About the author: Lindsay Donnelly is a first-time-mom and new resident of Jersey City experiencing life with her toddler, Lolli. She’s a former NYC fashion stylist and graduate of Univ. of Florida J-school. Follow them around town on IG: @Lawadelton and #Lolligramz
If you’re anything like me, your wine-picking decisions are usually based upon two things: the pretty label and/or cuteness of the name. One given pre-requisite is price... only justifiable over $20 if it’s a gift or my birthday.
I decided it’s finally time to change that and put a little meaning behind my purchase power. I sat down with Lourdes (Loulou) Arena of Madame Claude Wine, certified wine specialist and educator @LourdesoftheVine, to find out just exactly which type of wine is in order given a typical day in the #momlife.
There are seven recommendations (one for every day of the week, of course). Trust me, you’ll want to screenshot this list for easy access on your next trip to the wine shop.
Monday: I just started a new healthy-eating diet, but my show is on tonight and I'd like a glass of wine...
LouLou’s Pick (L): Domaine Verdier from Muscadet Sevre & Maine ($12) Most wines have a very similar calorie count, so instead I’ll focus on finding a really light white wine, something super crisp. It’s great with light meals like vegetables or seafood. You can have a glass or two and not feel like you wasted the morning workout.
Tuesday: My kid just had a blowout diaper, and threw a tantrum in Target. Help me Lourdes of the Vine!
L: Cassette Malbec ($18) Malbec is the best go-to when you don't want to think. Strong, flavorful, and smooth. Cassette Malbec is perfect - and it has a cool label and under $20.
Wednesday: Daycare ain't cheap. Budget's tight this month - what's the best bang for my buck?
L: Duche De Longueville French Sparkling Cider ($10) That's actually our MO at Madame Claude, most of our wines are between $12 & $18 a bottle. For the absolute best value, there’s Duche de Longueville French sparkling cider - it’s a low alcohol content so it's also perfect for new moms who are just getting back to drinking.
Thursday: I put the kids down early, time for a romantic dinner with the main squeeze.
L: Roero ($18) People fall in love in Italy, so I automatically think of an Italian wine. Roero will be enjoyable for both parties at dinner, regardless of pallette. The 100% nebbiolo wine carries character but is approachable at the same time. OR Fronton De Oro Tinto ($20) This one’s something exotic and sexy from the Grand Canary Islands. It’s a distinctive and peppery wine, but also has a fruit and floral aspect. What I love is that it is a conversation starter, you can talk about the taste of the wine and bond over it. ((swooning already))
Friday: Got a babysitter, and it's Mommas night out tonight! I need something to sip while getting ready...
L: Rezebal Txakoli Rose ($20) It won't stain your teeth or get you drunk before the evening even starts. It’s flavorful and has a light natural effervescence.
Saturday: Showing up to the housewarming, and I actually had time to stop by the liquor store...
L: Les Terres Blanches ($21) A sparkling red from France (like Lambrusco) is smooth, interesting, and has those bubbles for a celebratory feeling.
Sunday: Just got the call, and I got that promotion! Bust out the good stuff!
L: Chateiulles des Bordeaux ($38) When you want to treat yourself go with something from the region of Bordeaux in France, where they specialize in vintage and aged wines. Chateiulles des Bordeaux is a blend of white and red wine so it pleases every palate. It’s a splurge you know you will enjoy.
Most valuable thing you’ve read today? I know, thank me in the comments. Share on social media for a chance to win a complimentary bottle of Fronton De Oro from Madame Claude Wines! Just tag #hazelbaby to enter.
Follow @LourdesOnTheVine on instagram or Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lourdesofthevine for more amazing wine education. I’m definitely booking her for my next soiree.
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Donovan Cain 30 / Jul / 2017 @ 16:37
Thanks for teaching us your ways, Beth!
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Thanks for the feedback, Rachel!
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I know, right?! Forget meal planning, let's do wine planning!
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Glad you liked it, Mel!
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This is a witty, well-written, honest account of life on the front lines of mama-hood. Keep it up! Love!
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Thank you! Going to run out and purchase all of these now!
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Great article! Very helpful. Love the picture of the wine to make it easier for this mama to shop with a toddler!
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Love it! Great post Lindsay, got to have options ;)