selected after years of trial and error before I found ones that I really LOVE! I hope that you enjoy these suggested apps! Wine of the Week: Chateau Suduiraut 2015 Lions de Suduiraut Sweet as hell and I love it...great juice but compared with the Auslese this one is missing edge and acidity. Great complexity and looooong taste but singular in appearance. Notes of honeysuckle apricot peach pineapple marmalade caramel. Follow the Story Daily on Social Media www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about the wonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

If you are wanting to travel with your children while they are very small (which I highly recommend) it isn't always pretty or easy but I wanted to share six tips that I've used for years while traveling with my daughter from when she was six weeks old to her now 5-year-old self. I hope you enjoy and use these tips on your future travels! Wine of the Week: Storypoint 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon This appealing and full-bodied wine is filled to the brim with plump, generous black-fruit and baking-spice flavors that are well-concentrated and wrapped in a blanket of fine-grained tannins. Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Wine can be one of the most sensory drinks that you can enjoy...but what happens if you open a bottle of wine and take a sniff and it smells like sweaty socks or wet dog? I am going to share with you the traits of "corked" wine and how to tell if your wine has been "corked" or not! Wine of the Week: Arabe Sauvignon Blanc Primary aromas emanating from the Sauvignon Blanc, elegant and serious with very pleasant notable acids. Its herbaceous flavor of grapefruit and mango has a great personality. Slightly accentuating a spicy flavor that stands out on the palate. Very surprising. To learn more about cork taint or reference back to - https://thebackpackermom.com/2022/01/26/how-to-tell-if-a-wine-is-corked/ (Check out my blog post!) Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

We all know that San Fransisco is one of those fun, and funky big cities that is just bursting at the seams with culture and interesting things to do! But when you are going for a short period of time how do you choose where to go? I've got a shortlist of fun suggestions of how to spend your time over a weekend in San Fransisco! Wine of the Week: Menage a Trois Silk 2019Excellent wine for the price with plenty of cherry and chocolate notes on the nose and palate, yet still having a dry, somewhat complex flavor. Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

With traveling the world, one of the biggest benefits for me has been being able to try all the different kinds of food!!! I am a serious foodie, 1) because I can pair it with wine and 2) there are so many interesting ways that you can enjoy food! So check out this episode where I share six countries you'll fall in love with just for the food! Wine of the Week: 2018 White Bordeaux Saint Vincent de PertignasThis wine is the perfect summer sipper! It is bright and slightly acidic with notes of green apple, hay, and pineapple! Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Welcome to the world of the East! When I was able to travel to Vietnam I absolutely fell in love with Vietnam! In this episode, I will share some tips on how to travel to Hanoi without just visiting the tourist spots! Wine of the Week: Petit Mont, Yunnan, China 2019Pure red and black fruit nose. The palate brings notes of cocoa, blueberry, and cedar, alongside fine-grained tannins. Long finish. If you'd like to read more about Hanoi you can always visit https://thebackpackermom.com/2020/01/03/go-beyond-tourist-spots-of-hanoi-vietnam/ (my blog post) here! Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)  

I know that title might be a little confusing but trust me this is an important episode to prepare you mentally and physically for the different bathrooms around the world! Listen to learn more! Wine of the Week: https://www.vivino.com/US/en/brandvlei-manor-coffee-pinotage/w/3155793 (Coffee Pinotage)Black fruits on the nose. Dark red. Simple, round, and fruity. Forrest fruits with light hints of coffee. Too simple average wine. Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

I know - you hear "Idaho" and you instantly think of potatoes. Well, Idaho has a lot more to offer than just good fries (though the sweet potato fries are amazing), they have award-winning wine! In this episode, I am tasting through one of my all-time favorite wineries in Idaho,https://www.telayawine.com/ ( Telaya Wine Co! ) Wine of the Week: 2018 Cabernet Franc A dusty purple color fades to almost a clear halo—the nose changes with every sniff going from sweet tobacco to cherry and then on to vanilla. The silky body coats the inside of your mouth with dark cocoa. With a zip of acid, the finish holds on to a black cherry note.​ Follow the Story Daily on Social Media www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com   Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

