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Wine And Cheese Party Guide

January 4, 2023

A great way to celebrate with family and friends is to host a wine and cheese party!

Gathering your friends and family for a celebration is always a good time with some wine and cheese. It’s actually a great way to celebrate for busy people out there and lazy cooks. You don’t need to cut or prepare anything for cooking or baking, which is actually less stressful while throwing a party. You get the pleasure of creating a fun, colorful, and beautiful platter. There is something so satisfying about making and serving a cheese platter. It actually brings joy to my spirit. It’s great to know that there is something for everyone and it’s always fun and adventurous to try new and different cheeses and wines. A beautiful cheese platter with some LGC wine is not only a hit for holiday parties, but they are also a great fit for dinner parties.

I understand that it could feel a little bit intimidating to host a wine and cheese party but if you follow our guide, it will be a guaranteed success. In this blog post, we will provide you with a quick and easy-to-follow guide. We will make this low-prep, no-cook party preparation a memorable and enjoyable moment for you.

This is just a guide there are no rules, however, being knowledgeable on how to pair cheese and wine is very helpful. Different flavors react in ways that enhance or diminish one another.

We already know that most people already do enjoy wine and cheese, but having some knowledge and understanding can take your hosting wine and cheese party game to a whole other level!

What to serve with Wine and Cheese?

One of the key benefits of throwing a wine and cheese party is that you do not need to cook! You can lay all your focus on getting the best cheese and wine to serve to your guests. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen. In order for you to make a complete cheese board we need to add some other additions to the platter. We want to build a cheese board that serves everything. This is why we add some sweetness and savory extras to the cheese platter. We also like to add some extra slices of bread and crackers nearby to munch on.

 

What Cheese are we serving?

Okay, so the recipe to create the perfect pairing is to expand your knowledge of cheese. Expanding your knowledge of cheese will help you pair correctly. 

Don’t serve cheese on its own. Pair with tasty compliments.

As we mentioned earlier we need to add some extra flavors to the platter. We mentioned that we add something sweet and savory.

wine and cheese pairing

Let’s start with savory.

Cured meat + Seafood

Cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, pancetta, chorizo, and many more pairs so well with cheese.

We recommend remaining with only one variety per board and organizing it in two unique parts of the board to give the illusion that there are two options.

Salty Bites + Condiments

This is very simple, and much easier than cutting and prepping food for cooking. All you need to do is place them in small, aesthetically pleasing vowels and/or arrange them on the cheeseboard.

Something Sweet

As mentioned earlier we need some sweetness to excite the board. This could be fresh or dehydrated fruits and veggies. Or some honey, jams, maple syrup, etc. Our favorite pairing snack is freeze-dried strawberries from Target, check them out here.

Something Crunchy

It’s always a good idea to add dried fruits and toasted nuts. They both work great with sweet and savory pairings for many different kinds of cheese. It’s always satisfying to add some crunchiness and they really can help fill up the spaces. Your guests will definitely enjoy munching on cheese, crackers, nuts, and cold cuts.

Crackers + Bread

Include a beautiful basket on the table that is associated with different kinds of pieces of bread like sliced baguettes, breadsticks, and different types of crackers in all shapes and forms.

Other Options

 

The Wine

We recommend that you at least pick from 2-4 different types of wine. No more than 6 wines unless it’s a larger gathering. You should always include the options of red wine and white, and/or Rose for your guests to choose from. 

Honestly, you could get away with serving just one red wine and one white wine. Just make sure that they are versatile. 

Learning a bit more about wines will help you pair correctly.

Wine and Cheese pairing

We are all familiar with how well a glass of wine goes well with cheese. One compliments the other, the combination is mouth-watering. Cheese is there to make any wine taste better. 

But which wine goes well with what cheese?

As you can tell wine and cheese pairing possibilities are endless! We suggest that you pick the wine first then the cheese. To make it easy for you, we’ve broken things down into wine categories. 

  • Sparkling Wine
  • White Wine
  • Rose Wine
  • Dessert wine

champagne pairing

How much to buy?

This might be difficult or even easier than you think. It all depends on the number of your guests and also on the season if it’s summer or winter.

Depending on the number of guests, the rule of thumb is to at least have about 6 unique cheeses. Serving about 25-60g/1-2 ounces of each type of different cheese per person.

And for the cured meats/seafood we recommend 60-140g/2-5 ounces per person. 

This shall be served with your other condiments such as fruit, nuts, honey, and jams. Also your bread and crackers as well.

