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Days (and nights) of wine and roses |
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Written by Elaine Matsushita, MCT
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Monday, 12 February 2007 |
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Romance is not necessarily a bouquet of roses — red or otherwise. Don't get us wrong, roses aren't a bad thing. But romance is mood. And surprises. If you're in need of either of these things, we've found five yummy items that will definitely set the scene for whispering sweet nothings.
THE HANDY DANDY
Imagine some Daniel Craig-like gent reaching up and pulling a couple of wineglasses seemingly out of thin air for the two of you to enjoy a little Pinot Grigio.
It could happen — with the Glasklasen (Glass Cluster) chandelier overhead. It's made in Sweden at a smithy that's more than 160 years old. While you won't be able hang one up in time for a Feb. 14 toast (it takes four to six weeks to receive), who said romance is a one-day-a-year affair? So act now for the future. A 16-glass version is $495, 40-glass chandelier, $749, both at the Chicago-based online retailer, Urban Peel (www.urbanpeel.com); three finishes — black lacquered, clear lacquered and chromium-plated are available. You supply the glasses, socket and wiring.
SCENT OF A ROSEBUD
Our colleague turned us on to this delightful rose-scented incense from Paris-based Esteban. It's hard to come by in the States, but Luminaire, purveyor of fine contemporary, mostly European designs, carries it in a set with three other floral fragrances (lilac, iris and orchid). An incense holder also comes with the 40 sticks. Cost: $32. Luminaire is at 301 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312.664.9582.
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
Presentation matters. And it doesn't have to be grand. Take a wine bottle coaster, for example. It may be a subtle touch, but when it's as lovely as this stoneware version, it can have a significant effect. The extra beauty of Pfaltzgraff's Villa Della Luna coaster (and accompanying bottle stopper)? It's price: $9.99 at www.pfaltzgraff.com.
COME SAIL AWAY
How do you create a romantic setting with these floating rose candles? Let us count the ways ... or better yet, do your own brainstorming and come up with something truly novel. The thought you put into it will surely win you points. The easy part? Picking up these scent-free candles. A box of six (white or red) rose candles can be ordered online for $14.95, plus shipping and handling, at www.illuminations.com.
HERE'S LOOKIN' AT YOU, KID
Just in time to add a little something special to Valentine's Day romancing, Moet & Chandon delivers its Moet Flower Rose gift set, which includes two floral-inspired champagne stems that rest in a clear stand and a bottle of its Rose Imperial Champagne. The Rose Imperial is a blend of pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay.
"I think roses should be drunk more through the year — you get the bubbles and flavors of `regular' sparkling wine as well as the beautiful color," says William Daley, the Tribune's food and wine reporter. The set is $49.99 to $58 at Chicago-area retailers; and some Binny's Beverage Depot stores, call 847.933.7600 or visit www.binnys.com for locations. | Only registered users can write comments.
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