Taste Wine. Spit.

I am at an interesting stage in the Culinary Institute of America's curriculum: Wine Knowledge. Everyday I get to sit in a huge wine cellar-esque room and taste over half a dozen wines from around the world. And yes, I have to spit them back out into a Dixie-Cup. Talk about charming, right?

The first day I had a variety of reds, whites and a [corked] rose. From the four tastings I have completed, I learned that I don't like very many wines. But there are a few varieties that I would like to have in my house one day like sweet Riesling, Port, Sauvingnon Blanc (from New Zealand) and Gewürztraminer.

Now there is a technique, a professional technique, to tasting wines. Grab a glass and follow along! White wine is my favorite so that will be the example I am using.

Tis the Season for Tapas

In case you haven't already noticed, Justin and I love to eat. Love. Love. Love. So for Christmas, what better gift than a gift card to The Rumor Mill, in Ellicott City, Maryland.

Bundled in our peat coats, Justin and I walked the streets of the historic town to the restaurant, hidden from plain view by the cobblestone path, known as Tiber Alley.

The biggest angst of being a young culinarian is that we cannot sample any sort of alcoholic anything. The Rumor Mill specializes in their fusion vodkas that are made in house. What is a fusion vodka? It is plain vodka that a flavor is infused into. That night's the special was a Pumpkin Spice Martini. Tell me you don't want one of those.

All whining aside, We ordered 10 plates, and they were delicious. Simply wonderful.

Our Menu

1. Crab and Goat Cheese Dumplings
2. Salmon and Mushroom Stack
3. Duck and Cherries
4. Seared Tuna and Edamame
5. Honey Miso Scallops with Cucumbers
6. Fish and Chips
7. Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tart 
8. Mini Kobe Sliders
9. Banana Wontons with Kahlua Ice Cream
10. Chocolate Raspberry Cake

I would defiantly recommend the Crab and Goat Cheese Wontons, The Honey Miso Scallops and the Seared Tuna. Together this trio of plates stole the entire night.