**Title: Women Empowerment and the Resilience of Persian Heritage: The Story of Iranian Women Winemakers in France**

In a picturesque vineyard in France’s western Dordogne region, Iranian women fleeing their oppressive homeland have found solace, empowerment, and a means to preserve their cultural heritage. These courageous women, swapping their state-enforced veils for T-shirts emblazoned with the words “life” and “liberty,” are part of a unique winemaking project rooted in ancient Persia.

Marjan Jangjoo, a 32-year-old former sports coach from Iran’s southwestern city of Shiraz, recounts her harrowing journey to freedom. Last November, she fled her homeland when security forces targeted her for arrest. Enduring months of treacherous travel across snowy mountains without proper clothing, Jangjoo eventually found herself seeking asylum in France. Now, she and her friend Soodeh Lashkarizadeh, who also escaped Iran due to her defiance of societal rules, are working hand-in-hand to keep Persian winemaking traditions alive.

Their journey to the vineyards of France represents more than just their personal quest for freedom. It is a testament to the resilience of the Iranian people and their determination to reclaim their cultural identity. The protests that erupted after the death of Mahsa Amini, a woman who was arrested for violating the dress code, served as a catalyst for Jangjoo’s and Lashkarizadeh’s escape. Their experiences shed light on the repressive environment that activists and athletes face in Iran, where happiness derived from activities such as dancing, sports, and drinking wine is regarded as a threat to the regime’s control.

Chowra Makaremi, an Iranian-born anthropologist, highlights the importance of sports as a platform for rebellion within Iranian society. The regime views athletes as symbols of hope, inspiring and uniting working-class youth. This perception has led to increased repression against sportspeople in Iran. Makaremi supports Jangjoo’s journey and praises her determination to reach France, where she and Lashkarizadeh now find themselves immersed in the world of winemaking.

Makaremi’s brother, Masrour Makaremi, owns a vineyard in the village of Saint-Meard-de-Gurcon, where Jangjoo and Lashkarizadeh participate in the harvest. Masrour’s vineyard, heavy with Syrah grapes, harks back to the Rhone valley’s winemaking tradition. However, legend has it that the Syrah variety originated in ancient Persia, brought back by crusaders. Following this narrative, the wine produced on Masrour’s land is set to be called “Cyrus,” honoring the founder of the Persian Empire.

To further bridge the gap between ancient Persia and present-day winemaking, the Makaremis ferment the wine in terracotta amphoras using a 5,000-year-old method. These porous vessels are sealed with a natural resin derived from pistachio trees. While embracing tradition, a heartfelt connection to Persian history is solidified through the use of an amphora dating back to the last Persian dynasty. Acquired at an auction, this relic vessel breathes life into the winemaking process, reminding everyone involved of their rich cultural heritage.

For Masrour Makaremi, producing approximately 6,000 bottles of wine each year is more than a commercial endeavor; it is an act of resistance and a celebration of Persian culture’s rebirth. The hands that harvest the grapes represent a continuation of the struggle against oppressive regimes and a remembrance of his mother, who was executed in 1988. Despite his mother’s tragic fate, Makaremi reminisces about walking among the vines with his grandmother in Shiraz, where winemaking traditions thrived.

The demonstrations within Iran following Mahsa Amini’s death have subsided for now due to severe repression. However, Makaremi clings to hope, dreaming of one day planting new vines in his homeland’s soil. Failing that, he envisions his children embarking on that adventure. The preservation of Persian winemaking approaches serves as a symbol of defiance against the oppressive regime while simultaneously keeping the flame of cultural heritage alive.

Marjan Jangjoo, Soodeh Lashkarizadeh, and the Makaremi family embody the resilient spirit of Iranian women and their fight for freedom. Through their determination, they embrace tradition, celebrate their cultural roots, and contribute to the renaissance of Persian winemaking. Their journey is a testament to the power of empowerment, the endurance of heritage, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Swapping their state-enforced veils for T-shirts reading “life” and “liberty”, a daring group of Iranian women who have found sanctuary in France are now contributing to the creation of wine deeply rooted in ancient Persia. Their journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with hardship, danger, and determination.

