Eagan, MN October 2023

LIFESTYLE LETTER

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Amy Sousa Amy.Sousa@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR Matt Sousa matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Madeline O'Neil madeline.oneil@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Welcome fall! With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around Eagan.

Food is a great way to connect with family and friends. Whether exploring a new restaurant or trying a new recipe at home, food has a way of bringing us together. Sharing a meal with family and friends not only nourishes our bodies, but it nourishes our souls.

This month we talked to Charlie Burrows, co-owner of Eclectic Culinary Concepts, about the unique offerings available at their six restaurant concepts located in Eagan and the surrounding area. Whether you are looking for a date night or a night out with your family, they have offerings with something for everyone.

We also talked to Tracie Munce, owner of Eagan Arms Public House, Eagan’s own Irish pub. Besides amazing fare from the British Isles, the pub also offers a wide variety of whiskies, scotches, and bourbons.

Fall in Minnesota is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The cool, crisp days and colorful foliage provide beautiful backdrops for a family photo session. Lisa Cline provides her expert tips on how to create timeless memories with fall family portraits.

To me, crisp, fresh apples are synonymous with fall. One of my favorite things to do with my family in the fall is spending a day at the apple orchard – picking apples, getting lost in a corn maze, and sampling the wide varieties of treats they offer. This month, we also feature a variety of wonderful recipes that you can make using this fall favorite.

As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (amy.sousa@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend. AMY

Lisa Cline cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com

COPY EDITOR

Judith Sousa

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lisa Cline, Ann Schreiber

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Nora Brody

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

“Never jump in a pile of leaves with a wet sucker.” -Linus

NEW NAME, SAME AWARD-WINNING CARE

We’re celebrating 20 incredible years of smiling out loud in Eagan with a BIG announcement! Dr. Jennifer Orthodontics is proud to begin a new chapter in industry-leading orthodontic care as Lakeside Orthodontics. Our new name and logo reflect the heart of what we do—we make the Twin Cities smile.

city scene

Where

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A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Fashion Fruit Boutique

Launches the "You Are Loved Subscription Box"

The "You Are Loved Subscription Box" is a thoughtfully curated collection of uplifting and positive items that are sure to bring joy and inspiration to the young lady in your life. Each box is carefully designed to surprise and delight, with a variety of trendy jewelry, hair accessories, and other fashionable items. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make someone's day brighter. Order the "You Are Loved Subscription Box" now and spread love and positivity!

Photography Fashion Fruit Boutique

Conquer

Ninja Gyms Brings

Like our facilities located across the country, Conquer Ninja Gyms’ newest Minnesota location brings top-rated obstacle course training for the ultimate ninja warrior experience. Full-sized warped walls, balance obstacles, salmon ladders, and other pro-level obstacles will challenge adults and kids ages 5+. Join us for open gyms, specialized classes, competitive teams, and parties. Conquer Ninja Gyms is the #1 spot to train like an American Ninja Warrior.

Christian Brothers Automotive National Service Day"Fixing Cars, Driving Joy"

On Saturday, October 7, Christian Brothers Automotive will be closed for National Service Day where their shop gives back to the community by replacing brakes, tires, suspension components, lights, and other safety-related concerns at no charge to those in need.  National Service Day began in 2005 as a way to provide free oil changes to single mothers in need of service and is made possible by the staff and technicians willing to volunteer their time to such a worthy cause.

landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Eagan

EAGAN ARMS PUBLIC HOUSE

An Irish Pub Tucked Away in the Heart of Eagan

I recently had the opportunity to indulge in brunch with Eagan Arms Public House co-owner Tracie Munce. In just seconds, Munce’s face lit up with joy at the chance to share her passion and pride about her latest pub location, which opened in partnership with Lee Tomlin in January 2020.

As I dug into a delectable dish of Bangers & Mash and Munce took the first bite of her ham and cheese croissant, I could see why— the food was divine. As we delighted in our meal, I listened as Munce shared the backstory of the establishment.

