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Sip on this Juice

Sonoma County Lifestyle - Wine | Food | Travel | Events - with Amy Lieberfarb

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Interactive Lunch with Chef Todd English in Napa

March 27, 2014 · by Amy Lieberfarb ·

1511253_215618121959416_1795261604_nHow many chances does one get to cook in a kitchen as fabulous as the one at Culinary Institute of America? In my case…so far only one. It was memorable to say the least, however, and I very much plan to schedule another visit and cooking class at CIA Greystone in Napa, California.

Microsoft’s Bing had invited me to the event and provided the ticket to both the lunch that afternoon and a fantastic Winemakers dinner that evening. Thanks again to the staff at Bing for being a sponsor at an iconic event in the Napa Valley.

1535642_215618195292742_1754719523_nThe Interactive Lunch with Todd English was  part of the Flavor Napa Series which is held annually and very well attended by guests from around the world. At the winemakers dinner that evening, we met a lovely couple from Portugal who had booked the three day event to truly taste the Napa Valley and experience the culture.

The interactive lunch starts with a cooking demonstration by Chef English in the Classrooms which of course features a state of the art kitchen at the helm as opposed to the standard teachers writing desk. Awesome.

The CIA at Greystone offers the same degree proven programs, innovative curriculum, and expert CIA faculty as their world-renowned culinary and baking and pastry arts programs in Hyde Park, NY. Whatever your interest in coming to Greystone—from dining to demonstrations, from professional programs to enthusiast courses such as this one, they most likely have something for any foodie.

1601093_215618241959404_1076642977_nWe were taught how to make pan seared scallops and a duck pasta dish. For the second half of the lesson, the “interactive” part, the students were taken upstairs to the CIA Greystone kitchens. These are not like the stoves that I have in my home.

They are impressive and I mean really impressive. For a kluzt such as myself….it was a  bit daunting to say the least. I am not fond of setting fires…haha. Nor did I luckily.

I found the class helpful, the chef came around and assisted the students as they created the dish themselves as well, giving us pep talks and words of encouragement when needed.

1482777_215618141959414_1520001374_nAs I seared my scallops in oil to start the dish, Chef Todd English came by and said something to the extent of “You look like you know what you are doing in the kitchen.”… Sure Chef…I bet he says that to all the ladies…ha.

This demonstration class and experience cooking at the Culinary Institute was terrific. And we didn’t do so bad either. I had gotten the tickets last minute but luckily Aaron, was in town visiting, and he came with me and was my designate for the day, he does not drink. More sips of Napa’s finest for me then.

Props again to Bing for providing an apron for guests as well as creating a computer application which we were provided with on tablets at the cooking preparation area. Each prep area had a tray laid out with ingredients all pre-measured and a step by step recipe on the tablet to follow.

1505443_215618165292745_90204349_nThis recipe included photos and was easy to follow instructions. Scallops are usually something I would order out and not prepare at home. After this class, I have changed my mind, what an easy and also impressive dish to create.

Another nice feature from the Bing recipe app was the hands free usage. Any home chef knows that hands are constantly messy with something and the ability to swipe the screen by moving your hand above the screen without touching anything was invaluable.

1044719_215617918626103_553508024_nIf only someone would measure my ingredients and put them on a nice little tray when I cook at home though. Guess that involves hiring a prep cook or CIA staff member maybe?

We ate our personal scallop dish with a beautifully paired white wine and the duck pasta was served family style to the tables throughout the kitchen area. We dined amongst the kitchen and sounds and smells wafting from the stoves. Wonderful and what a fantabulous building it was.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ken Wagonner, another Twitter acquaintance and fellow wine lover, while eating dessert at the event. Turns out that we live in the same neighborhood and we have been friends since. Him and his lovely wife are terrific and I have attended several local events with them since Flavor Napa.

1609590_215618078626087_1328645596_nWe also dined next to a group of couples visiting from Southern California who attend Flavor Napa as a group each year and say that some of their favorites were the brunch on the final day of Flavor Napa and also the winemakers dinner on the last night. We had the pleasure of seeing them at the Winemaker dinner that evening and raising a glass together again.

