The Wine Guide: 003 - Danielle Green

Hey there, wine friends. Happy Valentine's Day!

Meet Danielle, who brings the best kind of wine energy to Austin. She splits her time between Brand Strategy at Forbes Books and managing events at Vintage Bookstore & Wine Bar. (Yes, that's exactly what it sounds like - books and wine under one roof.) With her refreshingly honest takes on everything from Whataburger wine pairings to overrated Champagne, she's exactly the kind of friend we all need. Bonus: Follow her book and wine adventures on Instagram and TikTok @agreatandterriblelibrary.

The evolution of Austin's wine scene: "Both the wine and restaurant scene has exploded since 2016," Danielle shares. "Austin's growth has brought us SO many new spots, it can be hard to keep up - but that's what makes it exciting." She's noticed Texas wines and natural wines particularly gaining momentum in recent years.

Where she actually drinks when off the clock: "The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen has been my spot for years," Danielle tells us. "I literally helped open their downtown location as my first job." She's also a regular and member at Neighborhood Vintner and, of course, Vintage Bookstore & Wine Bar. "Biased? Maybe. But have you been there?"

Her favorite food & wine pairings: When it comes to takeout, Danielle keeps it real:

• DeSano's Diavola pizza + Tempranillo (though she admits Papa John's Supreme with extra pepperoni hits the spot too)

• The spiciest possible Pad Thai + Sauv Blanc

• Chicken Tikka Masala + Pinot Grigio

• Spicy tuna rolls + Prosecco

• And our favorite pairing of all? A Whataburger Jalapeño Cheeseburger with a White Burgundy or Cab Sauv

The "skip this, drink that" hot take: "Dom Perignon is vastly overrated," she spills. Her move? Grab Veuve Clicquot or Perrier Jouet instead. "Just as good, way better value, and you can find them at HEB."

The dinner party strategy: "Stay in the $15-$25 range," she advises. "No need to spend crazy money on wine that'll go fast." (Finally, someone said it.)

What we love about Danielle's takes? She gets that wine should be fun. "With every sip, you're drinking history," she says. "There's a story in every drop."

Want to experience Vintage Bookstore & Wine Bar firsthand? Head to 1101 E 11th St, where you might find Danielle! Check them out this Sunday, February 16th for "Noir At The Bar" - they're bringing together top crime fiction writers for a night of readings, wine, and maybe a little murder from 7-9pm.

Want an Austin date night on us? Share the guide with just three friends (aka get them to subscribe), and you could win a $100 gift card to one of our favorite spots. Consider it our way of saying thanks.

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