Joe Wehinger - Lehigh Valley FlavrReport

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Delicious, romantic, southern charm – Yes, please! Visit Greenville, South Carolina.

You’re looking for a new trip?

…A great foodie adventure?

…Big city perks

…But a mix of quaint and calm.

…inspiring scenery

…maybe a full-on spa weekend?

And let’s be honest, it needs to be easy to get to.

Not too much to ask for, right? LOL

Southern Charm at Greenville, South Carolina

Well, Greenville South Carolina hits all of those spots and more!

Southern charm with big city amenities. From flavor to fun to flirty.

Greenville, South Carolina is Southern charm with big city amenities.

The right amount of outdoors, arts, charming people watching and of course food. Different flavors and lots of it!

That’s Greenville. Plenty of South Carolina Southern Hospitality with a kick of sass and did we mention the food?

Fun Days and Starry-Filled Nights in Greenville South Carolina

From March through July, the town square stays busy with free concerts twice a week and at night catch a movie in the park.

Fun days in Greenville South Carolina

The center of town is just a short walk from most hotels, where you can wander Main St. and window shop at artisanal stores, book stores and coffee shops on the way to your next meal.

Reedy River

After a light bite, take a stroll along the park at Reedy River. Their new development is gorgeous and cozy. Several great spots for Instagram-worthy selfies.

Love a tasty cocktail?

Kinda curious how the whole whiskey process works?

Highly recommend Six and Twenty Distillery’s tour and tasting experience.

Six and Twenty Distillery’s tour

From malting to mashing to distillation. You can even pose for pictures with their giant pot still and become instagram famous.

It’s a fascinating process, but even more – meet the team. These folks love their work and it shows!

If you’re lucky enough to get a tour from Owner David Raad, he’ll help you fall in love with their process as they create just the right flavor for you.

And speaking of flavor.

You should get a tasting.

If Benjamin Balaban is behind the bar, you’re in for a treat. Curious drinkers, ask about the flavors, the garnishes, how his mixes are so balanced and flavorful.

Six and Twenty Distillery’s tasting experience

Keep the Flavors Coming with Oil & Vinegar

Stop in and say hello to Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Owner Chef Veera Gaul who will introduce you to the flavors, aromas and blends of oilsl like you’ve never realized before.

Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Owner Chef Veera Gaul

As a dipping sauce.

As a salad dressing.

In your health shake.

There’s a lot of ways to enjoy olive oil.

Taste through: The fruity and robust Nocellara EVOO. The deliciously oily Puglia. The vibrant Basil EVOO. The perfect to mix Mango Vinegar.

And that’s why visiting Oil & Vinegar on Main St. is so fun.

Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Greenville SC

Their tasting helps you fall in love with the magic and find a new flavor to take home with you.

From Family Fun to Romantic – Greenville’s Dinner Options

Greenville offers a feast of foodie options from down home to innovative chefs and world-class menus.

With more than 110 restaurants in downtown alone, and more than 1,000 throughout the County, Greenville, South Carolina’s abundant and tasty restaurant scene is garnering national attention.

Nose Dive

Nose Dive is an innovative gastropub were their chefs to craft dishes that are both delicious and exciting. The culinary team is dedicated to inventive fare and attention to detail to create an eating experience.

Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza

Right next to the NOMA plaza on Downtown’s North Main Street in downtown, Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza is one of the city’s most popular pizza parlors, serves up authentic NY style pizza and Italian cuisine.

Foothill Foodie Tours is a one of a kind foodie experience in Greenville with a chance to experience a wide selection of curated tours designed with you in mind.

Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant

Enjoy the rimmed signature drinks and house made cordials at Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant that re-imagines what intimate dining can be. All with desserts as the main event.

Next Day Get Inspired By Greenville’s Nature

Greenville is all about scenic beauty. Five gorgeous state parks perfect for a stroll or to break a sweat.

The 22-mile Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of Greenville’s most popular. There’s Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville’s downtown green space, waterfalls, flowers, and walkways. Cleveland Park, the city’s largest park and home of the 14-acre Greenville Zoo

Want even more? Greenville’s got it!

Over 60 outdoor obstacles and ziplines, Treetop Quest Greenville’s aerial adventure park will thrill you. Paris Mountain State Park’s Four lakes, a swimming area (complete with kayaks, canoes and pedal-boats for rent), playground, 15 miles of hiking and biking.

Lake Jocassee

Head north to stop at Marci Jo’s Olde Mountain Store, a quaint local spot between Jones Gap and Caesars Head State Parks

Wildcat Branch Falls near Greenville SC

There’s over a 100 more parks within just a few hours’ drive.