1607061_215618008626094_695347666_nAnother treat for the evening was at the Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa at the Flavor Napa Winemakers Dinner.

Aaron and I, who also had attended the class earlier that evening, were seated at the same table as Todd English with Aaron sitting next to the Chef. Small world that Napa…

We also had the pleasure of the best table in the house if you ask this girl including the wines and the handsome Michael Keenan and his beautiful wife. Keenan, a local winemaker with some fierce bottles is also a terrific chef and the talk of food and wine abounded.

1511675_215617985292763_1090909161_nUntil next year at Flavor Napa…

Chin Chin…

Culinary Institute of America – Website Here

2555 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574
(707) 967-1100

Flavor! Napa Valley Event – Website Here

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Filed Under: Napa County Food, Napa Valley Travel, NAPA, CA, Restaurant Reviews, Travel · Tagged: california, chef, culinary, food, napa, travel

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The V Foundation smashed fundraising records again The V Foundation smashed fundraising records again, raising a staggering $21 million in the fight against cancer this weekend at the Wine Celebration in Napa Valley’s Wine Country! This landmark year marked the 25th anniversary of this exceptional celebrity charity event. The V Foundation, a charitable fundraising initiative inspired by Jim Valvano’s iconic speech at the ESPYS, aims to accelerate victory over cancer. Founded by the legendary basketball coach, Jimmy V, this event would undoubtedly make him proud. Witnessing the dedication of the people who run and support the V Foundation is remarkable, as they strive to fulfill the goal of fighting the big fight against cancer. This year, the V Foundation achieved its biggest fundraising milestone yet! It holds a special place in everyone’s heart as we celebrate a quarter-century of excellence in battling cancer. The final event of this extraordinary celebration took place at Nickel and Nickel Winery, where we honored the contributions of Beth Nickel and her late husband, Gil, in making the Wine Celebration a resounding success. Their efforts truly deserve a lifetime achievement award. With Coach “K” leading the way and hosting a weekend full of events, it was another iconic victory in our quest to find a cure.
@vfwcelebration @thevfoundation #victoryovercancer #vfoundation #vfoundationwinecelebration #vfoundationforcancerresearch
Wine Country is never one to pass up on a celebrat Wine Country is never one to pass up on a celebration! Since the organization first began throwing parties in Napa Valley, the V Foundation has raised millions of dollars by raising a glass and raising an auction paddle in the fight against cancer. That’s right - wine + giving back. A perfect pairing.
If you have experienced the losses and heartache that cancer can bring, you’ve probably felt like joining the fight. The fight to find a cure. Now in its 25th year in Napa - the V Foundation Wine Celebration is looking to Go Big or Go Home.
With Coach “K” leading the way and hosting the weekend of events - it is guaranteed to be big and full of the fabulous style antics that only he can bring. His mission is focused: fund game-changing research to accelerate Victory Over Cancer®. If anyone was perfectly placed to win the big game - it would be Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski, Former Duke Head Coach Men’s Basketball.
Joining him on the Wine Celebration Team this year are Famed Restaurateurs & Award-Winning Chefs - Superstar Musicians and Performers - World-Class Vintners - Grant Honorees and Rockstar Auctioneer John Curley. A three day weekend packed with adventures and experiences in food and wine. It is looking to be a huge success again in 2023!
The V Foundation for Cancer Research is a top-rated cancer research charity. They empower early-career researchers to be fearless in pursuits of new cancer therapies. This annual event raises millions for cancer research. 100% of direct donations are used to fund projects. “Today’s Cancer Research is Tomorrow’s Victory.”
Cancer research grants are awarded to innovative researchers with the most cutting-edge ideas on how to improve cancer diagnosis methods, prevent cancer recurrences or defeat cancer. Thanks to the V Foundation’s endowment that covers administrative expenses, the organization ensures that every single penny supports game-changing cancer research.
Highlights from fun and shenanigans here are from last year’s celebration. Follow along here on social media as I do it all again this weekend! Or better yet, donate, contribute, give back and attend with us all!! LINK IN BIO ⬆️
Raise a Glass to 25 Years of Fighting Cancer: Join Raise a Glass to 25 Years of Fighting Cancer: Join the Wine Celebration 🍷 As we prepare to celebrate the V Foundation’s 25th anniversary of fighting cancer with wine, they invite you to save the date for the upcoming event from August 3rd to 6th, 2023. The Wine Celebration is a three-day extravaganza set in the picturesque Napa Valley, Northern California, with the mission of raising funds for cancer research. This year’s event is marked with a sense of pride and accomplishment, looking back at all the foundation has achieved and forward to the many milestones they hope to hit in the future. Link in my Instagram Stories

