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Fresh Ideas

Bringing the 'fresh' lifestyle into your home and kitchen is all a matter of making connections between wine, food, and people. The farmers' market is a great place to start. I'm always inspired by my local market, where I walk meet farmers selling the season's most colorful produce - bright orange carrots, ruby red raspberries, chard in many colors. The market offers a chance to learn the story behind the food. You can find out who the farmer is, how the food was grown, and why a particular artichoke or avocado is special. Later, when I serve the meal, I share these stories.

Photo: Alan Bartl
The farmers' market is only one of many places to discover the 'fresh' lifestyle. Remember, it's all about creating connections, and that begins with the people right there in your kitchen and around your dining table. In our home, there is always room for one more. Rose and I pay as much attention to the ambiance as we do to the food and wine. We dim the lights and then brighten up the table with the soft light of votive candles. We sit at a round table, so everyone can see each other, encouraging conversation. We use cloth napkins, which saves paper, and gives the nightly dinner a warmer feel. Each of us has a personal napkin ring, which serves as a little reminder that we all have a place here, night after night. These simple details make the experience of dining fun, comfortable, and connected. Learn more in Tips from the Table.