#WineWednesday: Wine Glass Swap

The time has finally come! 

Guys & Gals, I give you: the #WineWednesday Wine Glass Swap

I've been waiting & wanting to host a fun swap like this for some time now. But, I had to make sure that everything was just right! I've joined several swaps over the past couple of months and have made some pretty incredible connections... not to mention the nice little package I receive in the mail is simply "the cherry on top". I've been able to connect with other bloggers, (and non-bloggers too) from all over and it has truly been such a FUN experience. So, I decided to host a swap of my own. With a wine theme, no less. 

So, what is a Wine Glass Swap? (you maybe asking)... but let's start by asking yourself this:

Do you like meeting new people?
Do you like to network with like-minded individuals?
Do you like receiving something fun in the mail?
Do you like WINE (and all things that come with drinking and enjoying wine)?

If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, then this wine glass swap is for YOU!

The rules/ concept is easy.

You'll first sign-up (by using the form below).
You'll then be paired up with one other wine glass swap participant.
You'll spend the course of a couple of weeks getting to know your partner and sharing a little bit about yourselves with each other.
Lastly, you'll send your partner a fun wine related glass or accessory and they'll do the same for you.
Open your package full of greatness and then enjoy your wine glass (or accessory)!

Sounds amazing, right!? 

Here's what you do: (official rules)

1. When you're ready, sign up by November 12th. 
2. You'll receive your partner's name and email address no later than November 15th. 
3. Spend a couple of weeks getting to know your partner and send their wine glass (or accessory) no later than December 1st. 
4. The maximum budget for the swap item(s) is $15 total. 
5. Share your swap items on social media using the hashtag #WWWineGlassSwap, so we can see and share all FUN Wine Glass Swap packages. 

Note: you do not need to be a blogger to participate, however, the swap is ONLY open to US residents, 21 years of age or older.

Disclaimer: I am hosting this swap as a fun way for people to connect with each other and have fun swapping a wine glass (or wine accessory). Please note, I can not be held responsible for you and your partners actions. I believe that everyone will be fair and only sign up if they intend to swap a wine glass/accessory and participate. However, there is always a chance that someone is dishonest and does not fully participate. If you haven't heard from your partner or do not receive a swap item, please email me to let me know (arhicks0427@gmail.com) and I will do my best to try to remedy the situation. 

I am looking forward to having a great swap and I can't wait to be partnered up with one you. 

Chicken Piccata (with White Wine & Mushrooms)

I'm such a sucker for Italian food.
I'm an even bigger sucker for mushrooms.
Combine the two and you have me at "Hello! Chicken Piccata!"

So I know it's been a minute since I posted a #WineWednesday post... AND, since my last Wine Recipe was such a huge hit it's only appropriate to share another great recipe that includes WINE...

Which in turn only make this dish, that much better.

image//via

Living out in the sticks you don't necessarily have the best options for Italian grub and I'm quickly learning that making an Italian dinner at home is far more affordable. Not to mention, it tastes much fresher (read: better) than running out to the nearest Italian food joint that truly is only the Pizza joint that happens to serve a couple of Italian "classics". You know how that goes...

I saw this recipe from the grocery circular and I just knew I had to make it. Like immediately. So that's what I did.
And guess what, it turned out to be absolute perfection.
This is one recipe I knew I had to share with YOU.

Chicken Piccata

Here's what you'll need:

• Chicken
• Mushrooms
• Dry White Wine
• Fresh Parsley
• Capers
• Fresh Lemon Juice
• Olive Oil  
• Butter
• Shallots
• Garlic
• Linguine Pasta
• Salt & Pepper

Start by pounding the chicken breasts until thin,  using a mallet or rolling pin. (Tip: put chicken breasts in between two sheets of wax paper like I did below, or use a large freezer bag to pound chicken using the flat side of the mallet)

The one on the right has been pounded to 1/4 inch thickness.

In a small bowl, toss freshly chopped parsley with olive oil, shallots, capers, and fresh lemon juice. Add salt & pepper to mixture, to taste.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Cook chicken until cooked through and lightly golden brown. About 3 minutes on each side. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with foil.