How to set the table

Depending on how large your party is, we recommend setting your cheeses up buffet-style for smaller gatherings. If it is a large party we recommend setting up several different tables with wine and cheese pairs on various tables. 

It’s always nice to add some beautiful decorations like seasonal flowers, pretty tablecloths, and seasonal centerpieces will all improve the party and make it look nice.

Preparation

To make sure you have everything you need for the party it is very important to plan. By planning I mean weeks early. Have a list on that you write your food and drink choices just like a grocery shopping list. As the day passes pick items instead of doing it all at once.

It’s time to party!

We hope that you developed confidence in hosting a beautiful wine and cheese party and that our guide was helpful! If you read thus far? You are more than prepared to host your own Wine & Cheese party. Just make sure your throw in some creativity, positive energy, and some awesome wine, and your guests shall be happy!

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Lemon Pistachio Pesto Pasta Recipe

December 29, 2022

Lemon Pistachio Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

1 lb pasta (any shape will do!)
About 3 cups fresh basil leaves
2 garlic cloves
½ cup shelled pistachios
1 lemon, juiced
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
¼ tsp ground black pepper, plus more to taste
¾ to 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

Place the basil leaves, garlic, pistachios, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a blender or food processor and pulse until chopped. Drizzle in olive oil while the machine is on low. When incorporated, stop and taste, add more salt and pepper as necessary.

*The key to really delicious pesto is to blend it on low. If you go too high on your machine, you may bruise the basil and it can come out bitter.

Toss the pesto and your cooked pasta and garnish with some lemon skin.

Pair with Blanc de Blancs Brut

Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Sparkling Wine from us.

Source: lesliedurso.com

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Pomegranate Thai Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Pomegranate Thai Chicken Enchiladas recipe

Sauce

1-½ cups sweet Thai chili sauce
½ cup soy sauce
⅓ cup dark brown sugar
1 tbsp peanut butter
1 tbsp tomato paste
¾ cup pomegranate juice
¼ cup rice vinegar
1 lime, juiced
1 tsp fish sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
½ tsp crushed red pepper
½ tsp pepper

Enchiladas

1 rotisserie chicken, meat removed and shredded (about 1 pound)
1 red pepper, sliced thin
1 orange pepper, sliced thin
1-½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
8-10 flour tortillas
For serving: diced avocado, pomegranate arils, chopped cilantro, green onions, queso fresco

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

To make the sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweet Thai chili sauce, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, peanut butter, tomato paste, pomegranate juice, rice vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, crushed red pepper, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from the heat and set aside.

In the meantime, in a medium bowl, add the shredded chicken, sliced bell pepper, cilantro, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. When the sauce is cooled slightly pour in about ¾ cup or just enough to coat the chicken. Toss well to coat.

To assemble enchiladas, spoon a little of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla, tuck and roll, placing the tortilla seam side down into the baking dish. Pour and spread the remainder of the sauce over top of the enchiladas and top with remaining mozzarella.

Bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Remove and top with diced avocado, pomegranate arils, cilantro, green onions, and queso fresco.

Make it ahead: Assemble enchiladas the day before (do not bake). Be sure enchiladas are room temperature, cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake per directions.

Pair with Brut Rosé .

Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Sparkling Wine from us.

Source: stylingmyeveryday.com

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Easy Deviled Eggs Recipe – Champagne / Sparkling pairing

December 26, 2022

Ingredients

12 hard-boiled eggs
¼ cup mayo
1 tsp yellow mustard
2 tsp chopped cornichons or pickles
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tsp cornichon juice
Tabasco hot sauce
Kosher salt and pepper for seasoning
Paprika
Chives – chopped

Instructions:

In a large pot, put eggs in and cover with cold water. On high heat, bring to a boil. When the water starts boiling, turn the heat off, cover the pot and let the eggs steam for 15min. Drain the hot water and fill the pot with cold water for the eggs to cool. Once cool, peel the eggs and cut them in half (I think it goes without saying, but do so, lengthwise). Remove egg yolks and place them in a mixing bowl.

Add in your ingredients: mayo, mustard, chopped cornichons, vinegar, hot sauce, cornichon juice, kosher salt, and pepper (to your taste). Mix (easiest to do with a fork). Taste to ensure seasoned as desired.

DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESENTATION

We eat with our eyes, so gotta make these chicks look good! Instead of just scooping the mixture into the eggs (which can get messy), I chose to use a piping bag (here, and piping tip)! Looks delish and kinda profesh, no? Once you’ve piped the mixture into the eggs, place them on a platter.

After plating, just sprinkle with some paprika, chives, or any other garnish on top and you’re all set to enjoy!

Pair best with Blanc de Blancs Brut . Trust us, you don’t want to miss this pairing

Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% off your first bottle!

Source: Champagnedarling.com

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Best Pairing ideas for Champagne, Sparkling Wine & Prosecco

December 24, 2022

Top Food Pairings for Sparkling Wines: Champagne Food Pairing Made Simple

What pairs well with sparkling wine? What goes good with Champagne? Food pairing with champagne and sparkling wines is much easier than you think! In fact, they are among the easiest of wine and food pairings. The best food pairings for sparkling wine will normally consist of richer foods. Rich foods and those which are greasy, fatty, fried, or spicy are perfect complements as both the acidity and effervescence of sparkling wines help to balance heavier foods. Many in the industry call sparkling wine the ’scrubbing bubbles’ for the palate as it perfectly cleanses the tongue in between bites. Read on for some of our favorite sparkling wine pairings.

Our Le Grand Courtage Blanc de Blancs Brut or Brut Rose are each the best sparkling wine in their category and price point, award winning and affordable French wines, and  both perfect complements to the below as our crisp, light and refreshing French sparklers are cuisine and cocktail friendly, meaning they make amazing, delicious sparkling cocktails and pair easily with a wide variety of food. They are not quite as dry and yeasty (and much more affordable to the everyday) than traditional Champagne, but not nearly as sweet as a Prosecco.​​

Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Sparkling Wine from us.

Appetizers: What Snack Goes Well With Champagne?

  • Almonds
  • Buttered or Truffled Popcorn
  • Cocktail Sausages
  • Duck-fat French fries
  • Egg Rolls & Spicy Asian appetizers
  • Egg-based hors d’oeuvres
  • Olives
  • Potato Chips
  • Prosciutto-wrapped Appetizers
  • Fried Mushrooms
  • Stuffed Mushrooms
  • Vegetables

Cheeses: What Cheese Pairs Well With Sparkling Wines?

  • Brie
  • Cheddar
  • Goat
  • Gouda
  • Parmesan

Seafood/Fish: Sparkling Wine Pairing Made Easy with Seafood

  • Crab Rangoons
  • Fish Tacos
  • Lobster
  • Raw Oysters
  • Shellfish
  • Shrimp
  • Smoked Salmon
  • Sushi
  • Crab

Asian: Easy Sparkling Wine Pairing

  • Anything spicy – Pad Thai, Curry

Pizza: What Food Goes Best With Champagne?

  • Pizza Quattro Formaggi or Bianca 
  • Prosciutto and Burrata Pizza 
  • Wild Mushroom Pizza

Meat: What To Serve With Sparkling Wine

  • Bacon
  • BBQ (esp Rosé)
  • Beef or Pork Sliders
  • Brisket Chili
  • Duck
  • Chicken
  • Game
  • Foie Gras
  • Fried Chicken
  • Lamb
  • Prosciutto
  • Ribs
  • Roasted Chicken
  • Salami
  • Sweet Breads

Brunch: Sparkling Wine Pairing At Brunch

  • Eggs Benedict
  • Mushroom, Bacon Omelets
  • Frittatas
  • Scrambled Eggs
  • Brioche French Toast with maple syrup (blanc) berry syrup (rosé)

Pasta: Easy Wine Food Pairing with everyone’s comfort food

  • Butternut Squash Ravioli
  • Macaroni & Cheese with bread crumb crust
  • Pastas with cream or mushroom sauces
  • Risotto with mushroom sauce

Sweets Indulgences: What desserts to Pair With Sparkling Wines Such As Prosecco, Champagne, Brut, & Cava

  • Angel Food Cake
  • Berries
  • Cheesecake
  • White Chocolate
  • Fruit-Based Desserts and Tarts
  • Mascarpone Cheese
  • Shortbread Cookies
  • Toffee, rocca,
  • Salted caramels

Head to our entertaining page for some of our favorite food recipes, sparkling and rosé cocktail recipes, entertaining tips, and much more.