This is a lesson I've learned the hard way a few times...double-check your facts! Especially with travel and even more important now because of COVID crap! You can be planning the best trip ever but if you don't pay attention to the facts and details the whole thing can get either really expensive or go really bad. Listen for some life lesson tips I share! Wine of the Week: Celeste Roble 2020 Celeste Roble is a red wine from the D.O Ribera del Duero produced by Pago del Cielo, one of the most exported and well-known Spanish wineries in the world. This is 100% made from Tinto Fino. The grapes used to produce Celeste Roble grow in vineyards located at 900m above sea level in the town of Peñafiel. Celeste Roble, apart from its obvious quality, is known for its label, where the stars that can be seen during the harvest in the vineyard, now can be appreciated on the bottle. Celeste Roble, before being bottled is briefly aged in oak barrels which brings a multitude of typical undertones. Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com   Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Living in Spain has given me the opportunity to really experience a lot of the local communities and explore to my heart's content! From large cities to tiny villages I've traveled North to South, East to West in the region of Andalucia Spain! To those traveling with kids, you'll want to listen to this episode for sure if you're planning a trip to Spain any time soon! Wine of the Week: AdegaMãe Red Blend 2020Very fruity, young, and lightly acidic, good for a quick, casual meal. More details in the episode! Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about the wonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Have you ever said to yourself or to someone else "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity"? I'm sure we've all said it more than a dozen times in our lives but was it really? Well, this story definitely WAS a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me! Wine of the Week: Vina Balbaina VermutThis delicious aromatic wine is like Christmas in a glass! Listen for the full description! Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about thewonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

I know that sounds like an overstatement or one that is overly cocky but in this episode, I am so grateful to have my MOM on the show with me! This is the woman who taught me everything about traveling until I started striking out on my own and picking up my own tips, she is the woman who proved to me at a young age that you can travel as a solo (not single) parent with kids - she did it WITH 4! Roadtripping across the US, going to foreign countries, and so much more! In this episode, she shares that the road wasn't always the prettiest but in the end, the joys of traveling and taking your family on adventures were totally worth it! Wine of the Week: Rosè Port If you've never had a Rosè port then you are missing out! This is the perfect example of how the wine industry learned to adapt to a younger demographic of drinkers. The Porto Cruz Pink is the perfect sipper or you can even make it into cocktails! Grab yourself a bottle with this https://www.portugalvineyards.com/en/pink-port/6879-porto-cruz-pink-port-3147699106525.html (link) Follow the Story Daily on Social Mediawww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com Sign up for my wine courses to learn more about the wonderful world of wine! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/collections)

Can you believe that this is the last episode of season 2!! What an amazing journey we've taken together and I am so glad that you've shared this journey with me! On this last episode we are going to my hometown in the height of summer... the Summer Solstice Festival and the top 5 things to do when visiting. The Solstice is the 21st of June so plan accordingly. Wine of the week: Galanteria Rosé This wine has a very special story behind it, but trust me it is best heard on the podcast Be sure to stay tuned and subscribe to the podcast for future episodes! www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine Www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com PSA: My Micro wine courses will be getting released soon! Stay tuned!!

One of the greatest experiences, I believe, you can have while traveling is to take a cooking class. I believe that it is the fastest and best way to really get a true insight into any country you are traveling to or through. Just yesterday, I took my family, who are visiting me in Spain, to a cooking class so they can taste and learn about the culture and the food of the Spanish people. This was the same kind of experience that I am sharing in this week's story of when I took my first international cooking class in Fiji. Wine of the Week: AdegaMãe Canned Rosé BlendA blend of Touriga Nacional, Aragonez grapes from the Lisbon region that is surprising, especially coming from a can! Lots of flavors of Strawberry, apple and jasmine! For more tips and stories like this follow me on social media by clicking the links below: www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com To sign up for my wine course: https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com)