Speaking of Serene. Looking for a retreat?

Greenville’s Grand Bohemian

Greenville’s Grand Bohemian is a luxurious boutique hotel perched along the Reedy River. Whether you’re stopping by for a handcrafted cocktail, spending the night in one of their suites or attending a conference, it’s sure to be a cozy delight.

Dripping with Southern Charm

Hotel Hartness near Greenville SC

Hotel Hartness is the luxurious destination just outside the city.

Spa weekend? Dream wedding? Elegant event space. The extraordinarily intimate experience of 69 suites in the main hotel and 4 spa suites.

You’re looking for a new trip.

A great foodie adventure?

With a mix of big city with quaint and calm and mountains of inspiring scenery

And it’s easy to get to.

Greenville is a must-visit destination that makes visiting easy, delicious and memorable. From food to local culture, exercise, romance and calm vibes that the South is best known.

Blues Traveler heads to Sherman Theater on May 14 for a night of their biggest hits.

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Blues Traveler Heads to Sherman Theater May 14

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Blues Traveler heads to Sherman Theater on May 14 for a night of their biggest hits.

Six-time, Platinum rockers, Blues Traveler, will perform the hits that defined their 36-year career at the Sherman Theater in downtown Stroudsburg, PA on May 14 at 8:00 PM.

Blues Traveler have announced a series of 2023 shows to coincide with the impending release of their

Live and Acoustic: Fall of 1997

Tickets for the “Blues Traveler 2023″ show go on sale Friday, January 27 at 10:00 AM EST and can be purchased at shermantheater.com.

During the shows, the band will perform a bevy of songs spanning more than three decades and 14 hit albums – including the iconic four, which went six-times Platinum and spawned the definitive “Run-Around” (garnering their first Grammy® Award).

Audiences can also expect to hear the band’s Billboard-topping smash singles like “Hook” and “But Anyway,” as well as their new, jam-infused renditions of some of their favorite classic blues songs, originally recorded by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Freddie King, Big Mama Thornton, and Little Willie John.

Blues Traveler will also be promoting their forthcoming spring 2023 release of Live and Acoustic: Fall of 1997, which is a selection of highlights from the ensemble’s legendary tour 25-years-ago.

The 25th-anniversary limited edition double LP will include unreleased,remastered material from the initial two-track soundboard recordings.

Live and Acoustic: Fall of 1997 captures moments from the band’s historic acoustic performances, with the release doubling as a 25th-anniversary celebration of the ensemble’s late-’90s live delivery.

About Blues Traveler: 36 years ago, the four original members of Blues Traveler – John Popper, Chandler Kinchla, Brendan Hill, and the late Bobby Sheehan – gathered in their drummer’s parent’s basement in Princeton, NJ to jam. From these high school sessions emerged a band that would go on to release a total of 14 studio albums, four of which have gone gold, three platinum, and one six-times platinum-selling more than 10 million combined units worldwide.

Over an illustrious career, Blues Traveler has played over 2,000 live shows in front of more than 30 million people, and, in “Run-Around,” had the longest-charting radio single in Billboard history, which earned them a Grammy® for “Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.” Their latest album Travelers Blues (Round Hill Records) was released in 2021 and featured reimagined and recharged classics from the American blues songbook and a few surprises. The group’s first official blues album, it was nominated for a Grammy® for “Best Traditional Blues’ Album” in 2022.

Their movie credits include Blues Brothers 2000, Kingpin, Wildflowersand others. A television favorite, they have been featured on “Saturday Night Live,” “Austin City Limits,” “VH1’s Behind the Music” and they hold the record for the most appearances of any artist on “The Late Show with David Letterman.”

Show: Blues Traveler

Sherman Theater, 524 Main Street, Stroudsburg PA

Sunday, May 14

Doors at 6:30, Show at 7:00

The Sherman Theater is Monroe County’s only nationally ranked, non-profit theater and performing arts center. Located in downtown Stroudsburg, PA, the Sherman Theater has proudly served the Pocono region for 90 years. The Theater and Performing Arts Center is committed to strengthening the community by producing culturally-diverse, nationally-known professional acts and festivals at the theater and at satellite locations throughout Monroe County for people of all ages, by providing an opportunity for local artists to perform, and by creating economic development in the region. The Sherman Theater projects and events attract over 100,000 visitors to the Pocono Region annually.

For more information call 570-420-2808 or visit www.shermantheater.com.

Oregon Wine Country: McMinnville Wine Competition Honors Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie

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Oregon Wine Country: McMinnville Wine Competition Honors Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

McMinnville Wine Competition Celebrates 30 Years, Awards Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors

The McMinnville Wine Classic Competition completed its 30th annual professional judging on Saturday January 7, 2023.

