Pair Your Wine with the Perfect Scented Candle

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October marks the real beginning of fall in Virginia. The leaves start changing in earnest, and we get (a few) cooler days and evenings creep in earlier and earlier. October is also Virginia Wine Month! For us, celebrating Virginia Wine Month has meant a day-trip to a few Charlottesville area vineyards, local wine tasting events, and making an effort to buy Virginia wines to pair with our nightly meals. It’s been a lot of fun learning more about Virginia wines, and a few may have even found their way into our top ten favorite wines!

Along with celebrating Virginia Wine Month this fall, we have really been having fun connecting with our new home and support local businesses and creators. We recently connected with Kena and Reggie, founders of Hill and River Collection, and instantly fell in love with their candles’ wondrous scents and sophisticated packaging. Hill and River Collection was created out of a love of candles and the frustration of finding that too many candle companies have flashy packaging but no room-filling scent. After receiving a beautiful, yet dully scented candle for their first wedding anniversary, Kena and Reggie took matters into their own hands and created Hill and River Collection (H+R). 

At the heart of each H+R candle are four core elements: the wax, the wick, the vessel, and, of course, the scent. H+R candles are made with a soy blend wax to ensure maximum scent throw (candle term to describe how well the candle’s fragrance circulates throughout a room). One thing we really think makes these candles unique is their wood wicks. This detail really makes lighting each candle special, and the soft sound of crackling wood almost makes us forget the lack of a fireplace in our apartment! Each candle is housed in a warm amber-colored glass, which creates a warm glow every time they are lit. And, of course, each scent has been carefully crafted to have layers that unfold while lit, creating a more complete and enjoyable candle experience.

When connecting with Kena from H+R, we found we all shared an equal love of wine and candles and thought how much fun it would be to pair candles to wine, like you would with food! The more we thought about it, the more this actually makes sense. Like food, a candle’s scent will alter how you experience the wine you are drinking (and vice versa). Some fragrances will enhance your wine drinking experience, while some will clash. 

Below is our guide to pairing wine with your favorite candle scents. Try it out yourselves!

xxx Ivy & Eve

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Wine: Peppery and herbaceous red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, and Cabernet Franc.

Scent: Woodsy scents with notes of leather and tobacco. 

We paired the Pollack Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2018 with the H+R Virginia Is For Lovers candle. This Cab Franc’s notes of fresh cracked pepper, dark fruit, and pomegranate, ending with a hint of velvety cocoa mingles perfectly with the aromas of cedar and barn wood with hints of peppercorn, sandalwood, and tobacco from the Virginia Is For Lovers candle.

Tip: If you’re feeling a lighter wine, try an earthy Pinot Noir. Feeling even lighter? Try a Sauvignon Blanc!

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Wine: Full/Medium-bodied red wines like Syrah, Merlot, and Meritage blends with notes of baking spices and vanilla. 

Scent: Pumpkin spice and freshly carved pumpkin, with a hint of sweetness.

We paired the Veritas Winery Vintners Reserve 2016 with the H+R Appalachian Autumn candle. This Virginia Meritage blend has notes of black cherry, baking spices, and toasted vanilla, with a hint of tobacco, which works perfectly with the scent of warm pumpkin, warming spices, and a touch of buttercream from the Appalachian Autumn candle.

Tip: Feeling something white? A Pinot Gris (aka Pinot Grigio) can stand up to pumpkin spices. Or maybe something sweet? We’d recommend a Vintage Port.

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Wine: Full-bodied white wines like Chardonnay and Viognier.

Scent: Lemon, caramel, vanilla with a hint of creaminess.

We paired the Barboursville Vineyards Viognier Reserve 2018 with H+R Lemon Cookies on Main candle. Viognier is a white wine varietal that grows fantastically in Virginia. Its complex notes of citrus, tropical fruits, honeysuckle, and minerals work well with citrusy and creamy foods, so it is an easy match for the scent of lemon, sandalwood, and vanilla with hints of caramel and cream from the Lemon Cookies on Main candle. 