How do you end up overcoming traveling alone with children? YOU JUST DO IT! I have several more tips in store for you during this episode but the biggest factor is you JUST DO IT! Listen for more! Wine of the Week - Animale 2016 Cabernet Franc (Yakima Valley) Follow the story social: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.thebackpackermom.com

I don't know about you guys but I LOVE road trips! I have spent my entire life taking road trips all around the world at this point and it is still one of my favorite ways to travel because you can take your time and create your own adventure instead of just rushing between gates and terminals. I have created a list of items you should never leave home without when heading out on a road trip! If you're more visual, you can always find this list on my blog by clicking here Wine of the Week: Forlong Rosado 2020Nicely balanced rose in modern Spanish style. Plenty of bitter citrus flavors; grapefruit and blood orange. The aroma of apricot! For more tips like this or to follow the story on Social click the links below: www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com To sign up for my wine course: https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/ (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/)

Christmas is only 11 Saturdays away! I know that that might not be enough time to hop on a plane to Germany but - who knows it might be! I know that there are a lot of really cheap flights from the USA to Europe right now so you might want to consider that! To get more details about these Christmas markets I've highlighted https://thebackpackermom.com/2019/12/25/top-5-christmas-markets-in-germany/ (click here) Wine Highlight of the Week: Gelblack Riesling Trocken 2018 Pure lemon juice!! With a touch of pear, apricot, minerals, and terroir. Razer sharp acidity and a long finish. Words are not enough for this gorgeous Riesling from one of the oldest Riesling producers ever!!! For more tips like this or to follow the story on Social click the links below: www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com To sign up for my wine course: https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/ (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/)

Happy Holiday Season! I know that it is just barely almost October but if you are going to plan a trip to attend Christmas markets then you need to know this information before planning your trip! I mean there are only 12 Saturdays left before Christmas and the markets start in November! For more tips you can always visit my https://thebackpackermom.com/2019/10/22/preparation-for-christmas-markets/ (blog post I wrote on the subject )by clicking here Wine of the Week: Mulled Wine! This week I decided I was going to get into the holiday spirit and share a recipe, still wine-based, for a great holiday drink that will keep you warm all holiday season long! Mulled Wine Ingredients: To begin, gather your ingredients. For this mulled wine recipe, you will need: Wine: No need to splurge on a pricey bottle — any basic bottle of dry red or white wine will do. (Or if you're making a big batch, this is a great recipe to break out the boxed wine too!) Fresh oranges: One of which we will slice and mull with the wine, one of which you can slice and use as a garnish if you'd like. (To minimize bitterness, feel free to peel the orange before simmering it in the wine.) Cinnamon: I love making mulled wine with cinnamon sticks, but you could whisk in some ground cinnamon if that's what you have on hand. Mulling spices: These vary in mulled wine from country to country, but whole cloves and star anise are my favorites, plus perhaps a few cardamom pods. Sweetener: Feel free to add your favorite sweetener to taste. Sugar is classic, but I prefer to naturally sweeten mine with either maple syrup or honey. Extra liqueur (optional): Similar to sangria, it's also traditional to spike your mulled wine with an extra bit of liqueur, if you'd like. I like to add a bit of brandy, bourbon, or cognac, but any favorite liqueur will do here. (Or you can skip the extra liqueur if you prefer.) How To Make Mulled Wine:To make mulled wine, simply… Combine ingredients. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and give them a quick stir. Simmer. Heat until the wine just barely reaches a simmer over medium-high heat. (Avoid letting it bubble in any way — you don't want to boil off the alcohol.)  Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the wine simmer for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours. Strain and season. Using a fine-mesh strainer, remove and discard the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and ginger. Give the mulled wine a taste, and stir in your desired amount of extra sweetener if needed. Serve. Serve warm in heatproof mugs, topped with your favorite garnishes. For more tips like this or to follow the story on Social click the links below: www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