All eight out-of-state judges arrived unfettered and ready to help elevate the competition.

The wine competition has not missed an event including through the peak Covid years, and is a dedicated fundraiser for McMinnville’s St. James School.

Oregon Wine Country: Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors at 30th annual McMinnville Wine Competition

It raises thousands of dollars for programs benefiting the school’s children. Organized by Rolland Toevs, Carl Giavanti and Jon Johnson and staffed by volunteers, the Mac Classic competition is one of the largest Oregon Only wine competitions in the state.

The competition draws professional judges from across the U.S.

This year’s panel represents the full spectrum of the wine industry, including future MW Samantha Cole Johnson of Janice Robinson.com, Sommeliers like Fred Swan and Ellen Landis, Buyer Jusden Aumand from Tri-Vin Imports, and Wine Writers such as Clive Pursehouse the U.S. Editor for Decanter Magazine, Eric Degerman of Great Northwest Wine, Deborah Parker-Wong the U.S. Editor Slow Wine Guide, James Melendez aka James the Wine Guy, and Michael Apstein of Wine Review Online and Terroir Sense.

Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors at 30th annual McMinnville Wine Competition

Wines were showing well, with distribution of Double Gold and Gold awards was across the state.

Taking home top honors in 2023 was Domaine de Broglie, whose 2019 Dundee Hills Pinot Noir claimed Best of Show, Best Pinot Noir and Best Red Varietal, a first time ever for any winery in the state.

Cardwell Hill Cellars won Best Chardonnay again this year, a record fourth time, for their 2021 The Bard Chard, as well as Best White Varietal. Pike Road Winery won Best Dessert Wine for their Yamhill-Carlton AVA Route 47 Late Harvest white.

Rounding out the awards was Durant Vineyards who gained the top spot in the Best Sparkling Wine category for their 2019 Brut sparkling wine. All Double Gold and Gold Medals are listed at the bottom of this page:

For more details, visit https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/

Winter Restaurant Week is here! Amazing deals on Hellertown and Lower Saucon's best bites from Jan 15 - Jan 21

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Winter Restaurant Week is here! Amazing deals on Hellertown and Lower Saucon’s best bites from Jan 15 – Jan 21

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Winter Restaurant Week is here! Amazing deals on Hellertown and Lower Saucon’s best bites from Jan 15 – Jan 21.

The Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chamber of Commerce, a proud partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, is kicking off 2023 in the most delicious way possible with their annual Winter Restaurant Week!

Winter Restaurant Week from Jan 15 – Jan 21

From Sunday, January 15^th – Saturday, January 21^st, food lovers from across the Lehigh Valley can get a taste of everything that the Hellertown-Lower Saucon food and beverage scene has to offer. Participating locations will offer a variety of specials that include, but are not limited to, “set-price” or “prix fixe” menus, gift card deals, and discount opportunities.

Healthy shakes from The Vibe Nutrition

Patrons will have a chance to return to their favorite spots with added incentives or try new eateries during Winter Restaurant Week.

As of January 1^st, thirteen outstanding restaurants and eateries are participating, with more to come.

There are so many wonderful, hard-working restaurants and eateries in the Borough of Hellertown and Lower Saucon Township, and this is a great way for them to gain the exposure they deserve. There is a wide range of dining options, something for everyone!

Winter Restaurant Week is also a great opportunity for the community to come together

Winter Restaurant Week is also a great opportunity for the community to come together and break bread with one another, all while supporting the local economy and reinforcing the wonderful communal feeling of the Hellertown – Lower Saucon area, and is something fun to spice up the winter months.

Yum! Tacos from Wings on Main

Kat Brown of Yianni’s Taverna adds:

“We are looking forward to welcoming guests in the new year to experience our authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.”

Yianni’s Taverna will be offering a three course, pre fixe menu for $39.

Lauren Musselman, owner of The Vibe Nutrition, located at 650 Main Street in Hellertown, expressed her enthusiasm:

“We are excited to be participating in Winter Restaurant Week.

It is a big incentive for us because we want the community to see how important good nutrition is. Everyone has a New Year’s resolution, and we have the solution for you. The Vibe has everything for you, from weight loss to weight gain, energy needs, and we can’t wait to serve you in the new year.” The Vibe Nutrition will be offering 15% off any meal combo during Winter Restaurant Week.

Special thanks to our Winter Restaurant Week Bronze Sponsor, Lindsay O. Albert, Taxes and Accounting for her support of this local initiative.

