For wine lovers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates history in a glass, September 2026 promises to deliver one of the most exciting wine events in decades.
Luxury lifestyle publication VENÜ Magazine will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the legendary “Judgment of Paris” with an extraordinary blind tasting that revisits one of the most pivotal moments in the history of wine.
On September 8, 2026, Napa Valley will once again become the center of the wine world as AMERICA vs. FRANCE recreates the iconic 1976 competition that forever changed the global wine industry.
The Tasting That Changed Wine Forever
In 1976, an unsuspecting blind tasting in Paris shocked the international wine community. Judged entirely by a distinguished panel of French experts, California wines unexpectedly defeated some of France’s most celebrated Bordeaux and Burgundy producers.
The results forever altered perceptions of American winemaking, establishing Napa Valley as one of the world’s premier wine-producing regions and launching California wines onto the international stage.
Five decades later, VENÜ Magazine is bringing history back to life.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Anniversary Event
The anniversary tasting will feature wines from many of the same producers represented in the original competition, while also showcasing today’s finest Chardonnays and Burgundies alongside exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeauxs.
The wines have been carefully selected by longtime wine writer Monty Preiser and renowned Master Sommelier Virginia Phillip, who will also oversee the tasting.
The event promises to offer a fascinating look at how both American and French wines have evolved over the past fifty years while paying tribute to one of the industry’s defining moments.
An All-Star Panel of Wine Experts
The judging panel is a remarkable gathering of some of the most respected names in the wine world, including:
- Sally Johnson Blum, acclaimed consulting winemaker whose career includes Robert Mondavi, Pride Mountain and multiple 100-point wines.
- Jean-Charles Boisset, internationally recognised winery owner with prestigious estates in both France and the United States.
- Ken Frank, award-winning chef and owner of Napa’s celebrated La Toque restaurant.
- Jeff Morgan, former Wine Spectator editor, educator and founder of Covenant Winery.
- Sara Preiser, veteran wine journalist and co-founder of the American Fine Wine Invitational.
- Shelly Rafanelli-Fehlman, owner and winemaker of Sonoma’s legendary A. Rafanelli Winery.
- Chris Sawyer, internationally respected sommelier, educator and wine judge.
- Deborah Parker Wong, noted wine journalist, educator and editor of The Somm Journal and Slow Wine Guide USA.
Together, this distinguished panel brings decades of expertise in viticulture, winemaking, journalism and hospitality to one unforgettable tasting.
A Fitting Napa Setting
The blind judging will take place at the renowned La Toque restaurant in Napa, one of California’s premier culinary destinations.
Following the competition, guests will gather at Feast it Forward for an exclusive “Reveal Dinner,” where the identities of the wines and the official results will finally be unveiled—a dramatic conclusion worthy of the original Judgment of Paris.
Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence
This commemorative event is made possible through the support of Wine Country this Month Magazine, Randall Scarlett and the Scarlett Law Group, Marybeth Ramey and Richard Hailey of Ramey and Hailey Law Firm, Fred Bollaci Enterprises, Katie Hamilton Shaffer’s Rotation, and Feast it Forward.
Why This Matters
Few moments have reshaped an industry the way the 1976 Judgment of Paris transformed the world of wine. It challenged centuries of convention, elevated California to global prominence, and proved that extraordinary wines can come from anywhere passion, craftsmanship and terroir intersect.
As VENÜ Magazine celebrates this landmark anniversary, the 2026 recreation is more than just a tasting—it is a tribute to innovation, excellence and the enduring spirit of competition that continues to inspire winemakers around the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, an aspiring sommelier, or simply someone who enjoys discovering exceptional wines, AMERICA vs. FRANCE promises to be one of the year’s most memorable wine events and a fitting celebration of one of the greatest stories ever told in the world of wine.
Cheers to the next chapter of this legendary rivalry.
If you’ve followed NS Lifestyles for any length of time, you know I love discovering innovative products that truly make life easier—especially when they’re backed by a name I trust.
That’s why I’m so excited to introduce Hint, the brand-new AI-powered home management platform co-founded by Martha Stewart. If you’re a homeowner (or planning to become one), this may be one of the smartest apps you’ll add to your phone this year.
Imagine Having Martha Stewart as Your Personal Home Advisor
For decades, Martha Stewart has been the go-to authority for creating beautiful homes, entertaining effortlessly, and maintaining every detail of a well-run household.
Now she’s bringing that expertise into the digital age.
Hint combines artificial intelligence with decades of real-world home expertise to help homeowners stay organized, prevent expensive repairs, and better understand one of their biggest investments—their home.
What Makes Hint So Exciting?
Instead of trying to remember dozens of maintenance tasks throughout the year, Hint helps you stay one step ahead.
Some of the features include:
✨ Personalized maintenance reminders
🏡 Instant insights about your specific home
🔍 Information based on your property’s location, climate, flood risk, and more
🛠️ Early warnings that can help prevent costly repairs
📱 An easy-to-use dashboard that keeps everything in one place
It’s like having a trusted home expert available whenever you need one.