The V Foundation, has made remarkable progress over the past quarter of a century. However, there’s still a lot of ground to cover, and they believe that there’s no better way to do it than with the collective power of supporters like you, who are invested in this mission. Come and join us in Napa Valley in August, get involved, make a difference, and celebrate life with the best wine and cuisine. We look forward to seeing you there! Cheers!
With your help - we can make a difference. Never G With your help - we can make a difference. Never Give Up. $4.2 Million Raised this weekend at Sonoma Epicurean!🍷

The V Foundation fights pediatric cancer together with a strong and dedicated community of donors, doctors and scientists. They provide financial support for the brightest minds in cancer research so that they can find new and innovative ways to treat and cure cancer.

The organization won’t stop until they reach victory. Providing critical funding for groundbreaking cancer research that will one day cure this terrible disease.

It’s hard to know where to start when it comes to helping kids with cancer. What kind of research should be funded? How can we make sure that the money goes to the right places?

The V Foundation is the SOLUTION. They are a top-rated charity that funds pediatric cancer research at events like Sonoma Epicurean. With their rigorous vetting process, you can be sure that your donation will go towards finding a cure for this terrible disease.

By donating money or becoming a member of their organization you can help them continue their good work and make a real difference in the fight against pediatric cancer.

Come join the party next year for Sonoma Epicurean 2024: a series of unforgettable events with award-winning chefs, local artisans, and world-class vintners! Not only will you indulge yourself in luxurious experiences focused on wellbeing and sustainability; your presence can also aid in the ongoing mission to make cancer history.

For over 30 years - V Foundation has been doing good works with $310 million awarded towards game changing research so far... Victory Over Cancer® awaits!
Welcome Welcome
The V Foundation Raises Over $6.5 Million for Canc The V Foundation Raises Over $6.5 Million for Cancer Research! It was a big win in the fight against cancer this weekend in Wine Country!!

This year’s annual Napa Valley Wine Celebration really showed that the continued success of The V Foundation is, in large part, due to the overwhelming dedication from their supporters and partners. It goes without saying that donors play a big role in the success of any fundraising event. The attendees were a close-knit group. This was a reunion gathering that they looked forward to each year.

Watching the numerous supporters come together to raise this remarkable contribution was inspiring. Guests all raved about the quality of the occasion. Their reactions were heartfelt when they spoke about The V Foundation and bespoke wine experiences offered.

Much camaraderie and genuine enthusiasm about the future and making real change was the theme. Choose Courage. These same guests had attended multiple years, some since its inauguration in 1999. This coming year, 2023, will be the 25th anniversary of the Wine Celebration. It sells out far in advance.

The energy, vivacity and unwavering dedication of supporters really speaks to the efforts of the team who puts it all together. It was the perfect mix of education, entertainment and community. Don’t forget the wine + those views! Let’s “Beat Up Cancer” was heard often.

Learning more about cancer research in such a stunning travel destination spot is a transformative experience for anyone. Especially those with a story. Everyone has a cancer story to tell. Whether it is your own story or the tale of helping a friend or family member. Cancer has touched many of us in some way.

29 years ago, cancer diagnosis & prognosis were not as optimistic as today. With research supported by @thevfoundation, there are now earlier diagnoses, a better understanding of what causes some cancers, & therapies designed to kill cancer while also preserving a patient’s overall health.