Tip: If you’re feeling something a bit sweeter, try a Sauternes or late harvest Riesling.

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Wine: White wines with pronounced notes of tropical fruits, citrus, and minerality.

Scent: Tropical fruits, citrus, and exotic florals.

We paired the Early Mountain Vineyards Petit Manseng 2018 with H+R Reid’s Vacation candle. Outside France, Virginia is the only place on earth that makes notable Petit Manseng. This Petit Manseng, in particular, has notes of tropical fruit, minerality, and a hint of salinity. So, basically, a vacation in a bottle. This wine pairs perfectly with the notes of grapefruit and green mango with hints of melon and jasmine from the Reid’s Vacation candle. We love how H+R describes this candle: “REID’S VACATION is just that... a vacation. When you need to get away for a few, light this candle, and imagine you are exactly where you are destined to be.”

This candle is extra special because it’s only available during October, Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month. This month, we take time to honor and remember those who have lost a child during pregnancy or lost a child in infancy. 

Tip: This would also go great with a festive White Sangria!

What are some of your favorite wine and candle pairings? Let us know in the comments!

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What’s Your Wine Sign?

Both of us have always been dreamers and planners. We can spend hours imagining what our futures may look like and how we can shape it into reality. We are always looking for signs that point us toward our futures and help us better understand ourselves, whether through prayer, careful planning, or looking toward the stars in some instances.

Our affinity for astrology definitely came from our Grammy G. When we were younger, we would get a phone call (or even a faxed newspaper clipping with a note) from her, highlighting our horoscopes on our birthdays or on days she thought our ‘scope seemed especially significant or interesting. Now that she isn’t with us, we both still read our horoscopes to get a glimpse into what could be in store for us. Our favorite astrologists are Ophira and Tali Edut, another sister (identical twins) duo, whose site, Astrostyle, we both consult regularly. We also have to mention one of our favorite books, The Fate of Your Date. Eve picked this book up back in high school, and we would be lying if we said we didn’t look up the sign of each guy before our first dates! We also attribute part of our wine-loving genes to Grammy G, who regarded any glass filled with anything other than Champagne as a glass wasted. Spoiler alert: She was a Taurus. ;)

Combining our love and semi-expertise in both Wine and Astrology, we have perfectly paired each zodiac personality with a wine to match! Enjoy!

xxx Ivy & Eve


Star Sign: Aries - March 21 - April 19

Ruled by Mars, the planet and god of war. You are full of fiery energy and drive. Full of that fighting spirit, you are competitive and can sometimes be a bit impatient. You are always turning heads with your energetic flair. Being the “Firstborn” of the zodiac, you are a natural-born leader.

Wine Sign: Picpoul

Picpoul translates to “sting the lip,” which is why we paired this zippy white with you, Aries. This straightforward, tart, and refreshing wine pairs with your fiery spirit and just as well with spicy foods!


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Star Sign: Taurus - April 20 - May 20 (Ivy’s and our Grammy G’s sign)

Ruled by Venus, the planet and god of love and beauty. Focused on stimulating all five senses, you look for beauty, luxury, and positive experiences in everything you do. You are also very stubborn and like to do things on your time. You’ve got only two speeds: relaxation or full speed ahead. Your friends enjoy your loyalty and dependability as well the luxe lifestyle you bring them!

Wine Sign: Champagne

The sound of a cork popping, the sight of light reflecting its golden hue, the smell of buttered toast, crisp apples, honey, the feel of bubbles dancing on the tongue, the taste of pure gold. Taurus’ and champagne go together like no other. You both exude sheer luxury. Like yourself, champagne pairs equally well with fancy caviar and comforting fried chicken. And your stubborn side ultimately comes out when someone offers you “champagne,” and you’re poured cava. It’s the real stuff or nothing!


