Here is an outstanding example of the value that Austrian dessert wines offer — this one made by Gerhard Kracher, son of the late, legendary winemaker Alois Kracher. The conditions around a large, shallow lake make botrytis a much more dependable feature than in most other wine regions. A Sauternes, for example, of this quality would [...]
Read more →So, I’ve been having some crazy good luck with weird white blends lately… Last week’s Weekly Wine Pick was Kitchen Sink White, and it’s still the best Bargain I’ve tasted in quite a while. And then there’s this rave-worthy white blend – Murrieta’s Well 2009 White Wine Livermore Valley The Whip ($25). A really nice surprise! [...]
Read more →Attention do-gooders. Markham Vineyards has launched its 4th Annual Mark of Distinction program, designed to reward those who promote positive changes in their communities. The idea is to empower people nationwide to make their communities a better place by way of two $25,000 grants. Last year’s awards went to a non-profit that promotes business in [...]
Read more →I have a friend who believes that no California Sauvignon Blanc should cost more than $18. And I have to say, she’s probably right most of the time. But this one is an exception — at more than twice her choke point. And I say, it’s worth every cent. Pair it with grilled scallops or [...]
Read more →Here’s an interesting piece by Patrick Comiskey about balanced wines — an ongoing hot topic lately, especially when it comes to California Pinot Noir. I would love to see the ripeness and alcohol levels come down across the board, generally speaking. Although I’ve recently been startled, and somewhat distressed, to taste some California Pinot Noirs [...]
Read more →This is an issue that matters to me — so I am happy to reprint this news from the Champagne Bureau. It just rubs me all shades of wrong that some U.S. sparkling wine producers continue to label their wines as “Champagne.” I mean really, they should be embarrassed… WORLD-RENOWNED CHEFS, SOMMELIERS AND WINE EDUCATORS [...]
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