Podcasts about Pinot noir

(0:10 - 0:23) Welcome to Wine Road, hosted by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa. Thanks to Ron Rubin for supporting the podcast. (0:24 - 0:48) River Road Family Vineyards and Winery sponsors the show. Visit riverroadvineyards.com to explore their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. (0:49 - 1:03) Episode 247 features Sidney Hunter, a barrel-tasting enthusiast, sharing her experiences and tips. (1:04 - 1:19) Beth introduces Sidney, a long-time customer turned friend, who regularly attends Wine Road events. (1:20 - 1:36) Sidney is a passionate barrel-tasting fan, attending events with her family and enjoying the experience. (1:39 - 1:54) Sidney estimates she's attended barrel tasting about 15 times, collecting many wine glasses along the way. (1:54 - 2:23) Sidney loves barrel tasting for the chance to try favorites, discover new wines, and meet winemakers. (2:23 - 3:26) She values the consistency of her favorite wineries and enjoys the interactive experience of learning from winemakers and staff. (3:26 - 4:12) Sidney appreciates the personal connections she's built with winery staff and the opportunity to try exclusive tastings. (4:12 - 5:09) Barrel tasting offers a unique, interactive experience. Sidney often buys futures, trusting the wine's quality and evolution. (5:09 - 6:23) Sidney explains her confidence in buying futures, often comparing current barrel samples with past vintages. (6:23 - 7:23) She highlights favorite wineries like Soda Rock and Carol Shelton, praising their consistent quality and knowledgeable staff. (7:23 - 8:11) She shares a story about picking up so many wine cases that her car was packed, leading to more purchases during pickups. (8:11 - 9:08) Sidney and her sisters make wine events a social occasion, complete with picnics and organized plans for visiting wineries. (9:08 - 10:16) Her group meticulously plans their visits, balancing favorite wineries with new discoveries, and enjoying the overall experience. (10:17 - 11:09) Sidney mentions her loyalty to Wilson family wineries and her goal to visit all of them in 2026. (11:11 - 12:29) She shares her love for Italian varietals at Colagrossi and highlights other favorites like Kokomo and VML for their unique offerings. (12:29 - 13:19) Sidney emphasizes pacing during events, focusing on quality over quantity, and taking notes to remember favorite wines. (13:20 - 14:22) Her sisters now join her for barrel tasting, each picking a favorite and a new winery to visit, with Sidney mapping out the route. (14:22 - 15:19) Sidney encourages enjoying the scenery, taking breaks, and embracing the full experience rather than rushing through wineries. (15:20 - 16:54) Barrel tasting is about quality, not quantity. Sidney advises taking time to enjoy the vineyards, meet winemakers, and savor the experience. (16:54 - 17:54) Rain or shine, Sydney and her sisters are prepared for events, enjoying the wines and connecting with winemakers like Susie Selby. (17:54 - 19:15) Sidney highlights the value of meeting winemakers and learning about their craft, making the experience educational and enjoyable. (19:17 - 20:30) She recommends bringing food and chocolates to pair with wines and suggests local markets like Dry Creek General Store for supplies. (20:30 - 21:03) Sidney's enthusiasm inspires others to join her at events, and she encourages everyone to experience barrel tasting. (21:03 - 21:49) Tickets for barrel tasting are $50 and include access to 60 wineries, with some offering tastings on Friday before the event starts. (21:49 - 23:00) The $50 ticket celebrates Wine Road's 50th anniversary. Sip Into the Weekend offers complimentary tastings every Thursday and Friday. (23:00 - 24:08) Check wineroad.com for updated winery lists and event details. That's a wrap for this episode!

Australia is best known for its Shiraz. Big bold Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon from Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Coonawarra. These are all from South Australia.We have talked about Western Australia (Margaret River) known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.Yarra Valley in Victoria is a cooler region known for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.Tasmania is off the south Coast of Australia and is an island. This is a cooler region and produces sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.Riesling is normally dry and crisp and best known for coming from the Clare Valley and the Eden Valley. Barossa Valley: Famous for bold Shiraz.Coonawarra: Renowned for rich Cabernet Sauvignon.Margaret River: A key region for elegant Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc blends.Clare Valley: Known for world-class, dry Riesling.McLaren Vale: Produces excellent Grenache, Shiraz, and GSM blends.Yarra Valley: A cooler climate region well known for quality Pinot Noir. Tonight, we are tasting:2020 Koonunga Hill, Shiraz Cabernet. Penfolds Wines South Australia. The winery is one of the best known in Australia and was established in 1844. Deep purple color, sweet dark dense berries, chocolate. Medium acidity, full-bodied, 14.5% alcohol. Flavors of vanilla bean creaminess and warm spice. Dried rosemary and sage might give appearance of earthiness. I purchased at Costco for $8. I mostly saw this wine running around $11, but I did see an online clearance sale (at Fine Wine and Good Spirits) for $4.33 (it said $11.26 off). The wine comes from the South Australia, but is a multi-regional blend. 65% Shiraz and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon.2020 Max's Shiraz Cabernet Penfolds. I purchased this wine at WineStyles for $17.00. Wine Enthusiast says aromas of blackberry jam, cherry cordial, pencil shavings and sweet vanilla bean-and-dark-chocolate oak influence. Rich, balanced acidity with tannins in the background. Could benefit from a few more years of aging. The wine scored a 92 from Wine Enthusiast. 70% Shiraz and 30% cabernet Sauvignon. 14.5% alcohol.2021 Bin 28 Shiraz Penfolds. Purchased at Wall to Wall Wine for $30. Wine Enthusiast says dense, ripe and powerful with quite a bit of oak. Chocolate with dark fruit and pepper spice on the nose. Flavor is rich and luscious, muscular tannins support rather than overpowers. Could age for a few more years. The wine was scored a 93 from the Wine Enthusiast. The wine is aged in American Oak for 12 months. 14.5% alcohol.We both liked #2 Max's Shiraz/Cabernet the best, and we thought this was the best buy of the night. I also liked #3 Bin 28 Shiraz, a very powerful fruity-oaky wine. I felt it lost a little balance because of the amount of oak, Denise didn't care for it's finish. Neither of us really cared for #1 Koonunga Hill, Shiraz/Cabernet. Next week we are exploring white wines of Australia.

Unsere Folgen sind nicht selten ungewöhnlich lang. Das hat seinen Grund: Wir möchten den Tiefsinn fließen lassen und Euch unsere Gesprächspartner so präsentieren, wie Ihr sie sonst nie – und vielleicht nie wieder – kennenlernen könnt. Und um Euch die Scheu zu nehmen, die man verspürt, wenn man einen über drei Stunden langen Zeitstempel sieht, aber auch, um Euch so richtig Lust auf den Kandidaten zu machen, präsentieren wir Euch immer einen Tag vor dem Release einen exklusiven Sneak in die neue Folge. Viel Spaß beim Hören, und wir freuen uns auf Euch mit einem herzlichen „Welcome back“ am Freitag.

Are toxic metals really falling from the sky—and entering our bodies?In this episode of Patriots With Grit, Dr. Henry Ealy breaks down lab-verified evidence showing dramatic spikes in aluminum and other heavy metals after visible chemtrail activity. We explore how these contaminants impact the nervous system, soil, food supply, and long-term health—and most importantly, what you can do about it. From grounding and mineral strategies to infrared sauna detox protocols, this conversation moves beyond fear into actionable solutions you can implement immediately.https://EnergeticHealthInstitute.orgNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

DIMANCHE 22 FÉVRIER 2026Jean-Baptiste Duquesne - Château Cazebonne (Bordeaux)Au cœur de l'appellation Graves, le Château Cazebonne s'étend sur 40 ha et se distingue par une mosaïque de terroirs uniques. Conduit en agriculture biologique et biodynamique, le domaine redonne vie à des cépages bordelais historiques, aujourd'hui rares. Chaque vin reflète la passion de Jean-Baptiste Duquesne, l'innovation et le respect du terroir, pour une viticulture à la fois authentique et singulière.Arnaud Boué - Maison Arnaud Boué (Bourgogne)Au cœur de Villars-Fontaine, la Maison Arnaud Boué élabore depuis 2018 des Chardonnay et Pinot Noir fidèles au terroir bourguignon. Après dix années d'expérience en France et à l'international, Arnaud exprime chaque parcelle avec finesse et précision. Chaque vin reflète authenticité, minutie et respect du vivant, offrant une immersion unique dans la Bourgogne.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

The deeper investigators dig into U.S. elections, the more troubling patterns emerge. In this episode of Patriots With Grit, election data expert Mark Cook explains why evidence that stayed hidden for years is now surfacing — and why the system relied on Americans not looking too closely. From voting machines to ballot handling and hand-count solutions, this conversation explores what citizens are discovering as the election narrative begins to unravel.https://HandCountRoadShow.orgThe Lost Interview: https://vimeo.com/showcase/12041899?video=1085500961NOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

Dan and Matt Matt Duffy from Vaughn Duffy Wines is back on California Wine Country. Matt has been on the show before, on this episode last summer. Dan Berger is back after taking last week off to attend the Anderson Valley White Wine festival, which we previewed on a few recent CWC episodes. He was in charge of the Riesling table with 12 different ones. They will hold a Pinot Noir festival in about five weeks, which we will hear about too. Matt Duffy was on CWC once before, last summer. Vaughn Duffy Wines specializes in single vineyard Pinot Noir. Their wines have captured many awards. Today Matt has brought four Pinot Noirs, all from different vineyards in the Petaluma Gap AVA. They are all from 2024. There are 3 vineyard designates, and one called Petaluma Gap which is a blend of Pinot Noir all from within the AVA. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference!  This wine has characteristics of a Petaluma Gap Pinot Noir. A Russian River Valley Pinot Noir has a little more raspberry and strawberry flavors. This one has a little more rustic character that reminds Dan a little more of Burgundy than one from RRV. Matt notices that the wines from Petaluma Gap makes purple, darker fruit compared to the bright reds from the Russian River Valley. The wind keeps things cooler in the growing season which lengthens the ripening season and limits the yields. Pinot Noir: a delicate balance Dan describes Pinot Noir as being on the edge between being too light or too heavy. A winemaker has to be careful through harvest and production, “…because if you try to get too much or too little (from it), it either lacks something or has too much of something.” Daedalus finds Pinot Noir sometimes too dark or too light but this one is “just right.”  Dan says you can run the risk of making an overripe wine anywhere with any varietal, but there is more forgiveness in some varieties and in some regions. If you harvest Cabernet a little too late, you can get away with it. If you harvest Pinot Noir a little bit too late in some regions, “…you're going to get an odd configuration of characteristics.” And those aren't necessarily a benefit to anyone. The first wine they taste is the blend, of Sangiacomo’s Roberts Road vineyard and Uberroth vineyard, both in the Petaluma Gap. Later in the show they will taste single vineyard Pinot Noir bottlings from each of those vineyards.

Den så kallade "diviga" druvan. Och några släktingar. Ja, det är vad det här avsnittet ska handla om. Pinot Noir, en druva med höga krav, mycket prestige och som ofta är ganska dyrt. Men också riktigt bra. Precis som en riktig diva ska vara. Lyssna! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send a textPetiole Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2024This is a wine that Trader Joe's has offered since at least the 2015 vintage.It has been a consistent value.It is a Pinot Noir that is not trying to be a $9.99 version of a $60 wine.It is trying to be a very good, very drinkable ten-dollar wine.They have been hitting their mark for at least 10 years.This is a good Pinot Noir!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

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I dagens afsnit kaster vi os ud i et eksperiment, som potentielt kan kaste masser af diskussion af sig. Det må det også godt, for det er en svær øvelse. Vi laver en rødvinsskala, hvor vi gennemgår udvalgte druesorter og rangerer dem efter struktur, frugt, syre, tannin, alkohol og tyngde på en skala fra de letteste druesorter til de druesorter, der giver vine med mest tyngde. Vores placering af druerne er lavet ud fra hvad "den styrende vinstil anno 2026" er på druen. Der er desuden en masse forbehold ift. druesorten. Herunder produktionsmetode, høsttidspunkt, vækstområde m.m. Vi tager udgangspunkt i Wine Follys liste, men laver vores egen rangering. Se Wine Follys liste her: https://media.winefolly.com/red-wine-boldness-chart-by-wine-folly.png   .........................   Vores liste: Lette druer (Light body) 1. Poulsard/Ploussard 2. Sciava (Trollinger) 3. Trosseau/Bastardo 4. Gamay 5. Pinot Noir 6. Barbera 7. Grenache/Garnacha 8. Corvina 9. Bobal     Druer med mellemtyngde (Medium body) 10. Cabernet Franc 11. Blaufränkisch 12. Mencia 13. Cinsault 14. Sangiovese 15. Nebbiolo 16. Carignan     Druer med mest tyngde (Full body) 17. Merlot 18. Carménère 19. Zinfandel/Primitivo 20. Tempranillo 21. Malbec 22. Syrah 23. Cabernet Sauvignon 24. Petite Sirah   ..................... Køb vores nyeste bog "Bobler for begyndere og øvede" her: https://www.saxo.com/dk/bobler-for-begyndere_bog_9788773396568 Eller vores bog om vin her: https://www.saxo.com/dk/vin-for-begyndere_bog_9788773391303 Støt Vin for begyndere podcast her https://vinforbegyndere.10er.app/ Besøg os på Facebook og Instagram, hvor man kan se billeder af vinene og få tips til vin og mad sammensætning. https://www.facebook.com/vinforbegyndere https://www.instagram.com/vinforbegyndere Web: https://www.radioteket.dk/ Kontakt: radioteket@radioteket.dk Musik: Jonas Landin Lyt vores bog som lydbog her: Køb den her https://www.saxo.com/dk/vin-for-begyndere-og-oevede_lydbog_9788773397374

