bold rock cider tour + weekend links

A few weeks back, I took a press tour of Bold Rock Cider. Our group of journalists, writers, and bloggers visited the Bold Rock cidery, tasted some of their offerings, and met John Washburn and Brian Shanks of Bold Rock, as well as Virginia Secretary of Agriculture Todd Haymore who was there to kick off Virginia cider week. Agriculture is Virginia’s largest industry by a mile and it’s crucial to the state’s future, so it was great to hear Secretary Haymore discuss his stewardship of the state’s agriculture. The focus of the evening, of course, was Virginia apples, so a host of growers and cider producers were also in attendance.

After the speakers, I had some time to wander around Bold Rock, warm myself by the roaring fireplace (they have one inside and out), and take in idyllic views of the Nelson County mountains and Rockfish River. I also sampled the Bold Rock offerings and really liked the off-dry Vintage Number 1 cider, as well as the Vintage Dry variety.

Here in Virginia, many of the local wineries, cideries, and breweries are incredibly family friendly, so I’m looking forward to heading back out to Bold Rock this winter for a snowy view, and then again in warmer weather when I can sidle up to one of those riverside picnic tables.

It feels like there are two sides to this season. One is brimming with sweets and libations, but as we head toward the end of the year, there’s a contemplative mood, too. This week, I ran across a host of moving posts, and I’m glad to have a chance to share them today.

First off, this post by Kacie really got me. In a time of seeming online perfection and “aspirational” media, her real talk on issues that we all face was incredible. Hunger is all around us, and as we prepare for holiday feasts and revelry, it’s a good time to remember those in need.

Felicia of Love.Life.Eat can always be counted on for her beautiful writing and honesty. This post, on turning 39, is no exception.

Choosing connection, over perfection during the holidays.

Finally, the hilarious hater’s guide to the Williams Sonoma holiday catalog. (Though I must confess to coveting the hot chocolate pot –– but I’d use it for other stuff. Really!)