Set the Scene with Thoughtful Spring Decor
Spring decor is all about embracing the newness of the season, but when choosing your flowers, opt for those that add visual beauty without an overwhelming aroma. Consider blooms that are less fragrant, such as tulips or hydrangeas – or cut branches from a blossoming fruit tree for an organic tablescape.

Plan a Garden-Inspired Make-Ahead Menu
Embrace the season’s bounty with a menu featuring fresh produce. Dishes like a vibrant spring salad (toss with dressing just before serving) and a quiche filled with seasonal vegetables such as asparagus and leek can anchor your spread. Our artisan vegan cheese partner, Nova Terra, has shared their irresistible vegan lemon ricotta pancake recipe with us. (You can make the pancakes within an hour of your guests’ arrival and keep them warm in a 200°F oven.)

Add Sparkle
No spring brunch is complete without sparkle. Set up a self-serve bar with 3-4 different Domaine Carneros sparkling wines, a variety of juices for mimosas, and fresh fruit garnishes. Prepare a pitcher of our lavender lemonade ahead of time and provide instructions on how your guests can easily whip up their own Lavender Lemon Sparkler.

Include a Personal Touch
Personalized touches can make your guests feel extra special. Consider place cards, custom decorations, or even a small parting gift like a decorated champagne flute

Embrace Imperfection
Remember, the goal of the brunch is to enjoy the company of your guests. Don’t fret over every little detail — and feel free to purchase prepared dishes from your favorite bakery or grocer to limit your time in the kitchen. Relax and be in the moment. What your guests care most about is the time they get to spend with you. Cheers!

This floral refresher is a sunny sip of springtime! Making a pitcher of lavender lemonade in advance keeps your libation creation to a minimum — and you can easily adapt your cocktail to a mocktail by omitting the alcohol and adding a splash of soda water or tonic.

Yields mix for approximately 12 cocktails

Ingredients for Lavender Lemonade

• 1 cup lavender syrup (recipe below)
• 1 1/2 cups lemon juice, freshly squeezed (6-8 lemons)
• 4 cups cold water
• Lemon slices and lavender spigs for garnish

Lavender Syrup

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/4 cup dried lavender flowers

Cocktail

• your choice bottle of Domaine Carneros sparkling wine
• craft gin (1 ounce per drink)

Instructions

Make the lavender syrup:

1) Combine the water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2) Reduce the heat, add the dried lavender flowers, and simmer for 1 minute.
3) Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes.
4) Strain the syrup to remove the lavender flowers and allow mixture to cool for 30 minutes.
Note: Syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Prepare the Lemonade:

1) In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice with 1 cup of the lavender syrup.
2) Add the cold water and stir to combine.
3) Taste and adjust sweetness with more syrup as desired.
4) Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator before serving.

To Serve:

1) Into a mixing glass or shaker filled with ice, pour 1/2 c of chilled lavender lemonade and 1 ounce of craft gin (per single drink serving).
2) Shake well and strain into a 7.5 oz coupe glass.
3) Top with a generous pour of your favorite Domaine Carneros sparkling wine. We're partial to the crisp Ultra Brut.