| 22 January 2010
Robbie Burns (1759-1796) was born in Ayr, Scotland. The son of a farmer, he decided that he was better at writing poetry than tilling the land. He came to be celebrated as the national poet of Scotland very early in his career because he wrote about the concerns of the “common man” in both the people's dialect and in English.
Burns Night, celebrated on January 25, is a 214 year old tribute to the life and works of the poet. Burns suppers have a particular format that has not changed since his death. The evening begins with a general welcome and announcements followed with a reading of the Selkirk Grace (a poem often attributed to Burns). Then guests listen to piping while the host cuts the haggis. The evening usually ends with a rendition of another of Burns’ poems, Auld Lang Syne.
| 12 January 2010
Not just for New Year's Eve, Champagne, Prosecco, Cava or any other sparkling wine is the perfect thirst quencher for any time of the year. Right now, Spain is probably producing some of the most sought after sparkling wines in the world. You're best bet is to try a few different styles from a number of different countries to appreciate the wonderful characteristics of each. The effervescence is, obviously, key to this tipple. The bubbles somehow give the wine a lighter feel and more refreshing quality. Because of that, sparkling wine pairs amazingly well with practically anything.
But as good as sparkling wine is to drink as is, it makes a great mixer, too. Don't use your best bottle, of course. Any sparkler that you like to drink will work perfectly well in combination with other ingredients. Try these sparkling wine cocktails with breakfast or brunch. Or, mix some up to serve along with hors d'oeuvres.