Snowbirds

For March, the basket theme is snowbird and includes a red from a bird sanctuary, a Chardonnay that screams 'seafood dinner', and a seltzer to add a splash of fun. We've also tossed in three savory snacks.

To prepare for our snowbird theme, we started each day with a mantra—Rebekah in Brooklyn and me in the Lowcountry—chanting, "Live the basket, be the basket." We also took time to interview Alma Williams (see photos below) from Audubon Society South Carolina. 

She took time to share some photos of birds from her home. Alma is a red wine lover living in Summerville and she's all about "connecting birds to people and communities." When asked what bird she'd be, Alma didn't miss a beat: an Eagle. Why? Because they're powerful, stunning, and have bounced back like champs from near extinction. Go eagles! Go Alma! 

During our chat, Alma shared about the Painted Bunting, that migrates down to the Lowcounty.  The Painted Bunting—or as the French say, 'nonpareil', meaning "without equal." I fell down a Google rabbit hole that led me to Reddit threads, local streets, and passionate blog posts. I'm off to buy some white proso millet to lure these beauties to my backyard. 

To learn more about the items that were inspired by our conversation with Alma, click here or keep reading. The basket is now available for pick up or delivery.

Alma Williams, Community Relationships Manager, Audubon Society Society

Ok, now for the wine. Rebekah selected Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggiale 2019. The wine is a primary Sangiovese and aged 20% in new oak for that extra “heft.” It’s a classic from the heart of Chianti Classico territory, where vineyards forego pesticides for bird-friendly practices. It is a ½ bottle and serves as a high-end treat with a bit of age, perfect for drinking now—especially since half-bottles age faster.

Our second wine for the basket has roots to the Lowcountry too. The Timeplace Chardonnay from Monterey County, CA. It is crisp and bright, that would be perfect for seafood. The winemaker, Jamey Whetstone, is originally from South Carolina. The wine label is created by John Duckworth who lives and works in Johns Island, South Carolina. 

To top off the basket, we added a spiked seltzer that has been taste tested. The seltzer is crisp, tart and ready for the outdoors. Lastly, we added two salty snacks - Bjorn Qorn and Valencia Truffle Almonds (yes, they are finally back!).