Welcome to my harvest episode!! In this episode, I'm sharing the process of a grape going from the winery to the bottle and how similar that process is to someone healing. Wine of the week: Viña Balbaina Rose 2020 Pellicular maceration for 4 hours. Pale pink color, bright with very bright tones that mark purple reflections. Clean and brilliant. Powerful and delicate aromas of red fruit stand out in the nose with notes of sweets and milk with a fresh sweetness in the mouth. It is fresh and powerful at the same time with a velvety passage https://vbalbaina.es/en/producto/esencia-torre-rosado-en/ (https://vbalbaina.es/en/producto/esencia-torre-rosado-en/ ) To sign up for my wine course: https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/ (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/) Follow us on Social Media: www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

If you've ever wanted to travel to Laos then this podcast is for you! When I visited I wanted to gather the most useful tips to share with you all and I am covering those today! Wine of the week: 2018 Cabernet Franc - Par Terre, Garden City Idaho If you haven't had the chance to taste through Idaho wine - you need too! There are so many wineries that are going to take you for a spin! To follow the story daily on social media: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.thebackpackermom.com

This episode is more of a basis for a discussion and the stepping stone for in case you aren't accustomed to booking your lodging for a trip and the best deals you can get out of that booking. Wine of the Week: Fernway Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Don't forget if you want to sign up for my wine course you can always do so! Enrollments aren't set on a specific date - join in! It is never too late! https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com) Follow the journey daily on social media or my website: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

I am sharing this episode with perfect timing because it is the week that I've launched my online wine class! I never thought in a million years that I'd ever make my own course...for anything! Let alone it be about wine! When I was younger my life goal and plan looked very different from what it is now. And this episode talks about the importance of following your path! To sign up for my course click here: https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com) Wine of the Week: Chronicon Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Zaccagnini Red ruby with garnet shade, berries on the nose, a bit spicy and well balanced in the mouth, with hints of caramel. Velvety and long final. To follow the story daily follow us on social media: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

Imagine if you will, a Japanise-styled-covered bridge, crossing over a quiet canal as small little candle lanterns float by, gently carried by the current. Now imagine, if you will that little light is the representation of hope... Wine of the Week: 2020 Sauv Blanc-Chenin Blanc Green Cape South Africa The average nose smells some citrus and soil. The palate is quite enjoyable with dry tasting and pear, pineapple, citrus, and some grass. Med acidity and high minerality. The finish is medium level. Very cheap white and that can be preferred to drink with light meals something like pizza and also alone. I hope you enjoyed this episode! Don't forget to follow our story on the daily on our social media channels: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.thebackpackermom.com (Sign up for my online wine course - Launching Sept 1st!) https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/ (https://basictobougiewine.thinkific.com/)

During my only trip...so far...to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, one of the days we went it was CRAZY windy and that meant that they weren't going to let the balloons take off. This means we wanted to find another way to spend the day. For my family, this means that we were going to Old Town. Have you ever been at the right place at the right time? That is what my story shares today! Also EXCITING NEWS! I am releasing a wine course online! Basic to Bougie Wine Course! I will be releasing the launch date soon so be sure to follow me on both my Instagram pages I'm listing below to sign up or stay tuned for more information! Wine of the Week: 2020 Chardonnay - Cavanza from Chili This wine took me for a trip - a sweet, medium acidity, some tones in aroma on the edge of tastiness and defects. Good, tasty, but honestly wasn't very impressive. Not bad, good to drink for a low price. www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.instagram.com/basictobougiewine www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

When I traveled to Vietnam it was my first trip to Asia without the assistance of the Military - so I learned A LOT! Not just about being able to travel to Laos and Vietnam but the tips I learned along the way to enjoy myself more. I thankfully wrote down all those tips and now am sharing them with you! Wine of the Week: 2019 Chateau Bonnet White Blend Sauvion Blanc, Semillon & Muscadelle André Lurton created the Andre Lurton Vineyard wine empire over 60 years to produce great wines. He passed this rich heritage on to his children and his values are very much part of the Vignobles André Lurton DNA of today. The family is devoted to producing high-quality wines in prestigious Bordeaux appellations, managing 1,500 acres of vines, within 6 estates. Pale lemon-green