Husbands and cookies are exchanged, to add holiday cheer.Based on a post by SandyMarl, in 4 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories.The Chix Annual Christmas Cookie ExchangeMcNally topped off each of the four glasses, then tipped the bottle to her lips to make sure she’d drained the last sweet drop of Gewürztraminer. McNally smacked her lips before inserting her tongue into the brown wine bottle’s narrow orifice. “Umm, a sweet little rim job before I recycle this dead soldier,” she announced to a kitchen packed with a few of her long-time friends. “This dark guy is so sweet, I just love him,” she said as she continued her fellatio pantomime by wrapping her lips around the narrow neck as she encircled her fingers and made a couple of strokes up and down the bottle like she was finishing a masterful blow job.Her friends watched her risqué display and giggled, except for Patricia. Patricia picked through the array of Christmas cookie cutter shapes laid out at the edge of the counter, dropping her eyes as she scolded, “McNally, you should be more thoughtful of Dana. Your tipsy little joke is in poor taste in front of our hostess, especially at this time of year.” Patricia meant it as a sobering rebuke, as if any of the girls present needed to be reminded of Dana’s recently widowed status, especially around Christmas.McNally pulled the wine bottle’s phallic dimensions from her lips, setting it down and turning to Dana, “Oh crap, I’m sorry. You know I had no intention of opening painful memories; I was only trying to lift the holiday spirits with a little bawdy humor… I was just thinking…”Dana turned to McNally, “I know. I know you McNally – boy do I know you. You’re always thinking we Chix should loosen up our inhibitions and take a walk on the steamier side of life; and boy are you always ready with a risqué joke, a steamy story or a naughty pun.”Dana broke into a smile, and then spoke to her closest friends, “Hey Chix, you guys are so great! You’re the only reason I’m able to get through this time of year. Without y'all, I’d be nothing but a blubbering mess this Christmas. Facing the painful first anniversary of Sander’s passing is really hard. It’d be unbearable if I had to go through it alone. The support of my Chix means everything to me right now.”Dana forced a cheery voice and continued speaking after dusting the flour off her hands. “I insisted y'all come into my kitchen this year and fill it with holiday cheer, so it’d be like the good times we had before. I want everyone to make a big sugary mess for me to clean up and keep me busy. Our annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange is our tradition; it’s now more meaningful to me than ever. I’m dreading the holidays…” Dana paused to collect her emotions before continuing, “… as the holiday season approaches, I fear being all alone, left to deal with the memory of Sander’s skiing accident by myself. I need my Chix more than ever right now. I need something to keep my mind from dwelling on the anniversary of the accident.”Dana gave a congenial but forced looking smile to the women in her kitchen. “McNally, you go right on giving your Gewurztraminer boyfriend’s long, brown glass cock a good sucking, it’s fine with me and the rest of these kitchen voyeurs. Keep it up, all of you, be merry and I’ll find a way to get by.”Annie wiped a tear off her cheek as she stepped to Dana, wrapping her arms and her baggy, ugly Christmas sweater around Dana, managing to get cookie dough crumbs in Dana’s hair in the process. Annie hugged Dana tight, embracing her in a prolonged hold to convey her sympathy and shared grief at the loss of Dana’s husband last year. Annie teared up again as she remembered gathering with McNally and Patricia to take down the tree and put away all the festive Christmas decorations in Dana’s house as Dana planned Sander’s funeral.It was all so sad, so hard to deal with. Annie admired McNally’s flair to disregard the implicit sadness hanging over their annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange; but didn’t want to get between McNally and Patricia as they scuffled over the proper decorum in Dana’s kitchen under the circumstances.Annie let go and pulled away from her embrace, and as she did, she gasped, “Oh Dana, I’m sorry. Look what I’ve done, my dirty apron made a mess on your top. I’m sorry.”Dana laughed, “I should’ve expected this would happen, wearing black when I’m in the middle of a hen party with flour flying all over my kitchen. I thought I’d feel and look slimmer wearing black, a self-deluding effect to counteract my debauched cookie sampling today. I might as well just drop these little Santa cookies down my pants and let ‘em stick right there on my hips,” smacking her hands on her ass for emphasis.Annie, trying to make up for the accidental flour dusting, began to brush her fingers across Dana’s boobs, fussing and worrying she’d ruined Dana’s pullover. Dana laughed it off, “Annie, stop fretting, it’ll wash out, no problem. Relax. Let’s all have a good time making a mess as we bake and decorate our cookies. There’s something festive about a busy and messy kitchen. I just love it.”McNally watched from the other side of the counter as Annie dabbed and wiped the front of Dana’s chest, “I know what you’re getting for Christmas - one of those cordless hand vacuums; they market it as a bust duster.” Everyone cracked up at McNally’s pun, even Patricia.The timer went off; Patricia stepped to the oven to check on the first batch of cookies. She pulled out the cookie sheet and put it on the cooling rack.“Those look perfect,” Annie announced.“They’re not perfect until they’re decorated,” responded Dana. “They’re just plain-Jane naked right now. It’s our job to get them all dressed up in their Christmas fancy-pants.”“Oh, Patricia, can you grab the box of sprinkles and glittery decorating doo-dahs from the cupboard next to the oven?” asked Dana. Patricia set the full box of decorating doo-dahs on the kitchen table.McNally burst into song, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, Camptown ladies sing this song, all the doo-dah day!” McNally’s three friends joined in a final chorus, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, all the doo-dah day!”“Now things are starting to sound festive,” declared Dana as she mixed bowls of red and green frosting. “McNally, there’s a bottle of Riesling in the garage fridge – I know I don’t have to ask twice to get you to bring that one in and pour another round.”Annie said, “This is sounding and feeling like old times; like back in the beginning when we worked at Dix Chix. Who remembers which of us four started waitressing first at Dix?”“Wasn’t me,” was McNally’s contribution from the hallway, “I’m the youngest of the Chix.”“It could’ve been you; you’ve always had a reputation for starting early McNally,” was Patricia’s retort.McNally laughed at the ribbing. “I seem to recall that Annie got hired a few days ahead of me.”“So, when did we become collectively known as 'The Chix?’” was Dana’s follow up question.Annie answered, “It was Patricia. She advertised to all the boys that there were some interesting Chix to be found in the backroom of Dix Chix Family Restaurant after closing. If a boy had the right stuff, he could find his way into the place and get a few drinks, no ID required.”“That may be true, but I got the idea from that new girl,” said Patricia in a defensive tone. “The new girl suggested it was a crying shame that us four Chix had to close up on Friday and Saturday nights without having any cocks around to make it fun,” was Patricia’s recollection. “Being the studious college girl, Mrs. Dix trusted me with the keys and the liquor inventory.”“And who might have been the corrupting 'new girl’ who put that idea of letting some cocks into the back room with those chicks?” asked Dana with a smirk.“I hear she’s still tending bar somewhere, perhaps more corrupting than ever,” Patricia offered in an offhand guess.McNally, a seasoned barmaid, filled the wine glasses scattered around the kitchen, “I just thought it was false advertising to have a big neon sign that flashed Dix Chix, yet only the Chix half of the attraction was available. I merely suggested to the old timer running the show that if we were working to close the place on Friday and Saturday nights, we owed it to ourselves to have a crew of Dix to go with the Chix. Like the sign said.”Annie asked, “Patricia, I’ve always wondered, how did you choose which boys got an after-hours invitation to the backroom?”“I delegate,” was Patricia’s reply. “That’s why I’m management material. I consulted a trusted source.”McNally gave a curtsey acknowledging her role, and then filled in the story line, “Guys are pretty simple. I’d give the cute ones a line; 'Winner, winner, chicken dinner - Would you prefer a breast or a thigh?’ I then slipped 'em an offer, 'Come on by Dix Chix late some night this weekend for a chicken tender special – tell 'em McNally sent you.’” The three ladies exploded into hearty whoops at McNally’s explanation.Dana took a sip out of her glass, thinking for a moment, “McNally are you responsible then for introducing each of us to our future husbands? I’d never thought of it like that.”“Ultimately the Chix chooses the Dix. At least, that’s how I’d look at it. In collusion with Patricia, I merely helped sow some wild oats in that Dix Chix backroom. But I only sowed the seeds. It was the others who reaped the harvest. I must admit, I did have to run a lot of lame-cock also-rans through that backroom before some of them ended up sticking around for a while.”“Well, however you did it, Sander and I hit it off - after Patricia passed on him and I scooped him up, as I seem to recall. I guess I never thanked you for your fine work.” Dana raised her glass in a salute to McNally.“I’m happy it worked for you Dana,” said Patricia, “I had my eye out for one of those solid, basic models, a kind of nerdy, engineering type. My philosophy was that those low-key kinds of guys wear well. I seem to recall McNally telling me that she didn’t usually fish in those kinds of nerdy-fish ponds, but she promised she’d expand her repertoire to see if she could toss such a specimen my way.”“I remember when Will showed up at the backroom, he looked a little dazed and confused. McNally had to act fast to ease Will into the situation and then gently hand him off to Patricia,” recalled Annie. “So, how’d McNally’s low-key, nerdish fish land in your lap then Patricia?”Patricia made a wistful smile as she rolled out a sheet of dough, “I guess I got what I wanted. Though, I’ve wondered some days if I should have dropped my line into a different pond. There’ve been some days when I wonder what life would’ve been like with a spicier, adventurous man… but that’s normal, right? Don’t we all have some days where we wish things were different?”Annie, Dana and McNally were quick to assure Patricia that they all had their moments when they had a twinge of doubt about their choices in husbands. “Yeah, that’s pretty normal I think,” added Annie.Annie went back to the mixing bowl where she was making rounded, nut-filled Mexican Wedding Cake cookies and dusting them with flour. “Nelson has always been supportive of me, I have to think that our marriage is better than some that I know of, but over the years some of the spark has dimmed. Maybe it’s me, but honestly, if he wanted more sex, I’d consider letting the ol’ boy find a fling with another woman, as long as she agreed to clean my house in exchange for Nelson’s services.”Dana gave up a small squeak, “Serious?”“Oh, just a quirky idea. It’s not like we’d be on the brink of a divorce, we’re perfectly compatible. It would merely be a convenient arrangement, Nelson the ol’ goat, would get more action and stop pestering me and I’d get a clean house and more time. I think it’d be a fair exchange.” Annie shrugged as she spooned out a lump of dough and patted it into a little ball.Dana sighed, “Oh Annie. Annie, you should enjoy the little things from Nelson. You know what I miss most from Sander? It’s little things like tangling our feet together in bed, I really miss the feeling of when Sander would reach across the bed and pull me over close to him. It didn’t have to be sex, sometimes it was so good just to have him spoon into my backside and reach over to caress my breasts.” Dana took a deep breath, “I’m just here to remind The Chix, like they say, 'You don’t know what you got 'til it’s gone.’”Annie’s eyes moistened again, “I’m sorry Dana, I didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I’m so sorry.”“They’re good memories Annie, I don’t feel bad. Just sad at Christmas now. Get back to making cookies and a mess; it’s the only thing that’ll save me, girl.”Patricia began pressing the cookie cutter into her sheet of dough while pressing this girl-talk topic a little further, “McNally, I’m kind of surprised you and Orlando have made it work so well all of these years. It has always seemed to me that you two traveled in different orbits.”McNally laughed as she put down her half-empty wine glass, concentrating on mixing up some chocolate frosting. “It’s a beautiful cosmic dance between me and Orlando. We’re a pair of heavenly bodies sharing our orbits when the gravitational attraction pulls us close. Otherwise, we each have our own interests as y'all know perfectly well. Orlando has his poetry, music and writing projects. I love lending my graphic and artistic vision to Orlando’s projects when it fits. When we collaborate, we make beautiful art. When we’re not collaborating on something, that’s when I fill my orbit with my animals and other pets.”Patricia raised an eyebrow, “Do you care for your 'pets’ as much as you do your animals?”“Me and my pets share a sensual bond and an understanding. I will never abandon one of my animals. But my pets come and then my pets go, every pet in his own season. I enjoy a wide orbit in this life Patricia.”McNally took another sip, becoming introspective, “Hey you know what? I’d have to say that The Chix is my longest held orbit. It’s so good to have you gals around for me for all of these years.” McNally raised her glass in a toast, “To The Chix. To the long and strong bond of three great gals who have kept me in their orbit as the rest of this crazy world spins out of control. Merry fucking Christmas, to one and to all!” McNally gave a swift motion with her hand, directing her three friends to join her in her toast.Everyone stepped to McNally’s end of the counter, touching their glasses, creating a resounding chime as the glassware clinked. “Here! Here!” said Dana, “Let’s make this a Merry fucking Christmas for one and for all!”“I’ll drink to that,” offered McNally.“Of course, you will,” noted Patricia.Annie gave her signature tipsy laugh, “I’ll drink to that Patricia!” and took a gulp.“May I join you?” asked McNally.Dana laughed, “Wait for me! I’ll drink to that too!”McNally turned and walked away from the circled Chix. “Where are you off to McNally?”“Time for the Pinot Noir - any arguments?”“Yeah. What about the Pinot Grigio?” asked Dana in a mock argumentative voice.“No blow back from me. I’ll get both.” With that McNally disappeared into the garage.The cookie production line clicked into gear as The Chix rolled out a pile of baked cookie shapes and an assortment of buttery spritz cookies, chocolate drops, nut bars to go with the gooey lemon bars and shortbread. “My favorite thing in this whole kitchen, other than maybe the wine, is doing the detailed decorations with colored frosting and sprinkles,” announced Dana.“Here you go then Dana,” said Patricia as she set two hot cookie sheets on the cooling racks, “you’ve got your work cut out for you with all of these shapes.” Patricia brandished a pair of cookie cutters, “You have me to thank for 'cutting your work out for you’; you’ve got Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Christmas trees, wreathes, ornaments, stockings, snowmen, reindeer and candy canes galore.”“'Work cut out for you’, I see what you did there,” observed Annie. “You’ve been hanging around McNally too much.”McNally grabbed a couple of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes from Annie’s station and then a candy cane shaped cookie off the pile of undecorated cookies.“What are you working on McNally?” was Dana’s question.“I’ve been inspired by Annie’s earlier comments and her idea of exchanging Nelson’s candy cane for housework.”Annie chortled, “What? Something creative for me? My, my, what could it be McNally?”“Avert your eyes; I’m making you a little surprise.” Annie laughed and pretended to look away, but she and the others watched to see what culinary form McNally’s inspiration took. McNally coated both sides of the candy cane in pink frosting and then covered the straight end of the candy cane with a thin white glaze. She grabbed two pecan halves from the bowl, placing them on top of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes and then wedged the decorated pink candy cane between the two, projecting upward. McNally handed the 3D cookie sculpture to Annie on a small paper plate. “Here you go girl, a little something sweet to enjoy stuffing into your stocking while Nelson is out with your domestic help.”The Chix all laughed, applauding McNally’s skill at coming up with a naughty little cookie. “See, he comes with a pair of real nuts, and I’ve given his sweet candy cane a condom coating of sugar glaze. And if you’ve been feeling pressure to put out Annie, be assured that he only wants to cum in your chimney once a year.”Annie was laughing pretty hard, “You’re so thoughtful McNally. But I’ve been a good girl all year; I think I deserve to get a bigger candy cane.”“Ho, ho, ho,” chuckled McNally, “What you’re asking for is reserved for the naughty girls on m

