Wine has enjoyed quite a run. Consumption up for decades. Quality up—the best in the 8,000 year history of wine. Availability up, thanks in no small part to elimination of antediluvian restrictions on direct-to-consumer wine sales. Continue reading “Wine glut 2-14-2024”
Category: Recent Columns
Valentine’s Day 2-7-2023
Valentine’s Day, the inspired capitalist fabrication of greeting card makers, florists, and chocolatiers, happens next Wednesday. Here are some notions about wine to titillate your cherished someone. Continue reading “Valentine’s Day 2-7-2023”
Scientific proof of terroir 1-31-2024
Terroir is that baffling French term you often encounter with wine. There is another French term that sums up the meaning of terroir—je ne sais quoi [something that cannot be fully described or expressed]. Continue reading “Scientific proof of terroir 1-31-2024”
Old Vines 1-24-2024
You likely have seen the description “old vine” on a wine label. What exactly does that mean and is it important? Continue reading “Old Vines 1-24-2024”
Laura Catena interview Part Five 1-17-2024
Dr. Laura Catena, managing director of Bodega Catena Zapata, is considered the face of Argentine wine and a major spokesperson for wine in general. Continue reading “Laura Catena interview Part Five 1-17-2024”
California’s Goldilocks vintage 1-10-2023
It is a new year and time for some good news. Continue reading “California’s Goldilocks vintage 1-10-2023”
Meteorological seasons 1-3-2024
It is early January. Barely into winter. Except it isn’t barely into winter if you reckon by the more rational system of “meteorological seasons.” By that measure, we are one-third-plus finished with winter. Huh? Continue reading “Meteorological seasons 1-3-2024”
New Year’s bubbly 12-27-2023
While sparkling wine deserves to be enjoyed year-round, New Year’s Eve and special celebrations are when most people experience it. Suggestions on New Year strategies: Continue reading “New Year’s bubbly 12-27-2023”
Wine for Christmas 12-20-2023
If you are reading this column, there is a good chance wine will be part of your Christmas/holiday celebration. Observations: Continue reading “Wine for Christmas 12-20-2023”
Christmas gifts 12-13-2023
So, you want to give a wine-related gift for Christmas. Some recommendations. Continue reading “Christmas gifts 12-13-2023”