Given wine’s history, you’d think best way to pull cork was solved. Not so. Continue reading “Bottle openers”
Category: Recent Columns
Viognier
If you are relatively new to wine—experienced enough to search for alternatives to Chardonnay, not ready for big, bold reds—suggestion: Viognier. Continue reading “Viognier”
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is one of three major white wine grapes—Chardonnay, Riesling are the others—and one that pairs best with garden salads and fish. One of few wines that shines with sushi. Continue reading “Sauvignon Blanc”
Carménère
Chile provides some of the best wine values today; Carménère is Chile’s signature grape. Continue reading “Carménère”
July 4th wine
Patriots patronize American wines on July 4th, but which should a proud patriot pour? Continue reading “July 4th wine”
Malbec
Malbec: immigrant grape that found fame and glory in the Americas. Continue reading “Malbec”
Vintage 2 of 2
Old wine seller maxim: “Best vintage is the one you have to sell.” Continue reading “Vintage 2 of 2”
Vintage 1 of 2
Grapes are an agricultural product—world’s most planted fruit crop. As every farmer and backyard gardener knows, weather affects quality. Continue reading “Vintage 1 of 2”
Champagne types
Wedding season—Champagne 101 time. Continue reading “Champagne types”
Sangiovese
Sangiovese grapes produce superb wines. They also can make shrill swill that gave wicker baskets a bad name. Continue reading “Sangiovese”