One of these remarkable women is Marjan Jangjoo, formerly a sports coach teaching aerial yoga and snowboarding in Iran. Last November, she was forced to flee after security forces came to arrest her. With only the clothes on her back, Jangjoo embarked on a treacherous journey through snowy mountains, enduring unimaginable challenges. Eventually, she reached the Kurdish-controlled region of northern Iraq, where she received support from people in France who helped plead her case to the French consulate in Erbil, eventually leading to her asylum in France.

In France’s western Dordogne region, Jangjoo and her companions have found solace in the vineyards. They are fighting to uphold their ancient wine-making traditions, which have faced significant obstacles under the Iranian regime. Soodeh Lashkarizadeh, one of Jangjoo’s friends, explained that the Iranian government seeks to destroy the happiness associated with activities like dancing, sports, and drinking wine. The repression against sportspeople in Iran is particularly severe, as they serve as role models for many working-class young people who are able to identify with them. Chowra Makaremi, an Iranian-born anthropologist at France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), supports Jangjoo’s journey and emphasizes the importance of sport as a vehicle for transmitting values.

The women find sanctuary on the vineyard of Masrour Makaremi, brother of Chowra Makaremi, where they actively contribute to the harvest. The vineyard boasts Syrah grapes, a variety closely associated with France’s Rhone valley but said to have been brought back from Persia during the crusades. The winemaking process is closely aligned with ancient Persian traditions, utilizing terracotta amphoras for fermentation and sealing them with a natural resin derived from pistachio trees. Notably, the vineyard also houses an amphora dating back to the last Persian dynasty before the Arab conquest in the seventh century. Masrour Makaremi acquired this relic through an auction and uses it to ferment a small portion of the wine, adding a historical depth to the beverage.

For Makaremi, winemaking represents an act of resistance intertwined with the revival of Persian culture. He sees the women working in the vineyard as part of the same fight that claimed his mother’s life when she was executed in 1988. Makaremi and his sister later joined their father in exile in the French city of Limoges. However, his memories of walking among the vines with his grandmother in his hometown of Shiraz, where the ancient wine tradition thrived, continue to fuel his passion for winemaking. Despite the current suppression of protests within Iran, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, Makaremi holds on to hope that someday he will be able to plant new vines in his homeland. If not, he hopes his children will carry on the legacy.

The story of these Iranian women and their fight for freedom and cultural preservation through winemaking is incredibly inspiring. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals facing persecution, and a reminder of the power of culture and tradition to connect us to our roots. Their journey symbolizes hope for a brighter future and the enduring spirit of the human will.

An extraordinary event, the NYC Wine & Food Festival presents food enthusiasts with a chance to indulge in a delightful array of dishes and beverages while also supporting a worthy cause. The four-day extravaganza, sponsored by the Food Network, has been a staple of culinary culture for the past 16 years. All proceeds from the festival go to God’s Love We Deliver, a charity that provides food to seriously ill individuals in New York City. To have an incredible experience, it is important for first-time attendees to know what to expect. The festival will be held from October 12 to October 15 at various locations throughout Manhattan. With access to 80 unique events and the participation of 500 world-class chefs, attendees are in for a treat. While tickets are still available for many events, it is recommended to purchase tickets sooner rather than later as sellouts are common. Visitors from out of town can take advantage of the partnering hotels, while city residents have three designated parking locations available during the festivities. Find out more about the 101 Best Pizzas In America here.

One of the highlights of the NYC Wine & Food Festival are the walk-around tastings, allowing guests to leisurely sample a variety of cuisines. Perhaps the most anticipated tasting is the Best of Brooklyn, curated by Brian Lindo, where attendees can savor his favorite dishes from the borough along with perfectly paired beverages. If you have a craving for delicious burgers, make sure not to miss the Blue Moon Burger Bash hosted by Rachael Ray. During this event, chefs compete for the title of NYC’s best burger, as decided by a panel of judges and attendees. Other tastings focus on French cuisine, Latin flavors, and an assortment of mouthwatering sandwiches. Apart from these casual tastings, the festival also presents intimate dinners featuring world-renowned chefs such as Michael Symon, Akhtar Nawab, Adeena Sussman, Heberto Eljach, and many other culinary luminaries. Additionally, the NYC Wine & Food Festival offers brunches, master classes to enhance culinary skills, entertaining cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities.