To learn more or to make a donation: winecelebration.org
@vfwcelebration 

#victoryovercancer #cancerresearch #vfwinecelebration #winecelebration #vfoundation #jimmyv #napavalley #napawine #farniente #winetasting
V Foundation’s Wine Celebration V Foundation’s Wine Celebration
To accomplish extraordinary things… Choose coura To accomplish extraordinary things… Choose courage. The V Foundation Wine Celebration is this weekend in Napa Valley California! A shared commitment to Victory Over Cancer.
“Be on the team that will put an end to cancer one day.” — Amy Marks Dornbusch & Derek Reisinger, co-chairs
Follow along as this group shares stories of their personal battles & triumphs. 
Learn more about early detection and why it works, why it matters, and why now.
#CancerResearch #dontevergiveup 
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#vfwinecelebration #winecelebration #victoryovercancer #napavalley
@thevfoundation @vfwcelebration @farnientewinery @bentleymotors @penfolds @stephensilver @nickelandnickelwinery @enroutewine
100% Estate Grown, sustainably farmed in the renow 100% Estate Grown, sustainably farmed in the renowned Rutherford growing region in the heart of Napa Valley. Certified Green. Yes, please. You are what you drink. 
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📍 @stsupery
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This weekend, I was tickled pink. A lovely bottle and perfect pairing for the California heat and the flowers blooming. Aromas of raspberry and strawberry that are complemented by hibiscus and rose petal. Raspberry and strawberry flavors continue on the palate and are framed by nuances of pomegranate and watermelon. A darker colored rosé bottle.
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FUN FACT: It is not known when the first wine labeled as a rosé was produced, but it is very likely that many of the earliest red wines made were closer in appearance to today's rosés than they would be to modern red wines. 
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This is because many of the winemaking techniques used to make today's darker, more tannic red wines (such as extended maceration and harder pressing) were not widely practised in ancient winemaking. Both red and white wine grapes were often pressed soon after harvest, (with very little maceration time) by hand, feet or even sack cloth, creating juice that was only lightly pigmented.
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#siponthisjuice #rosé #roséallday #napa #napavalley #stsupery #stsuperywinery #roseallday #drinkpink #napavalleywine
Let’s discuss the low down on the NZ organic & b Let’s discuss the low down on the NZ organic & biodynamic wine scene - the who, what & the where! Organic wine is on the rise in New Zealand, with an increasing number of producers small and large embracing organic wine growing.

Tomorrow you can watch, learn more & participate in the discussion with New Zealand winegrowers through a virtual webinar - two different time slots so everyone can join in!
Two of my favorite brands - Huw Kitch of Pyramid Valley & Anna Flowerday of Te Whare Ra will lead the show!!
Details below:

The Rise of NZ Organic Wine
Virtual Webinar & Tasting
Wednesday, September 22nd
You can REGISTER AT LINK IN BIO ⬆️
Session 1 @ 11 am EST/8am PST
Session 2 @ 4pm EST/ 1pm PST

The Rise of NZ Organic Wine virtual event is led by Emma Jenkins, MW in collaboration with Organic Wine Week New Zealand (Sept 20th– 26th).

