the Little Penguin Australian Wine

      Fall/Winter 2007

 Volume 7, Issue 2      
the Little Penguin Wine Times

 

This holiday season, whether you're hosting an open house, on the hunt for a unique stocking stuffer or simply want to warm up from the inside out on a cold winter day, the Little Penguin has a fresh group of wines to liven up any occasion. Introducing three new varietals from your favorite social bird: two cool red blends and a bright new white wine!
 

With bold packaging and a fresh citrus taste, the Little Penguin Pinot Grigio will be at the top of holiday wish lists this season and year-round. Perfectly paired with pizza or a crisp salad, the Little Penguin's Pinot Grigio has a citrus and pear fruit palate and soft finish that are sure to make this new wine an instant favorite.

For something more robust, try a new red blend from the Little Penguin. Perfect for everyday enjoyment, the Cabernet Merlot blend boasts juicy fruits like plums and cherries with supporting oak characters and a balanced finish. Pair with a plate of rich cheeses for a mid-week delight.

To spice things up, try the Shiraz Cabernet blend with succulent red berry fruit and supporting vanilla and mocha characteristics. Ideal on its own, or perfect when paired with meat or pasta - let the Little Penguin round out your day.
   
 
Adopt a Penguin

Warm up with Winter Red!

Along with the new varietals, the Little Penguin is proud to introduce a seasonal addition to the Little Penguin family: Winter Red wine. Bundled up in a festive red scarf, our trademark little penguin scampers across the snow on this special holiday-inspired label, presumably on his way to cozy up with a bottle of wine. This limited edition blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Shiraz (30%), and Merlot (10%) boasts aromas of luscious red berries and plums, full flavors of rich blackberries and spices, and a smooth finish. Its fruit-forward nature, anchored by oak and spice overtones makes Winter Red a perfect accompaniment to a hearty holiday meat dish like beef bourguignon or pork roast.

Need a little help with holiday party and menu planning? Remember, penguins are social creatures; so too are the Little Penguin wines... they love a good party! To spice up your holiday entertaining, add Winter Red to your wine list or try these custom-designed drink recipes:


the Little Penguin's Pomegranate Wine Toddy
Ingredients:
1 bottle (750ml) the Little Penguin Winter Red
2 cups 100% pomegranate juice
1/2 cup sugar
2 (4-inch) cinnamon sticks
1 orange
6 tablespoons pomegranate seeds

Instructions:
In a non-reactive saucepan, combine wine, pomegranate juice, sugar and cinnamon sticks. With vegetable peeler, remove orange peel in strips. Add peel to saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; cover and remove from heat. Let sit 15 minutes. Remove cinnamon sticks and orange peel; reheat. Serve in heatproof mugs; add 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds to each mug. (Serves 6)

the Little Penguin's Chai Mulled Wine
Ingredients:
1 bottle (750ml) the Little Penguin Winter Red
1/2 cup sugar
6 (4-inch) cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon cardamom pods
1 teaspoon whole cloves
4 (1/2 -inch) slices fresh ginger
4 Earl Grey teabags
*Note: Ready-made Chai spices can be substituted for the cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and cloves

Instructions:
In a non-reactive saucepan, combine wine and sugar. With meat pounder or rolling pin, lightly crush 2 cinnamon sticks, cardamom and cloves. Add crushed spices and ginger to saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add teabags, cover and remove from heat. Let sit 15 minutes. Strain, reheat and serve in heatproof mugs. Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick. (Serves 4)
Visit the Little Penguin Store

A Very Aussie Christmas
Ever wonder about Christmas down under? Celebrations near the South Pole are quite different than here in the States - for one thing, it's a whole different season! Summer in Australia means snow and ice are replaced by sand and sun, making traditional Christmas carols sound a little ridiculous. You won't find chestnuts roasting on an open fire, but you may find a few shrimp on the barbie! Aussies skip the roast turkey, and often opt for a seafood barbecue on the beach instead. Poor Santa swelters in his big red suit, but Australian children still tell him their wish list and anxiously wait for him to drop down the chimney as American children do.
The most unique tradition celebrated during the Christmas season in Australia takes place on December 26th - otherwise known as Proclamation Day. This observed holiday marks the proclamation of Australia as a British Province in 1836. Other celebrations on the day after Christmas include Boxing Day, a significant sporting day for Australians. Cricket is the most popular summer season sport, and since businesses are closed on this day, many Aussie sports fans can be found watching the cricket matches or yacht races held, particularly in Melbourne and Sydney.

To celebrate like the Aussies here in the States, open a bottle of the Little Penguin - any variety will do! Although we Americans don't get an observed holiday on December 26th, the Little Penguin makes any day a celebration. Cheers!