Lindsay is an advocate for a vibrant Hellertown community. Also thanks to B104, our Marketing Sponsor, for sharing the excitement of this weeklong event.

Finally, another enticing opportunity is the chance to be a winner! Check our Hellertown-Lower Saucon Facebook page for a chance to win gift cards to the participating eateries and listen to WAEB and B-104 on your radio or iHeart app for a chance to call in and win gift cards.

Participants (as of 1/5/2023):

Drip – The Flavor Lab

Participants’ Specials: Offers can be viewed at Hellertown Lower Saucon Winter Restaurant Week as they are added.

Pricing Information: Varies depending on each establishment’s offer.

Sponsors (as of 1/1/2023):

Bronze Sponsor: Lindsay O. Albert E.A.
Marketing Sponsor: iHeart radio/ B104

For more information on this event and any upcoming events, visit the Hellertown-Lower Saucon Facebook page, or the Affiliated Chamber’s Instagram or LinkedIn pages.

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Lehigh Valley is Falling in Love with the Flavors of Nazareth’s Indigo 52

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Lehigh Valley is falling in love with the flavors of Nazareth restaurant Indigo 52

Indigo 52 is a Nazareth restaurant gaining big buzz both in the Lehigh Valley and throughout the East Coast.

It’s not your average restaurant. There’s a twist.

The menu, the owner, the ingredients. Everything is special and there’s a reason why.

Lehigh Valley is falling in love with the flavors of Nazareth restaurant Indigo 52

It’s special enough to inspire families to drive hours just to enjoy a meal there. More about that in a minute, let’s get to the food.

Nazareth restaurant Indigo 52 Menu

Restaurant Owner Felicia Rocchino has a “Food Vision” for the items they serve and if you’re a foodie, you’re gonna love this:

All their dishes are:

Unique – things you can’t find everywhere
Better than what someone can cook at home
Plated amazingly – be instagrammable!

Here’s what I sampled on my visit:

Indigo 52’s Cauliflower wings

Cauliflower wings

Grain-free battered cauliflower with maple garlic (you could also choose hot buffalo or mild sauce).

These were delicious and better than what I expected. The flavor, the breading; and each piece held together well, even after dipping.

Indigo 52’s Vegan “Crab” Cake Bites

Vegan “Crab” Cake Bites

Mini heart of palm bites, seasoned, and served with a house made cocktail dipping sauce

Great flavor, very moist. The same tender and moist notes (like most vegan “crab” cakes) also made them fall apart easily. Delicious, but delicate.

Indigo 52’s Hand-cut Sweet Potato Fries

Hand-cut Sweet Potato Fries

Served with house-made maple garlic dipping sauce

I wanted these to be great and they were. Big flavor, excellent snacky side dish and the maple garlic is a winner.

Indigo 52’s Chicken Marsala Rotini

Chicken Marsala Rotini

Anti-biotic free chicken breast, over pasta with julienne onions, mushrooms, organic spinach, fresh herbs, with marsala sauce.

This was the highlight. A very well-balanced dish. On different bites, the onion stood out, then the mushroom, then the marsala. There’s a lot of nuance here and the sauce pulls it together. Also, it’s a big portion. Take the remainder home and give yourself a present for lunch tomorrow.

Indigo 52’s Apple Pie stuffed French Toast

Apple Pie stuffed French Toast

3 slices topped with a house-made fresh apple cinnamon “filling”, house-made cashew cream, and 100% pure grade A maple syrup.

The brunch favorite brings a big bold flavor. And, again, a lot of food. Each bite makes you smile. If you’re into boozy brunches, this plate deserves a glass of bubbly.

Felicia’s Passion for Nazareth restaurant Indigo 52

Felicia is a triple-threat. She has a creative eye, a global expertise in restaurants and retail and she has a personal passion creating this concept to help others.

Creative in the way the restaurant looks and feels. It’s funky. It’s whimsical. It’s playful. As you walk in, the decor gives your eyes flavors to enjoy, while the menu handles your taste buds.

Indigo 52’s Felicia Rocchino and Chef Kadel Woody

Expertise from years at her previous corporate work helping successful restaurants launch and grow into hugely popular brands.

And personal passion. Yes, it’s very personal.

Recently, Felicia was living the life of a big city retail and hospitality professional based out of Philadelphia, helping restaurants grow and fulfill their professional dreams.

Indigo 52’s funky, whimsical, playful decor gives your eyes flavors to enjoy

Problem is, she was always feeling sick; and in and out of dozens of doctors offices trying to understand why. Year after year, test after test, with no answers.

One day, she met the right doctor who decided to give her a different test and there she learned the truth – Felicia has Celiac Disease.

