*+.Starry*.+*Nights.*+
Get ready for an Astronomical August
If you haven’t yet heard of the total solar eclipse happening this month, be sure to check out the recent buzz on 
NASA’s website-you won’t want to miss it. A total solar eclipse is set in motion to occur on the 21st of this month. The Sturgeon Moon (named by some Native American Tribes) will completely cover the sun in parts of North America all the way from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, and South Carolina. Star watchers outside of the corona path will still be able to see a partial solar eclipse…and we’re thinking…wherever you are…a nice bottle of Rosella’s smooth wine would be the perfect companion!
The Constellation Perseus
If this year’s total solar eclipse isn’t in the cards for you, not to worry. The month of August is ripe for celestial 
events! The Perseid Meteor shower will also be streaking across the night skies. The best times to get a glimpse of these amazing fireballs will be on the 11th, 12th, and 13th. If you’re watching closely, you will see the direction of the constellation these spirited fireballs come from.
Consider Bringing:
Special glasses (for the eclipse)…although wine glasses aren’t a bad idea either
A blanket and pillows
Folding chairs
Snacks
Warm clothes
Something warm to drink
Chill music
A constellation map
Binoculars
A telescope
Rosella’s 2013 Merlot
*Remember, for your safety never look directly at the sun…(or else how would you find our website to stay informed on our upcoming wine debuts? Hehee…) To your health and a magical summer!
~Cheers
Celebrate your Independence Day with a Delish Dish!
The 4th of July is here! Soon folks will be watching fireworks from their rooftops, a starry hill, the county fair or even at home on the t.v. If your looking for some sparkling recipes to bring along the way, Rosella’s has plucked out a few ripe ones just for you!
Let’s start off with some homemade hotdog buns, yum!
Get ready for a fabulous hot dog experience from KQED Food, where light and fluffy meets crunchy and chewy! This little oven-baked morsel will definitely have you and your guests back for seconds….or thirds.
Try this tangy red, white, and blue sangria to wash things down!
A brilliant concoction from Recipe Girl, this festive drink mixes a bit of triple sec, berry flavored vodka and a dry white wine (of which our White Wine Blend would do nicely.) As a non-alcoholic beverage for the kids, just add a little lemon-lime soda and your choice of cranberry-grape juice, orange juice or apple juice.
Feeling like something a little Seaside?
This Blackened Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad by KarylsKulinaryKrusade is a vibrant side dish for party goers looking for something a little less traditional to jazz things up. With down to earth pine nuts, spicy pepper flakes, and creamy avocado…this is a dish to remember!
And of course, every great holiday has a legendary dessert!
Don’t let this simple ingredient Flag Cake by spendwithpennies fool you! Sugared cream cheese, berries, and whipped cream toppings will go down in history…and has!
I don’t know about you, but all this food has me thinking about crafting a memorable dinner piece for all my friends and family to see. Check out these really cool Patriotic Mason Jar Lanterns by addicted2diy!
And remember, try our Tasting Notes page for great ideas on food pairings.
Wishing you a happy 4th of July!
~Rosella’s Vineyard
Fun Summer Picnics
If you know us at all, you know we just love being with friends and family…and of course having great food with our favorite wines! If you’ve got the picnic itch…we’ve jotted down some reminders on how to have an amazing feast and outing!
The night before…
One of the great things about having a picnic is the planning stage. The fun is escalated when everyone starts to feel that it’s really gonna happen, and the plan isn’t just talk. We’re all for spontaneity…but some of our most memorable outings were because we took the time to plan them! For your day of fun, here are a few tips that could be useful
:
- Make sure you have a few places in mind for your grass party. Whether you’re taking a trail up a mountain or just going to the park, it’s always nice to have a backup plan. Sometimes the county will shut down certain areas for maintenance reasons etc….
- If you decide to shop for your day picnic in the early morning, go through the fridge and cupboards and prepare all the tasties you find in advance, as much as possible.
- Cut up blocks of cheese, meat, and bread and put into sandwich bags, ready to grab
- Don’t be afraid to throw those olives, fruits, and veggies in early either. (The less you have to do in the morning the better)
- Remember to refrigerate any refreshments normally drunk cold too (champaign is usually enjoyed chilled)
- If there are any kitchen napkins you don’t mind bringing outside, the better… regular napkins are light and easily blow away in the wind
- Insect invasions can quickly ruin any amazing picnic…and does happen. To avoid these “mini-armies,” take the time to pack some bug repellent/spray.
- When it comes to Sunscreen, why not bring it along? Better safe than sorry
Finally, make a grocery list for whatever else you might need before bed, (and get some uninterrupted rest before your day of fun.) Smoke-dried sausage and brownies are classic treats! (Check out our Tasting Notes page under the Wine Shop tab for great pairing ideas!!)
Additional items to consider
- Knife and utensils
- Mini condiment packages
- Ice packs
- A trash bag
- A camera
- Playing cards
- A Frisbee/Soccer ball
- A chess board
- A blanket
- Music/instrument (Ukulele are our favorite!)
- Book
- Rosella’s Red Wine Blend
~Cheers,
From Rosella’s Vineyard!
Applegate Valley Wine Trail
