Thursday, March 22, 2012

Best Spring Wines

Now that it is officially spring, we can truly celebrate the passing of winter and coming of all things warm and sunny. Often, as the weather turns from the cooler, darker months, we look forward to longer days and spending more time outside.

As the seasons change, you may also be looking for the perfect spring wine to bring to your next backyard gathering. Below are some of our favorite spring varietals, but don't just take our word for it, you'll have to try them for yourself.

 

Sauvignon Blanc - What with the many different varieties and easy pairing with grilled vegetables and fish, Sauvignon Blancs and blends are a natural springtime choice.

Pinot Grigio - The ease at which a good (and we stress GOOD) Pinot Grigio pairs with light, tomato-y pasta dishes, as well as your antipasto salads make it a perfect wine for our list.

Albarino - One of my favorite wines as of late, the Albarino, a Spanish white, pairs wonderfully with shellfish and the fresh flavors of spring salads.

Riesling - Riesling is one of those wines that wine lovers either love or hate, there is no in-between. Great with smoked fish and perfect for sipping, choose a Riesling that will suit your tastes, as there are many that are less or more sweet, depending on the region and age.

Pinot Noir - For spring, we would suggest a younger Pinot Noir, so the bright fruit flavors emerge purest. Pair with fruit, salads, and tuna, and you'll have a match made in heaven.

Prosecco - This sparkling Italian wine is a bit softer than your typical champagne. A beautiful springtime treat, it pairs well with your favorite summer fruits, such as berries or peaches. Hello, Bellini, anyone?

Now that you've got your shopping list, the sooner you get to the store, the sooner you can get to sampling.

Happy Spring!

Monday, March 12, 2012

Joyeuses Pâques - BRUNCH!

Joyeuses Pâques, or Happy Easter! In honor of this wonderful Spring holiday, we are upping the ante of our traditional Sunday Brunch. Join us from 10:30am to 2pm on Easter Sunday, April 8, to mark a feast so incredible, it could only be the famous Chez Daniel Easter Brunch!

b u f f e t
Truffle Asparagus Salad
Caprese Salad
Roasted Pear Salad
Marinated Herring
Eggs Benedict 

Fruit, Vegetable, & Cheese Tray
House Made Pate
Poached & House-Smoked Salmon
Shrimp Cocktail
Waffles
Roasted Pork Loin
Roasted Vegetables
Sausage & Bacon
Halibut
Chicken
Clam Chowder 

S t a t i o n s
Roasted Rack of Lamb
Omelet Station
Slow-Roasted Prime Rib
S w e e t s
Chocolate Truffles, Chocolate Tarts, Mini Crème Bruleé,  Fruit Tarts, Ice Cream, Chocolate Fountain
D r i n k s
Coffee, Brewed Decaf and Herbal Teas
Orange Juice
Mimosas
As you can see, this is one brunch you do not want to miss! Prices are as follows, Adults: $36.95 & Children from 5 to 12 years of age: $14.95, Children under 5: Free. 

To make your reservation, you may contact Chez Daniel at 952.888.4447 or online at Open Table

Joyeuses Pâques to you and yours!

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Spring Fever Cocktails

After a weekend like this, it's undeniable that things are heating up. To complement the beautiful weather that we've been having, you need the perfect cocktail. That way, when the sun starts beaming down, you can fire up that grill and kiss winter goodbye in style!

Below are a few patio-ready favorites that we've compiled. Try 'em (if you're of legal age and responsibly, of course), and let us know what you think!






Not into cocktails? No worries, just make sure you've got plenty of vino, suds, or whatever your guests demand and get ready to soak up the sunshine. 

Happy Spring!