the wine country.

To preface this post, Jase and I are not big "wine" people (enter laugh emojis). We like it on occasion, and my dad has taught me a lot about it, but we still have not developed a big desire to enjoy it often. Enter the wine country + I am going to tell you what won us over.Living in the beautiful state of California has so many benefits, one being the stunning destinations within hours of our backyard. We have heard the most lovely reviews of Napa Valley and the charming little towns surrounding it, so we decided that we would escape for a week early celebration of J's birthday and our two year anniversary. December is always so full of the most wonderful festivities!Jase and I flew into San Francisco and had the most beautiful drive to the wine country. Side note: our trip started out on an extra good note because I noticed an R&D Kitchen when we were starving and nearing our hotel. It is one of my favorite restaurants in all the land. After a fun dinner, we drove into our home for the next few days - the magical Auberge du Soleil. They totally spoiled us with a room upgrade for the special occasion, and we slept like babies in the coziest bed. P.S. Their bathtub was a dream, and the bathroom floors were heated. Those little details made the weekend extra special and relaxing.On the first day, we had the yummiest breakfast at the hotel overlooking the valley. Then we adventured to Del Dotto winery first. We had a dry-humored tour guide who made the excursion and wine tastings extra fun and informative. It was such an experience to try the wine from aged barrels that were stationed in a cave. We then went to Cakebread. The sweetest man took us on such a lovely tour; it was extra special, and their wine is delicious. What I love most about the wine country is the stories behind the wineries and the families that started these farms so long ago. We ate at Press that night, and it was such a sweet time together, and it was the coziest atmosphere accompanied by the most delicious food.Day two was our most favorite. We went to Nickel & Nickel and had the time of our lives. Our tour guide, Walt, was so passionate about wine and grapes and people + he was an absolute blast. We were with a group of Georgian dads who go every year and knew Walt well, so it was such a bonus! I was so thankful for our time there. We laughed our hearts out and cancelled our next winery because spa time at Auberge sounded just perfect. After a restful afternoon, we indulged in the most wonderful Italian food at Bottega. We couldn't recommend it more.Day three was our final day, and we loved the outdoor infinity pools and steam rooms too much to part. We each had the most incredible massages, packed up, and explored the darling town of Yountville. Also, I must say the wine country has extra delight in the holiday season. Beautiful wreaths, fully lit trees, and the comforting smell of garland only added to the stunning scenery of these farm towns. We had so much fun making this trip our own, and we are already excited to go back soon!Save

perfect gifts for your bff with lauren sims

Hello loves! Lauren Sims here from laurenkaysims.com. I'm so excited to be posting for LOLO Mag today and giving you some great gift ideas for your best friend! For those of you who have been following me for a while, you might remember that I toured Sterling Vineyards in Napa back in the Fall. When people ask me now what my favorite wine is, I always say a Sterling Cab. With intense fruit and well-integrated oak, the 2012 Sterling Cab is a powerful expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is a 10 in a 10 and would truly make the greatest gift for your best friend, or a hostess, or your husband, or basically anyone else in your life.A few other gift ideas for your best friend: you can't go wrong with holiday pj's. I recently got a set myself and actually live in them. Like, when I'm home, I'm in my Christmas pajama set! And how adorable are these Kate Spade wine tags?! This is such a cute and creative gift that's under $20.Also, let's just talk for a second about wine and chocolate. You just can't go wrong with those two things, ever. And these chocolates from Lux Maggie Louise Confections are just as pretty as they come! (Let me tell you, they also taste as good as they look too).Another no fail gift: a cashmere scarf. I love this blush pink one because it's feminine yet classy, and will go with everything in your (or your friend's!) wardrobe.If your bff is really into wine, I think this Wine-inspired fragrance set from Kelly and Jones is such a lovely and thoughtful gift! Don't worry - you won't end up smelling like wine. The fragrances smell so fresh and floral and are very subtle!Thanks for letting me share these gift ideas with ya'll today! I'd love for you to follow me along on instagram or via my blog! xx

I am working in partnership with Sterling Wines and I am being compensated for my participation in this campaign. All thoughts/opinions are 100% my own. Wine is intended for those whom alcohol is legal and appropriate. Please Drink Responsibly!

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