Star Sign: Gemini - May 21 - June 20

Ruled by Mercury, the planet and god of communication. Your mind and mouth are always busy, little Gemini! You are curious and always the first of our friends to share your thoughts on the newest trend...or even start them! You are always continually 100mph and a magpie for information. You know a little bit about many things which makes it easy for you to find something in common with everyone and also makes you a bit of a gossip. On the flip side, you are gentle, youthful, adaptable, and friendly. You define: double the trouble, double the fun!

Wine Sign: Rosé

You, Gemini, and rosé are twinning in your love for social gatherings and fun! Both are in their element at happy hour, dinner parties, and never-ending poolside soirees. Rosé is adaptable and can be made from practically any red grape varietal and in any style, so it’s hard for someone to not like, much like you!


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Star Sign: Cancer - June 21 - July 22

Ruled by the Moon with its ever-changing phases, making you sensitive and sometimes overly self-protective. You are nurturing and intuitive, reading the people around you, and sensing their needs often before they do. You are also moody and can come off as being a bit cold, which is your way of protecting yourself from harm. You love comfort and enjoy domestic pleasures like home-cooked meals and cozy fires.

Wine Sign: Merlot

Merlot pairs perfectly with Cancer’s ideal night in, surrounded by their loved ones, enjoying a comforting bowl of beef bourguignon and the fire crackling. Merlot’s aromas of dark plum, cocoa, and smooth tannins are as comforting to you as you are to others, making you a perfect match.


Star Sign: Leo - July 23 - August 22

Ruled by the Sun, you Leo, live to be the center of attention. The world literally revolves around your ruling planet. Loving all that is dramatic, you know how to put on a show. You are a natural-born leader and have a huge heart. Many don’t know, but you are the most generous sign (when you want to be). You’ve got colossal energy and an appetite for life to match. Somebody’s gotta rule. It might as well be you!

Wine Sign: Cabernet Sauvignon

Larger than life Cabernet Sauvignon is a true match for you, Leo. Known as the King of Grapes, you two are assertive and full of personality. Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold, rich flavors and high tannins are a match for your equally bold and dramatic flair. Cab is best paired with food, though, as by itself (not unlike you on your most dramatic days) can be a bit overwhelming.


Star Sign: Virgo - August 23 - September 22

Ruled by Mercury, the planet and god of the mind and communication. You, Virgo, are a dedicated analyzer. Kindhearted and innocent, but also complex. You don’t miss a detail. Known as the “Helper” of the zodiac, you’re always there to lend a hand to a friend. As an earth sign, you are most at home near nature and love spending time outdoors. Even though you love to help others, you have a hard time opening up and sharing your own hopes, dreams, problems, and secrets.

Wine Sign: Pinot Noir

Your perfect match, earth-loving Virgo, is the silky smooth, savory Pinot Noir. Like you, Pinot is a bit of a puzzle to grow and vint. Let Pinot’s aromas of rose petals, soil, and mushroom transport you to our favorite outdoor haven, even if you’re stuck indoors.


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Star Sign: Libra - September 23 - October 22

Ruled by Venus, the planet and god of beauty and love. Gentle Libra, you exemplify smooth talk, pretty face. Like Taurus, you are a lover of art, culture, and all things beautiful. You enjoy social gatherings, preferably involving good food, and have expensive taste. It’s not your fault; it is in the stars! You may have a sweeter than sweet personality, but man, you are a fighter! You stand up for justice in your cause, and you hate to be rushed. Things need to happen in your own time. You, little social butterfly, need to remember to focus on “me-time” sometimes, or you can get worn out.

Wine Sign: Chardonnay

You and Chardonnay are like two peas in a pod. Like an oaked chardonnay, you are smooth, gentle, and cannot be rushed. Equally, you have a side like the more crisp and zippy Chard, aged in stainless steel barrels. Whichever Chard you choose to pair, both go well with good food, social gatherings, and of course, expensive taste!


