If your wine travels include Napa, don't forget about Goosecross Cellars Basic Wine Class every Saturday from 10:30 - 11:30. Cost is $10 per person.

Goosecross is noted for providing one of the most enjoyable, friendly and informative experiences in the wine country. Plus, you’ll receive:

• A complimentary tasting in our intimate Barrel Cellar after the class.
• The new and updated edition of our guidebook on sensory evaluation to take home and use as a reference for years to come.

Sicily....On The Table....

We have a great food and wine tour of Sicily. You'll get enjoy Sicily the real way, no crowds, mix of great food & wine and historical sites. Look for the itinerary in our next newsletter. Grab your friends...best price is for a group of 4, 6, or 10 people. Trips are available November 1, 2006 - March 31, 2006 excluding holidays.

I am working on a itinerary for a wine and food tour of Sicily. Look for the details coming in the next newsletter.

Wine Tasting Tips

• Eat before you come to the tasting. There are many wines to try...the munchies provided are intended to help you try the wines with food and clear your palate.
• Drink water or eat bread to clear your palate.
• Be safe. Limit the amount you drink if you are driving.
• Be courteous to others who wish to taste. After receiving your pour, please step back from the tasting table to do your personal evaluation. Others can then step forward to receive a sample of wine. Step to the side to talk with the winery representative.
• Designate a driver or use public transportation.
• DON'T DRINK & DRIVE
  

I am working on a itinerary to New Zealand for small groups. It is also open to individuals. Look for it in my newsletter. It's going to be a wonderful trip!!

Debbie

It's not to early to start thinking about Christmas and all the gifts we need to purchase. What a better way to purchase unique gifts than to go on our Christmas Market Wine Tour. The tour runs December 14- 18, 2006, you will be home just in time to put the gifts under the tree. Here are some of the tour highlights:

* Visit the region's most charming and authentic Christmas Markets

* Guided walking tour in the beautiful town of Colmar and its "Little Venice"

* Lunch at fabulous 2-star Au Crocodile restaurant in Strasbourg

* Extensive tastings with the owners of the premier wine estates of Alsace

* Shopping at the Beauvillé luxury home linens factory outlet store and
Féerie de Noël, the most amazing Christmas decoration store in Europe

* Elegant accommodations at one of the finest hotels in the area

* Cooking class with a Michelin 1-star chef

* Explore the medieval Castle of Haut Koenigsbourg and its fortress

* Wine expert guide present throughout the tour to enhance
your understanding of the region's wines, history and culture

If you are interested, let me know. Email me at debbie@exclusivewinevacations.com

Welcome to the Exclusive Wine Vacations Blog. Where Travel & Wine Come Together. I will share with you upcoming wine adventures and other travel specials and information, along with my travel experiences.

I welcome comments and ideas.

Cheers,
Debbie