BUILDING ON AN ESTABLISHED MENU AND THE INSPIRATION OF THE BRITISH ISLES

The Eagan Arms Public House is the second of two pubs owned and operated by Lee and Tracie. Merlins Rest Irish Pub opened in 2007 and still stands on Lake Street in Minneapolis, offering fares inspired by the British Isles, situated off the north-western coast of continental Europe. Merlins Rest offers the same menu as the Eagan location, with live music on the weekends, whiskey tastings, and a pub quiz every Wednesday.

Munce tells how she and Tomlin moved to Eagan in 2017 and wanted to open a second pub. She shared how they would walk 15

minutes to a nearby Mexican Restaurant and, while there, would discuss their hopes and dreams for a new restaurant. And in a twist of fate, the opportunity presented itself— requiring a fast decision and no looking back. “Lee ran into the office one day, shouting that we needed to make a decision right now,” Munce said, looking back wistfully on a day that left her crying joyful tears. That very Mexican restaurant was closing, and the location was for sale. There was only one decision to make—it was a yes—and they’ve never looked back.

But all this happened in late 2019, and we all know the events unfolding in the spring of 2020. “We opened Eagan Arms Public House on January 11, 2020. By mid-March, the government shutdowns had us doing a last call at 5 p.m. on March 17. We said goodbye to so many great employees. It was a hard time,” she lamented. But once again, an opportunity would present itself.

“Lee and I love being part of the Eagan community. We enjoy the experience of watching people come in with their family and friends. This is a place to build a connection. Someplace to feel a part of.”

However, the COVID-19 pandemic had different plans for businesses worldwide, and it

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was no different for the Eagan Arms Public House. Yet they rose to the occasion. “We created a pod of about five people. We met daily to cook food and opened our doors for pick-up orders in the evenings.” Their ingenuity helped feed people throughout the pandemic. “Our customers count,” she said, illustrating their desire to offer great food during unprecedented times.

FROM JAMESON TO AN AGED TEELING 24-YEAR WHISKEY, WITH FOOD TO COMPLEMENT EVERY PALATE

Fast forward to today, and the Eagan location has become a thriving destination for those wanting the best in British Islesinspired comfort food to just about every Irish whisky, scotch, or bourbon you could imagine. True whisky connoisseurs will appreciate Whiskey Wednesdays. And from October through June, enjoy the opportunity to taste single-malt whiskeys on the second Thursday of every month.

Of course, no Irish pub would be complete without some menu staples, including the mouth-watering fish and chips, the mushroom and Swiss burger (one of Munce’s favorites), the seasonal Fisherman’s Pie, and the Irish Stew, which will be back on the menu for fall. And for the kids? Don’t worry, there’s something for them, too. A children’s menu for little tummies offers protein, peas, and apples. The small plates option offers delights, including smash burgers and mac and cheese. “Whether you’re two, 22, or 82, our mac and cheese is the best, made with four kinds of cheese. Top it with corned beef, bacon, or our marinated steak,” urged Munce.

So, the next time you want to tease those taste buds or try a new Irish whiskey, make a trip over to the Eagan Arms Public House. With an expansive menu to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

“Lee and I love being part of the Eagan community. We enjoy the experience of watching people come in with their family and friends. This is a place to build a connection.”

Dependable Teams = Consistent Cleans

I’ve had the same team for several years and they always do an excellent job. I love having a team I can trust whether we’re home or not. I recommend The Maids to anyone looking for exceptional service.

Learn how we can help you prepare each course in your life for a secure retirement.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.

Jeremy Jackson Financial Advisor, CIMA®, FIC 763-633-5300

jeremy.jackson@thrivent.com

Josiah Parker Financial Advisor 612-990-4125

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LOOKING FOR A

If you're like many families in the Twin Cities, it can be easy to get overloaded with things to do. From carting the kids off to sports and activities to managing the competing properties of work and home, sometimes you just run out of energy to put a good meal on the table. That's where Eclectic Culinary Concepts can help.