Are you ready to take a walk through history? While I lived in Virginia I had the opportunity to enjoy the birthplace of the United States and the massive amounts of history that have been rooted in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. Follow the trek with me, sip and enjoy! Wine of the Week: 2019 770 Miles Zinfandel 770 Miles Zinfandel is a lovely wine using the red Zinfandel grape from California's Central Valley. Flavors of coffee, blackberries, and red berries. A warm and very lingering finish. The state of California is by far the largest producing state for wine in the USA. Its grape growers succeed in many differing environments up and down the state from the fog-influenced coastal valleys of Sonoma, Napa, and Carneros, to the hot irrigated Central Valley and Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Edna Valley on the Pacific coast and to Temecula on the Mexican border. 770 Miles is the product of experts who have selected, vinified, and blended grapes ideally suited to the Californian climate, selected from across the vineyards of California's Central Valley to create consistent wines in perfect conditions.

Welcome to my first episode where I have a GUEST SPEAKER! My dearest friend, Cheyenne, was visiting me all the way from Alaska and we have a conversation about her first experience traveling to a new country, and continent with her two children - one of whom is Autistic all by herself to come to visit me in Spain! This episode is so much fun being able to just discuss back and forth about the victories and struggles she faced during her journey. Enjoy! Wine of the Week: https://williamson.orderport.net/product-details/0454/2020-Albarino (Williamson Orchards & Vineyards - 2019 Albariño (Idaho)) Their first vintage of Albariño is a lovely clear, bright, straw-hued wine. Interesting aromas of light pineapple, kiwi, and lemongrass greet you in the glass. Bright and zesty lemon and starfruit flavors change into a straw and barley flavor in the midpalate. This wine finishes with a burst of grapefruit and hints of jasmine on the tongue! Follow the Journey Daily: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

"People of The Mountains" - This is one of my favorite stories I have captured from my life on the road! I loved my drive through Utah because there is a very special story that I picked up along my travels - don't miss this one! Wine of the Week: The 2015 Château la Louvière is a red wine from Pessac-Léognan produced by Château La Louvière that is based on 2015 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and has an alcohol content of 13%. The 2015 Château la Louvière is the ideal red to combine with grilled meats and duck. Continue the story daily: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

Welcome to the episode where I share about my first, and thus far, only experience traveling to New Orleans! This adventure showed Me that, you never know what you'll stumble across when you take the leap of faith and you just "Do It"! Wine of the Week: The Alba Martin Albarino Rias Baixas from the pen of Martín Códax from Galicia reveals a brilliant platinum yellow colour in the wine glass. It reveals wonderfully expressive notes of kumquats, grapefruit, guavas and lemongrass in the glass. In addition, there are hints of cigar crates, toasted barrique and oak wood. Follow the story daily on my social sites: wwww.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

This episode is all about TERRIBLE life choices! This story is all about how I was BOUND and DETERMINED to make it to the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, but boy, I had to overcome some serious interest decisions to make it along this road, literally. But this fun tale is told with also some life lessons! Wine of the week: Arnold Roble Merlot/Cabernet Sauvenion 2018 Region: Somontano Merlot and Cabernet A clean and bright red wine with an intense red color Very fruity. Great to pair with a steak, ox tail, or a slice of grenache chocolate cake! Join the story daily: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.thebackpackermom.com www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom

The first time I had ever traveled internationally as a mom was terrifying! It was a LOT of new firsts for me, like applying for an entry visa! I had traveled internationally before and had planned entire trips too but this was different. I was taking my elderly father and my 10-month old daughter to a country I couldn't even pretend to speak or read the language. Wine of the Week! 2020 Sommos Rose SOMMOS ROSÉ, A new way to know the Somontano. The diversity of landscapes, microclimates, and varieties are reflected in this wine. From the region D.O. SOMONTANO. This is a Garnacha and Syrah blend with notes of citrus notes like grapefruit, fresh red fruit like tart strawberries and white flowers. To learn more about this wine or make an order you can visit their website: www.bodegasommos.com/en/vinos/sommos-rose/ Follow our story daily on my social sites: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