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Radish Salad with Kale, Almonds, and Parmesan Recipe

December 22, 2022

The perfect Salad and Sparkling wine Pairing

½ head Tuscan kale, cut or torn into bite-size pieces
3 tbsp high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Fine sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 large black, purple, or watermelon radish, thinly sliced or cut into bite-size pieces
2 small Tokyo turnips or small radishes, thinly sliced
4 oz (115 g) Parmesan cheese, broken into bits
1⁄3 cup (40 g) roasted unsalted almonds, coarsely chopped
Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, for serving

Toss the kale together with the oil and lemon juice in a large bowl. Season with fine salt and pepper. Massage the kale, squeezing and rubbing the leaves together with your hands, working the oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into the leaves to flavor and tenderize them. Toss together with the radish, turnips, cheese, and almonds. Divide among serving plates and garnish with flaky salt and more pepper. Serve at room temperature.

GET AHEAD

Kale tenderizes as it sits in lemon and salt, so making this a day ahead always works. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Radishes, too, can benefit from some softening, but after a day they get stinky, so if you’re planning to keep the salad for more than half a day, throw your radishes in no more than a few hours before serving.

Pairs best with Le Grand Courtage Brut Rosé

Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Sparkling Wine from us.

Reprinted from Every Day Is Saturday by Sarah Copeland with permission by Chronicle Books, 2019

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Elevate Your Low Carb Lifestyle | Top 5 Keto Foods That Pair Well With Sparkling Wines

December 21, 2022

keto recipe

 

Lifestyle changes don’t stop the party! Keep the good times flowing with inclusive wines that everyone will love!

Le Grand Courtâge award-winning and affordable French sparkling and rosé wines are vegan-friendly, low calorie, low carb, and cuisine and cocktail friendly, every adult can enjoy and all you have to do is simply chill & enjoy…. And they are female owned and operated so it’s a plus, plus all around! Without the expensive price of champagne, these bubbles won’t break the bank.

The French wine trio (Le Grand Courtâge Blanc de Blancs Brut, Le Grand Courtâge Brut Rosé, and Provence-style Très Chic Rosé) each score 90+ points. The two sparkling varieties are less than 100 calories and just 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving, and pair with practically anything! So keep the bubbly and rosé chilling to be ready for celebrations at any moment!

Light, versatile, and perfect for champagne cocktails, these wines truly do it all!

Top 5 Keto Foods That Pair Well With Sparkling Wines

Cheese: Rich, delicious cheeses like brie and aged cheddar are two favorites that please any crowd! Sparkling Wine and cheese pairing is easier than you think. Are you hosting a sparkling wine and cheese party? Or maybe you just want to enjoy some sparkling wine and good cheese and would like to find the perfect match! Well, look no further as we’ve outlined wine and cheese pairing here.

Pork Rinds: Salty, crunchy, fried foods are a match made in heaven for sparkling wines. The slightly sweet wines balance the grease and salt like a scrumptious symphony. The best food pairings for sparkling wine will normally consist of richer foods and those which are greasy, fat, fried, or spicy are perfect complements as both the acidity and effervescence help to balance heavier foods. Many in the industry call sparkling wine the ’scrubbing bubbles’ for the palate as it perfectly cleanses the tongue in between bites.

Bacon (& Eggs): Savory breakfast foods balance the acidity of brut and sparkling rosé nicely. Our brut rosé is made with Gamay, a grape known for its pairing ability for comfort foods like holiday meals and brunch favorites! Read more on brunch wine pairings here.

Blackberries: The fruity, tart, burst of flavor from blackberries is a fun way to play up the flavors of a champagne or champagne alternative such as a blanc de blancs brut! See our featured Blackberry French 75 recipe for a delicious Mother’s Day or Fun Spring Cocktail.

Mushrooms: The earthy taste and unique texture of mushrooms can be polarizing to some but champagne lovers tend to embrace this food pairing because of all the ways you can play up the flavors of the many different kinds of mushrooms!

Sparkling wines and rosé are the all-star pairing wines – making food pairings pretty much foolproof. They are especially great for hostesses everywhere because of their versatile pairing ability. Truly amazing breakfast through dessert – bubbly is the perfect pairing choice Bubbles are the most versatile of wine from a pairing perspective and truly go breakfast through dessert. Perfect as a hostess gift, party favors, and ideal for bubbly cocktail mixing.

Take the guesswork out of food pairing and mixing sparkling cocktails! We’ve created a collection of resources featuring all our favorite things: delicious cocktail recipes, effortless entertaining ideas, foolproof food pairing guide, brunch and bridal season look books, even a list of our favorite playlists to really get the party going! Click here to retrieve our free ebooks that make entertaining effortless.