Reduce heat to medium, and add the remaining shallots, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet. I used fresh mushrooms and then sliced them thin.

Saute until mushrooms are tender, about 1 minute.

Next, add the wine and the remaining lemon juice. Let simmer for 1 minute.

I used the Smoking Loon Chardonnay that I had on hand. Any dry white wine will work perfectly. 

Once sauce has simmered, whisk in remaining capers, fresh parsley, and butter. Add any juices from the chicken and season with a little bit of salt and "peps" (pepper). 

Then assemble this beautiful dish onto a plate. First, add a nice big 'ole pile of linguine to a large plate. (You can also use a shallow bowl) Top linguine with one chicken breast. Add mushrooms + the juices from the pan and top over chicken and linguine. Finally, top with the fresh-parsley and caper mixture and serve. 

Serve with your remaining chilled white wine & ENJOY!

Chicken Piccata

by Amanda Hicks

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

6066400

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 2 (6-8 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley leaves, chopped
• 3 tsp Olive Oil, divided
• 2 Tbs plus 1 1/2 tsp shallots, minced
• 2 Tbs plus 1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 4 1/2 tsp capers, drained and divided
• salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup dry white wine
• 1 Tbs butter
• 1 1/2 tsp fresh Italian parsley, minced
• 6-8 oz linguine, cooked

Instructions

Using a meat mallet, pound chicken breasts between 2 sheets of wax paper until chicken breast are to 1/4-inch thickness.

Toss 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley in small bowl with 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon mined shallots, 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 1/2 teaspoon capers. Season parsley-caper mixture to taste with salt and pepper.

Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a heavy, large nonstick skillet over high heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Add to skillet and sauté until just cooked through and golden-brown, about 3 minutes per side.

Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with foil.

Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons minced shallots, mushrooms and garlic to the skillet and sauté until tender, about 1 minute.

Add white wine and remaining 2 tablespoons lemon juice; simmer 1 minute.

Whisk in remaining 3 teaspoons capers, butter and minced parsley.

Stir in any juices from chicken into sauce; season with salt and pepper.

Add cooked a portion of linguine to a plate then top with one chicken breast.

Add mushrooms and pour sauce from pan over chicken and linguine.

Sprinkle chicken with parsley-caper mixture.

Serve & Enjoy!

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#WineWednesday: Making a Splash

Hey Y'all!!

First, I want to start by extending a HUGE THANK YOU to all of the wonderful readers who provided feedback on my post last week. I received some really fabulous feedback and can't wait to try some of your suggestions from the survey.

This week's wine is Cannonball Chardonnay

Let's Dive in, shall we?

I was suggested this wine from a dear friend, who also happens to work at a package store. You wouldn't believe the connects I have... 

just kidding. 

He assured me that it was quite tasty and that if I really enjoyed Chard (which I do) then I should definitely give this one a shot. 

No need to twist my arm. 

After, I came to my senses and let it chill for a bit.. Don't know how you do the voodoo that you do. So, well it's a spell, hell, makes me wanna sip sip sip. (no, wait... wrong place. Bonus points if you can name that song tho!) 

Anyway, I let it completely chill to get it at optimum drinking temperature. 

See here in the South, it's hotter than a which's tit, in a brass bra! I mean: It. Is. Smokin' Hot! 

The delightful little boy doing a Cannonball on the label really hit home for me. Shoot, it is Summer after all. (In case you needed any reminder) 

A couple of glasses down the wine hatch and I was doing a Cannonball myself! (no, really!)

This wine is the Perfect Summer Wine. So refreshing with light notes of citrus. Yet, still bold and oak-ey. (trust me, it's a word)

Customized Etched Wine Glass from Gifted Sistas

Reigning from Sonoma County, a little less than $15 a bottle and a ease-of-access twist top - this wine will now be one of my favorites! 

Pairs wonderfully with ribs (I would know) and I would totally bring this pool or LAKESIDE. 

Thank you for the wonderful suggestion, friend! 