Welcome to the first episode of Season 2 of "She is Never Lost...But at Least She has Wine"! I am so excited to have you guys join me for another season of my podcast where I share wine, travel, parenting struggles and victories, and tips for all the above along the way! Starting this season was a struggle for me because after season 1 ended I had a hard time in my home and personal life, which then spilled over into my work life. At the end of the day, I was too spent to even think about recording my podcast. This episode was my "just need to start"! What can I say? I always try to be raw and real in these episodes. Wine: Parenthèse Brut from Château de l'Aule This is a sparkling wine that is a blend of Cabernet Franc (red wine) and Chablis (white wine). This wine I picked up when I was able to travel to the Loire Valley in France last October and I FELL in love with this wine! The fruity flavors and also light and flavorful! It was so good that I had to order 12 more bottles of it! To order or learn more about this wine visit their website: http://laulee.com/ (http://laulee.com/) Follow my story daily on my social sites: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

Welcome to the FINAL EPISODE of Season 1 of She is Never Lost But At Least She Has Wine. Let me start off by saying "HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISTER!" Without my sister, this show wouldn't exist - she has helped me make this show move from a random thought into existence. I'd be lost without you T and I am so grateful that you are so talented and helped me bring this show to life and made it presentable. Now the last episode! In this episode, I am sharing how the show "Gilmore Girls" really felt like it could have been based on my life. But this episode is also about how to learning to adapt and even how to say farewell (only for a short time because SEASON 2 is COMING!). Enjoy! Adieu pour l'instant mon ami (farewell for now my friend) Wine Highlight of the Week: https://www.wine.com/product/deutz-brut-rose/113897# (Champagne Deutz Ay France Rose) This has a many-hued color with strong pink tinges and fine bubbles. The nose is fresh and direct, with aromas reminiscent of cherries, blackberries, pomegranates, and red currants. On the palate, the wine shows a deliciously full body that follows on perfectly from the nose. Its flavors remind one of fresh strawberries and raspberries. The finish has a pleasantly acidulous character that adds to the impression of finesse given by this romantic and well-balanced wine. Stay tuned for more stories on my social media channels for the coming release of Season 2! www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

Take a gondola ride with me through the streets of Venice as I share my experience of dreaming about going to a single location in an obsessive manner since I was like 8 years old! How I learned about managing my expectations - and how understanding my expectations or how to convey them has really helped me in my life as a whole. Wine Highlight of the Week:  2016 Pieve Castelletto Chianti This wine is from the region of Chianti, It is very hard to give precise borders to the Chianti area in Tuscany. This is because the name of Chianti is traditionally referred to as the area between Florence and Siena where Chianti wine has been produced and not a definite territorial area with boundaries. With time, the area where Chianti wine is produced has grown. Parts of these areas, excluding Impruneta, grow the grapes that are transformed into "Chianti Classico DOCG" wine. If we go beyond the "Classico" area, Chianti wine has a total of 8 denominations, such as Colli Fiorentini, Colli Senesi, and Chianti Rufina, to name just a few, that further extend the territory of Chianti as can be seen in this smaller map to the right. To follow my stories daily - follow me on social media: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Website: www.thebackpackermom.com

Welcome to the episode of where I share my story about when I lived on the road and out of my car for 6 months for my job! It was a wild and wonderful, crazy and stressful time in my life where I felt really lost and I was trying to find my way back to "myself". I hope you enjoy! P.s. Yes I also use the term "pandering" incorrectly I was meaning to use "Floundering" oops just so you know the word was totally used incorrectly. Wine Highlight: 2017 StoryTeller "Ever After" Red Blend Sonoma wine country is brimming with fables (of varying degrees of truth) passed down through the generations, usually aided by a celebrated local wine. Storyteller wines encourage your stories to unfold in ever more fantastic versions. Flavors of smoky oak, vanilla spice, chocolate ganache and juicy dark plum. Lush dark berry fruit flavors dominate the palate. Follow the daily story on my social media channels: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Website: www.thebackpackermom.com