We believe in embracing the French spirit of joie de vivre, or “joy of life”, where elevating and celebrating the everyday moments is our way of romanticizing the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Won’t you join us in our mission to #livejoyously?

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Champagne Charcuterie Or Grazing Board | New Year Eve Party Food And Drinks + Champagne Board Ideas

December 12, 2022

Whether it’s date night at home, NYE, or a girl’s night binge-watching your favorite show, a fun way to celebrate and elevate is to create a champagne charcuterie board with delectable morsels that pair well with sparkling wine, prosecco, cava, and of course champagne (aka champers, bubbly, fizz).  A champagne grazing board is also great for adult birthday parties, bridal showers, and watching award shows.

Champagne and sparkling wine are really one of the most versatile wines for food as it contains high levels of acidity and a small amount of sugar. The two extremes complement elements in almost any food, from tame poached salmon to red-hot Thai food. Often referred to as the scrubbing bubbles for your palate as it cleanses the tongue and balance

Spritzy bubbles refresh the palate that acts as a cleanser (aka the scrubbing bubbles for the palate), getting you ready for the next burst of flavor. Bubbles work particularly well with fried and spicy foods, helping to cut through the fat and tame heat.

Champagne or sparkling wine has racy acidity, and that trait is very food friendly as it is balanced by fat, salt, and sweet flavors. The acid in bubbly balances out salty foods well, making it a classic pairing for oysters and any sort of snacky foods like salted nuts, french fries, and popcorn.

For a memorable New Year’s Eve party, here are some Champagne/ sparkling wine cocktails and food pairing ideas to help ring in the celebration:

Champagne Cocktails:

  • Classic Champagne Cocktail: Sugar cube soaked in bitters at the bottom of a flute, topped with Champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist.
  • Bellini: Peach purée topped with Champagne. You can also try variations using other fruit purées like strawberry or mango.
  • French 75: Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup topped with Champagne. Serve in a flute with a lemon twist.
  • Elderflower Sparkler: Elderflower liqueur mixed with Champagne and a splash of soda water. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of cucumber.
  • Pomegranate Champagne Punch: Pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and Champagne. Add pomegranate seeds and orange slices for a festive look.

NYE Food Ideas

  • Appetizers and Finger Foods:
    • Miniature versions of classic appetizers like mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, or cocktail meatballs.
    • Smoked salmon or tuna tartare on cucumber slices or crispy crackers.
    • Crostini with various toppings like goat cheese and fig jam, prosciutto and melon, or roasted vegetables.
    • Seafood Platter: Oysters on the half shell, shrimp cocktail, and smoked salmon served with various dipping sauces.
    • Fondue: Set up a cheese or chocolate fondue station with an array of dippables like bread, fruits, vegetables, and marshmallows for dipping. We love these cheesy resources for fondue! 23 Next-Level Fondue Recipes & Fondue Recipes for Dinner Parties
    • Sliders and Mini Sandwiches: Serve bite-sized sandwiches with different fillings such as roast beef with horseradish, pulled pork, or vegetarian options like grilled veggies with hummus.
  • Desserts:
    • Champagne-infused desserts like Champagne cupcakes, Champagne truffles, or Champagne sorbet.
    • Decadent chocolate fondue with assorted treats for dipping like strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzels.

EXPERT IDEA: Gourmet Cheese and Charcuterie Platter: Include an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, nuts, fruits, and spreads. Refer to the previous suggestions for a stunning charcuterie board.

We suggest considering some decadent items on your Champagne Charcuterie Board and make sure it is laden with some exceptional items, from the chicken and veal pâté, prosciutto di Parma to the creamy goat cheese the warm chestnut infused honey – or savory cheese fondue for some real French-flare.

What You’ll Need To Make a Champagne Charcuterie Grazing Board

Pâté. Prosciutto. Soppressata. Genoa Salame. These meats are perfect for pairing with various kinds of cheese and work well with extra-dry bubbly the sweeter sparkling wine styles like Demi-Sec and Doux.

Soft. Semi-Soft. Semi-Hard. Hard Cheeses. When it comes to cheeses, you have so many options. Again, select the cheeses with the flavor profiles you enjoy as you can’t go wrong.

Fruit & Honey. Any good grazing or charcuterie board worth its salt will have a fair share of fruit and at least one variety of honey and some honeycomb.

Even though fruits pair well with cheeses, they also act to cleanse the palate. 

