Heidi and Remi Barrett, the mother-daughter team behind La Sirena Wines, share their passion for music, gardening, the art of fine winemaking, and our Meals on Wheels mission. Remi has been involved with the Star Chefs & Vintners Gala serving on the Gala wine committee for the past 8 years as well as Meals on Wheels Women and Wine events. We recently caught up with them to see what they’ve been up to during shelter-in-place (SIP).
MOWSF: What is your distraction therapy during SIP?
Remi: One of the best activities I’ve been doing is writing new songs for my synth-pop band Vice Reine. We haven’t been performing virtually so far but might do so soon. Right now, we have chosen to focus on creating new material we can play at our live shows when we can be together in person again. Getting to play and attend shows at clubs, bars and venues are definitely what I am most looking forward to. I miss my favorites –DNA Lounge, Rickshaw Stop, Bottom of the Hill, and Neck of the Woods so much!
Heidi: I’ve been gardening up a storm, adding more raised beds and planting dozens of different vegetable starters to enjoy this summer. My flowers are blooming like crazy and it definitely cheers me up to see so much color and life around. I already love to garden, and I think it’s a really great time to work toward being more self-sufficient. The idea of a “Victory Garden” is something that has always spoken to me and it resonates now more than ever. It’s a morale booster and a great way to feel empowered with what you have, rather than dwelling on all the things we can’t have right now. MOWSF: What’s your favorite SIP comfort food?
Remi: My favorite SIP comfort food has been this cheesy-tomato-bean skillet recipe from RealSimple – it is SO YUMMY, comforting, and good with almost any kind of wine. It’s quick and easy to make with very basic ingredients. It kind of feels like rustic cowboy food in the best way. We’ve made it 3-4 times since March 17 and it’s still one of my faves. My husband and I squabble over who gets to eat the leftovers for lunch the next day. Of course, I always recommend a good wine to go with any meal!
Heidi: I made a huge cauldron of pumpkin soup that was a hit. The ravioli from Genova Deli in Napa is also very comforting.
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