The Toscana Italian Chophouse & Wine Bar opened their doors three years ago in in the former Bank of New Hampshire building that sits in the center of Market Square in downtown Portsmouth. Built in 1804 this historic landmark has won awards for its beautiful renovation to accommodate the restaurant.

Hit your deck at home with wine! Let’s start off enjoying easy to drink Rosé, along with light and bright yet flavorful whites that pair well with spring salads, appetizers, oysters, and all kinds of shellfish - followed by a selection of reds, one Pinot Noir that works well with salmon and chicken plus some bigger reds for heavy pasta dishes and grilled meats.

Vodka: it’s clear as water and ultra-neutral, a go-to spirit of choice for mixed drinks. The word vodka comes from the Slavic vodka, meaning water combined with the diminutive ka, little. Both Poland and Russia assert claims as vodka’s country of origin, with the first official use of the word appearing in the 18th-century Russia. It’s a relative newcomer in the United States, not appearing here until the early 20th century.

There’s nothing quite so American as the idea of choice—enjoying what you want, when and how you want it. And flights of beer, with their meandering genealogies and jazzy changes in tempo and tone, embody this ethic perfectly.

Introducing Euphoria, a sparkling Verdelho from Mollydooker that has arrived, just in time for NEW YEAR'S Celebrations!

Last month I was invited to judge at the McMinnville Wine & Food Classic in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, one of my favorite places. It was exciting to see old friends, while making new ones.

The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) will host New Hampshire Wine Week, an annual event featuring more than 60 of the biggest names in the wine world, including Dave Phinney of Orin Swift, Lisa Evich of SIMI, Cristina Mariani-May of Castello Banfi, Isiah Thomas of Cheurlin Champagne, and Michael Phillips of Michael David Winery.