How to: Throw a Wine Tasting

Entertainment 

From The Big Basket Blog                               

A wine tasting offers a lot of variation to match your own unique style. Whether you’re looking for a casual party with friends or an elegant soiree, a wine tasting will give your next party the fun you’ve been looking for! Wine tastings are fun and classy ways to entertain friends and learn something new, but most of us are not wine experts. Here are some tips and tricks to help you throw your own successful wine tasting party:

Party Theme: Your first decision is what kind of wine tasting you would like to throw. You could focus on white or red wines, wines from a particular region, or wines from a particular winemaker. Whatever you choose, having a theme will help concentrate your wine choices, making your party decisions easier.

Wine Pairings: The best part of a tasting is the tasty appetizers that go together with the wine. How could you go wrong serving delicious cheeses, fruits, and desserts? Once you have your wine selection picked out, you can decide which mouth-watering pairings you’d like to serve. Check out this chart to see which cheeses and appetizers pair nicely with particular wines:


The Tasting: Want your guests to think you’re a pro? Just remember these five steps to tasting wine:

1. See- Observe both the color and clarity of the wine by holding up the glass in a well-lighted room. White wines gain color as they age, while red wines lose color and start to turn brown.
2. Swirl- By swirling your wine in the glass, you expose it to a larger surface area which helps to bring out the flavors.
3. Smell- The common aromas of wine include fruits, flowers, spices, and herbs. There are hundreds of different smells in wine- see which ones your nose can detect!
4. Sip- (Finally, the best part!) Roll the wine across all of your taste buds. Since your tongue is designed to taste different things, rolling it around will help you to taste all of the flavors your wine has to offer.
5. Swallow- Make sure to note the aftertaste of the wine. Good wines tend to have finishes that last longer.

*Make sure you and your guests take notes on the different wines they taste so that they remember what they liked or what they didn’t.

A Fun Twist: For a little more entertainment at your party, try hiding the names of wine or cheeses from your guests and have them guess the types of wine based on their tasting. You can even turn it into a contest with prizes for added fun!

With a little creativity, you’ll have everyone thinking you’re a wine professional and a terrific entertainer!

Drink to End the Summer With

Drinks to End the Summer With

Entertainment 

 

From the Big Basket Blog                               

It’s almost that time of year again – the weather cools off, the colors start to change, and the summer winds down to a bittersweet close. To send off the summer and celebrate all the new memories made, what could be more fitting than having an ice cold cocktail with loved ones? I know what you’re thinking – mixed drinks can be intimidating for those of us who don’t have a fully stocked bar or have never dabbled in the art of mixed drinks. But have no fear – I’ve prepared some refreshing mixed drink recipes for you to end the summer with that are so easy to make, even a caveman could do it!

MargaritaA classic favorite, margaritas are one of the most common and loved drinks of summer. Check out our recipe video below for step-by-step instructions!

Margarita

¼ cup kosher salt (optional)

1 lime wedge (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

2 heaping teaspoons superfine sugar

1 tablespoon triple sec orange liqueur

¼ cup reposado tequila (try Patron Reposado)

Approximately 2 cups ice cubes

Serves 1

Directions:Start by preparing your glass if want a salted rim. Personally, I prefer my margaritas without the salt, but that’s completely up to your preference! To line the rim with salt, you’ll first want to spread the salt out on a small plate. Rub the lime wedge around the rim, and then dip the rim into the salt. Set the glass aside for now.
Next, stir the lime juice and sugar together in a cocktail shaker, until the sugar partially dissolves. Add the triple sec orange liqueur, tequila, and 1 cup of ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 25-30 seconds, and then strain into your glass. Fill the glass with the remaining ice cubes.

Tequila SunriseTequila Sunrises are a quick and easy cocktail to cool off with.

Tequila Sunrise

4 cups orange juice

2 cups tequila

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice

Serves 6

Directions:Start by combining orange juice and tequila in a large pitcher. Next, get 6 glasses and place 3 tablespoons of pomegranate juice in each glass. Top with ice, then tequila mixture. Stir just before drinking.

Blushing MimosaA colorful – and flavorful – twist on the classic brunch favorite, mimosas.

Blushing Mimosa

2 cups orange juice (not from concentrate)

1 cup pineapple juice, chilled

2 tablespoons grenadine

1 (750 milliliter) bottle Champagne or sparkling wine, chilled

Serves 6

Directions:
First, stir together the orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Next, fill champagne flutes half-way with champagne. Top with orange juice mixture and serve.