Husbands and cookies are exchanged, to add holiday cheer.Based on a post by SandyMarl, in 4 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories.The Chix Annual Christmas Cookie ExchangeMcNally topped off each of the four glasses, then tipped the bottle to her lips to make sure she’d drained the last sweet drop of Gewürztraminer. McNally smacked her lips before inserting her tongue into the brown wine bottle’s narrow orifice. “Umm, a sweet little rim job before I recycle this dead soldier,” she announced to a kitchen packed with a few of her long-time friends. “This dark guy is so sweet, I just love him,” she said as she continued her fellatio pantomime by wrapping her lips around the narrow neck as she encircled her fingers and made a couple of strokes up and down the bottle like she was finishing a masterful blow job.Her friends watched her risqué display and giggled, except for Patricia. Patricia picked through the array of Christmas cookie cutter shapes laid out at the edge of the counter, dropping her eyes as she scolded, “McNally, you should be more thoughtful of Dana. Your tipsy little joke is in poor taste in front of our hostess, especially at this time of year.” Patricia meant it as a sobering rebuke, as if any of the girls present needed to be reminded of Dana’s recently widowed status, especially around Christmas.McNally pulled the wine bottle’s phallic dimensions from her lips, setting it down and turning to Dana, “Oh crap, I’m sorry. You know I had no intention of opening painful memories; I was only trying to lift the holiday spirits with a little bawdy humor… I was just thinking…”Dana turned to McNally, “I know. I know you McNally – boy do I know you. You’re always thinking we Chix should loosen up our inhibitions and take a walk on the steamier side of life; and boy are you always ready with a risqué joke, a steamy story or a naughty pun.”Dana broke into a smile, and then spoke to her closest friends, “Hey Chix, you guys are so great! You’re the only reason I’m able to get through this time of year. Without y'all, I’d be nothing but a blubbering mess this Christmas. Facing the painful first anniversary of Sander’s passing is really hard. It’d be unbearable if I had to go through it alone. The support of my Chix means everything to me right now.”Dana forced a cheery voice and continued speaking after dusting the flour off her hands. “I insisted y'all come into my kitchen this year and fill it with holiday cheer, so it’d be like the good times we had before. I want everyone to make a big sugary mess for me to clean up and keep me busy. Our annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange is our tradition; it’s now more meaningful to me than ever. I’m dreading the holidays…” Dana paused to collect her emotions before continuing, “… as the holiday season approaches, I fear being all alone, left to deal with the memory of Sander’s skiing accident by myself. I need my Chix more than ever right now. I need something to keep my mind from dwelling on the anniversary of the accident.”Dana gave a congenial but forced looking smile to the women in her kitchen. “McNally, you go right on giving your Gewurztraminer boyfriend’s long, brown glass cock a good sucking, it’s fine with me and the rest of these kitchen voyeurs. Keep it up, all of you, be merry and I’ll find a way to get by.”Annie wiped a tear off her cheek as she stepped to Dana, wrapping her arms and her baggy, ugly Christmas sweater around Dana, managing to get cookie dough crumbs in Dana’s hair in the process. Annie hugged Dana tight, embracing her in a prolonged hold to convey her sympathy and shared grief at the loss of Dana’s husband last year. Annie teared up again as she remembered gathering with McNally and Patricia to take down the tree and put away all the festive Christmas decorations in Dana’s house as Dana planned Sander’s funeral.It was all so sad, so hard to deal with. Annie admired McNally’s flair to disregard the implicit sadness hanging over their annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange; but didn’t want to get between McNally and Patricia as they scuffled over the proper decorum in Dana’s kitchen under the circumstances.Annie let go and pulled away from her embrace, and as she did, she gasped, “Oh Dana, I’m sorry. Look what I’ve done, my dirty apron made a mess on your top. I’m sorry.”Dana laughed, “I should’ve expected this would happen, wearing black when I’m in the middle of a hen party with flour flying all over my kitchen. I thought I’d feel and look slimmer wearing black, a self-deluding effect to counteract my debauched cookie sampling today. I might as well just drop these little Santa cookies down my pants and let ‘em stick right there on my hips,” smacking her hands on her ass for emphasis.Annie, trying to make up for the accidental flour dusting, began to brush her fingers across Dana’s boobs, fussing and worrying she’d ruined Dana’s pullover. Dana laughed it off, “Annie, stop fretting, it’ll wash out, no problem. Relax. Let’s all have a good time making a mess as we bake and decorate our cookies. There’s something festive about a busy and messy kitchen. I just love it.”McNally watched from the other side of the counter as Annie dabbed and wiped the front of Dana’s chest, “I know what you’re getting for Christmas - one of those cordless hand vacuums; they market it as a bust duster.” Everyone cracked up at McNally’s pun, even Patricia.The timer went off; Patricia stepped to the oven to check on the first batch of cookies. She pulled out the cookie sheet and put it on the cooling rack.“Those look perfect,” Annie announced.“They’re not perfect until they’re decorated,” responded Dana. “They’re just plain-Jane naked right now. It’s our job to get them all dressed up in their Christmas fancy-pants.”“Oh, Patricia, can you grab the box of sprinkles and glittery decorating doo-dahs from the cupboard next to the oven?” asked Dana. Patricia set the full box of decorating doo-dahs on the kitchen table.McNally burst into song, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, Camptown ladies sing this song, all the doo-dah day!” McNally’s three friends joined in a final chorus, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, all the doo-dah day!”“Now things are starting to sound festive,” declared Dana as she mixed bowls of red and green frosting. “McNally, there’s a bottle of Riesling in the garage fridge – I know I don’t have to ask twice to get you to bring that one in and pour another round.”Annie said, “This is sounding and feeling like old times; like back in the beginning when we worked at Dix Chix. Who remembers which of us four started waitressing first at Dix?”“Wasn’t me,” was McNally’s contribution from the hallway, “I’m the youngest of the Chix.”“It could’ve been you; you’ve always had a reputation for starting early McNally,” was Patricia’s retort.McNally laughed at the ribbing. “I seem to recall that Annie got hired a few days ahead of me.”“So, when did we become collectively known as 'The Chix?’” was Dana’s follow up question.Annie answered, “It was Patricia. She advertised to all the boys that there were some interesting Chix to be found in the backroom of Dix Chix Family Restaurant after closing. If a boy had the right stuff, he could find his way into the place and get a few drinks, no ID required.”“That may be true, but I got the idea from that new girl,” said Patricia in a defensive tone. “The new girl suggested it was a crying shame that us four Chix had to close up on Friday and Saturday nights without having any cocks around to make it fun,” was Patricia’s recollection. “Being the studious college girl, Mrs. Dix trusted me with the keys and the liquor inventory.”“And who might have been the corrupting 'new girl’ who put that idea of letting some cocks into the back room with those chicks?” asked Dana with a smirk.“I hear she’s still tending bar somewhere, perhaps more corrupting than ever,” Patricia offered in an offhand guess.McNally, a seasoned barmaid, filled the wine glasses scattered around the kitchen, “I just thought it was false advertising to have a big neon sign that flashed Dix Chix, yet only the Chix half of the attraction was available. I merely suggested to the old timer running the show that if we were working to close the place on Friday and Saturday nights, we owed it to ourselves to have a crew of Dix to go with the Chix. Like the sign said.”Annie asked, “Patricia, I’ve always wondered, how did you choose which boys got an after-hours invitation to the backroom?”“I delegate,” was Patricia’s reply. “That’s why I’m management material. I consulted a trusted source.”McNally gave a curtsey acknowledging her role, and then filled in the story line, “Guys are pretty simple. I’d give the cute ones a line; 'Winner, winner, chicken dinner - Would you prefer a breast or a thigh?’ I then slipped 'em an offer, 'Come on by Dix Chix late some night this weekend for a chicken tender special – tell 'em McNally sent you.’” The three ladies exploded into hearty whoops at McNally’s explanation.Dana took a sip out of her glass, thinking for a moment, “McNally are you responsible then for introducing each of us to our future husbands? I’d never thought of it like that.”“Ultimately the Chix chooses the Dix. At least, that’s how I’d look at it. In collusion with Patricia, I merely helped sow some wild oats in that Dix Chix backroom. But I only sowed the seeds. It was the others who reaped the harvest. I must admit, I did have to run a lot of lame-cock also-rans through that backroom before some of them ended up sticking around for a while.”“Well, however you did it, Sander and I hit it off - after Patricia passed on him and I scooped him up, as I seem to recall. I guess I never thanked you for your fine work.” Dana raised her glass in a salute to McNally.“I’m happy it worked for you Dana,” said Patricia, “I had my eye out for one of those solid, basic models, a kind of nerdy, engineering type. My philosophy was that those low-key kinds of guys wear well. I seem to recall McNally telling me that she didn’t usually fish in those kinds of nerdy-fish ponds, but she promised she’d expand her repertoire to see if she could toss such a specimen my way.”“I remember when Will showed up at the backroom, he looked a little dazed and confused. McNally had to act fast to ease Will into the situation and then gently hand him off to Patricia,” recalled Annie. “So, how’d McNally’s low-key, nerdish fish land in your lap then Patricia?”Patricia made a wistful smile as she rolled out a sheet of dough, “I guess I got what I wanted. Though, I’ve wondered some days if I should have dropped my line into a different pond. There’ve been some days when I wonder what life would’ve been like with a spicier, adventurous man… but that’s normal, right? Don’t we all have some days where we wish things were different?”Annie, Dana and McNally were quick to assure Patricia that they all had their moments when they had a twinge of doubt about their choices in husbands. “Yeah, that’s pretty normal I think,” added Annie.Annie went back to the mixing bowl where she was making rounded, nut-filled Mexican Wedding Cake cookies and dusting them with flour. “Nelson has always been supportive of me, I have to think that our marriage is better than some that I know of, but over the years some of the spark has dimmed. Maybe it’s me, but honestly, if he wanted more sex, I’d consider letting the ol’ boy find a fling with another woman, as long as she agreed to clean my house in exchange for Nelson’s services.”Dana gave up a small squeak, “Serious?”“Oh, just a quirky idea. It’s not like we’d be on the brink of a divorce, we’re perfectly compatible. It would merely be a convenient arrangement, Nelson the ol’ goat, would get more action and stop pestering me and I’d get a clean house and more time. I think it’d be a fair exchange.” Annie shrugged as she spooned out a lump of dough and patted it into a little ball.Dana sighed, “Oh Annie. Annie, you should enjoy the little things from Nelson. You know what I miss most from Sander? It’s little things like tangling our feet together in bed, I really miss the feeling of when Sander would reach across the bed and pull me over close to him. It didn’t have to be sex, sometimes it was so good just to have him spoon into my backside and reach over to caress my breasts.” Dana took a deep breath, “I’m just here to remind The Chix, like they say, 'You don’t know what you got 'til it’s gone.’”Annie’s eyes moistened again, “I’m sorry Dana, I didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I’m so sorry.”“They’re good memories Annie, I don’t feel bad. Just sad at Christmas now. Get back to making cookies and a mess; it’s the only thing that’ll save me, girl.”Patricia began pressing the cookie cutter into her sheet of dough while pressing this girl-talk topic a little further, “McNally, I’m kind of surprised you and Orlando have made it work so well all of these years. It has always seemed to me that you two traveled in different orbits.”McNally laughed as she put down her half-empty wine glass, concentrating on mixing up some chocolate frosting. “It’s a beautiful cosmic dance between me and Orlando. We’re a pair of heavenly bodies sharing our orbits when the gravitational attraction pulls us close. Otherwise, we each have our own interests as y'all know perfectly well. Orlando has his poetry, music and writing projects. I love lending my graphic and artistic vision to Orlando’s projects when it fits. When we collaborate, we make beautiful art. When we’re not collaborating on something, that’s when I fill my orbit with my animals and other pets.”Patricia raised an eyebrow, “Do you care for your 'pets’ as much as you do your animals?”“Me and my pets share a sensual bond and an understanding. I will never abandon one of my animals. But my pets come and then my pets go, every pet in his own season. I enjoy a wide orbit in this life Patricia.”McNally took another sip, becoming introspective, “Hey you know what? I’d have to say that The Chix is my longest held orbit. It’s so good to have you gals around for me for all of these years.” McNally raised her glass in a toast, “To The Chix. To the long and strong bond of three great gals who have kept me in their orbit as the rest of this crazy world spins out of control. Merry fucking Christmas, to one and to all!” McNally gave a swift motion with her hand, directing her three friends to join her in her toast.Everyone stepped to McNally’s end of the counter, touching their glasses, creating a resounding chime as the glassware clinked. “Here! Here!” said Dana, “Let’s make this a Merry fucking Christmas for one and for all!”“I’ll drink to that,” offered McNally.“Of course, you will,” noted Patricia.Annie gave her signature tipsy laugh, “I’ll drink to that Patricia!” and took a gulp.“May I join you?” asked McNally.Dana laughed, “Wait for me! I’ll drink to that too!”McNally turned and walked away from the circled Chix. “Where are you off to McNally?”“Time for the Pinot Noir - any arguments?”“Yeah. What about the Pinot Grigio?” asked Dana in a mock argumentative voice.“No blow back from me. I’ll get both.” With that McNally disappeared into the garage.The cookie production line clicked into gear as The Chix rolled out a pile of baked cookie shapes and an assortment of buttery spritz cookies, chocolate drops, nut bars to go with the gooey lemon bars and shortbread. “My favorite thing in this whole kitchen, other than maybe the wine, is doing the detailed decorations with colored frosting and sprinkles,” announced Dana.“Here you go then Dana,” said Patricia as she set two hot cookie sheets on the cooling racks, “you’ve got your work cut out for you with all of these shapes.” Patricia brandished a pair of cookie cutters, “You have me to thank for 'cutting your work out for you’; you’ve got Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Christmas trees, wreathes, ornaments, stockings, snowmen, reindeer and candy canes galore.”“'Work cut out for you’, I see what you did there,” observed Annie. “You’ve been hanging around McNally too much.”McNally grabbed a couple of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes from Annie’s station and then a candy cane shaped cookie off the pile of undecorated cookies.“What are you working on McNally?” was Dana’s question.“I’ve been inspired by Annie’s earlier comments and her idea of exchanging Nelson’s candy cane for housework.”Annie chortled, “What? Something creative for me? My, my, what could it be McNally?”“Avert your eyes; I’m making you a little surprise.” Annie laughed and pretended to look away, but she and the others watched to see what culinary form McNally’s inspiration took. McNally coated both sides of the candy cane in pink frosting and then covered the straight end of the candy cane with a thin white glaze. She grabbed two pecan halves from the bowl, placing them on top of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes and then wedged the decorated pink candy cane between the two, projecting upward. McNally handed the 3D cookie sculpture to Annie on a small paper plate. “Here you go girl, a little something sweet to enjoy stuffing into your stocking while Nelson is out with your domestic help.”The Chix all laughed, applauding McNally’s skill at coming up with a naughty little cookie. “See, he comes with a pair of real nuts, and I’ve given his sweet candy cane a condom coating of sugar glaze. And if you’ve been feeling pressure to put out Annie, be assured that he only wants to cum in your chimney once a year.”Annie was laughing pretty hard, “You’re so thoughtful McNally. But I’ve been a good girl all year; I think I deserve to get a bigger candy cane.”“Ho, ho, ho,” chuckled McNally, “What you’re asking for is reserved for the naughty girls on m

