What happens when you pair the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess with a woman who bills herself as the “Happy Bitch?” Well, Happy Bitch Wine, of course!
Debbie Gioquindo, a local entrepreneur and wine expert, and Keryl Pesce, the author of the book Happy Bitch, a rallying cry for women to get up and get on with it after facing life’s disappointments, introduced their Happy Bitch rosé in April 2011. “We’re getting a wonderful reception,” says Gioquindo.
The wine, a mix of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, is a local affair: it’s made in Orange County, with grapes sourced from the Finger Lakes region. The pair, who both live in Dutchess County, hired a wine master to create several blends and then asked customers at a wine festival to vote for their favorite. “We also put a lot of thought into our packaging,” says Gioquindo. “We know sometimes women have trouble with a wine or Champagne cork, so we did a lot of research and came up with the crown cap.”
But ultimately, the wine is for anyone who enjoys a good (very slightly carbonated) rosé — even men. “The wine can be drunk in a lot of different scenarios. I had it last fall with cider doughnuts on the train going into the city,” says Gioquindo. “It pairs well with sushi. Our tag line is: It pairs well with girlfriends and great memories.”
For a list of local venues that carry Happy Bitch Wine, click here.
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