Guide

The Trek Madone…

Posted on June 3, 2011 - 8:17 am by keith_ritter

This is a great video showcasing how a Trek Madone 6 series is built in Waterloo, WI. This is the same bike that we are able to supply on our trips as an upgrade option. If someone wants to ride a bike that has seen the likes of Lance Armstrong, Levi Leipheimer, Chris Horner, the Schlecks, and Fabian Cancellara ridden to countless victories, they can do so on a Trek Travel bike trip.

I’ve ridden this bike up and down numerous mountain passes in places like the French Alps and Solvang, CA. I’m always happy that I don’t have to worry about the bike weighing me down, just my own lack of fitness;) Plus anytime some of us guides head out for a little cycling banter, it’s always nice to have the stiffness to stay on guys wheels like Matty, Lyeki, or Big Wave. (Ok, maybe not Big Waves!)

Stephanies Favorite, Dom Vincent from the Beaune region of France

Posted on May 27, 2011 - 7:00 am by keith_ritter

On our Burgundy bike trip, we visit Pierre and Nicole’s cellar, L’Ange Gardien, in the heart of the charming town of Beaune. Their vines are mainly planted on the ‘Côte de Beaune’ and spread over the following areas: Auxey-Duresses, Beaune, Chorey-les-Beaune, Ladoix-Serrigny, Meursault, Pommard, Savigny-les Beaune.

Our wine tasting there is one of the most fun and laughter-filled I’ve ever enjoyed and includes many spectacular wines. Their best, however, in my opinion, is the Dom Vincent. Yes, it’s a play on Dom Perignon! Dom Vincent is a crémant, another term for sparkling wine, and a regional specialty. At L’Ange Gardien, they have both a white and rosé variety, both of which are amazing. The white features very delicate bubbles, light citrus aromas, and a pale yellow color. The rosé’s color is just beautiful, deep and dark pink, and also features the light and delicate bubbles.

Either can be paired with their most delicious Créme de Cassis (black current liquor) to make a ‘Kir‘ (the traditional Burgundian cocktail). The shining deep red color and fruity smell explode into a velvety smoothness on your palate. And yes, it can very much be enjoyed on its own too.