French Wine 201: Affordable Bordeaux
Wine 201 The Wine 101 series features a no-nonsense, just the facts approach to a wine region. In Wine 101, we stick to key facts plus a firm price cap of $20 per bottle. In Wine 201, we’ll go a little deeper and open up the budget a little, but just a little. Wine 201: … Continue reading
Picpoul de Pinet and Steak Tartare Redemption #Winophiles
Winophiles Sample the “Lip-Stinger” of the Languedoc Picpoul is a white wine grape best known for crisp, refreshing high acidity white wine. Picpoul de Pinet is the best known region for producing the wine, and it’s located very close to the Mediterranean sea in the Languedoc-Roussillon region in Southwest France. Perfect for sipping by the … Continue reading
Castelli Vineyards – Going Their Own Way in Green Valley
Hiding in Plain Sight in Green Valley When I rolled into the driveway at Castelli Vineyards, I saw Emilio in his rubber boots, hose in hand. After greeting me, he asked how in the world I found Castelli Vineyards. Tiny production, no advertising, no media coverage. I explained I’m a Nebbiolo fan and I found … Continue reading
A Wine Pairing Lesson with Verdicchio #ItalianFWT
Learn Verdicchio with the Italian Food Wine & Travel Group April brings warm weather and our Italian wine loving group is itching to get back into Italian white wines, so Verdicchio is our theme for the month. I must admit, I too often lean on Italian reds. I have a good mental picture for how … Continue reading
Tasting the Winemaking Consultant’s “Home” Wine
What Kind of Wine Do Consultants Make at Home? In the world of wine, there are winemakers whose expertise is respected to the point that they are searched out for advice, and often end up building a business around their approach. Each has a unique approach. For some, rich, ripe, smooth polished international style of … Continue reading