I’m writing this post because I absolutely loved one of these wines. And the other is a juicy, well-priced everyday white from the same Australian winery, so let’s start there: Taltarni 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Victoria-Tasmania ($13). A good wine at a good price, with juicy pineapple, passion fruit and tangerine leading the way to a mouthwatering [...]

It’s nearly Halloween, and if you’re inclined to have holiday color coordinated beverages, here’s an appropriately orange-hued cocktail for this weekend. (Plus, it’s delish and supposed to be orange, which is way more than can be said for green beer on St. Patrick’s Day!) Aperol is an aromatic Italian spirit that is infused with herbs, orange [...]

I’ve gotten a couple of emails recently asking me to re-run an article about international “hot dogs” that I published a couple of years ago. Requests for meat in tube form? Must be tailgating time! So here you go: Autumn may mean fall foliage to some… For others, thoughts turn to sweaters and cozy evenings [...]

I recently opened a bottle of Secco-Bertani 2006 Valpolicella Valpantena Ripasso ($20), and after one sip, put the glass down and went directly to buy some kind of meat to go with for supper. I love these kinds of traditional Italian wines, and with fall in the air, I wanted something seasonal to complement the distinct [...]

It’s that time — time to start thinking about holiday feasts. Who to invite, what to serve, which wines to go with. I’ll have more feast-worthy reds as the weeks go by, but here’s the first batch for all you advance planners: Alma Rosa 2007 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills El Jabali Vineyard Mt. Eden [...]

Honestly, I’m not that much of a Halloween candy person — unless you’re talking about any variation on peanut butter and chocolate. And then, you better keep your eye on me. Entire bags of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have been known to mysteriously disappear when I’m around… If you’re on my team on this, then [...]

Looking for affordable quaffs to go with popcorn and Halloween candy for your upcoming scary movie marathon? Try any of these under $15 deals: WHITE Big House 2008 White California ($10). Great deal here, for its mouthwateringly fresh, floral-laced blend of smooth melon, tangerine and dried apricot flavors that linger on the pretty finish. Ready to [...]