Karie Engels Invited to Italyโ€™s Prestigious Notte Rosa del Vino 2026

Basil & Salt Studios and Endorphin Films to Film the Journey for Streaming on Basil & Salt Lifestyle Network and G1NBC Western Washington โ€” November 2025 Basil & Salt Studios is honored to announce that founder and publisher Karie Engels has been invited to participate in the 6th Edition of the Notte Rosa del Vino, … Continue reading Karie Engels Invited to Italyโ€™s Prestigious Notte Rosa del Vino 2026

Theย Alchemyย ofย Craft:ย Where Craft Winemaking Meets Bean-to-Bar

A Central Valley Collaboration โ€“ Chocolate and Wine Pairing  By John Krause | California Corks In Californiaโ€™s Central Valley, two artisansโ€”one working with grapes in Clovis, the other with cacao in Fresnoโ€”find themselves practicing a similar alchemy. Though one fills glasses and the other wraps bars, the shared heart of their work lies in transformation: of soil into story, fermentation into flavor, and … Continue reading Theย Alchemyย ofย Craft:ย Where Craft Winemaking Meets Bean-to-Bar

10th Annual Breckenridge Wine Classic: Global Wine Adventures at 9,600 Feet

10th Annual Breckenridge Wine Classic, August 21โ€“24, 2025. Enjoy world-class wine, chef-led dinners, scenic hikes, and global pairings at 9,600 feet in Breckenridge, Colorado. One of Coloradoโ€™s most anticipated events, the 10th Annual Breckenridge Wine Classic, returns August 21โ€“24 with more than a dozen unforgettable wine-centered experiences. Set at an elevation of 9,600 feet, this … Continue reading 10th Annual Breckenridge Wine Classic: Global Wine Adventures at 9,600 Feet

Whipped Feta with Roasted Strawberries

A luxurious blend of creamy whipped feta, balsamic-roasted strawberries, and fresh basil โ€” this seasonal dish is made even more irresistible when paired with a chilled glass of rosรฉ. Includes top-tier wine recommendations to sip alongside.

A White Wine Worth Talking About: Massicanโ€™s Coastal Cool in the Heart of Napa

A chilled glass, a hot air balloon, and a sip of Napaโ€™s most compelling white wine โ€” explore the cool elegance of Massican. When we think of Napa Valley, bold Cabernets and opulent tasting rooms often spring to mind. But in the sea of reds, thereโ€™s a rising tide of whiteโ€”and at its helm is … Continue reading A White Wine Worth Talking About: Massicanโ€™s Coastal Cool in the Heart of Napa

Cabernet Franc: The Quiet Powerhouse of the Wine World

Exploring the roots, elegance, and rising reputation of Cabernet Franc in Californiaโ€™s Paso Robles AVA Cabernet Franc has long played the supporting role in Bordeaux blends, quietly contributing elegance, structure, and earthy spice to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. But this parent grapeโ€”yes, it's one of the genetic parents of Cabernet Sauvignonโ€”is increasingly taking center stage … Continue reading Cabernet Franc: The Quiet Powerhouse of the Wine World

Ziveli Winery: A Croatian Family Legacy Rooted in California Wine Country

From the Adriatic Coast to Californiaโ€™s Central Valleyโ€”how one family blends heritage, hospitality, and handcrafted wines at Ziveli Winery. by John Krause | California Corks John and Rondi Nale own this winery. It is a family business built on hard work and creativity. The Nale familyโ€™s vineyards in Fresno, California, grow special types of wine … Continue reading Ziveli Winery: A Croatian Family Legacy Rooted in California Wine Country

5 Unusual Rosรฉ Wine Descriptions Explained

Rosรฉ season is here, and so are the confusing tasting notes. Weโ€™re breaking down five of the most unusual rosรฉ wine descriptionsโ€”so you can sip smarter. By Basil & Salt Living Editorial Team Rosรฉ wine is known for being light, blush-colored, and perfect for summer sippingโ€”but have you ever read a rosรฉ wine description and … Continue reading 5 Unusual Rosรฉ Wine Descriptions Explained

Cooking & Dining with White Wines

A Guide to Perfect Wine Pairings and Culinary Creations By John Krause Key Highlights A dry white wine enhances your culinary creations, adding depth and complexity. This guide delves into the nuances of cooking with dry white wine, offering tips, techniques, and recipes. Learn the essentials of deglazing, creating rich reductions, and crafting flavorful marinades … Continue reading Cooking & Dining with White Wines