Husbands and cookies are exchanged, to add holiday cheer.Based on a post by SandyMarl, in 4 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories.The Chix Annual Christmas Cookie ExchangeMcNally topped off each of the four glasses, then tipped the bottle to her lips to make sure she’d drained the last sweet drop of Gewürztraminer. McNally smacked her lips before inserting her tongue into the brown wine bottle’s narrow orifice. “Umm, a sweet little rim job before I recycle this dead soldier,” she announced to a kitchen packed with a few of her long-time friends. “This dark guy is so sweet, I just love him,” she said as she continued her fellatio pantomime by wrapping her lips around the narrow neck as she encircled her fingers and made a couple of strokes up and down the bottle like she was finishing a masterful blow job.Her friends watched her risqué display and giggled, except for Patricia. Patricia picked through the array of Christmas cookie cutter shapes laid out at the edge of the counter, dropping her eyes as she scolded, “McNally, you should be more thoughtful of Dana. Your tipsy little joke is in poor taste in front of our hostess, especially at this time of year.” Patricia meant it as a sobering rebuke, as if any of the girls present needed to be reminded of Dana’s recently widowed status, especially around Christmas.McNally pulled the wine bottle’s phallic dimensions from her lips, setting it down and turning to Dana, “Oh crap, I’m sorry. You know I had no intention of opening painful memories; I was only trying to lift the holiday spirits with a little bawdy humor… I was just thinking…”Dana turned to McNally, “I know. I know you McNally – boy do I know you. You’re always thinking we Chix should loosen up our inhibitions and take a walk on the steamier side of life; and boy are you always ready with a risqué joke, a steamy story or a naughty pun.”Dana broke into a smile, and then spoke to her closest friends, “Hey Chix, you guys are so great! You’re the only reason I’m able to get through this time of year. Without y'all, I’d be nothing but a blubbering mess this Christmas. Facing the painful first anniversary of Sander’s passing is really hard. It’d be unbearable if I had to go through it alone. The support of my Chix means everything to me right now.”Dana forced a cheery voice and continued speaking after dusting the flour off her hands. “I insisted y'all come into my kitchen this year and fill it with holiday cheer, so it’d be like the good times we had before. I want everyone to make a big sugary mess for me to clean up and keep me busy. Our annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange is our tradition; it’s now more meaningful to me than ever. I’m dreading the holidays…” Dana paused to collect her emotions before continuing, “… as the holiday season approaches, I fear being all alone, left to deal with the memory of Sander’s skiing accident by myself. I need my Chix more than ever right now. I need something to keep my mind from dwelling on the anniversary of the accident.”Dana gave a congenial but forced looking smile to the women in her kitchen. “McNally, you go right on giving your Gewurztraminer boyfriend’s long, brown glass cock a good sucking, it’s fine with me and the rest of these kitchen voyeurs. Keep it up, all of you, be merry and I’ll find a way to get by.”Annie wiped a tear off her cheek as she stepped to Dana, wrapping her arms and her baggy, ugly Christmas sweater around Dana, managing to get cookie dough crumbs in Dana’s hair in the process. Annie hugged Dana tight, embracing her in a prolonged hold to convey her sympathy and shared grief at the loss of Dana’s husband last year. Annie teared up again as she remembered gathering with McNally and Patricia to take down the tree and put away all the festive Christmas decorations in Dana’s house as Dana planned Sander’s funeral.It was all so sad, so hard to deal with. Annie admired McNally’s flair to disregard the implicit sadness hanging over their annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange; but didn’t want to get between McNally and Patricia as they scuffled over the proper decorum in Dana’s kitchen under the circumstances.Annie let go and pulled away from her embrace, and as she did, she gasped, “Oh Dana, I’m sorry. Look what I’ve done, my dirty apron made a mess on your top. I’m sorry.”Dana laughed, “I should’ve expected this would happen, wearing black when I’m in the middle of a hen party with flour flying all over my kitchen. I thought I’d feel and look slimmer wearing black, a self-deluding effect to counteract my debauched cookie sampling today. I might as well just drop these little Santa cookies down my pants and let ‘em stick right there on my hips,” smacking her hands on her ass for emphasis.Annie, trying to make up for the accidental flour dusting, began to brush her fingers across Dana’s boobs, fussing and worrying she’d ruined Dana’s pullover. Dana laughed it off, “Annie, stop fretting, it’ll wash out, no problem. Relax. Let’s all have a good time making a mess as we bake and decorate our cookies. There’s something festive about a busy and messy kitchen. I just love it.”McNally watched from the other side of the counter as Annie dabbed and wiped the front of Dana’s chest, “I know what you’re getting for Christmas - one of those cordless hand vacuums; they market it as a bust duster.” Everyone cracked up at McNally’s pun, even Patricia.The timer went off; Patricia stepped to the oven to check on the first batch of cookies. She pulled out the cookie sheet and put it on the cooling rack.“Those look perfect,” Annie announced.“They’re not perfect until they’re decorated,” responded Dana. “They’re just plain-Jane naked right now. It’s our job to get them all dressed up in their Christmas fancy-pants.”“Oh, Patricia, can you grab the box of sprinkles and glittery decorating doo-dahs from the cupboard next to the oven?” asked Dana. Patricia set the full box of decorating doo-dahs on the kitchen table.McNally burst into song, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, Camptown ladies sing this song, all the doo-dah day!” McNally’s three friends joined in a final chorus, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, all the doo-dah day!”“Now things are starting to sound festive,” declared Dana as she mixed bowls of red and green frosting. “McNally, there’s a bottle of Riesling in the garage fridge – I know I don’t have to ask twice to get you to bring that one in and pour another round.”Annie said, “This is sounding and feeling like old times; like back in the beginning when we worked at Dix Chix. Who remembers which of us four started waitressing first at Dix?”“Wasn’t me,” was McNally’s contribution from the hallway, “I’m the youngest of the Chix.”“It could’ve been you; you’ve always had a reputation for starting early McNally,” was Patricia’s retort.McNally laughed at the ribbing. “I seem to recall that Annie got hired a few days ahead of me.”“So, when did we become collectively known as 'The Chix?’” was Dana’s follow up question.Annie answered, “It was Patricia. She advertised to all the boys that there were some interesting Chix to be found in the backroom of Dix Chix Family Restaurant after closing. If a boy had the right stuff, he could find his way into the place and get a few drinks, no ID required.”“That may be true, but I got the idea from that new girl,” said Patricia in a defensive tone. “The new girl suggested it was a crying shame that us four Chix had to close up on Friday and Saturday nights without having any cocks around to make it fun,” was Patricia’s recollection. “Being the studious college girl, Mrs. Dix trusted me with the keys and the liquor inventory.”“And who might have been the corrupting 'new girl’ who put that idea of letting some cocks into the back room with those chicks?” asked Dana with a smirk.“I hear she’s still tending bar somewhere, perhaps more corrupting than ever,” Patricia offered in an offhand guess.McNally, a seasoned barmaid, filled the wine glasses scattered around the kitchen, “I just thought it was false advertising to have a big neon sign that flashed Dix Chix, yet only the Chix half of the attraction was available. I merely suggested to the old timer running the show that if we were working to close the place on Friday and Saturday nights, we owed it to ourselves to have a crew of Dix to go with the Chix. Like the sign said.”Annie asked, “Patricia, I’ve always wondered, how did you choose which boys got an after-hours invitation to the backroom?”“I delegate,” was Patricia’s reply. “That’s why I’m management material. I consulted a trusted source.”McNally gave a curtsey acknowledging her role, and then filled in the story line, “Guys are pretty simple. I’d give the cute ones a line; 'Winner, winner, chicken dinner - Would you prefer a breast or a thigh?’ I then slipped 'em an offer, 'Come on by Dix Chix late some night this weekend for a chicken tender special – tell 'em McNally sent you.’” The three ladies exploded into hearty whoops at McNally’s explanation.Dana took a sip out of her glass, thinking for a moment, “McNally are you responsible then for introducing each of us to our future husbands? I’d never thought of it like that.”“Ultimately the Chix chooses the Dix. At least, that’s how I’d look at it. In collusion with Patricia, I merely helped sow some wild oats in that Dix Chix backroom. But I only sowed the seeds. It was the others who reaped the harvest. I must admit, I did have to run a lot of lame-cock also-rans through that backroom before some of them ended up sticking around for a while.”“Well, however you did it, Sander and I hit it off - after Patricia passed on him and I scooped him up, as I seem to recall. I guess I never thanked you for your fine work.” Dana raised her glass in a salute to McNally.“I’m happy it worked for you Dana,” said Patricia, “I had my eye out for one of those solid, basic models, a kind of nerdy, engineering type. My philosophy was that those low-key kinds of guys wear well. I seem to recall McNally telling me that she didn’t usually fish in those kinds of nerdy-fish ponds, but she promised she’d expand her repertoire to see if she could toss such a specimen my way.”“I remember when Will showed up at the backroom, he looked a little dazed and confused. McNally had to act fast to ease Will into the situation and then gently hand him off to Patricia,” recalled Annie. “So, how’d McNally’s low-key, nerdish fish land in your lap then Patricia?”Patricia made a wistful smile as she rolled out a sheet of dough, “I guess I got what I wanted. Though, I’ve wondered some days if I should have dropped my line into a different pond. There’ve been some days when I wonder what life would’ve been like with a spicier, adventurous man… but that’s normal, right? Don’t we all have some days where we wish things were different?”Annie, Dana and McNally were quick to assure Patricia that they all had their moments when they had a twinge of doubt about their choices in husbands. “Yeah, that’s pretty normal I think,” added Annie.Annie went back to the mixing bowl where she was making rounded, nut-filled Mexican Wedding Cake cookies and dusting them with flour. “Nelson has always been supportive of me, I have to think that our marriage is better than some that I know of, but over the years some of the spark has dimmed. Maybe it’s me, but honestly, if he wanted more sex, I’d consider letting the ol’ boy find a fling with another woman, as long as she agreed to clean my house in exchange for Nelson’s services.”Dana gave up a small squeak, “Serious?”“Oh, just a quirky idea. It’s not like we’d be on the brink of a divorce, we’re perfectly compatible. It would merely be a convenient arrangement, Nelson the ol’ goat, would get more action and stop pestering me and I’d get a clean house and more time. I think it’d be a fair exchange.” Annie shrugged as she spooned out a lump of dough and patted it into a little ball.Dana sighed, “Oh Annie. Annie, you should enjoy the little things from Nelson. You know what I miss most from Sander? It’s little things like tangling our feet together in bed, I really miss the feeling of when Sander would reach across the bed and pull me over close to him. It didn’t have to be sex, sometimes it was so good just to have him spoon into my backside and reach over to caress my breasts.” Dana took a deep breath, “I’m just here to remind The Chix, like they say, 'You don’t know what you got 'til it’s gone.’”Annie’s eyes moistened again, “I’m sorry Dana, I didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I’m so sorry.”“They’re good memories Annie, I don’t feel bad. Just sad at Christmas now. Get back to making cookies and a mess; it’s the only thing that’ll save me, girl.”Patricia began pressing the cookie cutter into her sheet of dough while pressing this girl-talk topic a little further, “McNally, I’m kind of surprised you and Orlando have made it work so well all of these years. It has always seemed to me that you two traveled in different orbits.”McNally laughed as she put down her half-empty wine glass, concentrating on mixing up some chocolate frosting. “It’s a beautiful cosmic dance between me and Orlando. We’re a pair of heavenly bodies sharing our orbits when the gravitational attraction pulls us close. Otherwise, we each have our own interests as y'all know perfectly well. Orlando has his poetry, music and writing projects. I love lending my graphic and artistic vision to Orlando’s projects when it fits. When we collaborate, we make beautiful art. When we’re not collaborating on something, that’s when I fill my orbit with my animals and other pets.”Patricia raised an eyebrow, “Do you care for your 'pets’ as much as you do your animals?”“Me and my pets share a sensual bond and an understanding. I will never abandon one of my animals. But my pets come and then my pets go, every pet in his own season. I enjoy a wide orbit in this life Patricia.”McNally took another sip, becoming introspective, “Hey you know what? I’d have to say that The Chix is my longest held orbit. It’s so good to have you gals around for me for all of these years.” McNally raised her glass in a toast, “To The Chix. To the long and strong bond of three great gals who have kept me in their orbit as the rest of this crazy world spins out of control. Merry fucking Christmas, to one and to all!” McNally gave a swift motion with her hand, directing her three friends to join her in her toast.Everyone stepped to McNally’s end of the counter, touching their glasses, creating a resounding chime as the glassware clinked. “Here! Here!” said Dana, “Let’s make this a Merry fucking Christmas for one and for all!”“I’ll drink to that,” offered McNally.“Of course, you will,” noted Patricia.Annie gave her signature tipsy laugh, “I’ll drink to that Patricia!” and took a gulp.“May I join you?” asked McNally.Dana laughed, “Wait for me! I’ll drink to that too!”McNally turned and walked away from the circled Chix. “Where are you off to McNally?”“Time for the Pinot Noir - any arguments?”“Yeah. What about the Pinot Grigio?” asked Dana in a mock argumentative voice.“No blow back from me. I’ll get both.” With that McNally disappeared into the garage.The cookie production line clicked into gear as The Chix rolled out a pile of baked cookie shapes and an assortment of buttery spritz cookies, chocolate drops, nut bars to go with the gooey lemon bars and shortbread. “My favorite thing in this whole kitchen, other than maybe the wine, is doing the detailed decorations with colored frosting and sprinkles,” announced Dana.“Here you go then Dana,” said Patricia as she set two hot cookie sheets on the cooling racks, “you’ve got your work cut out for you with all of these shapes.” Patricia brandished a pair of cookie cutters, “You have me to thank for 'cutting your work out for you’; you’ve got Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Christmas trees, wreathes, ornaments, stockings, snowmen, reindeer and candy canes galore.”“'Work cut out for you’, I see what you did there,” observed Annie. “You’ve been hanging around McNally too much.”McNally grabbed a couple of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes from Annie’s station and then a candy cane shaped cookie off the pile of undecorated cookies.“What are you working on McNally?” was Dana’s question.“I’ve been inspired by Annie’s earlier comments and her idea of exchanging Nelson’s candy cane for housework.”Annie chortled, “What? Something creative for me? My, my, what could it be McNally?”“Avert your eyes; I’m making you a little surprise.” Annie laughed and pretended to look away, but she and the others watched to see what culinary form McNally’s inspiration took. McNally coated both sides of the candy cane in pink frosting and then covered the straight end of the candy cane with a thin white glaze. She grabbed two pecan halves from the bowl, placing them on top of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes and then wedged the decorated pink candy cane between the two, projecting upward. McNally handed the 3D cookie sculpture to Annie on a small paper plate. “Here you go girl, a little something sweet to enjoy stuffing into your stocking while Nelson is out with your domestic help.”The Chix all laughed, applauding McNally’s skill at coming up with a naughty little cookie. “See, he comes with a pair of real nuts, and I’ve given his sweet candy cane a condom coating of sugar glaze. And if you’ve been feeling pressure to put out Annie, be assured that he only wants to cum in your chimney once a year.”Annie was laughing pretty hard, “You’re so thoughtful McNally. But I’ve been a good girl all year; I think I deserve to get a bigger candy cane.”“Ho, ho, ho,” chuckled McNally, “What you’re asking for is reserved for the naughty girls on m

