best of 2010

The Best Of California Wine Country, 2010

by Michael B. Dougherty (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Wine

Don't call it a "gift guide" (although you can certainly use it as such). Instead, this is our wholly unscientific, criminally biased, fervently defended and lovingly curated paean to California's wine country. Despite all the doom-peddling and sky-falling tales that seemed to dominate this year's coverage of the industry, the Napa and Sonoma regions continue to startle and surprise, competing on equal footing with any of the world's traditional or au courant wine terroirs. Check out our celebration of the highlights, and then let us know what we missed in the comments.

Tags: best of 2010, california, napa, Quivira, robert mondavi, Sequoia Grove Vineyard, ShaferVineyards, wine

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The Luxist Top Ten Handbags of 2010

by Annie Scott (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Handbags, Holiday Guides

Valentino Crystal-Embellished Feather Clutch

2010 may have been a tough year in a lot of ways, but it was a terrific year for handbags. From divinely sparkling clutches to totes in unheard-of textures, designers were inventive, creative and finally took some risks again -- a sure sign of an improving economy. We're celebrating the return to flamboyance and daring style with a list of our top ten favorites from this year's outstanding Luxist Handbag of the Day collection.

1. Valentino Crystal-Embellished Feather Clutch

Let's begin with the ethereal, exquisite bag above, the Valentino Crystal-Embellished Feather Clutch. These little birdies outdid even the Judith Lieber Enchanted Stardust Clutch with their whimsical glamour, and the feathers are so elegantly and daintily assembled, the clutch eclipsed the ballerina charm of the Valentino Tulle Rosette Bag. We love the coloring; it's as if each perfect feather has been gingerly dipped in the blackest of ink. The pale pink satin structure and lining complete the dream-come-true wonder of this masterful handbag which commanded $4,170.00.

Tags: alexander mcqueen, best of 2010, christian louboutin, fendi, gucci, handbag of the day, handbags, jimmy choo, nina ricci, prada, temperley, top ten, valentino