Honey also brings out the different characteristics of cheese. Typically, light honey is paired with light cheeses, and intensely flavored honey like chestnut honey or buckwheat honey is generally paired with robust or intensely flavored cheeses like sharp and tangy cheddar cheeses, Comté, Gruyère, or Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Bread & Crackers

  • Baguette
  • Cheese Crisps (Asiago + Cheddar)
  • Fig or Date based crackers
  • Multi-grain Gourmet Crackers
  • Garlic Breadsticks
  • Bruschettin (Snack Size Italian Bruschetta Toast)

Appetizers

Cheeses

  • Brie
  • Gouda
  • Parmesan
  • Feta
  • Camembert
  • Goat cheese
  • Délice de Bourgogne

Seafood

  • Oysters
  • Shrimp
  • Smoked Salmon
  • Crab
  • Lobster
  • Caviar

Meat

  • Foie Gras
  • Chicken Liver Mousse
  • Prosciutto
  • Salami
  • Sopressa
  • Fried Chicken (yes really – it might be the BEST pairing)

Fruit

  • Figs
  • Grapes
  • Pear
  • Apple
  • Strawberry
  • Raspberry
  • Blueberry

The Sweeter Side

  • Shortbread
  • Pound cake
  • Meyer lemon Tart

Fondue – it doesn’t get more French (or fun) than a hot and delish cheesy, savory fondue.   Here are some fabulous recipes to consider

23 Next-Level Fondue Recipes

Fondue Recipes for Dinner Parties

Remember to cater to different dietary preferences and allergies if known among your guests. These ideas offer a mix of flavors and textures to elevate your New Year’s Eve party and ensure a memorable celebration!

If you are considering what to buy and don’t want to spend a fortune, or want a one-stop shop,  here is a good reference for Trader Joe’s from The Baker Mama.

How to know what sort of sparkling wine or champagne to serve?

Like any wine, Champagnes range from sweet to dry. Here are the labels to look for:

  • Demi-sec – The sweetest of Champagnes, but not as sweet as a dessert wine. It means “half sweet.”
  • Dry – A shade drier than demi-sec.
  • Extra dry – One-step drier.
  • Brut – The driest form, and the most typical/popular.

Some styles

  • Blanc de Blancs is made only with white grapes. It generally goes well with lighter foods, such as seafood and vegetables. Also good as a pre-dinner aperitif.
  • Blanc de Noirs, made solely from red Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, with a deeper golden color than the Blanc de Blancs. It makes a great pairing with full-flavored or rich foods.
  • Rosé. The color comes from the addition of Pinot Noir wine at the second fermentation, the point at which still wine becomes Champagne. This type is one of the best to have with dinner, according to Ed McCarthy, author of Champagne for Dummies.

cheese board

Add a little luxury to your next occasion and always embody that champagne state of mind!

Learn more entertaining hacks here!

Watch our video below as we demonstrate how to properly and safely open a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine.

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Best ‘Champagne’ For Mimosas – And Affordable Brunch Sparkling Wine Alternatives + Mimosa Pancakes Brunch Recipe

November 18, 2022

Elevate your brunching and consider some fun alternatives to add a few twists – and a lot of personality – to everyone’s favorite weekend tradition – mimosas!

What is the best champagne or sparkling wine for Mimosas?

First, you might ask, what’s the difference between sparkling wine and champagne…  here’s a couple facts to provide some insights:

  1. Sparkling wine can only be called Champagne if it comes from the region of Champagne, France which is located just outside of Paris.
  2. Furthermore, Champagne can only be made using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.
  3. To clarify, all Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. We really should think of Champagne in terms of a geographical location as opposed to a winemaking style.

So what type of sparkling wine is best for your brunch mimosas?

If you are looking to splurge, then might we suggest Lanson, or Veuve.

If you are looking for a cheaper wine and/or a sweeter profile, then italian prosecco or spanish cava are great options.

When you want a more traditional style, imagery, and quality of French champagne, but don’t want to spend a fortune, then we suggest affordable French sparkling wines and cremants, like Le Grand Courtâge sparkling wines Blanc de Blancs Brut and Brut Rosé.

Female-founded, award-winning, made-in-France, and each scoring 90+ points, these luxury sparkling wines were created to provide an affordable alternative to champagne, to elevate and celebrate everyday moments!

Our philosophy, why buy Veuve when you can get two?!  Shop wine now to stock up and let the bubbly flow, and even get free shipping on qualifying orders!  Pop. Fizz. Clink!