Have you ever done something so crazy that you think "THIS WILL NEVER WORK"? Well, that is the story I am sharing today in this episode! I am talking about when I signed up, on a whim, for the TV show "The Voice"! Yes, I auditioned for The Voice... Wine Highlight of the Week: Like France’s Vins de Pays, Vino de la Tierra de Castilla is a Spanish geographic indicator for wines from the autonomous region of Castilla-La Mancha. This is a region at an altitude of 700m covered with limestone and argillaceous soils that endure scarce rainfalls. An attractive deep pink with aromas of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries with faint hints of mandarin, this wine is refreshing with plenty of juicy fruit flavors on the palate. To follow the story daily - follow my social media channels Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Website: www.thebackpackermom.com

The story I will be highlighting this week is talking about some of the life lessons I learned while on my first deployment in the Navy in 2011! It wasn't just about circumnavigating the globe in under a year (I know not as impressive as 180 days but still) I learned other important life lessons that I hadn't faced in my life before. Wine Highlight of the Week 2019 100% Barbazul Chardonnay Barbazul Blanco is a white wine produced by the Huerta de Albala cellar in Cádiz. This is a varietal Chardonnay from their own vineyards, planted on hillsides at an altitude of between 100 and 200 meters above sea level. The farm is located between the Sierra de Gazalema and the Bornos swamp, which provides a special microclimate. Warm days with cool nights help keep the acidity in the grapes and allow a slow maturation. Harvesting is done manually and grapes are rapidly transported to the winery to avoid possible oxidation and deterioration. Barbazul Blanco is fermented at a controlled temperature of 12° C for a period of 20 days. A floral and fruity Chardonnay. To follow the story on social media: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Website: www.thebackpackermom.com

What is your "sport"? I used to be into playing soccer, then I was into swimming and then eventually I landed on my "sport" of SCUBA DIVING! The first time I ever went scuba diving I was 11 in Cabo San Lucas Mexico in the resort pool. Since that first moment "on-air" I was totally in love! Scuba diving to me is the most exhilarating, eye-opening, and amazing experience I have ever enjoyed. I am able to integrate my love of the ocean, wildlife, travel, and photography all into one activity! Wine Highlight: 2018 Ménage à Trois Silk Ménage à Trois Silk Soft Red Blend is a blend of Pinot Noir with seamless cherry flavors, Malbec with velvety softness, and Petite Sirah with alluring depth. To further illuminate the wine’s unique texture and flavors, the blend was enhanced with a hint of sweet, spicy French and American oak. With its alluring fragrance of dried violets and berries, Silk beckons, promising an unforgettable experience. Succulent cherry and ripe raspberry flavors mingle with delicate hints of rose petals and toasty spice and glide gracefully across your palate like liquid silk. Seamless and lustrous, Silk is the luxurious encounter you’ve been craving. To follow my story daily - follow my social media channel: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Website: www.thebackpackermom.com

I am so excited to share about my ultimate "pride and joy" photo I've captured of my career (as a civilian). My perfect photo was taken in Outer Banks, North Carolina during the Christmas season. I started my adventure that night at Elizabethan Gardens and then I ended up at the Bodi Island Lighthouse where I overcame a Photographer's struggle of trying to capture the perfect shot...but night photography without a tripod is stupid tricky! Listen for more! Wine Highlight of the Week: Notes from the 2017 Stoners Red: Three aromatic grapes meld together producing a complex bouquet of violets, boysenberries, and black olive. But that’s not all – throw in some herbs and cloves, eucalyptus, and strawberries planted in a pot of wet earth and you’re left with the world’s strangest recipe for delicious. Stoners Red is a savory bottle of GSM that finishes with a bit of raspberry. Drink now or save it for that freshly foraged elk steak and a side of mushrooms. To order your wines from Sol Stone or to learn more about them visit their website - www.solstonewine.com You can follow more stories on social media: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.thebackpackermom.com