Husbands and cookies are exchanged, to add holiday cheer.Based on a post by SandyMarl, in 4 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories.The Chix Annual Christmas Cookie ExchangeMcNally topped off each of the four glasses, then tipped the bottle to her lips to make sure she’d drained the last sweet drop of Gewürztraminer. McNally smacked her lips before inserting her tongue into the brown wine bottle’s narrow orifice. “Umm, a sweet little rim job before I recycle this dead soldier,” she announced to a kitchen packed with a few of her long-time friends. “This dark guy is so sweet, I just love him,” she said as she continued her fellatio pantomime by wrapping her lips around the narrow neck as she encircled her fingers and made a couple of strokes up and down the bottle like she was finishing a masterful blow job.Her friends watched her risqué display and giggled, except for Patricia. Patricia picked through the array of Christmas cookie cutter shapes laid out at the edge of the counter, dropping her eyes as she scolded, “McNally, you should be more thoughtful of Dana. Your tipsy little joke is in poor taste in front of our hostess, especially at this time of year.” Patricia meant it as a sobering rebuke, as if any of the girls present needed to be reminded of Dana’s recently widowed status, especially around Christmas.McNally pulled the wine bottle’s phallic dimensions from her lips, setting it down and turning to Dana, “Oh crap, I’m sorry. You know I had no intention of opening painful memories; I was only trying to lift the holiday spirits with a little bawdy humor… I was just thinking…”Dana turned to McNally, “I know. I know you McNally – boy do I know you. You’re always thinking we Chix should loosen up our inhibitions and take a walk on the steamier side of life; and boy are you always ready with a risqué joke, a steamy story or a naughty pun.”Dana broke into a smile, and then spoke to her closest friends, “Hey Chix, you guys are so great! You’re the only reason I’m able to get through this time of year. Without y'all, I’d be nothing but a blubbering mess this Christmas. Facing the painful first anniversary of Sander’s passing is really hard. It’d be unbearable if I had to go through it alone. The support of my Chix means everything to me right now.”Dana forced a cheery voice and continued speaking after dusting the flour off her hands. “I insisted y'all come into my kitchen this year and fill it with holiday cheer, so it’d be like the good times we had before. I want everyone to make a big sugary mess for me to clean up and keep me busy. Our annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange is our tradition; it’s now more meaningful to me than ever. I’m dreading the holidays…” Dana paused to collect her emotions before continuing, “… as the holiday season approaches, I fear being all alone, left to deal with the memory of Sander’s skiing accident by myself. I need my Chix more than ever right now. I need something to keep my mind from dwelling on the anniversary of the accident.”Dana gave a congenial but forced looking smile to the women in her kitchen. “McNally, you go right on giving your Gewurztraminer boyfriend’s long, brown glass cock a good sucking, it’s fine with me and the rest of these kitchen voyeurs. Keep it up, all of you, be merry and I’ll find a way to get by.”Annie wiped a tear off her cheek as she stepped to Dana, wrapping her arms and her baggy, ugly Christmas sweater around Dana, managing to get cookie dough crumbs in Dana’s hair in the process. Annie hugged Dana tight, embracing her in a prolonged hold to convey her sympathy and shared grief at the loss of Dana’s husband last year. Annie teared up again as she remembered gathering with McNally and Patricia to take down the tree and put away all the festive Christmas decorations in Dana’s house as Dana planned Sander’s funeral.It was all so sad, so hard to deal with. Annie admired McNally’s flair to disregard the implicit sadness hanging over their annual Chix Christmas cookie exchange; but didn’t want to get between McNally and Patricia as they scuffled over the proper decorum in Dana’s kitchen under the circumstances.Annie let go and pulled away from her embrace, and as she did, she gasped, “Oh Dana, I’m sorry. Look what I’ve done, my dirty apron made a mess on your top. I’m sorry.”Dana laughed, “I should’ve expected this would happen, wearing black when I’m in the middle of a hen party with flour flying all over my kitchen. I thought I’d feel and look slimmer wearing black, a self-deluding effect to counteract my debauched cookie sampling today. I might as well just drop these little Santa cookies down my pants and let ‘em stick right there on my hips,” smacking her hands on her ass for emphasis.Annie, trying to make up for the accidental flour dusting, began to brush her fingers across Dana’s boobs, fussing and worrying she’d ruined Dana’s pullover. Dana laughed it off, “Annie, stop fretting, it’ll wash out, no problem. Relax. Let’s all have a good time making a mess as we bake and decorate our cookies. There’s something festive about a busy and messy kitchen. I just love it.”McNally watched from the other side of the counter as Annie dabbed and wiped the front of Dana’s chest, “I know what you’re getting for Christmas - one of those cordless hand vacuums; they market it as a bust duster.” Everyone cracked up at McNally’s pun, even Patricia.The timer went off; Patricia stepped to the oven to check on the first batch of cookies. She pulled out the cookie sheet and put it on the cooling rack.“Those look perfect,” Annie announced.“They’re not perfect until they’re decorated,” responded Dana. “They’re just plain-Jane naked right now. It’s our job to get them all dressed up in their Christmas fancy-pants.”“Oh, Patricia, can you grab the box of sprinkles and glittery decorating doo-dahs from the cupboard next to the oven?” asked Dana. Patricia set the full box of decorating doo-dahs on the kitchen table.McNally burst into song, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, Camptown ladies sing this song, all the doo-dah day!” McNally’s three friends joined in a final chorus, “Doo-dah, doo-dah, all the doo-dah day!”“Now things are starting to sound festive,” declared Dana as she mixed bowls of red and green frosting. “McNally, there’s a bottle of Riesling in the garage fridge – I know I don’t have to ask twice to get you to bring that one in and pour another round.”Annie said, “This is sounding and feeling like old times; like back in the beginning when we worked at Dix Chix. Who remembers which of us four started waitressing first at Dix?”“Wasn’t me,” was McNally’s contribution from the hallway, “I’m the youngest of the Chix.”“It could’ve been you; you’ve always had a reputation for starting early McNally,” was Patricia’s retort.McNally laughed at the ribbing. “I seem to recall that Annie got hired a few days ahead of me.”“So, when did we become collectively known as 'The Chix?’” was Dana’s follow up question.Annie answered, “It was Patricia. She advertised to all the boys that there were some interesting Chix to be found in the backroom of Dix Chix Family Restaurant after closing. If a boy had the right stuff, he could find his way into the place and get a few drinks, no ID required.”“That may be true, but I got the idea from that new girl,” said Patricia in a defensive tone. “The new girl suggested it was a crying shame that us four Chix had to close up on Friday and Saturday nights without having any cocks around to make it fun,” was Patricia’s recollection. “Being the studious college girl, Mrs. Dix trusted me with the keys and the liquor inventory.”“And who might have been the corrupting 'new girl’ who put that idea of letting some cocks into the back room with those chicks?” asked Dana with a smirk.“I hear she’s still tending bar somewhere, perhaps more corrupting than ever,” Patricia offered in an offhand guess.McNally, a seasoned barmaid, filled the wine glasses scattered around the kitchen, “I just thought it was false advertising to have a big neon sign that flashed Dix Chix, yet only the Chix half of the attraction was available. I merely suggested to the old timer running the show that if we were working to close the place on Friday and Saturday nights, we owed it to ourselves to have a crew of Dix to go with the Chix. Like the sign said.”Annie asked, “Patricia, I’ve always wondered, how did you choose which boys got an after-hours invitation to the backroom?”“I delegate,” was Patricia’s reply. “That’s why I’m management material. I consulted a trusted source.”McNally gave a curtsey acknowledging her role, and then filled in the story line, “Guys are pretty simple. I’d give the cute ones a line; 'Winner, winner, chicken dinner - Would you prefer a breast or a thigh?’ I then slipped 'em an offer, 'Come on by Dix Chix late some night this weekend for a chicken tender special – tell 'em McNally sent you.’” The three ladies exploded into hearty whoops at McNally’s explanation.Dana took a sip out of her glass, thinking for a moment, “McNally are you responsible then for introducing each of us to our future husbands? I’d never thought of it like that.”“Ultimately the Chix chooses the Dix. At least, that’s how I’d look at it. In collusion with Patricia, I merely helped sow some wild oats in that Dix Chix backroom. But I only sowed the seeds. It was the others who reaped the harvest. I must admit, I did have to run a lot of lame-cock also-rans through that backroom before some of them ended up sticking around for a while.”“Well, however you did it, Sander and I hit it off - after Patricia passed on him and I scooped him up, as I seem to recall. I guess I never thanked you for your fine work.” Dana raised her glass in a salute to McNally.“I’m happy it worked for you Dana,” said Patricia, “I had my eye out for one of those solid, basic models, a kind of nerdy, engineering type. My philosophy was that those low-key kinds of guys wear well. I seem to recall McNally telling me that she didn’t usually fish in those kinds of nerdy-fish ponds, but she promised she’d expand her repertoire to see if she could toss such a specimen my way.”“I remember when Will showed up at the backroom, he looked a little dazed and confused. McNally had to act fast to ease Will into the situation and then gently hand him off to Patricia,” recalled Annie. “So, how’d McNally’s low-key, nerdish fish land in your lap then Patricia?”Patricia made a wistful smile as she rolled out a sheet of dough, “I guess I got what I wanted. Though, I’ve wondered some days if I should have dropped my line into a different pond. There’ve been some days when I wonder what life would’ve been like with a spicier, adventurous man… but that’s normal, right? Don’t we all have some days where we wish things were different?”Annie, Dana and McNally were quick to assure Patricia that they all had their moments when they had a twinge of doubt about their choices in husbands. “Yeah, that’s pretty normal I think,” added Annie.Annie went back to the mixing bowl where she was making rounded, nut-filled Mexican Wedding Cake cookies and dusting them with flour. “Nelson has always been supportive of me, I have to think that our marriage is better than some that I know of, but over the years some of the spark has dimmed. Maybe it’s me, but honestly, if he wanted more sex, I’d consider letting the ol’ boy find a fling with another woman, as long as she agreed to clean my house in exchange for Nelson’s services.”Dana gave up a small squeak, “Serious?”“Oh, just a quirky idea. It’s not like we’d be on the brink of a divorce, we’re perfectly compatible. It would merely be a convenient arrangement, Nelson the ol’ goat, would get more action and stop pestering me and I’d get a clean house and more time. I think it’d be a fair exchange.” Annie shrugged as she spooned out a lump of dough and patted it into a little ball.Dana sighed, “Oh Annie. Annie, you should enjoy the little things from Nelson. You know what I miss most from Sander? It’s little things like tangling our feet together in bed, I really miss the feeling of when Sander would reach across the bed and pull me over close to him. It didn’t have to be sex, sometimes it was so good just to have him spoon into my backside and reach over to caress my breasts.” Dana took a deep breath, “I’m just here to remind The Chix, like they say, 'You don’t know what you got 'til it’s gone.’”Annie’s eyes moistened again, “I’m sorry Dana, I didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I’m so sorry.”“They’re good memories Annie, I don’t feel bad. Just sad at Christmas now. Get back to making cookies and a mess; it’s the only thing that’ll save me, girl.”Patricia began pressing the cookie cutter into her sheet of dough while pressing this girl-talk topic a little further, “McNally, I’m kind of surprised you and Orlando have made it work so well all of these years. It has always seemed to me that you two traveled in different orbits.”McNally laughed as she put down her half-empty wine glass, concentrating on mixing up some chocolate frosting. “It’s a beautiful cosmic dance between me and Orlando. We’re a pair of heavenly bodies sharing our orbits when the gravitational attraction pulls us close. Otherwise, we each have our own interests as y'all know perfectly well. Orlando has his poetry, music and writing projects. I love lending my graphic and artistic vision to Orlando’s projects when it fits. When we collaborate, we make beautiful art. When we’re not collaborating on something, that’s when I fill my orbit with my animals and other pets.”Patricia raised an eyebrow, “Do you care for your 'pets’ as much as you do your animals?”“Me and my pets share a sensual bond and an understanding. I will never abandon one of my animals. But my pets come and then my pets go, every pet in his own season. I enjoy a wide orbit in this life Patricia.”McNally took another sip, becoming introspective, “Hey you know what? I’d have to say that The Chix is my longest held orbit. It’s so good to have you gals around for me for all of these years.” McNally raised her glass in a toast, “To The Chix. To the long and strong bond of three great gals who have kept me in their orbit as the rest of this crazy world spins out of control. Merry fucking Christmas, to one and to all!” McNally gave a swift motion with her hand, directing her three friends to join her in her toast.Everyone stepped to McNally’s end of the counter, touching their glasses, creating a resounding chime as the glassware clinked. “Here! Here!” said Dana, “Let’s make this a Merry fucking Christmas for one and for all!”“I’ll drink to that,” offered McNally.“Of course, you will,” noted Patricia.Annie gave her signature tipsy laugh, “I’ll drink to that Patricia!” and took a gulp.“May I join you?” asked McNally.Dana laughed, “Wait for me! I’ll drink to that too!”McNally turned and walked away from the circled Chix. “Where are you off to McNally?”“Time for the Pinot Noir - any arguments?”“Yeah. What about the Pinot Grigio?” asked Dana in a mock argumentative voice.“No blow back from me. I’ll get both.” With that McNally disappeared into the garage.The cookie production line clicked into gear as The Chix rolled out a pile of baked cookie shapes and an assortment of buttery spritz cookies, chocolate drops, nut bars to go with the gooey lemon bars and shortbread. “My favorite thing in this whole kitchen, other than maybe the wine, is doing the detailed decorations with colored frosting and sprinkles,” announced Dana.“Here you go then Dana,” said Patricia as she set two hot cookie sheets on the cooling racks, “you’ve got your work cut out for you with all of these shapes.” Patricia brandished a pair of cookie cutters, “You have me to thank for 'cutting your work out for you’; you’ve got Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Christmas trees, wreathes, ornaments, stockings, snowmen, reindeer and candy canes galore.”“'Work cut out for you’, I see what you did there,” observed Annie. “You’ve been hanging around McNally too much.”McNally grabbed a couple of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes from Annie’s station and then a candy cane shaped cookie off the pile of undecorated cookies.“What are you working on McNally?” was Dana’s question.“I’ve been inspired by Annie’s earlier comments and her idea of exchanging Nelson’s candy cane for housework.”Annie chortled, “What? Something creative for me? My, my, what could it be McNally?”“Avert your eyes; I’m making you a little surprise.” Annie laughed and pretended to look away, but she and the others watched to see what culinary form McNally’s inspiration took. McNally coated both sides of the candy cane in pink frosting and then covered the straight end of the candy cane with a thin white glaze. She grabbed two pecan halves from the bowl, placing them on top of the round Mexican Wedding Cakes and then wedged the decorated pink candy cane between the two, projecting upward. McNally handed the 3D cookie sculpture to Annie on a small paper plate. “Here you go girl, a little something sweet to enjoy stuffing into your stocking while Nelson is out with your domestic help.”The Chix all laughed, applauding McNally’s skill at coming up with a naughty little cookie. “See, he comes with a pair of real nuts, and I’ve given his sweet candy cane a condom coating of sugar glaze. And if you’ve been feeling pressure to put out Annie, be assured that he only wants to cum in your chimney once a year.”Annie was laughing pretty hard, “You’re so thoughtful McNally. But I’ve been a good girl all year; I think I deserve to get a bigger candy cane.”“Ho, ho, ho,” chuckled McNally, “What you’re asking for is reserved for the naughty girls on m

Jill Upton chats to Ashli, founder of Ashli Rose wines in Tamar Valley. Only two vintages in, Ashli's doing some wonderful things with her Rosé, Pinot Noir, gold medal winning Riesling and Semillon. One to keep an eye on.@thewineshowaustralia @ashlirosewines

What is really driving the collapse of housing affordability, rising healthcare costs, and exploding government spending in the United States?In this episode, we expose the real economic impact of mass illegal immigration—from housing shortages and overcrowded hospitals to wage pressure, taxpayer burden, and national debt. While politicians and corporate media avoid the hard questions, the data reveals a story Americans were never told.We break down how tens of millions of illegal entrants are reshaping communities, draining public resources, and accelerating systemic failure—without a vote or public consent.This is not political theater. It's about facts, consequences, and accountability.

