Two Bite Tuesday ~ May I get you something to drink?

If you've been reading my blog for awhile you might recall that back in May Rick and I went to Temecula, California to pick up our cocker spaniel puppies, Michael and Minnie. I love Temecula for a couple of reasons. First, it's sort of a mini Napa Valley with rolling hills and vineyards and beautiful weather. Now, of course, you can not be in wine country without touring the wineries and one of our favorites is Wilson Creek. Today's first bite is inspired by their Almond Joy which is a delicious Almond Champaign served in a Chocolate Cordial. We planned on having a "Meet the Pups" party as soon as they settled in so we bought a few bottles to celebrate their Wine Country roots. (Yeah, I know. It sounds crazy, but hey, any excuse for a party. Right?)

Wilson Creek Winery ~ Temecula, CA

First Bite ~ I found these fine little vessels while shopping over a World Market today and couldn't resist picking them up for our upcoming party.

Chocolate Toasting Cups and Dessert Shells

I bought the Dessert Shells as well because I am imagining serving a beautiful chocolate mousse with a swirl of whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings. 

In addition to the delicious Almond bubbly, Wilson Creek serves up a Gold Award winning Chocolate Dessert Port that is out of this world. I just ordered a couple of bottles to add to our beverage service. Sends shivers up my spine thinking about this double chocolate delight. Can you tell I love chocolate?

From 100 year old vines

In the spirit of well...spirits, our second bite also celebrates the drink. I've been looking, buying, and returning beverage dispensers all summer long. They all leaked! When I saw this one over at Pottery Barn I was skeptical but determined to find the perfect one so I bought it. The worst thing that could happen would be that I would have to return it too. I got it home, filled it up with water and tested it. Look Mom, no leaks!!! Yeah! We used it to serve up Brandi's Vampire Punch a couple of weeks ago for her photo shoot.

Second Bite ~ Pottery Barn Beverage Dispenser

With Twilight Vampire Punch

They come in two sizes and I got the larger one. I think I'd like to get the smaller one as well. Don't you just love it? I think next time I'll add fruit to the mix or make the ice cubes out of juice to color them. It will make for a very nice display. Check out Pottery Barn's pics below.

Beverage Display

Serving Iced Tea and Citrus Punch

On a PB Vintage Pedestal

I love the little pedestals, but you can use just about anything steady, or nothing at all and just place it close to an edge. I thought it would be cute to put them on a stack of books for a Book Club Party. Or maybe on glass blocks with lights inside. In a pinch I used an Anchor Hocking bowl turned upside down and put my angel tear lights inside to add a festive touch. I'm thinking it's time for a Tea Time Out. Have a great day! Ciao!