By Rachel Brown

I grew up with an avid thirst for books. Typically, I can finish a book in a sitting(or two). I read just about anything, which makes my trips to Barnes and Noble very similar to a trip to Disney. I’ve amassed quite a large library in my 30 years and usually find almost every surface in my room covered with a stack of books. I lose myself in the joy of reading and storytelling and it’s something that I continue to remain passionate about. My perspective in storytelling has simply shifted from the fiction of literature to the non-fiction story of wine. That doesn’t mean you can’t have the best of both worlds, however. I’m going to give you a few of my favorite sips alongside some of my favorite reads to get you through the rest of the Winter months and into the Spring. 

The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley x Fleur de Mer Dry Rose, Côtes De Provence ($18) 

I have to admit, I fell prey to the old trope of never judging a book by its cover. When I saw the cover to this book, it made me pause and turn around and go back to the shelf. The synopsis drew me in immediately and it was a purchase that I still rave about, even now. When Eva Ward loses her sister, she heads back to their childhood home in Cornwall to scatter her ashes in her favorite spot. What Eva doesn’t realize, however, is the power of the Ley lines. Eva finds herself transported back in time; in the very same home she grew up in. Instead of finding her family and friends tucked into its cozy rooms, she meets Daniel Butler. In a series of events that propels Eva from future to past, a romantic and thrilling tale of a journey to one’s true home takes place. I recommend Fleur de Mer rosé for this because of its soft, welcoming notes of watermelon and citrus, the dreamy pink and almost Lavander hue and the elegance it brings to the glass. 

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E.Schwab x Veuve Clicqout Demi Sec Champagne ($67) 

I was obsessed with this book before I even cracked the spine. I’d seen so many impressive reviews that I added it to my TBR pile and pushed it to the very top and this book did not disappoint. Addie LaRue strikes a deal with the devil to spare herself from an arranged marriage. Growing up in France in the 1700’s, Addie is betrothed to man she doesn't love. On the eve of her wedding, she runs away and begs for the Gods of the forest to hide her, to conceal her. When the Gods answer, her wish is more than she bargained for. Destined to live forever and forgotten almost immediately by everyone she’s ever met; Addie begins the long and lonely journey to eternity. Shock comes when, 300 years later, a young man in a bookstore remembers her name. Together, they forge a blazing path together but not all as it seems. Henry has secrets of his own and one that threatens the new found relationship Addie finds herself in for the first time in over 3 centuries. Dark, romantic and steeped with history and art, Addie lands herself perfectly paired with this Demi-Sec champagne that sparkles and shines with deep and developed notes of baked pear, caramel and sweetness. Both book and wine are good to the very last drop.  

Full Dark, No Stars by Stephen King x Titus Zinfandel, Napa ($34.99) 

This book scared the absolute crap out of me. Every year around October, I set out to switch my usual genre to horror just to get in the spooky mood. Stephen King is one of the top contenders for the horror genre, and I figured I should start out with well, the King. This book is a collection of four short stories from the horror mastermind and have several terrifying plotlines. I remember falling asleep with the light on when I read this. If you’re looking to get a chill up your back, this is the book for you. I could think of no other wine for this genre than a lush, richly dark and decadent wine like a Zinfandel. Titus exudes deep notes of black cherry, mocha, vanilla and peppered spice. 

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah x Winzer Krems Gruner Veltliner, Wachtberg Kermstal Dac Reserve ($24.99) 

I’ve always loved historical fiction. I picked this book up after my grandmother read it. She had rave reviews on it and she and I have always been kindred spirits so I decided to give it a go and it did NOT disappoint. I’d read a few of Hannah’s books before and usually enjoyed them so I thought I had an idea of what I was getting into with this book. I did not. I was crying by the time I finished it. This book follows two sisters in the middle of World War II in German occupied France. Separated by age, perspective, and passions, they each try to navigate their way towards survival, freedom, and ultimately, love. It offers a unique perspective on the lives and struggles of women during such a volatile point in world history. I wanted to pair this book with a wine that was refined, elegant, richly textured and layered and I couldn’t think of a wine better than Gruner Veltliner. This Austrian gem delights with bright notes of peach and melon with subtle earthy notes of mineral. Layered and medium bodied, this wine will keep you company as you travel through France on this extraordinary journey.