Celiac Disease is sensitivity to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, which is in… a lot of food.

Indigo 52 is gluten free and dairy free

Truthfully, many of us suffer from different nutrition allergies, with different levels of sensitivity in reaction. The statistic is 1-10 people.

A strong majority of people are un-diagnosed. Some people react with a stomach ache, others are rushed to the hospital for a few days of care.

Those who end up with stronger reactions (like needing a hospital visit) tend to never eat out or get take-out, because the risk isn’t worth it.

Even “gluten-friendly” food tends to not be so friendly. The restaurant and its kitchen needs to enforce incredibly disciplined action and even then, it’s still a risk.

But Felicia Rocchino’s Indigo 52 practices incredibly disciplined kitchen practices to make it safe for immune-compromised people.

And around the country, people are taking notice.

“That’s Just The Way Life Is.” Nah, it doesn’t have to be.

A local family always stops by the Nazareth eatery when they’re picking up their college-aged daughter because their family is immune sensitive and Indigo 52 is one of the only restaurants on the East Coast that truly offers safe food. So they’re willing to drive hours for a meal there.

Indigo 52’s seating and decor

Same thing for a Lehigh Valley couple who became used to not eating out because of the risk. Then they tried Indigo 52 and to their relief, it was perfect. As a result, they even had their anniversary dinner there and Chef Kadel catered the menu toward romance.

Because of the growing unique demand, Indigo 52 has become reservation-only with diners driving from hours away to have a very specific and risk-free meal.

This Lehigh Valley restaurant has become one of the very few healthy (and delicious) stops on the East Coast to offer a consistently safe (risk-free) experience to immune-compromised diner. And word is spreading quickly.

Chef Kadel’s work is Art, Magic and Flavor

Chef Kadel Woody has been working in Lehigh Valley restaurants since he was in high school. Learning his kitchen secrets from time at Widow’s Tavern and Grille, Two Rivers Brewing, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza.

Felicia and Kadel connected when she knew she needed someone magical to create these unique and challenging dishes and her first several chefs couldn’t give her the results she envisioned.

Chef Kadel’s plating is art.

Chef Kadel’s ingredients are magic.

And the flavor is in every bite.

The kitchen is open so that diners can watch him create magic from their seat or even step over and get a closer glimpse.

Local Food Brings Big Flavor

Most of Indigo 52’s ingredients are local. Some come from Nazareth farms literally down the street from the restaurant and their delivery is walked over. That’s very local. That’s fresh.

Felicia and Kadel are big supporters of the local community handing out snacks at nearby businesses and contributing delicious bites at neighborhood events.

Indigo 52 Review

Cuisine: Very strong. From their locally sourced ingredients and an inventive menu, to Chef Kadel who’s able to create custom experiences for even the most sensitive diners.

Ambience: Fun, playful. Small town quaint with ambitious creativity

Service: Now that they’ve switched to reservation only, once you’ve been seated you get plenty of friendly and knowledgeable support. The kitchen proudly goes out of their way to service your specific needs.

Hospitality: Because Indigo 52 is such a unique experience, if you visit knowing how special your experience can be, the kitchen and staff go out of their way to surprise and delight you

Indigo 52 is located at:

52 S Main St
Nazareth, PA 18064

Indigo 52 is open Thursday – Saturday, 10a- 8pm, reservation only

Make a reservation here.

To browse their menu.

Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine's Lenne' Estate sells his iconic vineyard

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Pinot Noir Lovers! Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine’s Lenne’ Estate sells his iconic vineyard

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine’s Lenne’ Estate sells his iconic vineyard as he eyes: what’s next in wine career.

Steve Lutz, vigneron and founder sells his iconic estate after 22 years
Peavine soils certified worst in Yamhill County, proved to yield distinctive Pinot Noirs
Lutz is said to be setting up next phase of his idiosyncratic wine career
Purchasers Jory, LLC will release next stage brand name and concept for the estate

Lutz’s wine career spans 4 decades and includes hospitality management for part of the Mondavi Wines Group in Napa Valley among other Napa brands and heading up hospitality at Chateau Benoit (now Anne Amie) in Carlton, Oregon culminating in the discovery of his unique 20.9 acre estate vineyard.

Lenné is French influenced wordplay of Lenny, Steve’s father-in-law

The brand name Lenné’ was derived as a French influenced wordplay of Lenny, Steve’s father-in-law who reportedly was a chicken farmer in a suburb of London.

Having achieved cult wine status for over 20 years

Lenné’ produces only estate wines, with annual production ranging from 1,600 – 2,000 cases, most of which is allocated to local wine club and out of state wine enthusiasts. Having achieved what is essentially cult status over 20 years as a craft producer

Lutz quips:

“…Most people think that wine is a lifestyle business,

it most assuredly isn’t, although, of course,

we do enjoy some perks!”