*CONTENT WARNING* This is not a normal episode...Thus the title "Off Script..." In this episode I am sharing a side of my life I have not shared...with many people and then here I am sharing it with the entire world. When I was in the Navy (and in previous episodes, I've mentioned it a few times) my last deployment, in 2014, that year nearly killed me. This episode contains matters of sexual assault, PTSD triggering details of crashes...I wanted to give FULL disclosure before releasing this episode. It isn't pretty - but it is real. And I believe that it is important to share what is real - even if it is painful to share. Please be gracious

I gotta tell you - the first time I ever took my daughter on her first flight...I was terrified! Even being as seasoned and experienced as I am with traveling I was still so nervous the first time I boarded a plane with my six-week-old daughter. Wine Highlight of the Week: This is the wine that started my love of white wines! I never had much interest in pursuing white wines but when I tried this wine...it changed my world. This stunning bright and pale straw-colored wine breathes a soft white peach and bartlett pear on the nose with hints of minerality and lime zest. Full flavors of stone fruit and passion fruit reveal themselves amid a supple mouthfeel and finish with juicy lime and slate on the palate....and they ship! http://www.willorch.com/ (www.willorch.com) To continue the story follow my social media channels: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

The year of 2015 was a seriously difficult year for me. Why? I was leaving the military after four years of service (not as long as most people I know) but in those four years I had seen and experienced A LOT. Transitioning out of the military wasn't the hardest part - it was learning how to survive... The Wine Highlight of the Week: 2016 Purple Heart Wine The 2016 Purple Heart wine is crafted from hand-selected lots of pristine Sonoma County fruit, with both Alexander Valley and Dry Creek Valley vineyards figuring prominently. This medium-bodied offering opens with bright aromas of raspberries and cedar that precede richly textured notes of dark fruit and black currant on the palate. The wine’s finely balanced tannins give it a long, velvety mouthfeel with hints of caramelized brown sugar lingering through the finish. Drinking beautifully upon release, it will continue to gain complexity and grace with 4-5 years of cellaring. To purchase your bottle you can find this wine at most Kroger stores in the United States or on their website www.purpleheartwines.com To follow the story and adventures daily follow our social media channels: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Blog: www.thebackpackermom.com

In this episode, I share my story about how I got into the world of wine! It was an interesting "accident" that landed me into a world I now love and am a little obsessed with - and I couldn't be happier. Pour yourself a glass and get comfortable! Blended wines are a particular specialty of Australia, where Syrah is known as Shiraz. The two are well-known French varieties that have been successfully transplanted down under Cabernet Sauvignon is best known for its role in Bordeaux, while Syrah climbs the steep slopes of the Rhone Valley. In Australia, the two combine (sometimes along with Cabernet Franc) to make a rich, full-bodied red that is the basis of some of the country's most famous wines. Follow our story on social media: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom www.thebackpackermom.com

I have been waiting for this episode! This is the show I talk about my unique schooling experience! I was homeschooled my ENTIRE LIFE, not just for a short time, but the whole thing! I only went into a public school to take my PSATs and my SATs or to pick up my friends from school after I got my license. Many people would never peg that I was homeschooled, because they have an incorrect perception of what a "homeschooler" looks like. In this episode I dig into that a little and share my personal experience! I am also highlighting a French Pinot Noir! This medium-bodied wine is harmonious, with forward, plump fruit and a silky texture balanced by gentle tannins and elegant structure. The very typical Pinot aromas and flavors of red cherries and wild strawberries are complemented by a delicious, lingering finish. Pairs with red meats, roasts, pork tenderloin and soft cheeses. This is an exceptionally elegant Pinot with complex aromas of plums, raspberries and cherries and fresh red fruit flavors in the mouth with earthy floral, mushroom and mineral notes and balance acidity. To purchase yourself a bottle please follow this link: http://bit.ly/39aDPC6 Also please follow my social media channels for more wandering and wine! Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebackpacker_mom Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebackpackermom Website: www.thebackpackermom.com