With six concepts throughout the Twin Cities, you and your family will find something for everyone. Take The Clover in Rosemount as an example—a casually refined pub serving all the American classics you could hope for. Consider this restaurant your neighborhood comfort food destination. Try The Rosemount when you visit—an open-faced roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy on sourdough.

SETTING OUT TO CHANGE THE FOODIE SCENE IN THE TWIN CITIES

23 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/EAGAN OCTOBER 2023

Marketing manager Nora Brody says, “The woodfire-grilled octopus at Pajarito is amazing, and the chef-driven menu is elevated, yet casual, perfect for a foodie looking to enjoy a great meal for a night out.”

Co-owner Nelson adds, “Pajarito is elevated Mexican cuisine that is familiar and approachable, yet out of the ordinary. Both of our locations offer a different feel.

"St. Paul is a bit more of a neighborhood spot, great for a weeknight dinner, date night, or before a game or concert in downtown St. Paul. Edina is a bit more upscale but still casual enough to visit for a quick snack or happy hour a few times a week. Tacos are a great option, but we especially love mixing them with small plates and larger wood-fired grilled dishes. Sharing is a fun way to experience the menu."

Co-owner Hesse says, "We were always going for more of an eclectic style Mexican menu. We wanted traditional Mexican flavors with modern twists. Our dishes are unique, and our seasonal protein variations keep the menu fresh and vibrant. I recommend trying our Elote-style Brussels Sprouts, Tuna Tostada, Habanero Cilantro Margarita, and the Pajarito Margarita with key lime and agave. These are some notable favorites amongst our visitors."

Me & Julio, located in Hastings, is a delightful TexMex concept with some American Favorites. "I think the enchiladas are amazing, and I highly recommend the Julio bowl and the chicken fajitas," says Brody.

Their under-the-radar concept is called The Mudd Room; co-owner Burrows says, "We wanted to create an intimate, destination music venue with an old-school speakeasy vibe. Spanish tapas for snacking and sharing somewhat inspire the menu. The steak bocadillo sandwich is delicious, and you can't go wrong with either the Vietnamese sticky sauce or harissa-honey wings. Spirit-forward cocktails like the smoked St. Paul negroni and Machine

Gun Kelly Manhattan will have you feeling great." For this one, leave the kids at home with a sitter for a special night out at this 21+ venue.

GREAT PLACES FOR THE FAMILY

Though all of the restaurants offered locally by Eclectic Culinary Concepts are family-friendly, offering a welcoming environment with chefdriven fares, parents may wish to save some of the concepts above for a night out sans kids and try Lucky's 13 Pub, Yankee Tavern, and The Clover for dinners out with the kids in tow.

Lucky's 13 offers taste-bud-pleasing monthly specials and some tried-and-true goodness sure to be on the menu for your next visit. Their handcrafted burgers are splendid—be sure to try the Stuffed Juicy Lulu the next time you visit. Or try one of the pub favorites, such as the Pub Fish Fry or the Minnesota Bowl. Brody recommends the Bloody Marys that come with all the fixings.

Another great option is the Yankee Tavern, established in 2017 and located right here in Eagan. "The menu at the Yankee has all your bar favorites, with some slightly southern-inspired highlights like fried chicken plates and smoked brisket sandwiches. The white bean chicken chili is a must-try, and don't skip out on indulgent sides like parmesan-crusted mac & cheese or the roasted brussels sprouts with bacon,” says Burrows.

Finally, The Clover, which opened in late 2019, has a variety of hand-held classics and other menu delights, such as the chicken pot pie, and baconwrapped smoked meatloaf. On their new menu, they’ll have southern-fried chicken platters.  They also do a great Friday fish fry and a Saturday prime rib special (both start at 4 PM). End the night by enjoying their scrumptious bread pudding.

“We wanted to create an intimate, destination music venue with an old-school speakeasy vibe.”

Capture the Magic of Autumn

EXPERT TIPS FOR EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY PORTRAITS

As the summer warmth gives way to the gentle chill of autumn and the leaves begin their brilliant transformation, families have a golden opportunity to create timeless memories through the art of fall family portraits. By considering factors such as attire, timing, location, and candidness, you have the power to not only encapsulate your family's essence but also pay homage to the captivating beauty of the season.