Wishing you all a wonderful #WineWednesday & be sure to share your wine photos using the #WineWednesday hashtag. It's like a virtual wine tasting and I'd love to see what your sippin' on!

#WineWednesday: Give it to me straight

Hello, hello Everyone and welcome to Wednesday!

This week's #WineWednesday, I'd like to switch things up a bit and hear for all of you lovely readers.

I'd like to ask each of you for a favor. I'd love for your participation in helping me pick the next wine, or wines, that I try and review here on FITO blog.

I know the world of wines is vast and deep but I'd love to know what wines YOU like. You see, this can't be a one way street here and I'd love to know about your wine experience.

What is you favorite go to wine? Or, your favorite vino to pop open during a special occasion? What is that one wine that you had and can never stop thinking about?  I want to know a little more about your wine tastes, and what wines make you tick.

I created a simple survey below (or can be found by clicking here) for you to share your thoughts about your wine tastes and preferences.

Also, I am trying to gain more insight for a wine glass/ wine accessories swap. Would you be interested in sharing your wine favorites with other wine lovers? If so, I want to hear from YOU!

Please feel free to share your thoughts honestly and openly. I will never share your information, and your wine secrets are safe with me.

I feel it's so important to know what my readers like, and what they don't like. I want this to be a place that you can come and enjoy - so by sharing you thoughts, I feel, will only help me be a better blogger for you!

Let's get an open conversation going about all things wine!

Share away, and thank you for participating.

#WineWednesday: Bringing Back the Box

... Boxed Wine, that is. Yep, you heard me right. I am bringing that shiz back and with a quickness too. You know what else, I'm darn proud of it too! I'm a hooked bag-slappin' Fool.

Okay, okay. So there actually are a few reasons why I'm now on the boxed bandwagon:

1. For starters, they've come a longgggg way since Pink boxed wines. I'm totally not hating on Pink Boxed Wines, trust me, I've had my fair share... but, I feel Pink boxed wine is slightly more appropriate with a pounding headache the next morning possibly accompanied with a bought of gut rot. I try to avoid both of those at all costs.

2. Speaking of costs. I think a $20 something box of wine is way more cost efficient, especially if your into a daily evening glass. It's always there, limitless, ready for a pour.

3. The equivalent of 4 bottles of wine packed into one convenient box. Easy to transport and less spoiled wine. Because, after all, you really shouldn't consume 4 bottles in one sitting. That's just plain wrong. So save a little. You don't have to worry about it going bad the next day.

4.  It's actually good tasting wine. Yes, it really is!

and, lastly ...

5. A Bota Box wine is environmentally friendly. According to the BotaBox.com website: "The smart, alternative packaging and size reduce greenhouse gasses by 75% and waste by 50%, cut fuel emissions due to its lighter shipping weight, and are produced primarily from paper which is a renewable resource" You get the wine. Mother Earth gets a a break. A total win/ win situation. 

The Bota Box brand offers a variety of boxed wines for your sipping pleasure. 

image // via

Look at those little baby ones in the front. Perfect for a picnic. 

My mom first introduced me to this wine and I clearly thought she was out of her mind.. and possibly having a mid-life crisis trying to escape back to hear early drinking days. She kept telling me "No, I swear it's really good wine!" and "It's just like bottled wine except there's more to share, consume, guzzle, etc.". I was at first a total skeptic, until she snuck me a glass. Unknowingly, I thought it was the glass bottled stuff. Sure enough it was a Bota Box. And you know what else. It tasted GREAT and it seemed endless. I've been hooked ever since. Thanks, Mom.  

Once I began researching a little bit more into the whole boxed wine trend, I realized how great this really is. By removing the glass bottles the saving is able to be passed down to the consumer. Who knew glass bottles were so overrated?!

 My favorite Bota Box is the Pinot Grigio. 

image // via

So there ya have it! 

What are your thoughts on boxed wines. Have you tried any recently? Don't you just love them?? Or, are you glass bottle all the way? I'd love to know, share you thoughts in the comments.