Why I’m Joining the Waitlist
As someone who loves discovering innovative lifestyle products before they become mainstream, I signed up immediately.
Whether you own your forever home, recently purchased a property, or simply want to protect your investment, Hint looks like an incredibly valuable tool that can save both time and money while taking the guesswork out of homeownership.
✨ Exclusive Access Through My Referral Link
I’d love for my NS Lifestyles readers to be among the very first to experience everything Hint has to offer.
Use my exclusive referral link below to join the waitlist:
👉 https://hinthome.com/waitlist/?step=complete&email=nicolesteinthal%40me.com
Once you join, you’ll receive priority updates as Hint prepares for launch, and you’ll also have the opportunity to earn referral rewards through the official Hint waitlist program. Eligible participants can qualify for special experiences, including a virtual launch event and other rewards described in Hint’s official promotion.
Why I Think This Will Be One of 2026’s Biggest Home Innovations
Artificial intelligence is changing nearly every aspect of our lives, and homeownership is no exception.
Instead of reacting after something breaks, Hint is designed to help homeowners stay proactive, organized, and informed—bringing together technology and Martha Stewart’s decades of trusted expertise in one intuitive platform.
I have a feeling this is going to become an essential app for homeowners everywhere.
Don’t Wait!
Thousands of homeowners have already joined the waitlist, and the app is launching this summer. If you’d like early access and want to be among the first to discover everything Martha Stewart and Hint have created, now is the perfect time to sign up.
✨ Click my exclusive referral link below and join me on the Hint waitlist today!
🔗 👉 https://hinthome.com/waitlist/?step=complete&email=nicolesteinthal%40me.com
For many high school seniors, receiving that college acceptance letter feels like crossing the finish line. But for thousands of young women headed to universities with Greek life, another significant challenge awaits—the sorority recruitment, or “Rush,” process.
Rush is exciting, but it can also be one of the most intimidating experiences of a student’s college journey. Multiple rounds of conversations, long days, first impressions, wardrobe decisions, etiquette, confidence, and navigating the emotional highs and lows can quickly become overwhelming. It’s a process that many students—and parents—find themselves completely unprepared for.
That’s where Trisha Addicks comes in.
One of the country’s leading sorority recruitment coaches, Trisha has helped countless young women approach Rush with confidence, authenticity, and a clear strategy. Rather than navigating the process alone, her clients receive expert guidance every step of the way—from preparing months before recruitment begins to walking into each round feeling confident and ready.
Trisha understands that Rush isn’t about becoming someone you’re not. It’s about presenting the very best version of yourself while finding the sorority that truly feels like home.
Through personalized coaching, Trisha helps students:
- Build confidence before recruitment begins.
- Understand every stage of the Rush process.
- Prepare for meaningful conversations and interviews.
- Navigate recruitment etiquette and expectations.
- Develop wardrobe strategies that are polished and authentic.
- Manage the stress and emotions that naturally come with recruitment.
- Find the chapter that is the best long-term fit—not simply receive a bid.
Her thoughtful, encouraging approach has made her one of the most respected names in sorority recruitment coaching. She has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal and the MAX documentary Bama Rush for her expertise.
The Rush Bible
For students and parents who want an insider’s guide before recruitment begins, Trisha’s new book, The Rush Bible: Secrets to Crush Sorority Recruitment and Find Your Forever Greek Home, is an invaluable resource.
Packed with practical advice, real-life insights, preparation tips, and encouragement, the book serves as a roadmap for one of the most important—and often misunderstood—parts of the college experience.
Learn more about Trisha’s coaching services at:
Purchase The Rush Bible here:
https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Rush-Bible/Trisha-Addicks/9781668217108
Meet Trisha at Her Upcoming Book Signing
If you live in the Fairfield County area, you’ll have the opportunity to meet Trisha in person during her upcoming book signing.
Tuesday, July 28
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Elm Street Books
New Canaan, Connecticut
Whether you’re a future college student, a parent preparing for the next chapter, or simply interested in learning more about the Rush experience, this is a wonderful opportunity to meet Trisha, hear her insights, and have your copy of The Rush Bible signed.
Getting into college is a tremendous accomplishment—but for many students, it’s only the beginning. Sorority recruitment can feel like an entirely new challenge, filled with uncertainty and pressure.
The good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone.
With Trisha Addicks by your side, you’ll gain the confidence, preparation, and expert guidance needed to approach Rush with less stress, more clarity, and the assurance that you’re putting your best foot forward every step of the way.
There are some partnerships that simply make sense—and this is one of them.
At NS Lifestyles, our mission has always been to celebrate the people, places, and organizations that make Westchester such an extraordinary place to live. Whether we’re introducing you to a talented local artist, highlighting an inspiring nonprofit, showcasing an unforgettable performance, or sharing the stories behind our vibrant communities, we believe that culture is what connects us.