While posed shots have their place, candid moments often carry an authentic emotion that can't be replicated. Capture the spontaneous interactions between family members – a whispered secret, a shared joke, or a warm hug. These moments tell a genuine story. If you have little ones, remember that their natural curiosity and energy can lead to some of the most heartwarming shots. Allow them to explore, run, and engage in their activities – capturing their innocence and exuberance.

Experiment with different group formations. Mix and match family members to create visually appealing compositions. Try capturing a shot of just parents, grandparents with grandchildren, or siblings together. Encourage family members to express genuine emotions – laughter, affection, or even a contemplative look. Expressions are windows to the soul and can make your photos truly resonate. Alongside group shots, take the time to capture individual portraits. This provides a wellrounded collection that highlights each family member's distinct personality.

A cornerstone of successful fall family pictures is the selection of attire that resonates with the season's palette and aesthetics. Earthy tones, such as deep reds, warm oranges, mustard yellows, and calming olive greens, harmonize beautifully with the autumn foliage. Consider thoughtfully mixing and matching these colors among your family members for a visually harmonious and aesthetically pleasing ensemble. Pay attention to the finer details that can elevate your portraits. Clean, polished nails, coordinating accessories, and well-groomed hair can make a significant difference in the overall look of your photos.

To ensure that the focus remains squarely on your family's joyful moments, avoid overly intricate patterns that could potentially divert attention. Instead, opt for timeless, elegant pieces that mirror your family's unique personality. Introducing layers can infuse depth and texture into your photos, with scarves, cardigans, and vests seamlessly blending coziness with style.

Time is a critical factor. The ethereal "golden hour," which graces the landscape just after sunrise and before sunset, sheds a soft, warm radiance that can elevate your images. During this magical time, the sun's gentle angle casts elongated shadows, imparting depth and dimension to your images. This thoughtful touch can make your photos truly stand out.

Eagan offers an array of outdoor locations that stand as perfect canvases for your fall family pictures. A crown jewel amongst them is Lebanon Hills Regional Park. This expansive natural haven boasts shimmering lakes, meandering trails, and a rich tapestry of vibrant trees. Every corner of the park holds the potential to frame unforgettable moments and picturesque scenes.

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“Time is a critical factor. The ethereal “golden hour,” which graces the landscape just after sunrise and before sunset, sheds a soft, warm radiance that can elevate your images.”

While the fall foliage is undeniably captivating, don't hesitate to experiment with different natural elements. The beautiful Minnesota snow, fields of tall grass, rustic fences, or even a lakeside setting can provide unique backdrops that can create a beautiful backdrop to your images.

For those inclined towards a more urban atmosphere, the downtown areas of St. Paul offer a distinctive backdrop. The juxtaposition of falling leaves against the city's architectural elegance delivers an intriguing contrast

that yields unexpected yet captivating shots, brimming with character and charm.

Ultimately, striking fall family pictures is a balance of planning with an openness to embrace the splendor of the season. As you embark on the journey to capture your family’s story, allow the magic of autumn to unfold naturally, framing your family's bonds and joy in a collection of photographs that will remain cherished for generations to come.

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THE FLAVOR OF FALL

Apples are the trademark fruit of fall, and with the many varieties to choose from, there is an apple that is sure to please any palate. They can be included in both sweet and savory dishes and are delicious and incredibly healthful. We all have heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While they aren’t a cure-all, apples are packed full of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamin C, B vitamins and fiber. Make the most of autumn’s best produce and the flavors of fall with this simple recipes.

APPLE GALETTE WITH CARAMEL DRIZZLE

Easier than pie but with all the same textures, this gooey warm dessert is sure to please. For simplicity, this can be made with a premade crust.

INGREDIENTS:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 cup iced cold water

Filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and sliced into thin slices

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Caramel sauce

• Optional: 1/4 chopped walnuts or pecans

INSTRUCTIONS:

Crust:

(Note: If running short on time, store bought crust works great, too.)