Miro Tcholakov is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell, and Melissa Galliani is also in the studio today.  He operates Miro Cellars and is also winemaker for Trentadue Wines. Miro has been on CWC before, on this episode back on September 9, 2020. and his last appearance was this episode on April 5, 2024. Miro has brought a Chardonnay, the only Chardonnay he makes now. The vineyard belongs to the De Loach family. It was given “incomplete” malolactic fermentation, so it doesn't have too much “popcorny” flavor. This wine won a gold medal at the SF Chronicle competition. Miro grew up in Bulgaria. Sometimes he refers to it as “way back east.” After college in Bulgaria, he came to the US on a student visa. He had good grades in biology and, also needed to do two years of military service. His degree was agronomy engineering, specialized in viticulture. Then in 1990 he won access to an exchange program to the US. He chose viticulture and he was the only one of the six who went to the west coast. He worked a standard harvest internship at Dry Creek Vineyards. The night before he was supposed to leave, they asked him to stay, to cover for an injured colleague. He rose through the ranks and nine years later he took a full time winemaker job at Trentadue. When he was growing up in Bulgaria, his grandfather made wine. They made about 1000 bottles of wine per year. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference!  Pinot Noir too Next they taste the Pinot Noir. Miro doesn't usually make Pinot Noir. He was known for making Petite Syrah and Zinfandel, but he wanted to try it just to say he can do that too. He gives credit to the work in the vineyard. “I am in opportunistic buyer…” of Pinot Noir grapes. It won a double gold medal from the SF Chronicle competition. Daedalus tastes dry cherry, old books, dustiness. Miro thinks maybe it's from the oak or the terroir. It's supple and round. It might handle about five or six years of aging. Daedalus' judgement: “Super drinkable, dangerously drinkable.” Later the discussion turns to the wine market and everyone’s opinion of how this downturn looks from their point of view. Aurelio Aguilar who is twenty-six, speaks for his generation. He suggests that winemakers have an important opportunity to get young people familiar with experiences like wine tasting. Then Miro tells his story of how the cave woman invented wine. Next they taste the Grenache named after his daughter, Cuvée Sasha. He started making it when she was born, 23 years ago, and for the last 10 years the grapes have come from the same vineyard on the shore of Lake Mendocino. Grenache is a good wine for any occasion, sort of like Pinot but spicier, and can have a hidden bite of tannin when younger. It’s fruity but can also be earthy. It is easy to pair with anything, Miro suggests grilled salmon or tuna. It can benefit from chilling, too. Melissa suggests bringing Grenache as a hostess gift, for it novelty and quality. Affordable Luxury “You can make high quality wines at a reasonable price. It’s possible. I’ve been doing it for twenty-three years.”

Do Mosteiro ao Grand Cru: a trajetória que fez da França a maior referência mundial de vinhos de qualidade. A excelência do vinho francês não é fruto do acaso, ela foi construída ao longo de séculos.Neste vídeo revelo a fascinante história desses vinhos, desde os visionários monges cistercienses da Borgonha que mapearam os climats no século XII, passando pela lendária Classificação de 1855 em Bordeaux, até o sistema AOC/AOP que consagrou o conceito de terroir. Entenda por que as castas Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon e os magníficos Grand Crus franceses viraram ícones globais.Aqui, você vai entender como terroir, espiritualidade, disciplina monástica e conhecimento humano moldaram não apenas vinhos, mas uma verdadeira filosofia cultural que influencia o mundo até hoje.Se você ama vinhos, quer entender o que torna a França referência de qualidade ou planeja uma viagem pelas regiões icônicas (Borgonha, Bordeaux, Champagne), este vídeo é para você!

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 246 - Janae Franicevic / Sunce Winery Click to LISTEN Welcome to Wine Road with hosts Marci Gordon and Beth Costa. Thanks to Ron Rubin for supporting the podcast. (0:24 - 0:48) Special thanks to River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their support. Explore their wines at RiverRoadVineyards.com. (0:49 - 0:57) Episode 246 features Janae Franicevic from Sunce Winery. (1:03 - 1:16) Janae introduces Sunce's 2021 Pinot Noir, made from estate-grown clone 777. (1:30 - 1:48) Sunce Winery is a backyard winery on Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, with a vineyard planted in 1998. (2:16 - 2:29) Janae shares the story of buying and transforming the property into a winery. (3:06 - 3:17) Starting a winery required risk, passion, and resourcefulness. (5:00 - 5:10) Janae emphasizes her role in building the business, pioneering direct-to-consumer sales and wine clubs. (6:16 - 6:37) Sunce produces small-lot wines, including single-clone Pinots and diverse varietals. (9:02 - 9:18) The tasting room offers a global wine experience, featuring unique varietals like Dornfelder and Teran. (11:00 - 11:09) Sunce's adaptability allows them to thrive in a challenging wine economy. (15:37 - 15:42) Wine remains a comforting tradition, especially in changing times. (22:18 - 22:29) Janae highlights the importance of barrel tasting as a tradition and business cornerstone. (24:05 - 24:09) Sunce offers flexible futures purchases, starting at three bottles. (27:00 - 27:22) Barrel tasting supports wineries and growers while offering customers exclusive wines at a discount. (32:01 - 32:23) Barrel tasting allows customers to experience wine's development and connect with its story. (36:42 - 36:57) Janae stresses the importance of wineries supporting each other during challenging times. (37:35 - 37:40) Visit Sunce for barrel tasting, charcuterie, and a welcoming atmosphere. (37:50 - 37:53) Barrel tasting is March 7-8. Don't miss it! Links from today: River Road Family Vineyards Sunce Winery

SUBSCRIBER-ONLY BONUS CONTENT (short taster) - Sam Neill leads a double life. He's not Batman, or Bananaman. He's ConvivialWineChap (trademark pending). On the one hand, he's world-famous actor Sam Neill, acclaimed for his starring roles in Jurassic Park, Peaky Blinders, The Piano and all that jazz. On the other, he's proud proprietor of Two Paddocks Wine in Central Otago, New Zealand.And this isn't just wine cosplay, either. Sam lives and breathes wine, describing himself as a Pinot Noir 'obsessive'. What's more, his wines are some of the best in New Zealand - with four of his Pinot Noirs rating between 95 and 98 points in our New Zealand Wines of the Year 2026, and his Two Paddocks Pinot Noir 2023 carrying off the prestigious Red Wine of the Year award. (Here's a link if you want to find out more about our New Zealand Wines of the Year 2026.)It hasn't been plain sailing for Sam of late, with a shock blood cancer diagnosis requiring urgent treatment. Typically, he made use of the time to be productive, writing the funny, moving memoir, Did I Ever Tell You This? Now in full remission, he's back into his double life, filming and farming, and eager to share a laugh and his unique take on wine and life in general.In this frank, fascinating and funny chat, we talk everything from Pinot to Riesling, pigs to ducklings, Jesus to Jenna Ortega, organics to 'vile' chemicals, history to heartbreak, Marlon Brando to Michael Fassbender. Trust us - you won't want to miss this one.NB: This is a short taster of the full episode, which is available exclusively for Wine Blast PLUS subscribers. Use this link to find out more or subscribe to Wine Blast PLUS.Thanks for tuning in. We love to hear from you so please do get in touch! Send us a voice message via Speakpipe. Or you can find all details from this episode, including wine recommendations, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S7 E18 - Sam Neill UNCUT TasterInstagram: @susieandpeter

I dagens afsnit kaster vi os ud i et eksperiment, som potentielt kan kaste masser af diskussion af sig. Det må det også godt, for det er en svær øvelse.   Vi laver en rødvinsskala, hvor vi gennemgår udvalgte druesorter og rangerer dem efter struktur, frugt, syre, tannin, alkohol og tyngde på en skala fra de letteste druesorter til de druesorter, der giver vine med mest tyngde.    Vores placering af druerne er lavet ud fra hvad "den styrende vinstil anno 2026" er på druen.   Der er desuden en masse forbehold ift. druesorten. Herunder produktionsmetode, høsttidspunkt, vækstområde m.m.   Vi tager udgangspunkt i Wine Follys liste, men laver vores egen rangering. Se Wine Follys liste her: https://media.winefolly.com/red-wine-boldness-chart-by-wine-folly.png   Vores liste:   Lette druer (Light body) 1. Poulsard/Ploussard 2. Sciava (Trollinger) 3. Trosseau/Bastardo 4. Gamay 5. Pinot Noir 6. Barbera 7. Grenache/Garnacha 8. Corvina 9. Bobal     Druer med mellemtyngde (Medium body) 10. Cabernet Franc 11. Blaufränkisch 12. Mencia 13. Cinsault + tre mere, som vi omtaler i afsnit 2     Druer med mest tyngde (Full body) Afsløres i afsnit 2   ..................... Køb vores nyeste bog "Bobler for begyndere og øvede" her: https://www.saxo.com/dk/bobler-for-begyndere_bog_9788773396568 Eller vores bog om vin her: https://www.saxo.com/dk/vin-for-begyndere_bog_9788773391303 Støt Vin for begyndere podcast her https://vinforbegyndere.10er.app/ Besøg os på Facebook og Instagram, hvor man kan se billeder af vinene og få tips til vin og mad sammensætning. https://www.facebook.com/vinforbegyndere https://www.instagram.com/vinforbegyndere Web: https://www.radioteket.dk/ Kontakt: radioteket@radioteket.dk Musik: Jonas Landin Lyt vores bog som lydbog her: Køb den her https://www.saxo.com/dk/vin-for-begyndere-og-oevede_lydbog_9788773397374

At Penner-Ash located in the Northern Willamette Valley's Yamhill-Carlton AVA, Winemaker Kate Ayres crafts several expressions of single estate Pinot Noir as well as Chardonnay, Viognier and Riesling. Penner Ash was established in 1998 by Lynn and Ron Penner-Ash with a vision to producer lush, layered Pinot Noir. In 2016, the winery joined the Jackson Family Wines portfolio. The same year, Oregon native Kate Ayres joined the winemaking team at Penner-Ash; she was appointed winemaker in 2018.The Connected Table is broadcast live Wednesdays at 2PM ET and Music on W4CY Radio (www.w4cy.com) part of Talk 4 Radio (www.talk4radio.com) on the Talk 4 Media Network (www.talk4media.com).  The Connected Table Podcast is also available on Talk 4 Media (www.talk4media.com), Talk 4 Podcasting (www.talk4podcasting.com), iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, Audible, and over 100 other podcast outlets.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-connected-table-live--1277037/support.

Is cancer really a death sentence — or is there another path being ignored?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Oasis of Hope to expose alternative cancer treatments, diet-based protocols, and immune-focused therapies that challenge the mainstream chemo-radiation model. This is a conversation about hope, healing, and informed choice — and why many Americans are looking beyond Big Pharma for answers.https://OasisOfHope.comhttps://B17Works.comhttps://RNCStore.com/GRITNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

Is a financial reset already underway—and how can everyday Americans prepare without fear? In this episode of Patriots With Grit, Larry Ballard breaks down the coming economic shift, the role of gold and silver, and why preparation—not panic—matters most. This is a big-picture conversation about history, faith, economics, and how to think clearly during uncertain times. Informational discussion only—do your own research.https://LarryBallard.comYouTube and Rumble: @Liberty Crusade OfficialNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

In this episode, Dave and Ray each choose two Star Wars characters—following specific criteria—and select a wine they feel best represents each one. They'll present their pairings to each other, then try to guess which character the other matched with each wine. Will they get any right? Tune in to find out!2015 Weingut Schäfer-Fröhlich Bockenauer Felseneck GG Riesling.2019 Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon.2022 Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines Granite Eikelaan Chenin Blanc.2021 Raen Winery 'Sea Field Vineyard' Pinot Noir.

New Zealand wine stands at a fork in the road. One path leads towards corporate behemoths churning out industrial quantities of mass-market Sauvignon Blanc; the other features increasingly refined, site-specific wines across a range of styles that compete with the world's very best. Which will it be?In this New Zealand Wines of the Year feature, we take you behind the scenes after tasting hundreds of wines to get to grips with what's really going on in Kiwi wine.We highlight the best producers, what they're doing and why. And we throw more than a few big calls out there - for example, why New Zealand Chardonnay and Pinot Noir is currently getting our vote over Burgundy...and why fizz should be part of New Zealand's wine future.We're privileged to be joined by New Zealand wine royalty in the shape of Helen Masters (Ata Rangi), Matt Thomson (Blank Canvas), Matt Sutherland (Dog Point), Kevin Judd (Greywacke), Ed Donaldson (Pegasus Bay)...and part-time actor, full-time wine superstar Sam Neill (Two Paddocks).This episode is published in tandem with a full report on our website, which is free to download and comes with tons of information and opinion, from vintage summaries to planting stats, plus the odd map: New Zealand Wines of the Year 2026 ReportThanks to New Zealand Winegrowers for facilitating this Wines of the Year initiative, and to the wineries for supporting. This episode is dedicated to the memory of James Healy, who sadly died in early 2026. Thanks for tuning in. We love to hear from you so please do get in touch! Send us a voice message via Speakpipe. Or you can find all details from this episode, including the full report, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S7 E17 - New Zealand Wines of the Year 2026To support the show, enjoy subscriber-only bonus content as well as early access to all episodes plus full archive access, not to mention subscriber benefits and giveaways, subscribe to Wine Blast PLUS at wineblast.co.ukInstagram: @susieandpeter

SAMEDI 07 FÉVRIER 2026Les derniers coups de cœur littéraires de Laure GasparottoLaure Gasparotto partage ses derniers coups de cœur littéraires et nous présente son nouvel ouvrage, Le vin – un peu, beaucoup, passionnément, paru aux Éditions Le Robert.Simon Chapelle - Domaine Chapelle & Fils (Bourgogne)Nichée sur les hauteurs de Santenay, la maison Chapelle & Fils perpétue depuis 1893 une tradition familiale au cœur de la Bourgogne viticole. Sur 18 ha de vignes en agriculture biologique, Pinot Noir, Aligoté et Chardonnay expriment pleinement leur terroir. Aujourd'hui dirigé par Simon Chapelle, le domaine allie héritage familial et passion pour des vins élégants et authentiques.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