When queried about what’s next, Steve offers “Lenné’s unique programs and experiences will exist in new formats for years to come, although you’ll have to get on our mailing and membership lists to take advantage of what’s coming up next.”

you’ll have to get on […] mailing and membership lists to take advantage of what’s coming up next

The Lenne’ tasting room closes at the end of 2022.

Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine’s Lenne’ Estate sells his iconic vineyard

Jory, LLC had been searching for a bespoke Pinot producing site and were delighted when approached by Steve.

Jory intend to further develop the existing property with a new brand name, marketing concepts, and larger facilities. Co-owner Eugene Labunsky has admitted to being thrilled to finally acquire a property he has had his eye on for years.

Lenné’ Estate

Lenne’ Estate grows death-defying Pinot Noir vineyards on steep slopes in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. Steve Lutz planted his first vines in 2001, expanding the vineyard property to 20.9 acres. The estate is planted with five clones of Pinot Noir (Pommard, 777, 115, 114, and 667), and most recently Chardonnay.

Jory, LLC

Jory, LLC is a partnership between grower and wine enthusiast Eugene Labunsky and Jared Etzel, winemaker and co-founder of Domaine Roy, and son of Mike Etzel of Beaux Frere fame. The partnership was formed with the intent to grow a portfolio of fine wine brands produced from singular estates of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Additional information will be released in the upcoming months.

Join Dominique Crenn, the Michelin Star Chef behind hit Foodie movie “The Menu” on a global adventure

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Join Dominique Crenn, the Michelin Star Chef behind hit Foodie movie “The Menu”, on a global adventure

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Dominique Crenn, the Chef Behind movie “The Menu” on a global foodie adventure.

Chef Dominique Crenn, the first and only female chef in North America with three Michelin stars, helped the filmmakers of the horror movie “The Menu” bring to life the perfect menu for the main event which has been described as a real 9-courses culinary and artist masterpiece.

And now there is an opportunity for an intimate group of guests to meet, dine and discover with Dominique in person in France

Dominique Crenn, the Chef Behind movie “The Menu” on a global foodie adventure.

Enjoy Dominique Crenn for 5 days in France for a Hosted Experience with Satopia Travel

As the chief technical consultant for The Menu film, Dominique Crenn was responsible for advising on all aspects of food preparation and presentation to bring to life the concepts of the menu based on Seth Reiss and Will Tracy’s screenplay.

Crenn is known for her creative approach to cooking

She has been working closely with Mark Mylod, the director and producers to ensure that the film accurately portrays the culinary world.

Her menu is inspired by her travels and experiences around the world

Crenn is known for her creative approach to cooking, and her menu is often inspired by her travels and experiences around the world. Dishes that Dominique Crenn designed as a consultant are presented with the slow-motion pomp and string accompaniment of a “Chef’s Table” episode. Indeed, the food-worshiping Netflix series, which featured Crenn in season two, was an inspiration for “The Menu”.

There is an incredible opportunity for an intimate group of like-minded travelers

There is an incredible opportunity for an intimate group of like-minded travelers to meet chef, icon and activist Dominique Crenn.

In collaboration with Satopia Travel, Crenn conjures up five magical days and evenings where creativity and nature converge. Our most inspired Hosted Experience is a wonder to behold for our guests. Combining the magnificent culinary delights of triple Michelin star chef Dominique Crenn with the stunning backdrop of an ancient French chateau is certain to ignite your palette and spirit.

Dominique Crenn brings her soul to the feast

Dominique Crenn brings her soul to the feast, transforming ingredients through the poetry of gastronomy. Those fortunate to share her table and her stories will discover a world of passion and gratitude for food, community and life. You’ll create and share unforgettable memories.

Ancient olive groves, crisp French linen, the vintages of Cognac and the sound of boisterous laughter under a starlit sky. Step into a magical world of natural beauty, wonder and awe.

Booking is now open. Book before the 1st of January to take advantage of the holiday rates before prices increase.

About Satopia Travel

Satopia Travel (www.satopiatravel.com) specializes in unique experiences, led by world-class hosts. Providing guests with unprecedented access to some of the most extraordinary people on the planet, Satopia hosts world-class leaders who champion the potential for the future of humanity, creating meaningful connections through shared experiences. Every hosted experience has an element of giving back, either to a local community, social or environmental cause close to their heart.

Website http://satopiatravel.com

Instagram www.instagram.com/satopiatravel

Bring Great Flavors to your Lehigh Valley Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough.