These drinks will cool you down when you just can’t bear the end-of-summer heat anymore. Invite your friends over and try one of these yummy drink mixes this weekend! And remember, always drink responsibly

Stay on Budget for your Next Party

How to: Stay on Budget for your Next Party

-From Longaberger.com

     So you’re in the midst of party preparations – the invitations are sent, the theme is set – but you’re perilously over your budget. Panicking does no good and notably cuts the fun of throwing a  party in the first place. Instead, sit down and re-examine your priorities.

Substitute

Don’t sacrifice style to save money. Instead, re-work your creative ideas to make them suit your budget. Trade out a shrimp cocktail appetizer for a Caesar salad garnished with shrimp.

Let friends be friends

If they volunteer to bring dessert or a veggie tray, let them! That’s what friends are for!

Be your own florist

Floral arrangements can make a significant dent in your overall party budget, so do it yourself! Arrange your favorite grocery store flowers, or mingle daisies with greens from your own yard. Not only will you save money, but you will also create a one-of-a kind arrangement.

Borrow what you don’t have

Plan your menu early on to give yourself plenty of time to round up baskets, platters, tablecloths, extra silverware, chairs, and whatever else your party requires.

Buy in bulk

Whether you’re planning a large-scale shindig or a casual get-together, it’s worth your while to purchase items such as paper products, ice, beverages, and other food items at discount warehouse stores. The cost per unit is often much lower; just make sure to only buy items you’ll be able to use without waste.

There’s no party like a Longaberger Party!

15 Minute Appetizer Frenzy

- From www.longaberger.com

Between work, family, and friends, it’s hard to find the time to cook extravagant meals, but here at the Basket we found some delicious solutions to your time problem. Using some international inspiration, we found some spectacular appetizers that you can make in just 15 minutes or less! Whether you’re throwing a party for friends or making a dish for your family dinner, these dishes will have everyone thinking you should have your own cooking show!

Inspired by Italy:
Here’s a twist on the classic Italian bruschetta; one bite and you’ll be daydreaming of gelato and gondolas!Directions: Combine the strawberries and sugar in a small bowl and toss to combine. Let the berries sit while you work on the rest of your dish so that they start to release their juices. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on top of each baguette slice. Top each slice with spoonfuls of the strawberry mixture. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Top each slice with the basil leaves and cracked pepper, to taste. Makes 4-6 servings.
 
Inspired by the U.S.A.:
What could be better than taking a great sandwich and making it into a bite-sized appetizer?  These snacks look sophisticated and taste even better than the traditional BLT sandwich you love.Directions: Slice about 1/4 of the tomato from the stem end and discard the top. Then remove the pulp from inside the tomato. Thinly slice the bottom of each tomato so that they will stand upright. Next place the cut side down on a paper towel to dry and set aside. Cook the bacon until crispy, and then crumble it up. Combine the mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, parsley, green onion and bacon in a medium bowl. Spoon the mixture into each of the tomatoes. Chill until ready to serve. Makes about 25-30 servings.

Inspired by Thailand:If you’re looking for peanuts, pineapples, and a dish with a kick, then this Thai-style recipe is just the thing!Directions: whisk the lime juice, sugar, chile paste, and fish sauce in a bowl until the sugar dissolves. Then add the peanuts and cilantro and stir until evenly dressed with the sauce. When you are ready to serve, arrange the lettuce leaves on a large platter. Put about ¼ cup of pineapple in each leaf and season with salt to taste. Next, top the pineapple with the nut mixture and serve. Let your guests wrap each lettuce leaf to enclose the filling.
*Note: the nuts should be hand chopped. Machine-chopped nuts will turn out pasty and the nuts will lost their distinct texture.

Inspired by Mexico:
Chips and guacamole are always a crowd pleaser, so try out this variation and watch your friends and family say olè!
Directions: Place the tomatoes, yellow pepper, black beans, red onion, jalapeño peppers, and lime zest in a large bowl. Whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic, and cayenne pepper and pour over the vegetables. Toss well. Just before you’re ready to serve, fold the avocados into the salad and serve at room temperature. Yields 6 servings.

When you’re faced with a time crunch or just want something new and delectable, these appetizing appetizers are sure to please! Be sure to comment below and let us know what you love to make in 15 minutes or less!

 

To order any of the Longaberger products seen here, visit my website... www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito

Labor Day Sale!!!

A Labor Day Sale So BIG ... It Deserves Nearly A Week!

The Longaberger at home® Labor Day Sale is under way.

Save an additional 25% when you shop online or at all Longaberger at home showrooms and Longaberger Homestead®!

