PCC News Monthly October 2017 | Page 14

A Taste of Wine Although I am saddened by the passing of summer each year, autumn has many wonderful at- tributes. Every October, there comes a day when I must reac- quaint myself with my oven. The outdoor grill is left to gather cobwebs, not so much from neglect, but because being in the kitchen, near the feel and smell of warming things, suddenly seems like a very welcome idea. Itʼs as if I have a built-in cozy me- ter that kicks in as the temperature dips and the harvest moon rises. Stewpots and roasting pans are unearthed from cupboards and like long familiar shadows; the red wines of fall are pulled back into rotation. There is a type of red that seems ideal for this early-autumn feel- ing, a wine that provides warmth through cool nights yet nimbly manages late harvest fare. This wine reflects the tastes and feel of the season, possessing savory ac- cents on fruit - wood smoke, fallen leaves, wild mush- rooms, and forest floor - as if the wines have put on an extra layer to ward off the chill. First Batch of Chili - The pot has been simmering all day, filling the house with mouthwatering anticipation. When the dinner bell rings, pair it with a 2016 Tilia, Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina. Aromas of black cherries and plums are accompanied by notes of violets and vanilla. On the palate the wine is rich and full-bod- ied with flavors of juicy blackberries, cranberries, and black currants abound, followed by notes of vanilla and sweet spice. It will add even more nuance to this king of comfort food. Halloween Night – Whip up a Witchʼs Brew - defined as a potent magical concoction supposedly prepared by witches. My favorite recipe contains: 4 cups apple cider, 1 bottle of inexpensive Cabernet Sauvignon, 1⁄4 cup honey, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 orange that has been zested and juiced, 4 whole cloves, 3 star anise, and 4 oranges that have been peeled for garnish. Combine the cider, wine, honey, cinnamon sticks, zest, juice, cloves and star anise in a large saucepan, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Pour into mugs, add an orange peel to each and serve. Happy tasting! – Nancy Biggs, Wine Aficionada 14 October 2017 pccnews INVITATION! Are you looking for something fun and interesting to do? CASA PV ACTIVE ADULT CENTER 9360 MANZANITA CIR, PRESCOTT VALLEY ✱ Painting! Art! Crafts! ✎ Adult Coloring! ✧ Needle Point! ✒ Make Special Greeting Cards! ❂ Create Glass Art! ✰ Learn how to surf the web! ▲ Watch Movies with your friends! ❃ Tai Chi! Gentle Fitness Exercise! ✣ Line Dance! ✔ Check your Blood Pressure! ✽ Play Bingo! ♥ Poker! Pinochle! Wii Games! ❖ Socialize with Friends & Enjoy a Delicious Lunch here at CASA Kitchen Café! ❈ Shop for BARGAINS in CASA Thrift Shop & Bake Sale or for Groceries in CASA Food Pantry! ☞ Get a Pedicure! ☛ Or Hair Cut! Check Out Our FALL FEST SUPER SALE! October 18 & 19 ~ 10am to 4pm For more information Call CASA 772-3337 Or visit our website: casapv.net All Adult Public Welcome! Something for everyone!