Feeling Fine with my Francis Wine

If you've been following along from my post last Friday you know that I've been doing my best "wine research". If you haven't been following along, shame on you...

A couple of weeks ago my local grocer was having a great sale on wine + 10% off if you bought 6 bottles. I was up for the challenge and assured myself that I needed to leave the store with 6 bottles of wine, because a) they were on sale and b) after all I am doing a weekly series all things wine. It was totally justifiable and complete with savings.

Yesterday I dove into my first batch of research and it did not disappoint. In fact, I liked it so much that I am going to pick up 6 bottles of it alone to stock my (imaginary) wine rack.

This lovely Diamond Collection Chardonnay (surprise!) by the Francis Ford Coppola Winery is superb!!

Absolutely smooth and light on my palate with all of its French Oak Barrel gloriousness. And, with it's alcohol content slightly higher than most Chards, I was feeling fine in no time. But, please, Wine Responsibly.

I must admit, I had a hunch that this wine would be Oh, So Good due to the fact that it is produced in the same area of California that my beloved B proposed to me. I felt it's magical Monterey powers as soon as I gripped the bottle. And, with each sip I reminisced about the magical sunset that I was asked to be his wife on the beautiful coast of California. I digress...

Coppola's Chardonnay is perfect all the way around. This Chardonnay has a great price point, around $15 a bottle, and can be easily paired with just about anything. I give this wine two thumbs up and a great big gulp.

We paired the wine with my Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms (recipe can be found here) and it made a great watering companion during my evening soaking of the begonias. (those are flowers people, not swamp man's rendition of the word)

If you're a Chardonnay lover, like yours truly, I know you will love this wine. Go grab a bottle, or six, and give a great big Cheers to Mr. Coppola - you did a great thing Francis, and we love you for that. I am looking forward to trying many more of Francis Ford Coppola's festive wines and of course, I'll fill you in. It is, after all, my wino duty.

Red, Red Wine Vinaigrette

Welcome to this week's #WineWednesday. Toady we're going to switch it up a bit and talk about Red Wine Vinaigrette. Because, after all, this blog is centered around food. So let's talk wine AND a new recipe.

I absolutely love making fresh sauces and dressing. There's just something about adjusting the sauce exactly to your liking. By adding fresh herbs here and there you have all the control over your dressing, which is always a nice change of pace.

I just love Red Wine Vinaigrette. 

A little sweet. A little tangy. Plus, a little wine. It's the perfect addition to any salad.

Not only do I use this tasty vinaigrette to dress my salads. I also LOVE it as dipping sauce with extra crispy bread. It's like a BONUS!

I adapted this recipe from my Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook (11th edition). Found here. 

I usually keep a jar of this dressing in my fridge so I can throw together a quick salad, use it as a dipping sauce, or add some extra flavor to sandwiches. It hardly ever lasts long enough, but it's so easy to whip up. Maybe next time I need to make a double batch.

Are you ready to make your own Red, Red Wine Vinaigrette?

Let's go!

What you'll need:

+  1/3 cup oil (I used vegetable, but olive oil will work great as well)

+  3 tablespoons of White Vinegar

+  1 tablespoon Sugar

+  1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme, oregano (I used dried herbs because that was all I had on hand)

+  1/2 teaspoon Paprika

+  1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

+  3 tablespoons Sweet Red Wine

+  1 clove minced Garlic

To Prepare:

In a jar, or air-tight container, combine all ingredients. Cover and shake well. Can be stored in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks. Shake well before serving. 

Note: I like to mix my vinaigrette a little heavy on the vinegar side. Therefore, I use Sweet Red Wine. It helps to counter balance out the vinegar. You can always use a dry Red Wine, which will work great as well!

Fun Fact. One of my all time favorite songs, since childhood, is Red, Red Wine by UB40. Every time I hear it on the radio I have to jam out and it takes me to such a happy place. I love how music can put us in a certain mood or give us a certain feeling. Do you have a favorite songs that takes you back?  

Here's to great salads, get sauces, and great music! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

    oxox, 

Amanda

POP open the Prosecco (+ a cocktail)

Introducing BOLLA Prosecco Treviso DOC

Prosecco. 

