I’ll Drink to That!

One of our very favorite summer pastimes is to pack a picnic and head to “the bowl” for a night of music under the stars. So we loaded the car, and off we went with excited anticipation of our foray into this classic LA summer ritual. We placed our car in the stacked parking that would later that night prove to be  the end of the night challenge, as usual, when trying to exit. A short walk over to the park - and with no large groups hogging all the tables this night, we stake our claim to half a picnic table with our red and white checkered tablecloth.  Last night’s  menu consisted of Salmon with snap peas, yellow peppers and dill-pistachio pistou. Really good with a side of Israeli couscous, orzo and red quinoa.  Finished with sliced fresh figs. Poured a new Sauvignon Blanc from Lake County called Diogenes. Lemon and pineapple in the nose,  plenty of citrusy flavors and well rounded body.   After our picnic dinner we walked up the hill to our seats and opened a bottle of red to keep us warm since the night had taken on a slight chill. House lights down, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra is tuned up to the first violin and the  conductor,  Thomas Wilkins, takes the podium. The lilting and mesmerizing notes of Laura waft over the cool breeze and this classic movie arrangement takes me away to another time. I think the orchestra has never sounded better as the muted trumpets and the oboes and all those violins with bows moving in unison, take turns with the melody, offering layer upon layer of musical deliciousness. Soon Michael Feinstein takes  his place behind the grand piano center stage and offers up his rendition of two Frank Sinatra classics and other standards from the Great American Songbook.   Always a surprise to hear this crooner belt out those big note endings as he finishes his set.  After a “brief intermission”  house lights darken once again and Jewel makes her entrance in a billowing tie-died dress and 5″ platforms. Wondering how this folksy pop singer is going to do with standards, she proceeds to offer up her rendition of Over the Rainbow. Just when you think there could not possible be any new ways to present this perennially favorite song, she gives it her own tweaks, and wows the audience with her vocal prowess and emotionally moving phrasing. She also sings her “hits” ending with the spiritually profound Hands .  “If I could tell the world just one thing it would be that we’re all OK. And not to worry ’cause worry is wasteful and useless in times like these….poverty stole your golden shoes, it didn’t steal your laughter….In the end only kindness matters.” And a great display of fireworks doesn’t hurt either.

I’LL DRINK TO THAT!

This summer, out under the stars, whether your listening to music, watching fireworks,  enjoying a breathtaking view of something, or savoring a delicious meal with friends, pop open some Prosecco. If you haven’t already tried this “good anytime” sparkling wine from  Italy, now’s the time. It’s readily available and very affordable. My favorite is Nino Franco Prosecco “Rustico”. This delicious sparkler is straw colored and offers lovely aromas of golden apples and peaches. Medium-bodied with a soft finish. (About $15.00) Better keep an extra bottle of this one chilled and ready to go.