Being on Nantucket during the month of August has its ups and downs. While the water temperature is just right and the days of sunshine out number those of any other weather combined, there is a tremendous amount of traffic to navigate on this little island, hard to get dinner reservations for a large group need to be gently cajoled, and your house feels more like a bed and breakfast at times than a quiet, peaceful home. If you had to choose another island to be on during this time of summer, Sicily would be the answer. This largest of the Mediterranean islands has much to offer a summer traveler. From the history in Palermo to the beaches of Taormina, this island is also home to a plethora of wineries producing quality wines from indigenous grape varieties. Advanced Sommelier Jenny Benzie offers a selection of Sicilian wines that will take your mind away from the hectic antics of summer to the...Read More >
August has arrived and with that is one of the most anticipated Nantucket events of the summer. Boston Pops on Nantucket has celebrated over two decades as the major fundraising event to support the general operations of Nantucket Cottage Hospital. This year’s special musical guests features a Motown sensation, The Spinners. While you are moving and grooving to the sounds of these legendary R&B recording artists, Advanced Sommelier Jenny Benzie offers a pairing of screw top wine selections for a handful of this group’s Grammy nominated hits. I’ll Be Around Dedicated to the relentless pursuit of wines with elegance, purity, and sophistication, Rickshaw Chardonnay is true to its varietal character, steers clear of any heavy handed tricks in the cellar, and over delivers in every possible way. They source their fruit from diverse appellations across California from sustainable vineyards, enabling them to choose and craft the highest quality wine possible. On the nose, you will find lovely peach and pear aromas followed...Read More >
One of the amazing things about being on Nantucket is that having a lunch date as a party of one is sometimes just what you need. For those of you who are working all summer long, it is nice to just grab a sandwich and a cold one on your own, not having to talk to anyone else. Others have been entertaining family non-stop day and night, and they need some “me” time with a salad and a sip of wine without the backtalk, sass, or unwanted advice. Whatever your current situation may be for a little quiet time meal on your own, Advanced Sommelier Jenny Benzie will point you in the right direction for a delicious bite to eat and the perfect libation in which to wash it down with. BURGER AND BUBBLES When the word “burger” is mentioned, most people think of the one made from beef. However, this is not the only kind available, and there is...Read More >
Nantucket is home to a plethora of beautiful home gardens and bountiful farm fresh harvests, and summertime is when everything is in full bloom. Maintaining these fields of plenty takes time, effort, and patience. Keeping it green on our island is more important than ever these days. We must be stewards of the land and carefully choose how we cultivate it for generations ahead to continue to enjoy all of its beauty and splendor. The same could be said about the life cycle of working on a vineyard, where the grapes are currently growing and tended to in order to mature to just the right ripeness for picking. How a vigneron decides to care for their land not only affect this year’s harvest, but also the health and vitality of the soil for yours to come. Advanced Sommelier Jenny Benzie offers a summertime selection of sustainable wines for you to enjoy this summer that are also considerate to Mother Earth. DRINKING STARS...Read More >