The objectives are simple: to increase awareness of organic wine, to educate customers on why consuming organic is both good for them and for the land, and to support organic producers to ensure a healthy future world for us all.
📸’s: @tewharerawinesnz 
#nzwine #organicwineweek #organicwinesnz #oww
@pyramidvalleyvineyards @nzwinegrowers @nzwineusa 
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#greatwineisinournature #onlyorganic #drinkorganic #nzorganicwineweek #celebrateorganic #organic #organicweek #nzwines #drinkwine #drinkwell #winelovers #wining #siponthisjuice #siponthis #newzealandwine #nzwinery #nzorganic #organicnz #ilovenewzealand #organicisbest #buyorganic #organiclife #sustainablewine #wineweek #winewebinar #wineblogger
Missing my Kiwi friends & simply chatting about so Missing my Kiwi friends & simply chatting about something we all love- WINE! Organic wines are the focus for our virtual conversations this week & I very much look forward to in person conversation sooner rather than later.
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Join us this week to learn about Organic Winemaking with many iconic, world-renowned producers including LIVE Instagram chats, zoom tastings and of course lots of content creation from all of your favorite NZ Wineries. Join the Conversation Sept 20-26th. 
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Organic winegrowers cooperate with nature. These wines have a positive impact on ecosystems and its importance to the New Zealand wine story. It’s an opportunity for people from all over the globe to come together to share, learn and sample New Zealand organic wine. 
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The organic vineyards in NZ grow delicious wines but they're also committed to being environmentally conscious by using sustainable farming practices.
Follow: @organicwinegrowersnz @nzwine @nzwineusa
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If you've been considering visiting the Land of Kiwi then don't miss out on these amazing organic wines! You can visit their website at www.nzwinegrowers.com or call them directly at 1-800-639-9946 

📸: Hanging at New Zealand Sustainability Conference with friend, fabulous lady and winery owner @joiywine - Cath Archer as she explains more about her awesome wine line up... Try them soon! 
#organicwineweek #nzwine #nzmadewithcare #organicwinesnz #purenewzealand #NewZealand #wine
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#organicwine #organicwines #nzorganicwine #nzwines #purenz #nzmustdo #winelover, #winetasting, #winetime, #winelovers, #vino, #winestagram #siponthisjuice #newzealandtravel #visitnewzealand #friendsandwine #kiwiwine #aotearoa #organic #buyorganic #organicisbest #ilovewine #iloveorganic
Donum means 'gift of the land.' Single-vineyard, e Donum means 'gift of the land.' Single-vineyard, estate wines from vineyards in Carneros, Russian River Valley and Anderson Valley. Wowsa. #DrinkSonoma in your glass. 🍷🍷
Have YOU tried their Pinot Noir yet?!?
📌 @donumestate #TasteofSonoma
HEY!! Your veraison is showing! Pinot Noir in cool HEY!! Your veraison is showing! Pinot Noir in cool climate regions still changing colors while others in Sonoma County have already begun prepping for harvest!! Wishing everyone a fabulous vintage 2021 🍇
My glass is ready. Just sayin'.
Have you seen a Wine Flight on Air New Zealand?! W Have you seen a Wine Flight on Air New Zealand?! Well, now you have. 3 course Food + Wine Pairings & fabulous views of the island. Start in the vineyard, end on the beaches.
@nzwinegrowers @airnz @nzwineusa 
#NZWine #nzmadewithcare #airnewzealand #nzmustdo #wine #winepairings #viewsfordays #viewsonviews #vineyards🍇 #thewinedown #youcansipwithus #SipOnThisJuice #nzwines #wineflight #winepairings #TravelWell #eatwell #luxurytravel #travel #wineanddine
Have YOU ever been... WINE TASTING?!? Me too. Let' Have YOU ever been... WINE TASTING?!?
Me too.
Let's do it again, Right?!?

#Wine #winegeek #NZWine #nzwineweek #nzwinegrowers #nzmadewithcare #nzmustdo #newzealandwine #newzealandlife #redwine #whitewine #rosé #roséallday #sparklingwine #winephotography #wineevent #winenot #wino #🍷 #🥂 #🍾 #WineCountryTravel #wineeducation #wineislife #wineinfluencer #wineblogger #drinkwell #drinkup #youcansipwithus
Have YOU tasted wines from New Zealand? It is impo Have YOU tasted wines from New Zealand? It is important to remember that ...

For over 20 years now, Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ) has been globally recognized as leading the world in their sustainability efforts. You are drinking wines crafted with GREAT CARE from grape to glass. These sustainability efforts were one of the first of their kind on the International scene. Currently, the programme has gained notoriety for… since 2019, showing that 98% of New Zealand’s vineyard producing area is SWNZ certified.  A feat that is unmatched by any “voluntary” efforts around the world!!

