The resurrection… of brandy, whisky, vodka and beer

by lavignaadmin | Oct 16, 2018

Can it really be Easter already? I have only just put away my Santa hat and elf slippers! Early as it is, I am grateful for the opportunity to reunite with family so soon after Christmas  and to take a breather before facing the rest of the year. In my family, it...

Autumn Comforts

by lavignaadmin | Oct 16, 2018

It is easy to miss the sublime divinity of Autumn. Amid our busy lives we tend to notice our surroundings only when they make us uncomfortable. Summer and Winter, like overconfident friends, shamelessly attract our consideration with their extreme personalities, while...

Fresh from Torbreck

by lavignaadmin | Oct 16, 2018

Shortly after posting my last blog, I packed my bag, grabbed my notepad and boarded a plane bound for the beautiful Barossa Valley. I was fortunate to have received an invitation to visit Torbreck Vintners where I was to be immersed in a whirlwind of masterclasses,...

November through Rosé coloured glasses

by lavignaadmin | Oct 16, 2018

Rosé. What images does that word conjure up for you? For many it’s a bad seventies dinner suit, a distinctive round Portuguese shaped bottle and a lucky lady ready to be romanced… Oh yes, Rosé still seems to be tainted with memories of wines such as ‘Mateus’ and, if...

My ideas for easy Christmas drinking 2013

by lavignaadmin | Oct 16, 2018

Ahhhh, December. Christmas may be the time for wishing peace on earth, but there’s no time for a moments peace in the hospitality business (or for anyone else; present buying, party going and feast preparing are usually not optional). We wouldn’t have it any other...