In today's episode, Shelley and Phil honor the upcoming Super Bowl because the Seattle Seahawks are playing in it! They get to open a Charbonnet Chardonnay from a boutique winery, Mansion Creek Cellars, and a new J. Bookwalter wine, Foreshadow Merlot! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing #SeahawksWines featured this episode:2020 Mansion Creek Cellars Charbonnet Chardonnay ($29 at the winery)2023 J. Bookwalter Foreshadow Merlot ($50 at the winery)A HUGE thanks to our sponsors: CDA Gourmet and Rivaura!CDA Gourmet: Are you looking to elevate your kitchen? You need to check out CDA Gourmet! Located in Midtown Coeur d'Alene, just down the street from Pilgrim's Market, CDA Gourmet offers a diverse mix of flavor enhancing products as well as the tools to make it all happen. Visit https://www.cdagourmet.com for more information or  call 208-551-2364. CDA Gourmet: Your kitchen elevatedRivaura: There's a new wine in town. Rivaura! Producing some of the best wines Idaho has to offer, Rivaura now has a tasting room in Coeur d'Alene! They are open Wednesday through Saturday! When you stop by, say 'hi' to Cooper! Visit https://rivaura.com for more information or simply call, 208 667-1019!And of course, a HUGE thank you to Tod Hornby who wrote and recorded our official Wine Time Fridays theme music. Please visit https://todhornby.com to see what Tod is up to! The Seasons of Coeur d'Alene Wine Word of the Week - Noble Varietals Historically, one of the six grape varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling - considered to be the most "noble" due to their ability to produce high-quality wine across various regions. Seasons of Coeur d'Alene: Experience the best of Coeur d'Alene's culinary scene at Seasons, where farm-to-table cuisine meets elegant ambiance. Don't miss their Wine Down Wednesday where all bottled wines are 50% off! Visit https://www.seasonsofcda.com/ for more information or call 208-664-8008 And check out ALL of the upcoming events at Season's by clicking https://seasonsofcda.com/coeur-d-alene-seasons-of-coeur-d-alene-eventsMentions: Zach Charbonnet, Denny and Tina Russell, Ali Mayfield, Liberty Lake Wine Cellars, North Idaho Sparklers, Hospice of North Idaho Sapphirre Ball, Brian Fanzo, Victoria Mallett, Edward Holmes, Brad Binko, Eternal Wine, Erin Andrews, Mike Macdonald, Mark Lathrop, Liberty Lake Wine Cellars, Sarah Lathrop, Janine Neenie Douglass, Madison Violette, Brooke Kochman, VinGardeValise and David Hoffman.Seasons Wine dinner with Rivaura, click HERE. Some wines we've enjoyed this week: Clos d'Argentine Reserve Malbec, Arkwright Vineyards Chardonnay, Rivaura Petit Verdot and Arvum Rioja.Please find us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WineTimeFridays), Twitter (@VintageTweets), Instagram (@WineTimeFridays) on our YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@winetimefridays and on Threads, which is @winetimefridays. You can also “Follow” Phil on Vivino. His profile name is Phil Anderson and will probably “Follow” you back! © 2026 Wine Time Fridays - All Rights Reserve

Dan Berger, Chris O’Gorman and Daedalus Howell. Chris O’Gorman and Chris Sawyer are our guests on California Wine Country, to present Pour and Explore at Rodney Strong Vineyards on Feb. 12. Chris O’Gorman is in the studio and Chris Sawyer joins us on the phone. Chris O’Gorman has been on CWC before, his last appearance was this episode last August. It was actually Daedalus Howell’s first CWC episode as full time host of the Drive. Dan has brought one of the wines he will be pouring at the Riesling table next week at the Anderson Valley White Wine Festival on February 14th. The 2021 Smith-Madrone Riesling is a dry wine but not as dry as some of the really bone dry types. Dan likes it with Thai food. The winery is releasing their 2022 Riesling now. This is the same hillside where Stony Hill winery also makes Riesling on an adjacent property. Chris Sawyer is with us on the phone from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He is there to judge the American Fine Wine Competition. It is one of the largest invitational wine competitions in the US. It is taking place at Florida International University. Pour and Explore at Rodney Strong Vineyards Chris O'Gorman describes Pour and Explore which is taking place next Thursday night, February 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Rodney Strong Vineyards. Pour and Explore will feature Bordeaux varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot, by themselves or blended. Dan enjoys the company, since there are winemakers pouring the wine, so they can answer his questions. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference!  The first tasting today is a Rodney Strong Bordeaux blend named Symmetry. Rodney Strong has been producing Symmetry since 1996. Single varietal wines are not as common in France as they are here. They realized that Chateau St. Jean provided a model of a successful blended red. This Symmetry wine is a 2021 vintage. The label shows it is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon. With other wines being released at 2 and 3 years old, this wine is different. Cabernet Sauvignon can’t be too young. Chris O’Gorman describes the qualities that each of the five grapes bring to the blend. Next they taste a wine from Alexander’s Crown, one of the most historic red wines in Sonoma County. The first Alexander’s Crown vintage was 1974. This is the first single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma County.  

What is really driving the collapse of housing affordability, rising healthcare costs, and exploding government spending in the United States?In this episode, we expose the real economic impact of mass illegal immigration—from housing shortages and overcrowded hospitals to wage pressure, taxpayer burden, and national debt. While politicians and corporate media avoid the hard questions, the data reveals a story Americans were never told.We break down how tens of millions of illegal entrants are reshaping communities, draining public resources, and accelerating systemic failure—without a vote or public consent.This is not political theater. It's about facts, consequences, and accountability.

In this explosive episode of Patriots With Grit, we sit down with John J. Singleton to expose how Americans are being tracked, traced, and surveilled—through smartphones, apps, cameras, vehicles, and even everyday purchases.Most people think “privacy” means hiding or opting out. John explains why that's a trap—and reveals a lawful, non-traditional strategy that treats your data as valuable property, not a privilege corporations can freely exploit.

Everybody needs a Carl@DomainSerene @alexanaestate #OregonWines #PinotNoir #WineTasting #Podcast #radioshow #hostCo hosts : Good ol Boy Harmeet, Good ol Boy Justin, Made Man BobSIPS – Our second All Oregon Show, diving deep into a selection of exquisite wines from the renowned Domain Serene and Alexana. With each wine, we explore the unique terroir of Oregon, mispronounce at least 30% of all of the product information,  and how it has evolved over the last two decades, producing wines that rival the best in the world. Carl Formaker is the current winemaker at Domaine Serene, and thus the connection to the name of this episode. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with laughter, insights, and of course, ratings with our signature sip sounds. Tune in and discover why Oregon is the new frontier for wine enthusiasts! We will be discussing these wines and rating them from 1-5 with 5 being the best:Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay 20224 SIPSDomaine Serene Coeur Blanc Barrel Fermented White Wine 20223 SIPSDomaine Serene Yamhill Cuvee' Pinot Noir 20214 SIPSDomaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir 20214 SIPSDomaine Serene Grand Cheval Red Wine 20214 SIPSAlexana Mosaic Pinot Noir 2023 Dundee Hills Oregon5 SIPSinfo@sipssudsandsmokes.comX- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokesSips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Enjoying that cool Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back RoadsDownload your copy here:https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing / FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)COURTESY OF: AudioSparxTITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry Whitehead & Jeff WoodsPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry Whitehead & Jeff WoodsPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, & PodBeanProducer: Made Man BobExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeOregon Wines, Domain Serene, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Yamhill Cuvee, Evenstad Reserve, Grand Cheval, Alexana, Mosaic Pinot Noir, Wine Tasting, Wine Ratings, Wine Reviews, Wine Appreciation, Willamette Valley, Barrel Fermentation, Wine Pairing, Wine Enthusiasts, Wine Education, Wine Culture, Sips Suds And Smokes

Chris Puppione from Puppione Family Wines is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell. The last time Chris was on the show was this episode last summer, on June 6, when he spoke to Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger. Chris has brought four wines that Dan describes as “fabulous” and they are low-alcohol wines. Dan says Chris has had an opportunity to explore the lower-alcohol market. Chris says that people are just looking for flavor and “what’s old is new” and Dan notes that higher alcohol takes flavor away from the variety. Low alcohol is not less wine but just less noise. It takes away from nuances that they prefer to bring forward in their wines. There is a white and three reds. First, Dan’s cellar wine is the 2024 Bahl Fratty Riesling, which he will pour at the VIP event at the Anderson Valley White Wine Festival. “It’s coming out of its shell,” but in three or four years it will be really ready. They will also pour Vermentino and other whites. Dan’s table is all Riesling. It’s at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds, February 14. Tickets are $160 and are all-inclusive, with beverages and food. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference!  Friulano The Puppione label is blue, which is supposed to discourage spontaneous sales. Well, not always, says Daedalus, tell that to Blue Nun. Chris wants to make “Tuesday night wines” not Friday night wines. Festa was his grandmother’s name, so he makes a Festa Bianca and Festa Rossa. The white is Friulano, which means “from Friuli” which is in north-eastern Italy. He got the vines from a high mountain vineyard in California. He uses a combination of stainless steel and barrels. His children press the grapes with their feet. The alcohol is just 12.4%. Compared to those othe heavy wines that come in around 15% or 16%, this is refreshingly light. It is just a 2023 and it will still evolve. “This is something I do with my wife and kids for fun,” says Chris. Chris made his first wine to honor the birth of his daughter. He made it in secret. He is grateful to have help from many friends in the business. Everyone agrees that this camaraderie and willingness to help other is typical of Sonoma County people. Juventus Cuvée Next they taste a red wine. It is their Juventus Cuvée. His family is from a village outside of Torino in Italy, and one of the home teams is Juventus, but also Juventus is the goddess of youth. This is a blend of Syrah and Cab. He used stainless steel and captured a little effervescence. It’s in a clear bottle and he suggests chilling it. It reminds Dan of the simple wines you find in the back roads in France. He smells “fruit, not adorned…” This is a young wine that doesn’t need any maturation. After 2 years it is still lively and fruity. Dan says that Syrah and Cab are compatible varieties and compliment each other.

Send us a textRural Mendocino Pinot Noir 2023This is a wine from the Fetzer brothers, the Fetzer winery in Mendocino, sold to a South American winery years ago; their name is on the label, but they do not own it.This is a wine from the current Fetzer winery that produces organic top-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the Eagle Pass AVA in Mendocino.Check out Domaine Dave talk about this delicious wine.Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Click to LISTEN Hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa discuss upcoming events, share stories, and provide resources for wine enthusiasts in Northern Sonoma County. Here's the rundown: Sponsor Shoutouts: Thanks to Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for supporting the podcast. Check out their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir at riverroadvineyards.com. Event Updates: Winter Wineland: Recently wrapped up, offering a relaxed post-holiday wine weekend. Wine Love Wine Trail: Happening on Valentine's Day (Feb 14). A $50 ticket grants access to 30 wineries with fun treats like conversation hearts and Hershey's Kisses. Barrel Tasting: Celebrating its 48th year and the Wine Road's 50th anniversary. This signature event (March) allows guests to taste wines directly from barrels, meet winemakers, and purchase futures. Tickets are rolled back to $50 for the weekend. 50th Anniversary Grand Tasting: Scheduled for November 6 at Fopiano Vineyards, featuring founding members, live music, and food.  (UPDATE - new date September 19th).  Book Recommendation: Vines in a Cold Climate by Henry Jeffries explores the rise of English sparkling wine, driven by climate change and visionary winemakers. Local Resource Highlight: Edible Marin and Wine Country magazine is a free, insightful guide to local food, wine, and culture. Recipe Spotlight: Marcy shares a simple recipe for spiced candied nuts, perfect for Valentine's Day gifts. Ingredients include nuts, sugar, spices, egg white, and salt. Bake at 300°F for 30 minutes, separate, and package with a bow. Fun Moments: The hosts share laughs, personal anecdotes, and celebrate Beth's 49th wedding anniversary. Listeners are encouraged to share photos from Winter Wineland and explore the Wine Road's events and resources. Happy Valentine's Day! Links: River Road Family Vineyards Winter Wineland Wine Love Wine  Trail Barrel Tasting Edible Marin Vines in a Cold Climate   Sugar and Spice Candied Nuts - a perfect Valentine gift idea! 1/3 cup dark-brown sugar 2/3 cup white granulated sugar 1 teaspoon kosher salt (I might up this by a 1/2 tsp. next time for more of a sweet/salty balance) Generous pinch of cayenne pepper (I swapped this with 1/4 teaspoon of hot smoked paprika) 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 pound walnut or pecan halves or whole peeled hazelnuts 1 egg white, room temperature 1 tablespoon water Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Mix sugars, salt, cayenne, and cinnamon, making sure there are no lumps; set aside. Beat egg white and water until frothy but not stiff. Add walnuts, and stir to coat evenly. Sprinkle nuts with sugar mixture, and toss until evenly coated. Spread sugared nuts in a single layer on a cookie sheet fitted with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from oven, and separate nuts as they cool. When completely cool, pour the nuts into a bowl, breaking up any that stick together.  