Given the abundance of exciting events at the NYC Wine & Food Festival, attendees need to stay up to date with the latest news and information. Thankfully, you can stay informed by following the festival on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. If you prefer receiving updates directly to your inbox, you can sign up for the festival newsletter. Many of the festival’s events take place outdoors, so there is a possibility of inclement weather. However, rest assured that these activities will proceed regardless of the weather conditions, so you won’t miss out on savoring the city’s finest cuisine or discovering your favorite chef. Keep in mind that tickets are non-refundable, so it is important to plan accordingly. For nighttime dinners, a semi-formal dress code is recommended, while for other events, a relaxed yet professional attire with comfortable footwear for walking is advised.

The NYC Wine & Food Festival offers food enthusiasts a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to indulge in a diverse range of experiences and cuisines in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. To learn more, read the original article on Daily Meal.

Looking for some fun ways to enjoy your bottle of wine? Look no further! Wine isn’t just for sipping alongside a meal or charcuterie board – it can also be mixed into a variety of festive cocktails. Just like gin and tequila, wine can seamlessly blend with other ingredients to create delicious and refreshing drinks.

One popular wine cocktail is the spritz, which typically combines digestive bitters, soda water, and sparkling wine. It’s a light and bubbly drink that’s perfect for parties. Another beloved wine cocktail is sangria, which mixes wine (red, white, or rosé) with various fruits and fruit juices. It’s a fruity and refreshing choice.

The great thing about wine cocktails is that they’re often less expensive to make than cocktails with hard alcohol. They also usually have a lower alcohol content, making them a great choice for those looking to cut back on their alcohol consumption.

Want to try some wine cocktails for your next party? Here are a few recipes to get you started:

1. Fred Hardy Rosé Cocktail: Combine Rosé wine, lemonade, and berries for a perfectly balanced and refreshing drink.

2. Sparkling Red Wine Cocktail: Don’t think red wine can be mixed into a cocktail? Think again! Mix sparkling red wine with sweet vermouth, club soda, and fresh peach slices for a fruity and effervescent drink.

3. Limoncello Spritz: If you enjoy the taste of Limoncello but find it a bit too strong, try this spritz. Mix Limoncello with dry sparkling wine, club soda, and fresh lemon juice for a milder version of the classic drink.

4. Dirty Aperol Spritz: Take your Aperol spritz to the next level with a hit of olive brine. Combine Aperol, dry sparkling wine, club soda, and olive brine for a punchy and flavorful cocktail.

5. Mango Triple Sec Spritz: Planning a brunch party? This fizzy drink is a must-have. Combine mango juice, Triple Sec, dry sparkling wine, and club soda for a fruity and bubbly drink.

6. Elderflower Spritz: Looking for an easy-drinking cocktail? Try this spritz. Combine elderflower liqueur, dry sparkling wine, and club soda for a refreshing and crisp drink.

7. Strawberry Lillet Spritz: This summery cocktail features Lillet, a French wine fortified with citrus liqueurs. Mix it with dry sparkling rosé, club soda, and fresh strawberries for a delightful drink.

8. Prosecco Negroni: Give your Negroni a twist by using prosecco instead of gin. This fizzy version is lighter and less heavy on the alcohol, perfect for a refreshing summer sip.

9. Frosé: It’s hard to resist a glass of frosé during the summer. Combine rosé, grenadine, vodka, strawberries, and sugar for a refreshing and pink cocktail.

So go ahead and get creative with your bottle of wine. These wine cocktails are sure to impress your guests and bring some extra fun to your next gathering. Cheers!

sparkle. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to enjoy a refreshing drink with friends.

The key ingredient in this cocktail is Chambord, a raspberry liqueur that adds a delicious burst of flavor. Combined with Champagne or sparkling white wine, it creates a pink drink that is both visually stunning and deliciously fruity. The best part? You probably already have these ingredients at home, making this cocktail incredibly easy to whip up.

