What is the Mysterious Orange Wine?

Orange wine is actually made from white grape varietals sourced from Italy such as sauvignon vert, ribolla gialla, and pinot grigio. Traditionally these varietals would be fermented in stainless steel tanks or oak casks after having the skins and stems removed. In the case orange wine, the grapes are left to ferment with the grape skins left on the grape pulp.

Wine gains most of its color from the skin of the grape. Grape juice will extract color from the grape skins. By fermenting the grapes with the skin on, the wine will take on an orange hue.

Several orange wines are available at stores such as Total Wine & More. Most wines available in the American market are made from pinot grigio and are priced reasonably under $30 per bottle. Producers include Podari Di Carlo, Praruar, and Romato. Food pairings with orange wine include roasted or grilled meats such as chicken and pork, Thai spiced foods, seafood and umami rich dishes. 

Article courtesy of: Jim Baker

The Ellen Baker Team at Realty One Group, has put together an elegant menu designed to spoil that special someone in your life—perfect for creating a memorable and heartfelt evening together.

 Menu

• Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction

• Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

• Roasted Asparagus with Lemon

• Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

 Main Course: Pan-Seared Filet Mignon

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 oz each)

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme

Instructions

1. Let steaks rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Sear steaks for 3–4 minutes per side.

4. Add butter, garlic, and herbs. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks for 1–2 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and let rest before serving.

 Red Wine Reduction Sauce

Ingredients

• ½ cup red wine

• 1 small shallot, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. In the same pan, sauté shallots until soft.

2. Add red wine and simmer until reduced by half.

3. Finish with butter and drizzle over steaks.

 Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes

• 2 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup warm cream or milk

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender.

2. Mash with butter, garlic, and warm cream.

3. Season and keep warm.

 Roasted Asparagus with Lemon

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus

• Olive oil, salt & pepper

• Lemon zest

Instructions

1. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Roast at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.

3. Finish with fresh lemon zest.

 Dessert: Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Melt chocolate gently.

2. Dip strawberries and place on parchment paper.

3. Chill until set.

 Romantic Touches for the Evening

• Soft background music

• Candlelight or warm ambient lighting

• A simple table setting with cloth napkins

• A handwritten note or card

Wishing you a loved-filled evening!
Your local real estate team.

Ellen Baker Team AZ 
Ellen Baker: 623-670-0804
Orlando Diaz: 623-262-2642

If you’ve been considering selling your home, now may be an excellent time to take advantage of current market conditions—especially with Spring Training Cactus League season right around the corner. Each year, baseball fans and enthusiasts from across the country flock to the Valley of the Sun to enjoy the games, our beautiful communities, and Arizona’s warm winter weather.

This seasonal influx brings increased activity and visibility to the local real estate market. Many visitors fall in love with the lifestyle and begin exploring opportunities to purchase a primary residence, second home, or investment property. As a result, sellers often benefit from a broader pool of motivated buyers during this time of year.

In addition, buyer confidence is improving as interest rates have recently settled near 5.6%, depending on the lender and loan type. This has encouraged more buyers to re-enter the market and take advantage of today’s opportunities before competition increases later in the year.

With strong seasonal demand, favorable weather for showings, and renewed buyer interest, Spring Training season can be an ideal window to showcase your home. Proper pricing, strategic marketing, and professional guidance can help position your property to stand out and attract serious buyers.

If you’re curious about your home’s value or would like to discuss the best timing and strategy for selling, contact The Ellen Baker Team today! We are happy to help. Planning ahead now can put you in a strong position for a successful sale.

Ellen Baker: 623-670-0804

Orlando Diaz: 623-262-2642