Not to be entirely confused with Champagne. 

Prosecco is a sparkling white wine that comes from the North Eastern region of Italy. 

Although, both Champagne and Prosecco are considered sparkling wines, the difference in their names determines the region in which they were produced. 

Prosecco = Veneto Italy (the northeast region of Italy)

Champagne = France

Additionally, Prosecco is particular to the grapes used in production. Prosecco only uses one type of Italian grape, Glera. Whereas Champagne uses a variety of grapes.

If you know one thing about me, it's that I am a fan of both Prosecco and Champagne! However, I tend to save the "Champs" for a celebratory occasion. 

I usually stick to the Prosecco. Especially when I need something lovely & bubbly but less wedding-ish and more low key.

Imported through Banfi Wines, Bolla's Prosecco comes from and is produced in Italy. North of Venice to be exact.

What I love about this Prosecco is that is very light and crisp on the palette. 

According to Banfi Wines' website, Bolla Prosecco Teviso DOC has been both hand and machine harvested and the "fermentation takes place in stainless steel and cuvee close to develop the stars."

Bolla Prosecco won a Gold Medal at the San Diego International Wine Competition and with an easy-on-the-wallet price point, you truly cannot go wrong.

This Prosecco pairs nicely with pretty much anything. Think appetizers, seafood, chicken, pork, pastas and even desserts.

This delightful Prosecco is a must! 

Quick Cocktail Idea:

You know the bliss of a Sunday Morning Mimosa...?

Well think that, but with a twist!

I like to call it the Prosecco Blood Orange Mimosa.

I am absolutely loving this mocked up version

Prosecco + Blood Orange 

BOOM!

So delish, and so refreshing! 

Try it and you'll love the easy combination. 

I am linking up Texas Women's Bloggers for Foodie Friday.

oxox, 

Amanda

#WineWednesday

Happy Hump Day Everyone & Welcome to our 2nd installment of #WineWednesday

Today I am sharing my thoughts about Rex-Goliath Merlot

I picked up this bottle of wine precisely because I used to decorate my kitchen with all things Cocks... Chickens that is... Sheesh!

Therefore, the proudly displayed “Giant 47 Pound Rooster” on the label meant that it had to be good, right?

Plus, I knew if at the very least, if I only stored the bottle in my counter-top wine rack it would be a great addition to my kitchen decor. Priorities, People!

Lucky for us, I had to pop that cork and taste the Jesus Juice/ Rooster Blood (whatever you want to call it) And, boy oh boy! Was I ever glad I did!

Specs:

Wine:  Rex Goliath Merlot Red Wine

Price: under $10 a bottle

Where: You can pick up this wine at any local Wal-Mart, CVS, and grocery store

(Please note: I like to shop around at only the finest of places… As you can tell)

Taste:  Bold, yet smooth. Light hints of fruit.

Serving Suggestions:  Serve at room temp. I also suggest pairing it with a nice chicken dish, like my Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms. DELISH!

Initial Thoughts:  mmmmm, mmmmmm gooood!

Final Thoughts:  No headache, no problem! That’s some damn good cock juice… okay, I’ll stop now!

So, what wines are you drinking this Wednesday?

Show me your wines using the hashtag #WineWednesday on Instagram and Twitter.

oxox, 

Amanda

and on Wednesdays...

We drink WINE!

Disclaimer: This is not a paid sponsorship. The products and opinions are soley expressed 100% on my own. If you're interested in having your product featured on FITO Blog please send an email to arhicks0427@gmail.com.

To me, wine is proof that Jesus loves me... and you.. and well all of US!

And shoot, Jesus drank the wine.

Therefore, you should too!

Since I love Jesus and I love the Wine, I decided to start a new series. 

Each week, on Wednesdays to be exact, I will be bringing my “Pick of the Week”  from the Vino aisle.

We shall call it #WineWednesday

Sounds sooooo good, doesn't it?

I know I want a glass now too!