Better your Brunch

Elevate the Traditional mimosa and move beyond classic Orange Juice and sparkling wine mimosa recipe. Consider changing up the mimosa juices for your brunch sparkling cocktails seasonally, such as:

Spring MimosasPink Grapefruit Mimosa, Blood Orange Mimosa, Strawberry Mimosa

Summer Mimosas Peach Mimosa, Watermelon Mimosa, Mango Mimosa, Pineapple Mimosa

Fall & Winter MimosasApple Cider Mimosa, Pomegranate Mimosa, Cranberry Mimosa

Play With Your Foods  (And  Drinks!)

Get creative! Add fun rims and garnishes for extra flavor and fun! A few favorite ways to play up your mimosas:

Another fairly easy, but impactful way to impress your guests is to do a mimosa bar or a build-your-own concept.

Build Your Own Mimosa Bar

Variety is the spice of life! Give guests a flight of juices, a bottle of sparkling wine (classic brut or brut rosé) & fresh fruit for garnishes so they can craft the perfect mimosa according to their tastes! This makes a memorable, visual impression and is great for mingling and conversation.

Le Grand Courtâge rosé sparkling wine and white sparkling wine are also available in mini bottle sizes, 187ml perfect for favors and individual servings or even place settings and/or escort cards!

For even more elevated brunch entertaining and ideas, download our Brunch Ideas Booklet  for loads of inspiration and recipes.

The beauty of brunch is that you get to incorporate sweet and savory dishes and be a little whimsical. And luckily, white and rosé sparkling wines are cuisine and cocktail friendly, and make for perfect pairing wines for practically everything from brunch to dessert.

Read more on brunch pairings on our elevated brunch blog!

Special Brunches That Create Lasting Memories

Holiday Brunch Bar/Buffet – consider a brunch bar or a beautiful tablescape with an assortment of sweet and savory treats to satisfy your guests young and old.

Brunch in Bed

Weekends are for sleeping in and catching up on rest. Why not indulge in the cozy and comfortable and serve up some brunch in bed? Keep it simple with croissants, scones, and mimosas or easily whip up a frittata if you’re craving something savory.

Bridal Brunches & Baby Showers

Time to celebrate the bride or mom-to-be! 187ml bottles of brut or brut rosé are a crowd pleaser as place settings, for mimosa mixing, or as the perfect takeaway favor for guests!

Unexpected Pairings

Pancakes are wonderful, but the best pairings for a bubbly brunch are the savory, spicy, salty variety: think fried chicken and waffles, eggs benedict, & huevos rancheros.

For more champagne and sparkling cocktails, brunch inspiration, top food pairings, and elegant entertaining  ideas, browse our curated blogs and follow along on Pinterest!

More Sparkling Wine Cocktail Recipes To Try | Free Sparkling Cocktail Recipe Books:

You might be well-versed in thinking of topping off cocktails with Champagne and Prosecco, but it’s time to think pink and play with Pink “Champagne” or Sparkling Rosé as it adds a little more structure but is also vibrant, youthful fruit notes that pair well with spirits.

Sparkling wine is amazing in cocktails. Even a small splash of bubbles can brighten up a drink, enlivening or lifting its flavors and making it feel an awful lot more festive.   Whether you are looking for cocktails for Brunch, a shower, a cocktail party, or an aperitif with friends, we have you covered with cocktails that go from brunch through to dessert.

BONUS Brunch Recipe: Mimosa Pancakes, by Better Homes & Gardens

Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup Champagne or Sparkling Wine
  • 3 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Champagne Glaze
  • Desired fruit, such as orange slices, sliced strawberries, and/or raspberries

Directions

  • In a medium bowl stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a small bowl whisk together the egg, milk, sour cream, orange juice, Champagne/Sparkling Wine, and oil. Add to flour mixture all at once (may foam up); stir just until moistened (batter should be lumpy). For each pancake, spoon 1/4 cup batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or heavy skillet. Cook over medium heat 1 to 2 minutes per side or until golden; turn when surfaces are bubbly and edges are slightly dry. Drizzle warm pancakes with *Champagne Glaze and top with desired fruit.

*Champagne Glaze:

In a small bowl stir together 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, and enough Champagne/Sparkling Wine (4 to 5 Tbsp) to make of drizzling consistency.

