San Luis, the person, not the place, had a rough start. It was 1284, and little San Luis was just 10 years old, he became a political prisoner, held hostage in Catalonia by the King of Aragon for nearly seven years. This wasn’t uncommon for the time, his father was Charles II of Anjou, King of Naples, and young Luis was the heir. In the late 13th century, royal families negotiated peace not with signatures but with sons. In this case, San Luis paid the price for dynastic diplomacy.

Is it February that just brings out the crazy need to feel somewhat romantic with your spouse? Maybe it’s just the time of year. Christmas was two months ago, and we all spent way too much and regretted it. All through January, most of us hibernated because it was just too dark outside to get out after work. But here is February. The depths of what should be winter, and we realize that actually spending time with people again is a good thing.

After a day carving through the snow-covered Alps, there’s nothing quite like gathering with friends around a steaming pot of fondue, accompanied by a glass of chilled white wine. It’s the ultimate après-ski ritual, combining warmth, flavor, and camaraderie. Whether you’re dining at a family-run chalet in a mountain village, or exploring the cobblestone streets of Geneva’s Old Town, fondue is as quintessentially Swiss as their iconic chocolate or precision-crafted watches.

Thanksgiving is a time for coming together, celebrating abundance, and sharing a meal full of comforting flavors. The variety on the table—from roasted turkey to tart cranberry sauce, rich casseroles, and buttery sides—can make wine pairing feel overwhelming. But choosing the right bottles doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little thought, you can select wines that enhance the food and the mood, making your holiday gathering even more special.