This week, I am going to talk to you gals and guys about unoaked wine, specifically Chardonnay, and all its unoaked glory.

But first, lemme tell a story... (shit, I should hashtag that, huh?)

But first #lemmetellastory. 

(ahh much better)

Last weekend I went to my favorite place the Liquor Store and I was approached by the lovely teller (quickly after I just downed a tester of Texas Honey Liqueur - BTW delish!) I assume she thought I needed some help walking as I was quickly proceeding to the wines. It was urgency that I think she was mistaking for being drunk. Anyway, seeing as she worked there I thought she and I could share some great conversations about WINE and other sorts of spirits, and possibly become the greatest of buds - so I decided to take her on my trek to the wine aisle... However, there was a quick halt in the urgency as she directed me to the Kendall. I was out on that with a quickness. No offense and nothing against a cheap wine. In fact, I LOVE CHEAP WINE! Just not the Kendall, and definitely not Beringer (unless I am desperate buying roadies at the gas station to help soothe a hellacious day that was ending at wedding with no alcohol!! What?! I didn't even think that was possible) Anyway, I digress… and yes, I did sneak wine into a wedding. Call me what you want.

But seriously, and back to the story, if I am out in 90+ degree whether shopping for (& in dire need of) some wine, Kendall is definitely NOT what I had in mind. She was a wonderful lady, and I sincerely appreciated her kindness and company, and I guess subtle help, but I can only assume that she was new in the Vino district. So I took things over from there.

My new liquor store friend kept touching and pointing to a lovely little bottle that said unoaked Chardonnay. She proceeded to ask me if I had unoaked wine and I told her “I didn't even know that existed!” “What is unoaked wine?” Feeling slightly ignorant after my gag-face when she pointed to the dreaded K, and then realizing we were probably on the same level of Vino knowledge. I decided to try it regardless.

According to Liquor-store Lady, unoaked is wine that has been aged outside of the oak barrel…

Okay guys, I kind of figured that it had something to do with the barrel and production!! But what the hell does it do to the wine??

I grabbed the bottle and hit up the Google, and now, I give you my thoughts and knowledge on this whole Unoaked Wine Thing.

BTW, I did check with my very legit wine expert. One who I've know since middle school, and who happened to be one of our groomsmen in our wedding.

Yep, that's him. He's worked and lived in the beautiful wine country for several years now, and we happened to take a nice little trip to visit him the night after we were engaged. We talked about wine and even privately toured one of the wineries. Therefore, his wine knowledge is precious to me so I had to pick his brain over the whole unoaked thing. Now, this is where I have to tell you, he is not endorsing this wine, he simply made it sooooo easy for me to understand unoaked Chardonnay and I'd feel really silly if I didn't ask for his help. Plus, he drinks the good fancy stuff, it's practically right at his fingertips.

Basically, Chardonnay is typically fermented or aged (OR BOTH) in oak barrels to give it that beautiful rich bold flavor that I've come to adore. However, using oak barrels can become pricing which leads to an increase in price... did I mention I like inexpensive wine? But this wine, and it's unoaked process was so good and just as good as any of my other go-to Chards with bold nutty flavors.

So here's the deal:

Wine: 2013 A by Acacia Chardonnay Unoaked (love that it has my first initial right on the label)

Price: $10.49 + tax (to be exact - I would know since I spent an hour trying to peel of the price tag label for photos)

Taste: Very smooth and definitely BOLD (which is soooo my type of thing!)

Serving Suggestions: Serve this wine chilled, like I would suggest for any other white wine

Initial Thoughts: Now this is MY KIND OF WINE. Honestly, I was completely expecting to have a mouth full of sweetness (sorry, just not my thing), and sure enough it was right up there with my go to!

Final Thoughts: I would totally buy this wine again, especially for myself, or as a hostess gift if I am feeling generous. No dreaded headache the next morning like some other less expensive wines. Nope, just a nice all-around great wine. Go getcha some!

Have you tried an unoaked wine? Did you love it? Hate it? Share your thoughts, I'd love to know how you feel about unoaked wines.

  oxox, 

Amanda