READ
The July Fourth holiday sends Americans to their cabins, the beach, or to their patios, where they read books about faraway places. Romance writer Eloisa James, who is also Mary Bly, professor of Shakespeare at Fordham University and daughter of Robert Bly and the late Carol Bly, both well-known Minnesota writers, has written the perfect getaway book, Paris in Love. James’ memoir, most of which is based on her Facebook postings, recalls a memorable year spent in Paris with her husband and children. She writes beautifully of extraordinary everyday experiences in the City of Light and amour.
—Maureen Millea Smith, librarian at the Edina Library and Minnesota Book Award winning novelist.
DRINK
When I think of some of the best summer wine experiences I’ve had, they generally all start with the color PINK. From the bright light styles that pair so perfectly with fresh-shucked oysters to the weighty, cherry kissed watermelon colored pinks–rosés across the globe are built to suit a plethora of palates. The key to enjoying these rosey colored sippers is to keep the mind open. Remember, this is not White Zinfandel after all. The style of each rosé is determined by the grape it was bled from and how long the skins were left on to soak in the actual grape juice. For instance, a Grenache or Pinot Noir rosé will lead with more light cherry flavors versus one bled from Cabernet that leads with a much bigger mouth-feel. One of my favorites for the season comes from producer, Domaine Tempier of Bandol, France. Bled from grapes: Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Carignan–this clean, supple sipper is worth every single penny. Always on my top 10 pink, and perfect for this July season. Sip, Savor and for Pete’s sake … Embrace Your PINK! Available at France 44; $35–$40
—Leslee Miller is a certified sommelier and owner of local wine consulting firm Amusee
LISTEN
Country-pop trio Rascal Flatts’ new record Changed (Big Machine Records, April 3) continues the tradition of great songs, production, harmony and musicianship. The title song Changed has a great message and a Purple Rain anthem quality to it. The first single, Banjo is hooky and rockin’, and a perfect summer song to nod your head to while driving around the lakes. Make sure to check out Hot in Here, a great up-tempo love song, and the longing ballad Let it Hurt. One of my favorites, A Little Home, is a beautiful sentiment of simply staying in touch with the ones you love.
—Paul Peterson is a local musician, producer and composer
