H2~Full of Grace


The afternoon was spectacular. If you’ve ever lived in climates with four seasons, your senses begin anticipate the beautiful change that’s taking place all around: the brilliant colors heralding early autumn, and a slight, refreshing chill in the air.

To wind down a little, after running errands and, blissfully, with no time constraints, HubbyDoug and I spent our mid afternoon at H2 ~ Huth and Harris Wine Merchants in Medina, OH. We’d been in briefly during the Ice Festival and I’d promised myself that I’d revisit when I had time to sit, sip and peruse the well-stocked shelves.

The atmosphere made me think of the beautiful wine shops we visited while we were in Paris. The leather furniture, rough-hewn tables and dark wood ambient enveloped us in a warm, relaxed vibe. Looking out the open main doors, we could just watch the world go by as we slowed down to enjoy our wine.

H2 provides a great variety of  wine flights; white and red, by-the-glass selections, and accompanying tapas menu. I felt so relaxed, I let Doug choose. His pick: Four Graces Pinot Noir.

I enjoyed just meandering around with my glass in hand checking out the extensive collection of wine. It was a great way to spend a lazy Saturday. It’s  a space I’d love to come back to, and to share with our friends.

Cheers!

©The Wine Student, 2015

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Funky Cold Medina

We did it for love. And we did it for fun. It didn’t matter how cold it got, and it got very cold. HubbyDoug, our friend Shelly and I got suited up in our warmest winter wear, and ventured out to the 21st Annual Medina Ice Festival in Medina, OH. We wanted to check out the sculptures, and the speed ice carving competition. The artists had about 20 minutes to take an oblong shaped block to completed creation. It was amazing to watch them wield their chainsaws to create beautiful, icy artworks. We thought better of pulling a ‘Flick’ from Christmas Story, even though the photo op would’ve been awesome. Instead, we found a perfect warm place at Main Street Cafe, had dinner and let our extremities slowly thaw. The wine helped. I chose an interesting Pinotage from South Africa which paired really well with my Filet sliders. We finished the evening with a Cinna-Heart Martini, a quick stop at H2 Wine Merchants and toasted a fun prelude to Valentine’s weekend.

The Medina Ice Festival continues today, February 14, through Monday, February 16.

No matter how cold it may get where you are, I hope you are able to enjoy warmth in your heart from those you love.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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©TheWineStudent, 2015