Star Sign: Scorpio October 23 - November 21 (Eve’s sign)

Ruled by Pluto, the planet and god of power and control and the underworld. You are a powerhouse and a mystery to most. You have an incredible memory and file your knowledge to use (for good or evil) later. Although you can be drawn to “dark things,” you are the most misunderstood sign of the zodiac. You, little Scorpio, are a potent presence in any room, even before you speak a word. Also sensitive, you pick up on other’s vibes and can read others like an open book. While you read others easily, you keep yourself shut under lock and key to others most of the time. Fiercely loyal to your chosen few but others better watch out if they betray you! No one holds a grudge like a Scorpio. You are also creative and bring a passion equaled by no one else to anything you deem worthy of your time and attention.

Wine Sign: Petite Sirah

Scorpio’s dark and mysterious nature is perfectly matched with Petite Sirah. So dark that it is almost opaque and has sensuous notes of blueberries, chocolate, and black pepper. With only 10,000 acres of Petite Sirah grown worldwide, it shares your air of mystery. You, Scorp, will also find sisterhood in that this misunderstood wine is often mistaken for another wine, Syrah. Sit back and sip, knowing you both are unique and unlike any other!


Star Sign: Sagittarius - November 22 - December 21

Ruled by Jupiter, the “happy” planet, you are full of energy and confidence. Known as the “Traveler” of the zodiac, you are free-spirited, optimistic, ambitious. Always juggling a million projects, you seek wisdom and truth. You tell it as it is, but sometimes this bluntness can rub others the wrong way. You enjoy the thrill of starting something new, even if you have no intention of completion. For you, life is truly an adventure!

Wine Sign: Sauvignon Blanc

Bright, energetic, and free-spirited matches both your personality, Sagittarius, and Sauvignon Blanc! Also, a world traveler, Sauv Blanc’s can be found worldwide, and each has its own distinct personalities.


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Star Sign: Capricorn - December 22 - January 19

Ruled by Saturn, the planet of tough lessons and wisdom. Known as the “Old Souls” of the zodiac, you are a lover of rules, traditions, and history. You live life knowing nothing in life is worth having without a struggle, making you ambitious, cautious, and patient. You are incredibly trustworthy and great comfort for others as you stay strong through tough times.

Wine Sign: Nebbiolo

The ancient Nebbiolo is a perfect match for you, Capricorn! Difficult to grow and late to ripen, Nebbiolo shares your view that great things take time and don’t come without a struggle!


Star Sign: Aquarius - January 20 - February 18

Ruled by Uranus, the planet that spins on its side! You, Aquarius, love doing things your own way and forge your own path through life. Originality, authenticity, eccentricity is your most cherished traits. You are also a people-lover. You’re the life of the party and an instant friend to others. You are also hardworking and secretly competitive. See it, want it, get it, go!

Wine Sign: Vinho Verde

Portuguese blend Vinho Verde is slightly fizzy, mostly dry, full of citrus flavors, and the perfect pairing for you, Aquarius! Vinho Verde is unique just like you, and its lemonade like drinkability is ideal for serving at your pool parties.


Star Sign: Pisces - February 19 - March 20

Ruled by Neptune, the planet of fantasy, your favorite hide-out Pisces, is your own imagination. You are the “Dreamer” of the zodiac. You are creatively focused, love dancing, movies, and music. You can also be mysterious and intense at times from all that time wandering in your own head. Extremely compassionate and healing to friends, you are fun-loving, loves parties and group events. Also known as the “Tortured Soul” of the zodiac, you can sometimes get overwhelmed and feel a bit helpless. You have a tendency towards guilty feelings. You are a true romantic and would love nothing more than to cozy up with your loved one and imagine the endless possibilities of life. 

Wine Sign: Viognier

Viognier and Pisces are perfectly matched with their similar creative, fun-loving, and people-pleasing personalities. You Pisces will swoon over viognier’s dreamy notes of peach, honeysuckle, and just a hit of vanilla. Viognier may be less known than other white wines, but you, Pisces, know a bit of mystery is always fun!