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Sip on this Juice

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

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St Francis Winery Food & Wine Pairings

May 10, 2014 · by Amy Lieberfarb ·

10330398_249523918568836_4555984751970580918_n“Wine is meant to be with food – that is the point of it.” -Julia Child

I remember my first experience pairing food and wine together while on a tasting room tour of Wine Country. Before this, I had simply gone wine tasting with a few friends and stopped at a restaurant in between. We were total novices in our early 20’s.

I was in Napa for a high school friends 22nd birthday when we stopped at Domaine Chandon. We were served a flight of bubbly paired with a lovely cheese & charcuterie board to enjoy along with complimentary views of the rolling grape covered hills beyond. I was hooked.

1461767_249523961902165_2513417005927906008_nSince that time, I have become quite the experienced food and wine taster, and quite the picky one, as some may tell you. One of my favorite places to bring friends or family when visiting to pair food, wine and terrific views is St Francis Winery in Kenwood, CA.

It also helps that it is only a stones throw from my home and the backdrop of the mountain vineyards is hard to beat.

I have tasted with the folks at St Francis Vineyards and Winery on several occasions and enjoyed each one tremendously. Apparently the people of America agree with little ole’ me. St Francis Food and Wine Pairings were voted ‘Best Restaurant in America’ by Open Table diners in 2013.

1491653_249523895235505_1362935341214704707_nWhen meeting with Chef David Bush and Sous Chef Stacey, it quickly became obvious that they both have tremendous passion about pleasing one’s palate with the perfect combo of food and wine.

Having dined with them in San Francisco at the San Francisco Wine Center and also at the Kenwood Winery, I know that they can both plate a fierce meal.

10178132_249523948568833_755316545405003407_nWith attention to detail and exquisite plating techniques, each course is presented well and with fine dining style flair. Read our article about a night of St Francis in The City Here.

My favorite courses of the current menu (which changes seasonally) have to be the Fava bean first course, not only for the freshness and the wonderful chardonnay that it is paired with but also for the lovely colors on display at the beginning of the meal. I also love the duck course for the smoky flavors of the duck really coming through when paired with the red wine. I am not normally  much of a duck fan, prefer confit style only. But the way that Chef Bush has prepared the duck is spot on for the juice paired.

“More important than the food pairing is the person w/ whom you drink the wine”….and might I add, each time I had terrific company.

Dining in between Winemaker Katie Madigan and Marketing Guru Aura Bland for my first journey through food and wine with St Francis was phenomenal for the breadth of knowledge presented by these fantastic ladies. But I have to say, my latest trip to St Francis topped them all and as I mentioned before, the person with whom I drank the wine did make all the difference.

10259859_249523871902174_3896099546416020995_nSorry Aura and Katie, but dining in style at St Francis paired with a handsome, charming and attentive gentleman wins out in the end. It was nice to be invited to a food and wine pairing by a thoughtful friend and also very nice to get to know him better.

Wish I had done that sooner. I tend to have something to say, you may have noticed from this long winded article….hardy har har…. and finding a man who is willing to listen to my plethora of ideas presents its own challenge, not to mention finding a man that may even appreciate one or two of the aforementioned ideas.

10178081_249523935235501_7321541271694155167_nGeert had noticed that I enjoyed St Francis through my social media pages and it is hard not to notice my appreciation for food as well. We had an instant connection. With that in mind, he had chosen St Francis to meet and of course little ole’ Amy had no idea that he planned the trip up to Sonoma just to say hello to me. Having traveled so far and visited Northern California for only 3 days, I had assumed that he just mentioned being at the winery for an event and thought I should come too.

Once I realized the amount of flattery he was throwing my way, it was time to sit up and pay attention. Perhaps I am not use to a man being so genuine and full of compliments, refreshing to say the least. Sometimes I can be a bit busy and unassuming. I wish I had scheduled more time to spend that weekend enjoying Wine Country with a friend.

10170749_249523971902164_3145818775929167595_nNeedless to say, thank you Geert for a wonderful time and day out in Sonoma County.. Hope you enjoy your trip back to the Netherlands. Chin Chin…

In summary: St Francis Winery and Vineyards offers estate and small-production Artisan wines with the most breathtaking view in Sonoma Valley as well as food and wine pairings and events. Giving guests a real mix of activities to choose from.

Discover crafted wines from Sonoma Valley and Russian River Valley estate vineyards as well as a variety of wines from other acclaimed Sonoma County appellations.

St Francis Winery & Vineyards – Website Here

100 Pythian Road at Hwy. 12
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
Directions…
Phone: (888) 675-WINE (9463)

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Filed Under: Events, Restaurant Reviews, Sonoma County Food, Sonoma County Travel, Sonoma County Wineries, SONOMA EVENTS, THINGS TO DO, Wine Country Events, WINE TASTING ROOMS, Winery Reviews · Tagged: photo gallery, sonoma county, tasting room, vineyards, winery

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I recently had the pleasure of learning more and shopping online with Millesima USA and I am hooked! If you are looking … Read More

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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