Mix flour, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut in the butter. Add water and mix until moistened. Lightly knead the dough and then form into a ball. Next, flatten dough into a thick circular form and refrigerate for one hour.

Filling: Mix the apples, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar together in a bowl.

Assemble and Bake:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into a circle and set on parchment paper. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving about one inch of space for the edges. Fold crust over the apples and press to seal edges. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts. Bake for 35 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce and ice-cream.

realty report

A sample of recently sold properties around Eagan.

Listings were pulled from the NMLS. This reflects a 30-Day time period prior to our print deadline. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of activity. *DOM = Days on Market

BUY SELL TRADE

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 12TH & 27TH -30TH

Ladies Night at Fashion Fruit Boutique

1470 YANKEE DOODLE ROAD, EAGAN, MN 55122 | 4:00 PM

Stop by Fashion Fruit Boutique at 4:00 pm on October 12 for Ladies Night! Join us for sips, treats, and special deals on Fall Flannels along with a special local vendor! Don't miss out on Tricks and Treats — from October 27-30, with every $25 purchase or more, pick a pumpkin and open it to disclose your “treat!”

OCTOBER 14TH

Cranksgiving at Valley Bike & Ski

7707 149TH STREET WEST, APPLE VALLEY, MN 55124 | 10:00 AM

NEW: SPECIALTY & PREOWNED COLLECTION

Ride your bike, and collect food for a local food shelf. You will get a manifest the day of the ride of what needs to be purchased and where. You must ride your bicycle to all the locations and transport all goods on your bicycle. The ride will be 3-12 miles. All food collected and extra funds will go to Open Door Food Shelf.

OCTOBER 14TH

Barktober

1360 ACACIA BLVD, MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN 55118 | 10:00 AM

Head over to the Mendota Heights Dog Park with your favorite pup. There will be DIY snuffle mats, a dog costume contest, a pup friendly photo booth, a canine version of Minute to Win It, pet adoption information and time to play with other dogs.

OCTOBER 17TH

Live Dermal Filler Demonstration at The Laser Room Med Spa

7373 W 147TH STREET, SUITE 104, APPLE VALLEY, MN 55124 | 4:00 PM

Join us at The Laser Room Med Spa to learn all about dermal fillers, and watch us inject a model with lip filler! You will learn all about fillers, where we can put them, aftercare, results, and much more at this dermal filler educational demonstration. Your $20 preregistration holds your spot and includes a swag bag and gift card towards anything at our Med Spa.

OCTOBER 28TH

Gateway Bank's 17th  Annual Fall Festival

745 MARKET STREET, MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN 55118 | 9:00 AM

On Saturday, October 28th Gateway Bank will be hosting our 17th Annual Fall Festival at the Mendota Heights branch. We will have over 800 pumpkins to give away, a face painter, a balloon artist, donuts, coffee, and so much more! It is such a fun event for everyone! In addition, we will be collecting items for our local food shelf.

OCTOBER 29TH

The Halloween Trail Walk at Viking Lakes

2685 VIKINGS CIRCLE, EAGAN, MN 55121 | 11:00 AM

Dress in your Halloween best and explore “Legends Crossings” at Viking Lakes. Attendees will visit trick or treat stations, enjoy music, and play Halloween themed games throughout the Plaza. This is an outdoor event and will take place rain or shine! $6/child, adults free with food donation to The Open Door. Pre-registration required.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Eagan

CHOCOLATE and WINE

The Key to a Successful Wine and Chocolate Pairing Lies in Finding the Right Combination of Flavors and Characteristics.

Pairing wine and chocolate together can be a delightful sensory experience that can elevate the flavors of both. While the concept of pairing wine with food is well-known, pairing it with chocolate may seem unconventional at first. However, when done correctly, it can create a harmonious balance where the flavors of the wine and chocolate complement and enhance one another.