That is why I am so thrilled to welcome ArtsWestchester as our newest NS Lifestyles partner.
For more than six decades, ArtsWestchester has been at the heart of our county’s creative community, championing artists, supporting cultural organizations, bringing arts education into schools, advocating for public art, and ensuring that creativity remains accessible to everyone. Their work goes far beyond galleries and performances—they invest in the future of our communities by making the arts an essential part of everyday life.
As someone who has spent years introducing my readers to local events, museums, theater, music, design, and remarkable creative talent, partnering with ArtsWestchester felt like a natural next step. Together, we share the belief that the arts have the power to inspire, educate, unite, and strengthen our communities.
Throughout our partnership, you’ll discover some of the incredible experiences ArtsWestchester brings to our region—from inspiring exhibitions and family-friendly programs to cultural events, performances, public art installations, and opportunities to support local artists. Whether you’re a lifelong arts enthusiast or simply looking for your next memorable outing, there will be something for everyone.
One of the things I admire most about ArtsWestchester is that they understand art isn’t reserved for a select few. It belongs to all of us. Their commitment to making the arts accessible, diverse, and inclusive helps ensure that every resident has the opportunity to experience the joy, creativity, and connection that art brings.
As someone who has always believed that the best communities are those that celebrate creativity, I couldn’t be more excited to help share their mission with the NS Lifestyles family.
I hope you’ll join me in discovering everything ArtsWestchester has to offer. Together, let’s celebrate the artists, performers, educators, and visionaries who continue to make Westchester one of New York’s most vibrant cultural destinations.
Welcome to the NS Lifestyles family, ArtsWestchester. We can’t wait to begin this exciting journey together.
There is nothing I love more than celebrating talented friends who bring beauty, creativity, and inspiration into the world. This week, I am thrilled to feature the lovely Judith Vitanza-Kattan and her enchanting new children’s book, Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures.
Born from a desire to honor her beloved father’s legacy, Judith has created a magical story that invites readers into a world filled with imagination, friendship, courage, and wonder. Through the adventures of Light and her loyal companion, Shadow, young readers learn valuable lessons about kindness, resilience, and embracing life’s unexpected journeys.
Author Judith Vitanza-Kattan with her debut children’s book, Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures. Inspired by family, love, and imagination, Judith’s heartfelt story encourages young readers to dream big, embrace kindness, and discover the magic in everyday adventures.
What makes this book especially meaningful is the heart behind every page. Judith’s passion for storytelling shines through as she shares timeless values that resonate with both children and adults alike. It’s the kind of book families will treasure, revisit, and pass down for generations.
Whether you’re shopping for a grandchild, niece, nephew, godchild, or simply looking for a thoughtful gift, Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures is a beautiful addition to any library.
Why We Love It
✨ Encourages imagination and creativity
✨ Celebrates friendship and kindness
✨ Teaches important life lessons through storytelling
✨ Makes a wonderful gift for children and families
✨ Written with love and inspired by family legacy
Congratulations to Judith on this incredible accomplishment. We are cheering you on and can’t wait to see where Light and Shadow’s adventures lead next!
Purchase the Book
Readers can purchase Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures HERE!!
Happy reading!
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, there’s no better time to add a touch of patriotic charm to your summer entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July barbecue, attending a festive gathering, or looking for the perfect hostess gift, The Hunt Slonem Hop-up Shop has created two beautiful, limited-run keepsakes that perfectly commemorate this historic milestone.
Even better, NS Lifestyles readers can enjoy 10% off with the exclusive promo code AMERICA250 at checkout.
Celebrate with the America250 Collection
Patriot Bunny Box
The adorable Patriot Bunny Box is a charming addition to any Fourth of July celebration. Fill it with festive treats, display it on your holiday table, or surprise your favorite hostess with a thoughtful gift they’ll treasure long after the fireworks have ended.
Shop the Patriot Bunny Box:
https://hopup.shop/products/patriot-bunny-box-1
America250 Patriot Bunny Tray
Perfect for serving cocktails, appetizers, desserts, or simply displaying as part of your holiday décor, the America250 Patriot Bunny Tray is a beautiful way to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial. It’s both functional and collectible—a piece you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Shop the America250 Patriot Bunny Tray:
https://hopup.shop/products/america-250-patriot-bunny-tray
Order Soon
These America250 pieces are limited-run, meaning only a small quantity has been produced. To guarantee delivery before the Fourth of July, be sure to place your order by Monday, June 29, 2026.
Exclusive NS Lifestyles Reader Offer
As a special thank you to our readers, enjoy 10% off your purchase using promo code:
AMERICA250
Celebrate this once-in-a-generation anniversary with timeless entertaining pieces from The Hunt Slonem Hop Up Shop, perfect for your own holiday celebrations or as memorable hostess gifts.
Happy Fourth of July!