Mini Review - Sade Baron

If you are like me and your skin is always dry this is the brand for you. Sade Baron has truly changed by skin drastically over the last couple of months. This Toronto based Vegan Beauty Company is going back to basics (but with a twist) creating a vegan product that is of the highest quality, innovative, and uses nutrients from superfoods as ingredients. Being handcrafted in small batches in-house helps ensure the integrity of their product from start to finish. All products are also made without Silicones, Mineral Oil, Palm Oil, Petrochemicals, Parabens, Polyethylene, Sulfates, GMO's, DEA/TEA, Phthalates, Drying Alcohol, Synthetic Dyes/Fragrances, and Animal by Products. BONUS! I honestly know what "clean, clean" feels like! Be sure to visit their website, HERE, and sign up for their emails. Not only will you get 10% off your first purchase for doing so, you will also  stay up to date with current and upcoming Specials and Events.

 I had the pleasure of trying out 3 of their products, the Body Cream in Lemongrass, the French Pink Clay Soap, and the Coffee Scrub, check out my Mini Reviews below:

Body Cream Lemongrass ($9): This was my go to post sun cream all summer long. It was so thick and creamy, leaving my skin feeling uber moisturized but not greasy. Ideal for after the shower, however my secret was lathering it on and putting on socks or pants, whatever part of your body you are applying it to, and letting it soak into your skin over night. Talk about total hydration! I can't wait to use this in the upcoming Winter months!

French Pink Clay Soap ($12): I am not usually a soap girl, but this one... let me tell you. This literally left my skin feeling like I had just used a body wash. With the help of Ylang Ylang this plant based bar also helps with anti-ageing and skin irritation, which didn't make me think twice if I needed to use it on my face. Last point, the scent... Hallelujah!

Coffee Scrub ($12): The scrub is by far my favourite product of the bunch. To have a product like this in your shower at all times is a must. I have been using this 2-3 times a week, as it is that gentle on the skin but provides subtle exfoliation leaving your skin smooth and clean. I'm not lying when I say you will be replacing your go to exfoliator with the Coffee Scrub.

The Weekend WINEdown - Bubbly!

With my birthday month and the taste of bubbly on my tongue a distant memory, it is time to find another reason to POP! open a bottle of Bubby. Over the past 3-4 years I have gotten more and more into Bubbly, and how there doesn't need to be a reason to enjoy a glass or two! So quick tip for all of you that don't know, Champagne is the common name thrown around when ordering or drinking any sparkling beverage, however it can only be technically called Champagne if it comes from the Champagne Region of France. Countries around the word try to mimic/make their own version of the delicious luxury beverage and therefore have their own proper names; in Italy: Prosecco, Canada: Sparkling Wine, and Spain: Cava. With Toronto about to experience a Summer-like weekend, now is the perfect time to hit up your local liquor store and check out their bubby selection. There is nothing better than a cold glass of bubby on a hot September's day! Now, imagine yourself sitting on your balcony or patio over this Indian Summer weekend sipping on a cold glass of bubbly, doesn't that just sound amazing! Be sure to check out some options and reviews below!

Konzelmann Méthode Cuve Close Riesling 🍷🍷 ($17.95): This Niagara-on-the-Lake Sparkling Riesling is light in colour with notes of minerals, citrus, and floral aromas gives this wine an even balance of acidity and sweetness. Personally, I found the floral over powering, which made me not overly enjoying it.

Key Pairings: Shellfish | Chocolate Strawberries | Smoked Salmon

Naverán Brut Cava 🍷🍷🍷 ($23): Overall an average Cava, easy to drink and a great taste. Sunshine yellow in colour with earthy aromatics and hints of grapefruit, orange peel, nutmeg, and licorice. The interesting part of production is the use of blown out candles that gives it its toasty/nutty flavours. 

Key Pairings: Charcuterie | Canapés

Le Monde Pinot Nero Rosé 🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷 ($18): This was by far my favourite of the bunch.  This salmon coloured brut produces both sweet and tart aromas of wild cherries, cranberries, roses, and soft bay leaves. I will be buying more of this, thank you Wine Collective for introducing me to this amazing Prosecco Brut!

Key Pairings: Sea Food Appitizers | Aperitif | Cold Cuts

Varicho & Clerc Privillège Blanc de Blancs 🍷🍷🍷 ($23): Another tasty yet ordinary Sparkling Wine, this time from south-east France. This light yellow wine on the noise smells of apples, pears, and plums with a hint of lemon and broiche toast. I'm happy I have another bottle to enjoy,  however probably wouldn't go through the hassle of ordering more.

Key Pairings: Soft Cheeses

Château des Charmes Brut Sparkling 🍷 ($14.95): This Brut makes me so sad because I LOVE Château des Charmes! I wanted to think there was something wrong with my bottle, but unfortunately not. On the noise and tongue hints of lemon, lime, and toasted bread, however all I tasted was vinegar and citrus on my palette. It was way too overpowering. I tried it again at a Wine Event and same overpowering taste. So sad so true...

Key Pairings: Popcorn | Canapés | Brie