The Wine Notebook

Weekend brunch at the Brass Tack in the Waldorf Astoria Chicago is a must when visiting or staying in the city! The menu features a balanced mix of lighter bites, lunch favorites, and elevated breakfast classics. For our visit, we decided to stick with the traditional favorites. My partner had the Waldorf Astoria Breakfast, which is an elevated take on a classic American breakfast. It comes with perfectly prepared eggs, crispy Yukon Gold potatoes, juice, and your choice of meat. I ordered the Fr

Brass Tack remains one of our go-to dining destinations in Chicago, offering an exceptional culinary experience whether we are staying at the hotel or just visiting the city. The menu consistently balances rich, classic flavors with thoughtful innovation. We truly appreciate how the talented culinary team ensures there is always a creative and satisfying vegetarian option on the menu. This visit featured the Herb EVOO Poached Squash "Steak”, which delivered a wonderful diversity of textures and

The Waldorf Astoria Chicago provides an incredible setting for tailored celebrations. For our anniversary, we worked with the guest relations and culinary teams to arrange a custom in-room caviar service in our junior suite, which was curated with great attention to detail. The team provided a beautiful setup including the classic accoutrements of crème fraîche, onion, and scallions alongside crisp potato chips and exceptionally fresh blinis. They provided everything from the plating to the moth

The Waldorf Astoria Chicago remains one of our most reliable retreats in River North, offering a quiet sanctuary amidst the energy of the city. As locals, we frequently return to this property for its refined atmosphere and consistent service, making it a natural choice for celebrating our anniversary. Our three-day weekend was centered around a fireplace junior suite overlooking the courtyard, providing a sense of privacy and calm that can be difficult to find in a central urban hotel. The expe

Following the successful reception of our spring release, you can now secure your physical record. In case you missed it, subscriptions for our physical tiers are available and begin with The Sonoma Collective. As a member of "The Collector," you will receive our high-quality print anthology delivered quarterly. Each subscription also includes immediate and full access to our entire digital archive, allowing you to explore all previous and future releases alongside your print collection. Physica

Pinecone Cottage Tea House offers a refined and creative afternoon tea experience in the heart of the Chicago Suburbs, serving as a quintessential spring and summer activity for those seeking an elegant retreat in Downers Grove. During our visit for the seasonal Taste of Sweden service, we enjoyed a sophisticated sequence of dishes that showcased the kitchen's culinary expertise and commitment to dietary flexibility. The experience commenced with a classic pea soup, expertly prepared to refine t

Following a successful debut, the second chapter of The Wine Notebook is now live. The Sonoma Collective offers a refined blueprint through the premier estates and hidden terroirs of Northern California. This issue explores the rhythmic pulse of the vernal shift, charting a journey from the geothermal wellness of the historic Mission Inn to a sophisticated coastal sanctuary in San Francisco. The Collector: Physical subscriptions are officially live. Those who join "The Collector" receive our qua

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa stands as a premier destination for wine tasting in Sonoma, offering a sophisticated alternative to Napa Valley. The guest experience begins with a curated glass of sparkling wine at check-in, setting a tone of refined luxury and relaxed comfort. The estate features expansive, verdant grounds and walkable gardens that invite exploration throughout the residency. A defining feature of the stay includes the daily complimentary lobby tastings, where guests are

A winter escape to the Fairmont Banff Springs, the legendary “Castle in the Rockies.” Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and timeless grandeur, the Fairmont Banff Springs offers a stay unlike any other. From the moment you step into its grand lobby, every detail speaks to heritage, warmth, and impeccable service. Mornings begin with mountain views and coffee from STOCK Food & Drink, followed by time to unwind in the outdoor heated pool overlooking the valley. Days here are filled with memorable ex

A stay at The Lodge at Torrey Pines feels like stepping into another world. The hotel is elegant, refined, and quietly serene, with stunning views overlooking the Pacific in LA Jolla. Inspired by early 1900s Craftsman architecture, The Lodge honors California’s heritage with handcrafted details, warm wood tones, and an atmosphere of timeless tranquility. Set beside the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, it offers sweeping views of the ocean and the cliffs that define this stretch of coast.