I enjoyed a Pinot Noir made in Brazil during dinner. I was surprised to see a Brazilin wine on the list; however, the sommelier explained that Brazil is becoming popular for its new world wines, like American chardonnays. He predicted that Brazilian wines would one day be in demand like Chilean wines.
Next time you look at a wine list, see if a Brazilian wine is available and try it.
I had a wonderful time at a private wine tasting last night that focused on Argentinean wines. The wine tasting was organized by my husband’s colleague who won this event through his rowing teams’ fundraiser. The group of 20 tasters were from different cultures – Chinese, British, Indian, African American, Mexican, French and a few others – which demonstrates that wine enthusiasts come from all types of backgrounds.
The sommelier taught us about the history of Argentinean wines, the various terrain that produced certain grapes and the most popular wines for export and consumption. In particular, I learned that Argentina is the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world and its people drink approximately 28 liters of wine a year. Americans drink less than 10. Furthermore, Argentinean wine is mainly influenced by immigrants from Spain and Italy so their techniques in growing grapes and wine production are not strictly native.
We sampled five different types of wine:
All of these wines cost less than $20! Yes, that’s the best part. This wine store, Best Cellars, focuses on wines that will not break your budget.
Overall, the evening was a lot of fun, and of course we left with a few good bottles of Argentinean wine.
Today I visited the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian and came across incredible exhibits that were historic and modern. The museum is celebrating American Indian Heritage Month so there were demonstrations on deer-hide tanning, bead working and moccasin making. It was interesting to see craftsmanship created centuries ago that is still used today. Unfortunately, I missed the drumming and dance performances, which I am sure would have enhanced my cultural experience.
Luckily, I saw two fascinating exhibits that were highlights of my visit. The first was an amazing modern exhibition by Brian Jungen. This artist took objects that were sports related like Michael Jordan sneakers and golf bags and turned them into life size American Indian artwork such as masks and totem poles. The second exhibit was titled “Indivisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas.” This exhibit of photos, writings and video revealed conflicts African-Native Americans had from slavery to present due to racism, government policy and laws. It also explained how the blending of Native and African American cultures influenced food, writing, music, dance, storytelling and visual arts. This exhibit was thought provoking and very educational.
Finally, as I worked my way through the museum, I also found a resource center where one can research genealogy, hear panel discussions or find information about Native peoples as well as the museum’s collections. And of course, my visit ended at the gift shop where one can take a piece of the culture with them by purchasing American Indian music, art, jewelry, books, clothing or other items.
Museums such as this one, brings culture to life and allows you to feel like you traveled to a foreign place. If you are looking for a similar trip, take advantage of local cultural museums in your community.
Today I had lunch at El Patio, an Argentinean restaurant in Rockville, Maryland, which is a suburb of Washington, DC. During the week, this place has English and Spanish speaking patrons. However, on the weekend, the patrons mainly speak Spanish, and the restaurant tends to be a gathering of friends and family. I noticed that several people walking in greeted restaurant workers or other patrons like old friends. From this, I gathered that this restaurant had to be a special place for expatriates of Argentina who are looking to feel connected with their native country.
The restaurant offers a wide variety of homemade Argentinean delicacies such as traditional empanadas, steak platters, quiches, sandwiches and pastries. In addition, there is a small grocery section filled with Argentinean beer, wine, CDs with South American music and food such as pastas, sauces, juices and desserts.
When reviewing the menu, I noticed that several of the dishes come with eggs and onions. For example, there is a platter called Pique-a-lo-macho that comes with sautéed flank steak and sausage with jalapeños, french fries, eggs, olives and onions, and an empanada that comes with ham, cheese and hard boiled eggs. Not feeling super hungry but wanting an Argentinean experience, I settled on a cheese and onion omelet (tortillas espanoleas queso y cebolla) and a spinach, onions and parmesan quiche (tartas espinacas). For dessert, I had a cookie filled with a milk caramel spread (alfajores de maicena).
As I ate lunch, I had a great conversation with a man from Argentina who lives in Washington, DC. He told me that he found this place through a soccer buddy of his and continues to come to El Patio for authentic food that reminds him of home. We also talked about his vacations to Bahia, Brazil, a place I am dying to visit one day, and the wonderful people who live there.
All in all, the people were friendly, the service was great and the food was delicious. This small lunch experience gave me a taste of Argentina and has intrigued me enough to want to add it on my wish list of places to travel.
