by Eric Olson
Years ago we always looked forward to the arrival, just before Thanksgiving, of the Beaujolais Nouveau wines from France. Bottled and shipped almost immediately after being picked, these wines were fun, interesting, another reason to celebrate and highly anticipated. Success almost ruined the idea as more and more large shippers got on board and would ship anything that was red, some tasting more like colored water than wine. I've always liked the idea, however and this year sought out a small producer who neither chaptilize (adds sugar) or uses artificial yeasts, in other words "real wine". Wild yeasts exist on the outside of grape skin and are a critical piece of the wine making puzzle. They are more difficult to handle than artificial yeasts but make much more interesting wines. The '09 vintage is excellent and, like all Beaujolais Nouveau vintages, cannot be delivered to any store until the Thursday preceding Thanksgiving. We all have an equal opportunity to discover the "vintage." If you've been part of a Nouveau celebration and came away unimpressed, try some made by small farmers who do it the old fashioned way. Fortuitously Beaujolais is an excellent choice with Turkey and all the trimmings.
T-Day Kitchen Helpers from Foodie's Emporium
Just in time for Thanksgiving! Foodie's Emporium has just added Cuisipro cook's tools. Cuisipro tools are innovative, stylish, and time-savers.
Cuisipro Herb Keeper This clever solution for storing and extending the life of herbs, the Herb Keeper is a perfect way to enjoy flavorful meals with the addition of fresh herbs. • Keep herbs fresh longer! Suspended tray holds herb bunches together for easy access. Removable tray lifts for easy draining. Stems are immersed in water for freshness and hydration to extend life of herbs. Can accommodate large bunches of herbs or bundles of asparagus. 25 year warranty!
Cuisipro Fat Separator This gravy separator has a unique plug which blocks fat out of the spout until fat and gravy are separated. Once separated, the lid can be snapped up to unplug the spout and release lean gravy. No more greasy gravy. This handy tool takes the fat off gravies and sauces with an innovative plug. Flip-top to open lid. Oversized rim prevents spills. Dishwasher safe. 4 cup capacity. Create clear, healthier gravy and sauces with this unique kitchen tool. Heat-resistant strainer catches unwanted food particles. 25 year warranty!
Find Handcrafted Knives, hand selected Cook's Tools, and unique Gifts for foodes at Foodie's Emporium!