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Bring Great Flavors to your Lehigh Valley Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Bring Great Flavors to your Lehigh Valley Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough.

Thanksgiving is coming up fast, and you just have a few days left, do not panic just yet.

Most people are not “hosting” a Thanksgiving; instead, they are guests. Whether its family, friends, or you are the plus one, it is always better to make a good impression – and what better way than with an exceptional wine or two?

Wine can be inexpensive; our winemaker suggested a few wines between $15-$45.

Brian Cheeseborough has more than 20 vintages of wine experience and made 90+ point wines in 6 different regions worldwide (California, France, New Zealand, Argentina, and more). He is an expert at pairing flavors and (more importantly) how to fix sour or off flavors – think dry turkey. (yikes!)

Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough shares Delicious Wine Pairings for Your Thanksgiving Feast

Take it away, Brian!

Thanks for having me. I’m excited to share these ideas because there are two goals: if the food is incredible, we want a wine that matches it and makes it even better (think like a dancing partner), and secondly, if the food is not great, we want a way to elevate the experience and fix the mistake.

Wine can do that! Most of these wines are from vineyards I have worked with or fellow Fresno State alums, some of whom I sat in a lecture with about all things wine. Can’t find the exact bottle? There are numerous producers for these wines under $50 and some below $20 – follow the varietals.

So, let us get started.

Alexander Valley Vineyards – Gewürz, 2021 Mendocino County

This Gewürz can solve many problems. It is a great wine to start the night; It’s also great when you’re eating something dry or bland. Yes, it is on the sweeter side. The aromatics are floral, with enticing notes of apple, grapefruit, and citrus; the mouth is silky and rich. This will pair well with any course. I like it with turkey best!

Buy it here: AVV 2021 Gewürz – Organically Grown

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2021 Estate Chardonnay

Another great option to start the party. The nose is a fresh bouquet of apricot, lemon, lime, and honey. The mouth is rich and supple with flavors of golden apple, caramel, and vanilla, with a nice round, refreshing finish. You can easily pair this with rich seafood dishes like shrimp alfredo and crab-stuffed lobster tail. Also, creamy potatoes or spiced pumpkins. (If you end up with pumpkin or squash on your plate and try a glass of this, you will thank me later.)

Buy it here: Willamette Valley Vineyards – Estate Chardonnay

Pine Ridge Vineyards 2021 Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend

One more light suggestion to start off your feast! This is crisp, bright, and full of life. The nose is a bouquet of honeysuckle, and orange blossoms, with a twist of ginger spice. The mouth is full-bodied with refreshing acidity. Flavors of tangerine, lime, and green apple. It’ll pair great with a light salad, goat cheese, and olives.

Buy it here: Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend – Pine Ridge Vineyards

Now, let us go to the Reds!

Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta 2019

It has a gorgeous fruit-driven nose with aromas of red fruit, cherry, and plum. The mouth is sleek and silky, medium body with flavors of black currant and blueberry, with lush and velvety tannins. It would pair well with turkey, venison with traditional gravy, or cranberry.

Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta 2019

Buy it here: Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta

Dutton-Goldfield’s 2020 Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir

The nose starts telling you this is something extra special; classic rich blackberry, pomegranate, and a touch of vanilla to round out the aromas. The mouth is super juicy and decadent, full of bright red cherry and cola with a baking spice finish. You want this with your main entree – turkey, ham, and stuffing. The people at your party drinking this will be glancing at each other, smiling between bites – they will know why!

Buy it here: Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir

Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River – 2019

On the nose, red fruit notes with cherry and plum. On the mouth, medium body with moderate oak, black currant, and blueberry, with delicate tannins. This pairs well with lean meat.

Buy it here: Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River

The critical thing to remember is that regardless of your budget, you can find a great flavor to pair with what you are eating. Also, the wine can “save” the day, just in case it ends up a little (or a lot) dry or bland. You are not the chef du jour for Thanksgiving, but you can still contribute to the sharing.

Brian Cheeseborough is currently the Director of Winemaking at FermForge in West Texas.

Bookstore Speakeasy brings memorable style and flavor to Bethlehem’s bar scene.

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Bookstore Speakeasy Brings Memorable Style and Flavor to Bethlehem’s Bar Scene

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Bookstore Speakeasy brings memorable style and flavor to Bethlehem’s bar scene.

As the name suggests, Bookstore Speakeasy brings us back to the Prohibition era speakeasy times. The owners and staff work hard to recreate the look and style of the area and deliver incredible tastes.

According to their website, reservations are suggestions. They’re being modest.