Is the U.S. heading toward a financial reset—and could it happen without a total collapse?In this episode of Patriots with Grit, we break down historical monetary shifts, the difference between inflationary and deflationary cycles, and why some analysts believe the current system is being reshaped rather than destroyed.We explore gold, digital assets, global trade realignments, and what these trends could mean for everyday Americans navigating economic uncertainty.This is an educational discussion focused on history, economics, and publicly available information.Watch, think critically, and decide for yourself.(Safe phrasing: no guarantees, no financial advice, no calls to action that trigger policy flags)https://LarryBallard.comYouTube and Rumble: @Liberty Crusade OfficialNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

In this gut-wrenching episode,Shanna Carroll joins us and explains how her 17-year old daughter died only days after taking the Covid vaccine…all because she wanted to go on a school trip during the summer.NOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

Dan, Daedalus and Julie Julie Pedroncelli from Pedroncelli Winery is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell. She has been on the show before, the last time was this episode of last January. Dan describes the current slowdown in the wine business. The other times that the wine market went soft, there were one or two causes, but today there are several causes. But the benefit to the consumer is, the longer it takes to sell the wine, the more the wine improves. The Pedroncelli family has owned the property for almost 100 years. The vineyards are very carefully farmed and they take great care making their portfolio of wines. “Four generations and still going strong,” says Julie. Her grandparents put down roots in Dry Creek Valley outside of Geyserville. They bought a property in 1927 that had a vineyard and a shuttered winery. The previous owners were making wine as far back as the early 1900s. Their winemaker Montse Reese just completed her 18th harvest at Pedroncelli. They produce mostly Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and a few red wine blends. Her father is 94 and retired just a few years ago. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference!  Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel Julie has brought the “block party” today, with single-vineyard wines that represent certain blocks in the Pedroncelli vineyards. She has brought a Sauvignon Blanc, which they will start with, before moving on to the Zinfandel and others. “White wine is always good to start with.” This Block 11 reserve Sauvignon Blanc, vintage 2024, is not their regular production. It is a special designation reserve. Block 11 showcases the grassier, herbaceous side of SV and Montse Reese thought the neutral oak would bring out that side of SV without overdoing it. Daedalus detects a bit of Pez candy flavor, which Dan thinks is like green mint. Next is a Block 13 Zinfandel from 2023 which was a cool year. This is a little spicy, with a bit of black pepper flavors, and a raspberry note that Dan says is a characteristic of Dry Creek Valley Zins. Block 13 has had Zinfandel grown on it for over 100 years. It is the third generation of Zinfandel vines on the property. Some of the vines are 100 years old but they have replanted twice. It was Zinfandel, then Petit Syrah, then back to Zin. Montse found that this block stands out and merits a single-vineyard bottling. They used bud wood from the Rockpile vineyard for the planting and Montse also uses a yeast that was developed at Rockpile. Julie describes its character as feminine, not high in alcohol, very delicate in its fruit, “…it doesn’t hit you over the head, it’s not a fruit bomb, it’s more like a light spice bomb,” says Julie. Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah The Cabernet Sauvignon needs to breathe, decanted it would be a little more open. The long finish is not oak, though, it’s all the flavors you want in Cab without the other flavors like too much Oak. Dan Berger will be opening a 1966 Louis Martini Barbera next week for a special occasion. There are two Masters of Wine candidates from Taiwan who are taking a course at the Flamingo. Dan has met them and they expressed interest in an old California wine. Dan has one of two remaining bottles. He will open one for the students at Ca’ Bianca in Santa Rosa, along with two or three other wines from the era. The fourth wine they taste today is the Pedroncelli Syrah. Dan says he has never heard of anything like this before. It is a lower-alcohol Syrah, about 12%. This one was earlier harvested, to make a lighter style of red with lower alcohol. They picked two or three weeks before they otherwise would have.

Send us a textAngeline Vineyards California Pinot Noir 2024This is a value-priced Pinot Noir, a brand from Martin Ray Winery, a family-owned wine business since 1990.Angeline Vineyards has also been around since 1990.This is a wine I found at Trader Joe's for $9.99; it should be available everywhere.It is a quality, tasty California Pinot Noir.That is an amazing value for wine drinkers.A good wine at a good price!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

China and Saudi Arabia are quietly locking up massive silver reserves—cutting exports, pressuring U.S. supply, and accelerating a global squeeze. COMEX faces contract demands it may not be able to fulfill, while green energy schemes burn through silver in inefficient technologies. Meanwhile, corporations and governments are buying physical silver near $70, signaling rising demand and higher valuations ahead. This episode breaks down the silver power play—and why this window may present a strategic opportunity to enter with a clear exit plan.https://LarryBallard.comYouTube and Rumble: @Liberty Crusade OfficialNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

Every once in a while a wine comes along that makes us say, “What the f*&k is this $h&t?!? Meiomi is such a wine. Sometimes described as diabolical, this wine is still, somehow, the best selling Pinot Noir in the United States. And so, we decided to see if we could figure out why. Meiomi makes what we call “California-ized” wine. By that we mean big, bold, sweet, and lush wines that are as subtle as a mule kick to the head. More like cocktails than wine, they are not really made to be paired with food. In fact, we think they may pair better with leather shoes or the bottom of your sink. So, in the spirit of discovery, adventure, and foolhardiness, we explore all the grandeur that is Meiomi wine. Wines reviewed in this episode: 2022 Meiomi Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2023 Meiomi Pinot Noir.Send us a Text Message and we'll respond in our next episode!Contact The Wine Pair Podcast - we'd love to hear from you!Visit our website, leave a review, and reach out to us: https://thewinepairpodcast.com/Follow and DM us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinepairpodcast/Send us an email: joe@thewinepairpodcast.com

I have been selling direct to the consumer in the wine trade for over 35 years. The industry certainly is not what it was; in some ways, better, in other ways,  not so much. I've seen it all...well, at least most of it.  The month and year I started with the Original Wine of the Month Club, my father was featuring a Romanian wine; mind you, Romania was still under Soviet rule. In this episode, I speak with Dr. Marinella Ardelean, expert on Romanian wine. I have to tell you, having Marinella Ardelian on the show took me back, and not just because she reminded me that the first Romanian wine I ever sold—way back in 1989—was a $2.50 Sauvignon Blanc from a winery called Premiat. There's something poetic about opening an episode by unearthing an old newsletter my late father wrote about that wine, especially since it was the same month I joined the family business. Wine really does have a way of sharpening your memory. The nose, the flavor, even the price tag—they stick with you. The conversation started with that kind of serendipity, but Marinella Ardelian quickly brought us to the present. She's based in Venice, waves the flag for Romanian wine, and has this bright, unfussy way of making big topics feel accessible. I love guests like that—insightful without being pedantic, and uncannily good at weaving personal experience into global perspectives. Right off the bat, she fine-tuned the narrative: Romanian wine doesn't need to come "back" to the world stage, it needs to stand in the spotlight it deserves, shoulder to shoulder with France and Italy. I'll admit, I never would've guessed Romania is now in the top six worldwide for vineyard acreage—and domestically, folks there are still drinking 30 liters a year! Sure, the numbers dance around a bit, but the underlying story is about a country with real wine culture. We spent a little time reminiscing about the communist days, when the government controlled everything and Vinexport was king. But the part that struck me most was her clear-eyed take on why Romanian wine isn't chasing the bottom shelf in America. "Romanian wines are not cheap," Marinella Ardelian declared, and she meant it. With high domestic demand and only a sliver of production exported, those who do ship overseas bring quality, not just volume. She's keen on stories and education—Romanian wine, she said, needs context, not just curiosity. This segued beautifully into the broader question of how a wine region markets itself. Marinella Ardelian made a compelling case: you can't just sell the wine, you have to sell the country. Romanian wine, for her, is inseparable from Transylvanian castles, farm-to-table food, and the dramatic scenery. I found that refreshing. Too often, we get obsessed with varietals and forget there's a living culture behind every label. She also explained that since the fall of communism in 1989, a whole generation of winemakers has embraced indigenous grapes like Fetească Neagră—known as the "Black Maiden"—with all the finesse of Pinot Noir and the spice of Syrah. That's the kind of local color I live for. And with the second generation now taking the reins and forming actual cooperatives (something even Armenia, my ancestral homeland, struggles with), you can sense something big is building. Wine tourism, she told me, is finally taking off in Romania. Visitors can ride horses, hunt mushrooms, and sip estate wines in places that wouldn't be out of place in Bordeaux or Barolo. That's the future—experience, narrative, and authenticity. If there's a takeaway, it's that Romanian wine is at a crossroads, one foot in ancient soil, the other in the modern world. Marinella Ardelian has a vision for both—and I left our conversation convinced it's only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on. I can't wait to revisit this story in a few years and see how far it's come.   Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wine-in-romania-meet-the-expert-and-wine/id1462215436?i=1000647229708 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2kiWrgS5fH8p85I6iS6Gnp?si=McZCVWPEQ6W9T-3jfGGMCQ Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/wine-in-romania-meet-the-expert-and-wine-comtessse-marinela-ardelean/  

Welcome to Wine Road, hosted by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa, with thanks to Ron Rubin for supporting the podcast.   (0:24 - 0:48) Thanks to River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their support. Explore their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir at riverroadvineyards.com. (0:49 - 0:59) Episode 244 features Bruce Marinace, a tour driver and guide in Sonoma County. (1:03 - 1:15) Beth met Bruce at Alexander Valley Vineyards during their cave expansion event, leading to his podcast invitation. (1:32 - 1:47) Bruce transitioned from IT in Silicon Valley to wine tours in Sonoma after moving for his wife. (2:08 - 2:23) Bruce humorously recounts joining the Santa Rosa Mother's Club and adjusting to life as a stay-at-home dad. (3:11 - 3:31) Inspired by a TV show, Bruce began driving for wine tour companies, eventually joining Private Wine Drivers. (4:23 - 4:43) Private Wine Drivers offers intimate experiences at boutique wineries, connecting guests with winemakers. (5:05 - 5:15) Bruce prefers driving smaller vehicles for personalized tours and enjoys building relationships with clients. (6:15 - 6:30) Bruce helps clients navigate Sonoma's 490 wineries, tailoring tours to their preferences. (7:17 - 7:25) Bruce creates lasting connections, acting as a driver, guide, and even a photographer for his clients. (10:02 - 10:14) He ensures guests experience more than wineries, incorporating local food and attractions into tours. (13:53 - 14:13) Bruce balances education and enjoyment, tailoring tours to guests' interests and pacing the day thoughtfully. (17:52 - 18:02) With years of experience, Bruce curates unique itineraries, ensuring no two tours are the same. (20:22 - 20:26) Bruce stays updated on wineries through driver appreciation events and industry connections. (23:47 - 24:10) He emphasizes the importance of planning tours logistically to maximize enjoyment and minimize travel time. (27:08 - 27:20) Bruce often incorporates local markets, food spots, and scenic stops into his tours for a well-rounded experience. (33:32 - 33:43) Guests appreciate Bruce's photography skills, leaving with memorable pictures from their tours. (37:04 - 37:10) Bruce loves his job, meeting new people, and being part of their happy memories in wine country. (38:05 - 38:15) Find Bruce and Private Wine Drivers at privatewinedrivers.com or on TripAdvisor.   Links from today: River Road Family Vineyards and Winery Private Wine Drivers Bruce - direct: 707 - 975 - 3773  bmarinace @ comcast.net   

The family court system is not operating lawfully—and most people don't realize it until it's too late. Divorce courts have misrepresented their authority for decades, with judges routinely separating property in ways the law does not allow.This video exposes how these practices became normalized, why the public has been misled, and how people unknowingly surrender rights they never had to give up.Most importantly, we explain how to properly function within family court, protect yourself, and avoid the procedural traps that keep families financially and legally trapped.If you've been through family court—or fear you might—this is information you were never meant to hear.Contact Jay @ https://grit.aceofcoins.clubNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

A false accusation of child abuse nearly destroyed an innocent person's life. The claim was proven false, the accuser was convicted—but only charged with a misdemeanor. Unwilling to accept a system that minimized the damage caused by weaponized lies, the victim fought back. This episode tells the powerful true story of how one person turned personal injustice into legal reform, pushing legislation that upgraded false child-abuse reports from a misdemeanor to a felony. This is a story of accountability, resilience, and what it takes to change the law when the system fails.https://hearustoday.orghttps://legiscan.com/IA/text/SF2161/id/2909144NOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------NOTE: This is for entertainment purposes only.Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

On the latest AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, dive into the intersection of agriculture, marketing, and social media with influencer Lex Nicoleta, the creator of the viral “Coastal Grandmother” brand. Lex brings a unique perspective as both a farmer's wife and a lifestyle influencer, demonstrating how small entrepreneurs in agriculture can leverage creativity, video content, and social media to reach new audiences. She emphasizes that today's consumers, especially younger generations, are health-conscious and digitally connected, creating opportunities for innovative marketing strategies. Lex Nicoleta on Wine and Seasonal Produce Lex shares her insights on engaging younger audiences in the wine industry, highlighting the importance of approachable wine experiences. From Napa to Paso Robles, she recommends offering smaller tasting portions or guided wine recommendations to help novices explore varietals like Pinot Noir. She encourages pairing wine with seasonal meals and incorporating California produce—avocados, berries, and fresh vegetables—into recipes, reinforcing the idea that wine and food are experiential, not just consumable products. The Power of Video and Influencer Marketing A recurring theme in the discussion is the impact of social media and video content for business growth. Lex stresses that video content is now “king” for any industry, including agriculture. Short clips, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes videos can go viral, attracting new audiences and driving engagement. She advises ag brands to consider micro-influencers or local content creators as accessible ways to build awareness and trust online. For podcasts, radio shows, or ag-focused businesses, capturing conversations on video and sharing highlights on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook can significantly expand reach. Practical Tips for Ag Entrepreneurs and Families Lex also offers advice for young business owners, emphasizing collaboration, creativity, and persistence. She recommends pairing educational content with entertainment to make it shareable, encouraging experimentation in both business and personal life. On a lighter note, Lex shares tips for introducing children to fresh produce and maintaining a balanced approach to parenting and cooking. The conversation underscores the importance of adaptability, learning from trends, and balancing work with family and health goals. Looking Ahead: 2026 Goals The AgNet hosts reflect on their own 2026 goals, including expanding video content for their shows and highlighting more ag-related stories. Lex's insights provide a roadmap for leveraging social media, influencer partnerships, and innovative marketing strategies in the evolving agriculture and food sectors. The episode closes with practical reminders to stay connected with AgNet West on Facebook, Instagram, X, and via their podcast for ongoing updates.

We sit down with Tom and Chrissy from Grand Scheme Wines and dig into a story that has more layers than it first appears. It begins in Carneros, where they bought a piece of land and started planting Barn House Vineyard in 2018 with a clear vision from day one. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir were non-negotiable, and organic farming was always part of the plan. What follows is a conversation about commitment, patience, and the reality of building something from the ground up. As they walk us through the decisions, challenges, and moments that shaped the vineyard, the bigger picture comes into focus, and it's worth paying close attention to how it all connects. We wrap things up feeling grateful for the year behind us and excited about what's ahead. Happy New Year, and here's to raising a glass together in 2026. [Ep 396]

Merry Christmas and welcome to Pt. 2 of The Nikki & Brie Show's  Family Tasting Special! We pick up with more laughs, wine, and holiday vibes as Brie welcomes her brother JJ to the pod, just in time to sample Bonita Bonita's 2024 Pinot Noir. The sibling banter is real as they relive a recent Monday together in L.A. where they cheered on opposite teams at the Eagles vs. Chargers game. The two also share warm family moments and reflect on what they want most this Christmas—spoiler: it involves trucks, kids, and keeping the holiday spirit alive.Then it's time for Sibling Superlatives—a hilarious game where the duo calls out each other for who's most likely to tattle to Mom, steal clothes, sneak out, or cancel last-minute plans (hi Nikki!). Brie then reunites with Bryan for one final tasting: the 2024 Bonita Bonita Red Blend. In between sips, they talk books, parenting, and Brie even challenges JJ to a round of Bella Brains trivia. Who gets the bragging rights?This episode wraps with a heartfelt Inspiration & Affirmation from an audience guest that reminds us what matters most: laughter, tradition, and making memories that will last a lifetime. This is wine and sibling shade mixed in with some touching stories and cozy chaos—pure holiday magic. Press play! Call Nikki & Brie at 833-GARCIA2 and leave a voicemail! Follow Nikki & Brie on Instagram, follow the show on Instagram and TikTok and send Nikki & Brie a message on Threads! Follow Bonita Bonita on Instagram Book a reservation at the Bonita Bonita Speakeasy To watch exclusive videos of this week's episode, follow The Nikki & Brie Show on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok! You can also catch The Nikki & Brie Show on SiriusXM Stars 109! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.