Luscious local fare

Experience Italy in the Triangle at Il Palio

by Christie Hadden

Il Palio Ristorante gets its name from a bareback horse race held twice a year in Siena, Italy, in which 10 horses and riders represent 10 of the 17 Contrade, or city wards. Neighborhoods come together to share and celebrate during this intense race, which symbolizes the unity of the differing neighborhoods and a showcase of their regional cuisine.

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Fine wine

Tours showcase state’s bounty

by Danielle Jackson

It’s hard to believe that almost 100 wineries call North Carolina home. The state — ranked No. 7 in the country in wine production — also is quickly becoming one of the top wine destinations in the country. And for good reason.

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Simple fall fare

by Chef Tara Davis

It seems that once the humidity subsides and the air becomes crisper, the entertaining commitments begin to stack up. We’ve all been there. You’ve been invited to a friend’s house for dinner far too many times, and now it’s time to reciprocate. But you’re tired, busy and are at a complete loss as to what to make

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Welcome home, Merlot

The phoenix of grapes rises again

by Seth Gross and Craig Heffley   

Merlot. Just saying it aloud around some wine drinkers will provoke a sour face, snicker or jeer. It’s almost fashionable to make fun of Merlot wines these days, not to mention a certain movie that turned Merlot “sideways” with a memorable line putting down the grape.

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