Wine and chocolate have a lot of similarities to each other. Both contain flavanols (antioxidants) and polyphenols (compounds found in plant-based food) that are good for you and have anti-inflammatory properties. These characteristics affect flavor so it’s somewhat challenging to pair wine and chocolate together. The more polyphenols, the more pronounced the bitter taste.

For example, if you sip a delicious dry red wine alongside a hunk of dark chocolate, the wine will start to taste bitter and sour. The taste imbalance is coming from the heightened levels of flavanols (different types of tannin) found in both chocolate and wine that end up clashing against each other on your tongue. While it might sound counterintuitive, a good rule of thumb is to pair a wine that is “sweeter” than the chocolate itself. “Sweet” doesn’t refer to dessert wines alone. In the wine world, the term “sweet” is often used to denote ripe, fruit-forward flavors in a wine. These characteristics provide a nice balance to the bitter flavors of cocoa.

Both wine and chocolate can have intense, dry flavors. In order to find the right balance, it’s best to choose wines that are a little bit softer and juicier than the chocolate you’re pairing it with.

We’ve done the footwork to find several wines that partner well with chocolate. Here are our guidelines for matching chocolate with wine and a few of our favorite wine and chocolate pairings. We hope you’ll try them and then get inspired to experiment and create your own.

TIP 1: MATCH SUGAR WITH SUGAR

When it comes to pairing chocolate and wine, you don’t want to strike a balance, you want to match sugar to sugar. Sweeter chocolate like white chocolate does better when consumed with sweeter wines and bitter chocolate like dark chocolate enjoys being paired with dryer wines. Think of it as matching sugar with sugar. A good rule of thumb is to always pair wines that are equally or slightly more sweet than the chocolate being eaten with it.

TIP 2: MATCH INTENSITY WITH INTENSITY

If you pair an incredibly delicately flavored dark chocolate with a full-bodied, heavy red, the intensity of the wine will destroy any of the subtlety that might have been present in the chocolate. The opposite is also true: strong-tasting chocolate will blow a delicate wine out of the water. Keep this rule of thumb in mind: light-flavored chocolates enjoy being paired with light-bodied wines and intensely flavored chocolates prefer being paired with full-bodied wines.

TIP 3: PAIR FLAVORS WITH FLAVORS

Wine and chocolate both carry their own intense flavors. If the chocolate contains other ingredients such as nuts, fruit, or caramel, consider how these flavors will play with the wine. This is especially helpful to remember when enjoying truffles with wine. To avoid creating a palate power play between the two, do your best to match fruity or floral chocolates with fruity wines like Moscato or White Zinfandel. Enjoy chocolate-covered nuts alongside a nutty wine like a Madeira or Marsala. Chocolate studded with dried cranberries might pair well with a fruit-forward red with berry undertones.

CREATING THE PERFECT PAIR

DARK CHOCOLATE

Bitter to semi-sweet dark chocolates, that are 50 to 100% cacao, have intense, bitter flavors, and earthy to fruity undertones. Match the intensity without adding more dryness by pairing these chocolates with full-bodied, yet fruit-forward wines.

Pairs well with:

Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Port, Merlot, Shiraz, Barolo

MILK CHOCOLATE

Milk chocolate is typically creamier and sweeter with flavors of brown sugar, vanilla, and cream. It requires a wine that is light to medium in body, with a ripe fruit character.

Pairs well with:

Pinot Noir, Merlot, Sweet Riesling, Ice-Style Wine

WHITE CHOCOLATE

White chocolate has a sweet, buttery flavor with notes of cream and honey. Sweet white and rosè wines help cleanse the palate of the rich flavors from white chocolate, as does sparkling spumante like Moscato d’Asti.

Pairs well with:

Sweet Riesling, Moscato, Semi-Dry Sparkling Whites, Gewurztraminer

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Stay in the game at Omni Viking Lakes.

Adjacent to Viking Headquarters and minutes from U.S. Bank Stadium, Omni Viking Lakes makes game day and every day unforgettable with spacious accommodations, four exceptional dining destinations and a full-service spa and indoor pool. Omni Viking Lakes Hotel is proud to be the official hotel partner of the Minnesota Vikings.