This is a holiday that makes me reminiscent of my youth and old neighborhood in Detroit.  In Southwest Detroit we had the only parade on the Fourth of July in the city.  Then we would go to the park where the parade terminated have a picnic, play ball and then wait for fireworks that ended an idyllic day.

For this day, I thought I would discuss the various carriers that I have accumulated for carrying wine to parties and picnics.  Since we are going to one of our relative’s house today to enjoy their pool and have a barbeque.

The first carrier that we purchased is a red travel bag that will hold one bottle of wine and carries a waiter’s cork screw, ornamental bottle stopper and two plastic wine goblets and clothe napkins.  The carrier is even insulated which is ideal for the days when we transport white wines.  It also has the option of removing the two goblets and then a second bottle of wine can be carried.  Since the time we purchased this carrier we have received a second one in black as a gift from a friend.

We then received a very nice wicker carrier that holds two bottles of wine and has a large compartment on the other side of the handle for carrying dishes, munchies or anything else.  I actually use this carrier quite a bit, when I am carrying bottles of wine from the cellar to the dining room for parties.

The next carrier we acquired during one of our trips to Carmel-by-the-Sea in California, which is a great area for wine tasting, shopping and dining.  We were in one of the adjoining cities of Monterey, which also has its own wine designation.  We went into the “Taste of Monterey” shop, did a wonderful tasting from the wines in the designation of Monterey, Carmel Valley and some of the Central Coast areas as well.  We enjoyed this shop so well that we joined one of the wine clubs that they offered and have enjoyed the packages that we receive four times a year. This carrier that we got is a canvas eco-friendly tote that holds six bottles of wine for some serious good times.

Finally on another trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea we found in a very eclectic shop, this leather wine carrier that holds two bottles of wine, plus the plastic wine goblets, ornamental bottle stopper, waiter’s cork screw, clothe napkins as well as a wooden cheese board and cheese knife.  I have also used cold packs next to white wines when necessary and it has worked very well.  This carrier by far has become my favorite, as it not only is the most inclusive but it is very classy in its appearance.

So I do hope everyone in the United States of America enjoys this great holiday of Independence Day and celebrates wisely and safely.