Wine has been a part of international cultures since we figured out fermentation makes grape juice more fun. We’ve come a long way since then. According to OIV in their last State of the World Vitiviniculture report, we consumed an estimated 244 million hectoliters of wine globally in 2019! Yes, that’s a lot. Perhaps while […]
Zinfandel Oh Zinfandel… America’s sweetheart; Zinfandel is up there with Cabernet Sauvignon for putting California on the world wine map. Although Zinfandel doesn’t equal the mighty Cab Sav in average bottle price it can be equally as interesting and unique when made with the right touch. This juicy little grape can be surprisingly delightful and […]
Cabernet Sauvignon There are thousands of grape varieties in the world of wine, although perhaps none, more recognized, or famous, as the noble Cabernet Sauvignon, which helped shape the evolution of modern day wine. Let us celebrate a brief history of this legendary varietal, its character and provide an introduction to some of its famous growing […]
Mineraity is a conversational subject in the wine world. There is not yet any scientific evidence that supports that the flavor of the soil comes through in the wine. That is not to say, however, that soil does not affect the flavor of the wine- although perhaps not in the way you might think. The […]
The Syrah grape, also known as Shiraz, is one of the world’s classic grape varietals and a personal favorite of mine. Why do I love Syrah — and why is it so damn delicious? First, and foremost, Syrah is an incredibly versatile grape; in terms of versatility in style, it covers a BROAD range. Whether […]
Chianti, once misunderstood, embodies the soul and history of Italian culture. The classic Tuscan red wine rests steady through the rise of Florence and the sting of politics. Chianti is a story of nobility, tradition, and evolution. The herbal tang from the Sangiovese grape has been tested and reworked over centuries. The wine somehow simultaneously […]
When I was first introduced to Chardonnay, it was described to me as the “cheerleader” of wine grapes because it will do anything that you want. The analogy may be dated during the era of “me too” but the fact remains that that Chardonnay will take on a diverse personality depending on where it’s grown […]
What is the difference between organic, biodynamic and natural wine? When I worked as a restaurant sommelier this was a frequently asked question. People also asked me WHY they should buy organic/ biodynamic/ or natural wines. This is a confusing topic because there’s a lot of overlapping ideologies and regulations. To break it down, not […]
Wine has the unique dichotomy of being considered a product of class and substance, but one that is most often selected by the shallow marketing Gimmicks. Most consumers choose wine based on the label. “I choose a wine based on if I like the label, and then if don’t like it, I don’t buy it […]
Have you noticed all the new, trendy “healthy” wine clubs on the market today? These clubs are aimed at people who have been swept up by the modern day fitness obsession; they make bold statements such as keto-friendly, sugar-free, paleo-friendly, gluten-free, low-carb, low-sulfite and vegan attached to an even bolder price tag. How true are […]