The sale lasts through Monday, September 3, but we recommend you shop now for the best selection.

Visit our showrooms, Longaberger Homestead, or my Longaberger web site, http://ic.longaberger.com/esuite/home/jeanninezito?showID=15724859&hostName=Jeannine+Zito&closeDate=09/15/2012.

 

 

Fun in the Sun!

Save up to 60% on Exclusive Longaberger products during the

Fun In The Sun Sale

that starts today at 11:00am.

30% off all American Valor and 25% off all Fan Favorite items - check out my website,  www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito for all of the details.

Sale ends Sunday, the 26th at midnight.

Message me with any questions or if you need me to place your order! Have a Great Day!



Home Decor Wednesday Special!

Hi everyone!

 

I have great news! Longaberger just announced that they are putting the discontinued Artwork on the Wednesday Special this week!  (Perfect timing for a Spring Home Spruce up!)

 

I am super excited because I was unable to pick up the Poppy prints I had planned to buy before they retired.  Now I will! :)

 

I hope you find a much coveted print you had wanted to get on the list of those avialable! Don't miss this Special!

It is Weds. April 13th ONLY!

 

From 11:00am until they sell out on Weds. only!

 

Jeannine Zito

www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito (Click here on Weds to order!)

The artwork is really nice quality. American made, hardwood frames, most are matted and have glass.

Waterfront View- Original price 75.00 sale 37.50
Harbor at Sunset same as above
Contemporary Fruit- 110.00 sale 55.00
Fall Landscape - 64.00 sale- 32.00
Front porch same as above
Peaceful Morning lake view- 54.00 sale 27.00
American Breeze - 75.00 sale 37.50
Peaceful walk (set of two) 169.00 sale- 84.50
Contemporary Circles ( set of two) - 129.00- sale 64.50
Whimsical Frame Mirror 99.00 sale - 49.50
Linen Texture Framed mirror same as above
Orange Poppies ( set of two ) 149.00 sale-74.50
Botanical prints (set of two) 139.00 sale - 69.50
Tropical Fern (set of two ) 149.00 sale - 74.50

Sweet Deal!

Enjoy This Sweet Deal!

This great offer is for more than cake!

*Makes serving up side dishes easy and fun!

*Great size Pan for preparing smaller fruit and vegetable trays. 

*Heat and serve tortillas for your next fiesta. 

*Create a nice welcome for guests when you add lotion, soap, shampoo, bubble bath and more. 

*Perfect for upcoming bridal showers and wedding gifts. Encourage those who purchase to write a special message to the happy couple on the unglazed bottom of the pan with a permanent marker. 

*Include your favorite recipe and give it as a gift to a special woman in your life. 

*Buy a set of 2 Pans to make a double-layer cake.

Order your own beautiful Woven Traditions Cake Pan on

Weds. April 6th here.

Here are some other ideas for this very practical piece!...

You may ask yourself, "Self, if I choose to bake a cake in this pan, how am I going to mix up"?

Order your own Longaberger Batter Bowl on Tuesday here!



Annual April Pottery Sale

SAVE 20% ON WOVEN TRADITIONS!

It only happens once a year, our annual 20% Off Pottery Sale. During April, save on dinnerware, cookware, bakeware and more ... everything Woven Traditions! check it out online...

www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito

The Perfect Easter Basket!

This just in...

Longaberger is sharing with us a beautiful basket online this Wednesday.

The Round Potluck Basket in Spring Colors.

This is the same basket being used at the

White House Easter Egg Hunt this year!

 

 

This beautiful Basket could also be used to pass bread or rolls at the Easter table, or it could hold plastic ware rolled in napkins on the picnic table.

I will use mine for holding the crocet project I hve been working on FOREVER!

Is there a new baby in the family? Use this Basket to hold the little stuff like booties, socks, onesies or even all the chewie toys!

How about on the kitchen counter filled with fruit, to remind you and the family to choose a Healthy treat?

So many great ideas for this Basket...How will you use yours?

The Luck of the Irish Hat!

May the luck of the Irish be bestowed upon those who possess this basket hat!

Can't take any chances these days...order yours Wednesday, and gather up all the luck you have coming to you! :)

This little cutie will not last long on this Special

Weds. only Special.

Order yours early so it will come in time for St. Patties Day!

Order here: www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito



President's Day Sale

Hail To The Chief ... And to everyone who loves incredible products at incredible prices!

Today only from Noon - Midnight, EST, cash in on our

President's Day Sale.