Reservations are pretty much mandatory unless you want to wait over an hour. So, make a reservation. It’s worth it.

Also, since this is a “specialty” restaurant, please check out my tips at the bottom of the article.

You enter through a non-descript door on a plain-looking street. At first, I didn’t think I was at the right place. And, of course, this is all planned on-purpose to match the business’s theme.

Bookstore Speakeasy’s lobby

You walk down the steps into a different world.

The world of a prohibition-style speakeasy. The owners have done a thorough and detailed job on design and it pays off.

Bookstore Speakeasy’s specialty drink list

In the lobby you wait with other guests until you’re called by the hostess, and then your full party enters yet another world: the bar / seating area. It’s even more dense with speakeasy design.

Cuisine

The drinks are excellent. The food is excellent.

They have a full bar, but also offer custom drink specials.

Bookstore Speakeasy’s bar

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Their drinks aren’t traditionally straight forward. Rather, they’re almond infused, maple-infused, etc. Everything I tasted was “a little bit different” than what I expected.

I could see some people loving that detail. I could see others being very frustrated. The barstaff doesn’t want you to be frustrated, so ask questions.

Once I started asking more and more questions, the bartender (Ry) was very helpful and friendly. He ended up pouring me several small samples until I could figure out what I’d like.

The food was plentiful and outstanding. If you’re a foodie, it’s worth a visit for the food alone.

Ambiance

You’re there for the vibe and it pays off immediately and consistently.

The scene is locally award-winning and very well-crafted.

A mostly-finished Old-Fashioned with 2 samples

I would’ve expected dates, seduction and romance. To me, the vibe was swanky, lounge-y romantic. (maybe that says more about me).

Inside, there was a college-aged date at the bar, a Moms Night Out at one table and older couples (55+) at two other tables. A private group party cozied off in a secluded corner.

Made it hard to figure out the bar’s demographic as tonight’s crowd was very mixed. However it felt like a local hang, as “Lehigh” and “Moravian Academy” were both overhead several times.

For me, I’d travel from well outside the area to have this experience.

There is a corner of the room for a live band and supposedly there’s live music most nights. The overall area seemed too small for that, like the sound would dominate everything.

If you’re a live music lover, maybe that’s great news. Out for dinner, drinks and conversation, maybe that’s not great news.

Service

So here’s where I messed up. It’s not really a “walk-in and grab a quick drink” bar. You really want to make reservations ahead of time. This is “suggested” on their website, but it should be required.

The bar seems to be maintained at a quarter full. The restaurant is steady at ⅔ full.

So, I received rushed service. The hostess worked to squeeze me into their packed schedule. Once seated, the bartender was very helpful. I had a quick drink and a bite and moved on quickly enough to fit their next scheduled seating after me.

Hospitality

All in all, it reminds me of a mini-version Los Angeles’ Magic Castle. At the Castle their rules are very straightforward, respected, must be followed, and the venue is a better place as a result. If anyone asked my opinion, I’d suggest the Bookstore lean more into “rules”.

Bookstore Speakeasy can easily be a special night worthy of driving from anywhere in Eastern PA (roughly 30-45 mins). I’d go back again, but this time I know the rules.

Tips:

Make a reservation
Walk in with an adventurous palette
Sit down expecting to spend some money. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it.
Know there’s an automatic 25% gratuity added to your bill. Order accordingly.
Ask the bartenders and waiters questions. Have fun with the experience.

Bookstore Speakeasy is delicious, memorable and helpful.

For more info and to make a reservation: https://www.bookstorespeakeasy.com/

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Youell’s Oyster House is the Lehigh Valley’s Answer to ‘Sea to Table’ Seafood

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Youell’s Oyster House is the Lehigh Valley’s answer to seafood.

Youell’s Oyster House is hidden in a cozy neighborhood of Allentown, PA within minutes of the Allentown Fairgrounds, Muhlenberg College and Cedar Crest College. About twenty minutes from the PPL center.

Youell’s Oyster House has History

Part of Pennsylvania history, originally opened in 1895. Then Gus Filipos, a longtime patron of Youell’s, bought the business in 1984 and his son Chris joined in 1987.

Youells-Oyster-house

Over the years they earned a reputation for excellent food. Their oysters, their Certified Black Angus beef. Their wine and craft beer selections.

And very fresh seafood.

According to their website the scallops (and presumably most of their seafood) is caught less than 12 hours before being served on your plate.

Pretty good.

The motto they repeat throughout their website is:

“Upscale dining

in a relaxed atmosphere.”

I was told a few times during a recent East Coast visit, that Youell’s has the best seafood in the Lehigh Valley, so I planned to try them out.