The Great Escape: Wine Tasting at Travilah Oak Market

Free time is a rare gift for every busy mom. So don't let that time go to waste. Each week, we’ll tell you about one great idea to give you a much deserved break, and make your life a little easier, maybe a whole lot easier.

This Thursday, leave the kids at home, grab your husband or a friend and pop down to the neighborhood wine shop.

Travilah Oak Market holds a wine tasting on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. This week, it is all about Syrah.

"Hurrah for Syrah," read the email announcement from Travilah Oak Market. "Syrah (or Shiraz) has a long documented history in the Rhone region of Southeastern France. It makes full bodied powerful red wines and is now grown all over the world."

Sample four different Syrahs from France, California and Australia and treat yourself to your favorite bottle.

If you have an idea for a "Great Escape" send me an email at jillian@patch.com.