Breaking News!
With the holiday and the nasty weather through the upper Midwest, we are going to keep this sale going for a little while longer ...
until Midnight, EST, on Wednesday, Feb. 23

Visit my Longaberger website,

 www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito 

Online Special February 16th!

I am so excited to share this wonderful prototype special this week! 

 Longaberger has had these wonderful newly designed Olive Plates designed just for this Online Special!

These will be only available on:

 Weds, February 16th from 11:00am until 11:00pm.

Order early to get the color you want!

www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito 

New Wish List!

Have you seen the new Wish List from Longaberger?!  It is beautiful and has oodles of new products for your home!  Check it out Here!

Want to have a special basket of your own?  Order here! www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito

Longaberger Spring Premier 2011



Check out some of the newest Spring Longaberger products to "Spuce-up" your home!

Contact me to order or book your February/March show now!

www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito

Celebrate Super Bowl XLV!

Host a Super- Super Bowl

Party this year with the

NFL Collection from Longaberger!
www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito

With beautiful baskets and serving pieces that are sure to score a touchdown with your football favorites, you will be the MVP of your party. Here's some handy tips to make the day extra special!
 
•Commemorate the BIG party by having your guests sign your favorite team lid. You’ll remember all the fun for years to come.

 •Place ice in the Pittsburgh Steelers Buffet Basket and position a Woven Traditions® Buffet Bowl filled with delicious White Chicken Chili. Serving Made Easy! •The Green Bay Packers Sport Tray is perfect for sharing refreshing beverages or serving snacks like chips, popcorn and pretzels at the BIG party.


•Headed out to watch the game? Prepare your favorite nacho dip in the Woven Traditions 9”x13” Baking Dish and tote it on top of the Pittsburgh Steelers Medium Market Basket. Tuck chips inside the basket.


•Hosting your fellow Cheeseheads? Support your team while serving cheese and crackers on the Green Bay Packers WoodCrafts Cutting Board.


•The Pittsburgh Steelers Small Berry Basket is a hardworking favorite at a great price. Use by itself to hold cocktail napkins, or combine with a Soft Square Small Bowl to offer party-goers candy, mints, or antacids… depending on how much they enjoy the party!


•Looking for halftime entertainment? The Green Bay Packers TV Time™ Basket perfectly organizes party game essentials like a deck of cards, dice and scoring pads.


•Invite husbands over to tailgate and wives for the basket party. Show off the NFL Lineup products by serving snacks and decorating your home in favorite team colors.

For more great Super Bowl Party ideas and recipes, check out this great website!  http://www.longaberger.com/superbowl.aspx



Chip and Dip Bowl with Salsa!

Get ready for the Super Bowl Now!

Order early to get your team's color...

E-mail me or order yours online here on Weds. January 5th!

Winter Storm Sale!!!

What's that?!

You say this wintery blast has you grounded?

Can't finish your Holiday shopping?

No problem! Just sit and relax and do your shopping online!

Longaberger has a WINTER STORM SALE just for you!

Cross off that hard to buy for woman on your list and order her a beautiful, fun and flirty 'Sisters' handbag!

They are 40% off Monday and Tuesday ONLY!

Order yours here: www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito

Wednesday Online special!

Need holiday gifts? You can't go wrong when you select on of these great Longaberger holiday specials featured online Wednesday 12/1. If you ordered one of each you would have 6 gifts for under $100 - that's $16 each!

Go to www.longaberger.com/jeanninezito to order or contact me if you would like me to order for you.

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday!

I WILL NOT fall for the Black Friday craziness.

Instead I will sit at my computer in the comfort of my own home and leisurely start my Holiday shopping with a nice cup of tea. :)

My first stop in cyber land so far, was JC Penny.com.  They had some great specials starting last night on some must have pieces of clothing that my kids desperately needed and Free shipping!

After that I browsed LLBean.com for the free shipping and extra 15% off of the Black Friday Specials.  A couple of gifts were picked up for my hubbie and my boys.

My last stop and most productive shopping trip was to Longaberger.com.  I managed to pick up some wonderful Black Friday specials like these beautiful Holiday Longaberger Dishes.  they were 65% OFF!

I also picked up this really cute Santa's Belly Basket Set at the Longaberger.com site on sale! 

I am enjoying this Holiday Shopping season without all the running around and fighting with others over a silly trinket.  The spirit is in me, and I aim not to lose it by getting in a traffic jam and then NOT coming home with the thing which I ventured out for. 

Happy shopping!  What was your best purchase this weekend?