Since Mother’s Day is this weekend, the four things I’m digging this week would also happen to make great gifts for the deserving ladies in your life. I use three of these products regularly so I can totally vouch for them. And as for the wine, I taste a lot of rosé on a regular basis… these are some Santa Barbara rosés I’ve had recently that I think mom (or you!) might like.
1. Beach Blanket from Riviera Towel Company
Now that the weather has warmed up (and our beaches are still open here in Santa Barbara), we’ve been heading to the beach for a late afternoon hang after the crowds have dispersed. This Todos Santos beach blanket from Riviera Towel Company is one of my favorites. It’s large and soft, but also super light-weight so it folds up pretty small and doesn’t take up much room in a bag. I’m so glad Nick got it for me as a gift a couple of years ago and think it would make a fun gift for other moms, too.
2. Rancho San Julian Raw Honey
Trust me when I say you will look for excuses to put honey on everything when you’ve got a bottle of Rancho San Julian’s raw honey on hand. I first discovered this Santa Barbara County honey at the farmers’ market over a year ago and have regularly purchased it for myself and for others as gifts. Not only does the honey inside taste amazing, but the bottle is super cool and totally gift-worthy. You will be sad when your honey runs out, but the bright side is that you can use the bottle as a vase.
3. Chez Panisse Cookbook
Yes it was released in 1999, but this oldie but goodie from Alice Waters is a must if you (or your mom) like to cook, especially if eating according to what’s in season is important to you. Since we’ve been cooking so much in our house, I’ve been enjoying going back to some of my favorite recipes and the Chez Panisse cookbook has quite a few.
4. Santa Barbara Rosé
Though I know plenty of men who enjoy pink wines, it’s hard to find a woman who doesn’t enjoy rosé, especially moms! While I adore rosé from different parts of the world, I have been on a Santa Barbara wine kick lately (trying to support my friends and neighbors!) and have had quite a few enjoyable bottles that are worth sharing. The best part? These Santa Barbara rosé wines are all light, refreshing and food-friendly.
Here’s what’s been in my glass recently: 2019 Liquid Farm Rosé of Mourvédre (think apricot and nectarine flavors with saline-like acidity); 2019 A Tribute to Grace Rosé of Grenache (a delightful follow up to last year’s standout); 2018 Storm Rosé of Grenache (easy drinking and bright with delicate floral notes); 2019 Dragonette Rosé of Grenache (watermelon and citrus, bright acid); and 2019 Habit Rosé of Grenache (bright & refreshing).