If you’re a fan of Amaretto sours, you’ll love the twist on this classic cocktail. The addition of prosecco gives the drink a fizzy, bubbly quality that balances out the sweetness. With Amaretto liqueur, simple syrup, and lemon juice, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests.

Sangria is always a hit at parties, and the beauty of it is that you can make it with whatever wine and fruit you have on hand. For a white wine sangria, combine white wine, club soda, and grape juice, along with fruits like nectarines, tangerines, and green grapes. It’s a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for any occasion.

If you prefer red wine sangria, opt for heartier fruits like blackberries, oranges, blueberries, and strawberries. The addition of brandy gives it a warm and flavorful touch that is perfect for colder months.

For a classy start to a dinner party, try a twist on the French 75. Combining sparkling wine, lemon juice, and cognac, this cocktail is both sophisticated and delightful. Infused with licorice-scented tarragon, it adds an herbal depth of flavor that will impress your guests.

Fall parties and Halloween shindigs call for a fizzy prosecco-based drink with ginger and thyme. The flavors of the season come alive in this cocktail, and garnishing each glass with a perfectly cut grapefruit wedge adds an extra touch of elegance.

When you’re in a hurry but still want a delicious cocktail, sparkling lemonade is the secret ingredient to turn to. It takes care of the soda water, sweetener, and citrusy element all in one go. Combine it with red wine or pomegranate juice for a tasty and easy-to-make party drink.

For a cocktail that combines multiple flavors, try a libation with pomegranate juice, vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of Champagne. Add Chambord or St. Germain, depending on your personal preference. It’s a complex and delightful drink that will satisfy any palate.

Combining apple cider and sangria may sound intense, but trust us, it works. This drink is perfect for making ahead of time if you’re hosting a gathering. With apple and pear slices, apple brandy, white wine, and apple cider, it captures the essence of autumn in a glass.

A Caribbean-inspired punch is the perfect way to kick off a festive meal. With sweet pineapple juice, zesty lime juice, dark rum, Campari, and prosecco, it’s a flavorful and bubbly concoction that will transport you to the tropics.

Mulled wine is a winter holiday classic, and achieving the perfect balance of flavors is key. This recipe calls for black peppercorns and fresh ginger, which add a spicy kick to prevent the drink from being too sweet. It’s a cozy and soothing beverage that will warm you up during those cold winter nights.

Finally, a passion fruit cocktail that is perfect all year round. Just combine rum with raspberry and passion fruit puree, Triple Sec, simple syrup, and sparkling wine for a sweet and tangy delight that is sure to impress.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to try something new, these two-ingredient cocktails are a great way to elevate your at-home bartending skills. With just a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can create delicious and impressive drinks that will have your guests asking for more. So why not give them a try? Cheers!

Refreshing Autumnal Alternative: Try Fizz to the Drink

Are you tired of the same old mimosas and peach bellinis at your brunch spread? Ready to switch things up and try something more delicious and seasonal? We have the perfect solution for you – a refreshing autumnal alternative that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

This simple recipe calls for a combination of your favorite sparkling wine, whether it is Champagne or prosecco, and a generous amount of apple cider. The blend of these two flavors creates a harmonious and delightful taste that is perfect for any occasion.

To enhance the visual appeal of your drink, we recommend garnishing it with a thin apple slice or a fragrant sprig of fresh rosemary. Not only will it add a pop of color, but it will also infuse a subtle hint of complementary flavors to your beverage. It’s the little details that make all the difference in creating a memorable drinking experience.

If you’re looking for a refreshing and unique twist on your usual brunch cocktails, Fizz to the Drink is the recipe for you. This delightful concoction will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your gatherings while still being incredibly easy to make. Perfect for both intimate gatherings or larger parties, this drink is bound to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.

So, next time you find yourself craving a refreshing drink, reach for Fizz to the Drink. It’s a delightful autumnal alternative that will elevate your brunch experience and leave you wanting more. Sip, savor, and enjoy the crisp flavors of sparkling wine and apple cider combined. Cheers to trying new things and discovering delightful flavor combinations!