I noticed a some re-painting at the old 21 Central location last week. Yes,I know that was 2 or 3 businesses ago , but I still call it 21 Cental.  Call me old school. If they are trying to capture our attention with their color choices it worked-- what is it??? Anyone know? Creamsicle stand? Little help please...

  

After a glass of wine at Purple, I had a few extra moments to meander into the new shop next door called Common Folk Co (where Ravenna Gardens used to be).  They have lots of gifts and decor- you name it..cards, scarves, soaps, treats, hats, lamps. The large space is stuffed with both vintage and new and unique treasures.  Their style reminds me a lot of Anthropologie, without the clothes. Common Folk Co was previously located in Bellevue/Crossroads. 

I was going to buy this goose for you, but I wanted you to go by the store and take a closer look at it first. They are open Mon-Sat 10-7 and Sun 11-6.  GRAND OPENING/ Fall Open House is Sat Sept 28 10-7and Sun the 29th 11-6. 425-739-7398

Besides discovering áMaurice's delightful Viognier for this blog post I have also figured out how to make that little accent over the 'a' on my keyboard.  Sooo fun! I had no idea- it's alt+160= á, by the way. áMaurice means "to Maurice" in French and is a tribute to Anna Schafer's (the winemaker) grandfather, Maurice Schafer, whose signature graces the label of her amazing wines.  Anna is one of the youngest winemakers who started when she was 25 and has risen to the top having been chosen as one of eight "Wineries to Watch" in the world by Wine and Spirits Magazine, 2011.  She has arrived! You can also find her twice barrel-fermented, never in stainless steel, Viognier at French Laundry.  We loved this one so much we took a few home ( $25/ea).

Steve and I headed over to their unassuming tasting room in Totem Lake (11132 117th Place NE), which opened in April, where we met Dana Hurley (photo) who helped us get acquainted with their wine lineup.  áMaurice is a boutique family-owned winery out of Walla Walla that produces about 3300 cases a year.   We started with the Viognier which was fresh and delightful with wood and fruit flavors.  Next we tried the Chardonnay, the Syrah/Grenache (Columbia Valley), and the 2009 "Night Owl" which is their estate cab blend (and another one not to miss with its petit verdot). Each is delicious in its own special way.  When can I try these you ask? Good news...

FREE WINE TASTING for all Kirkland Blog readers (you know I don't like to drink alone).  They are open on Saturdays from 12-5 and privately by appointment.  They also have space for hosting book clubs or parties,  you can order up gifts for clients, and you can even join their wine club so you never run out. Call 425-466-2027 or email info@amaurice.com .