New Zealand is Committed to Protecting the Places that Make Their Wines Famous. It is the PLACE that makes their fabulous vineyards thrive. So they protect it. For now, for future generations and for us, the consumers of their product.

With sooo much riding on the health and stability of soils on an island location, viticulturists in New Zealand continue to lead the way in employing sustainable practices to preserve and enhance this vital substance… the land. They also take a leading role in conservation of wildlife and the environment where they plant.

In the vineyards and the surrounding beyond. For instance, water management focuses on minimizing the amount of water used for cleaning and the management of ensuing wastewater – from treatment, through to recycling and water discharge. 98% of vineyards in NZ used monitoring techniques in the vineyard to optimize applications.

The point I am trying to make here is… DRINK MORE NEW ZEALAND WINE 🍾🥂🍷 CHEERS

#nzwine #nzwines #nzmustdo #nzwinegrowers
The World is Your Oyster, but you still have to sh The World is Your Oyster, but you still have to shuck it... YOU are the pearl.

Know your own worth, & own it. While life opens back up, it is inspiring to watch other women achieve their life ambitions & entrepreneurial dreams, quit their job & start their own business, create a new path & go get it!
Fierce Pinot Noir. Go find some... Soon. In the he Fierce Pinot Noir. Go find some... Soon. In the heart of downtown Healdsburg. Small batch California wines with finesse & focus...

A Hip & Popular Tasting Room & an epic vinyl collection to play with. Easy to stroll to other Wine Tasting Rooms on the same block, fabulous restaurants, art galleries and more all along on the Healdsburg Square. Add it to your list!  Learn More about this spot ~ Article about my last visit is on the website, link in bio ⬆️
📍 @bansheewines
#wine #winelover #SonomaChat
How do you REALLY make a great wine?!? Wait for it How do you REALLY make a great wine?!?
Wait for it...

Plus... Plenty of Tasting 🥂🥂🥂
Work, work, work.

Ha! In reality, there is sooo much more that goes into creating each & every Bottle... From grape to glass, it's an art form & a scientific process combined.

Today, we were just having fun & chatting about how awesome this label is. It takes a LOT to choose the Perfect Name for a new wine. We loved that this label shows the process that went into brainstorming the new Sauvignon Blanc from Laurel Glen Vineyard. 

Blanc Slate. Yep, best choice.

#sauvignonblanc #SauvBlancDay #SauvBlanc #winemaking #winemaker #whitewine #cheers #winery #winelovers #youcansipwithus #sipwell #sipsonoma #Californiawine #wineoclock #winelovers #SonomaChat #SipOnThisJuice #drinkup #sauvyb #reels #holareels #pour #reelsinstagram #reelsviral #HappyHour #explore #explorepage #instagood #trending
if you are going to spend the day wine tasting... if you are going to spend the day wine tasting... EAT a good breakfast.

Avocado Toast ~ 
Grilled French bread with a little butter & fresh garlic rub, Avocado, Pickled mustard seed, ginger, smoked paprika, egg on top.

A great way to start the day!
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#avocado #avacadotoast #eatwell #eatup #breakfast #pickled #eggontop #siponthisjuice #foodiechats #breakfasttime #letsdothis #avovadolove #avocados #avocado🥑 #breakfastideas #foodielife #breakfastclub #EatLocal #farmtotable #cheflife #breakfastinbed #ilovefood  #pickledmustardseeds #eatright #eatclean #brunch #brunchideas
How do YOU choose the... PERFECT WINE????? Who sa How do YOU choose the...
PERFECT WINE?????

Who says you have to choose
just ONE?!!

Not me.

#DRINKUP

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#drinkgoodwine #SipOnThisJuice
#drinkwell #wine #winelover #youcansipwithus #sipwell #sipwithus #winegeek #winetime #winelovers #wineoclock #winebrand #winery #wino #winey #drinks #wineparties #wineporn #sipper #HappyHour #goodtimes #liveitup #partyideas #party #poppingbottles #choices #vino
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