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Always Pan – Our Favorite Pan For Elevated, Effortless Entertaining

September 25, 2022

 We believe in effortless, elevated entertaining with more time around the table with friends and family. That’s why we LOVE the Always Pan from Our Place – a gorgeous pan perfect for the it-girl aesthetic, coming in a variety of gorgeous colors, and is easy to use and clean! It functions as a “fry pan, saute pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, saucepan, nonstick pan, spatula, and spoon rest and can braise, sear, steam, strain, saute, fry, boil, serve, and store”. 

Its non-stick, ceramic surface (made without PTFEs and PFOAs) makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. Your purchase even includes a steamer basket and beechwood spatula so you can serve with ease and style!

Our Place is also a fellow female-founded company – started by Shiza Shahid, an immigrant from Pakistan whose heritage inspired her do-it-all cookware.

We are all about elevating and celebrating every day & supporting fellow female-founded and minority-owned businesses. Click here for our favorite woman-owned items to incorporate for a girl-power-themed soirée. 

A Few Favorite Recipes To Make In The Our Place Always Pan

Easy 20 Minute Vegan Pasta

Pairs best with: Blanc de Blanc Sparkling Wine.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 shallots, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

8 ounces spinach leaves

8-ounce linguine

1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese 

Instructions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until soft and caramelized, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, red pepper flakes, and pinch salt/pepper.

Maple Cinnamon Oatmeal with Caramelized Oranges

Pairs best with: Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine

Ingredients

1 cup Thick-Cut Rolled oats, GF (I use Bob’s, Red Mill)

2 ½ cups Almond milk (I use Califia Farms; You can use your fave plant-based milk)

½ cup pure maple syrup 

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

pinch of allspice

pinch of sea salt

Caramelized Oranges:

1 medium navel orange, sliced with skin

2-3 Tbsps vegan butter

3 Tbsps organic brown sugar, Vegan-approved (I use Sugar in the Raw)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

⅛ teaspoon ground cloves

pinch of allspice

pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

Add oats, cinnamon, a pinch of allspice, and sea salt to a medium pot on medium-high heat. Next, add in Almond milk and maple syrup, stirring to combine until it begins to boil.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the oats thicken and become fluffy and all of the liquid has been absorbed. In the final 2-3 minutes, stir in additional maple syrup, if desired.

30-Minute Stovetop Fajitas

Pairs best with : Blanc de Blanc Sparkling Wine

Ingredients

For the meat and quick marinade

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

2 tablespoons lime juice (juice of 1 lime)

1 tablespoon cooking oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder

For the peppers and onions

2 tablespoons cooking oil, divided

2 bell peppers, sliced into strips

1 large poblano pepper sliced into strips 

1/2 large onion, sliced

1 pinch salt

Optional toppings
Guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro, flour, or corn tortillas

Instructions:

Add all the ingredients for the quick marinade in a large mixing bowl. Toss together until chicken is evenly coated with spices. Cover and set aside. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the peppers, onions, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, until the veggies are soft. Remove from the skillet, place in a large bowl, cover, and set aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil to the same skillet. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked. Add the peppers and onions back to the skillet, toss together with the chicken and remove from heat. Serve in warm flour or corn tortillas and top with sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro.

Recipes via The EveryGirl

Our Joy-Inspired Wines

Le Grand Courtâge CEO/Proprietor Tawnya Falkner grew up in a 3-street town, and that upbringing awoke a desire to see the world. The more she traveled, the more she realized that food and wine are about human connection and bringing people together to share life’s simple pleasures. Fueled by a passion and a belief, Tawnya gave up her career, took the leap, and moved to France. Her vision to create an affordable everyday luxury resulted in Le Grand Courtâge and Très Chic Rosé, award-winning French wines with appealing, modern character and an elegant appearance.

*Sparkling varieties available in 750ml & 187ml bottles

Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Sparkling Wine from us.

Each of these French wines scores 90+ points and is priced under $25, giving you a luxurious experience at an affordable price. These wines are also incredibly versatile by way of food pairing, making entertaining easy brunch all the way through dessert. For more party planning inspiration including playlists, more delicious cocktail recipes, & entertaining tips, join us here.

For female-founded inspiration & more on the French lifestyle of joie de vivre, follow us on Pinterest for curated ways to elevate the everyday with wine cocktails, foolproof food pairings, curated gift guides, and more! 

We serve up weekly inspiration on Instagram and our newsletter, Club Courtâge. You’re invited to embrace the #livejoyoulsy lifestyle with us!

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