A Moldova Phoenix Story – Castel Mimi
In 1893, Constantin Mimi founded his Castel Mimi winery and vineyards near the village of Bulboaca in what is today Moldova. He completed his viticulture and oenology studies in Montpellier, France. By the early 1900’s his wines were recognized internationally and especially loved in the Russian Empire. Turbulent 20th century in Moldova As a small … Continue reading
The “New” Huîtrerie Régis
Paris for a Day On some trips, we end up with a free day in Paris prior to returning to the states, and we never complain! It’s a chance to see what’s new and to visit some favorite spots. (click on any photo for a full size slideshow) Huîtrerie Régis – One of Our Favorites … Continue reading
Could Moldova Be Your Next Wine Destination?
Moldova – Ready for Exploration Are you an adventurous wine traveler, looking to be one of the first visitors into a region? Then you should add Moldova to your list of destinations! Interesting history, culture and of course, wine; much to discover and explore. Disclosure: I participated in a sponsored press trip to Moldova in … Continue reading
Wine Touring on a Non-Wine Vacation
Family Vacations and Wine Discovery While I might selfishly wish every vacation could be a wine vacation, that’s not always possible. Can you sneak in a little wine discovery on an otherwise non-wine situation? Give this a try: Do a little advance research. Find a list of wine bars in the cities you’ll visit. I … Continue reading
Looking Beyond Biodynamic Certification at Cantina di Filippo #ItalianFWT
Italian Food, Wine and Travel Writers Explore More Sustainable Viticulture This month, our Italian Wine, Food and Travel group is researching sustainable approaches to winemaking in Italy. Our investigation started as a look into biodynamics, but it turns out that can be a bit problematic. Why? Because certification isn’t right in every situation. The real … Continue reading
Anteprima Sagrantino
Or: How I tasted 45 of the Most Tannic Wines and Lived to Tell the Tale After hosting our recent Italian Food, Wine & Travel group’s foray into Sagrantino, I received a surprise invitation to attend Anteprima Sagrantino. This annual press event celebrates the release of young Montefalco Sagrantino wines in Montefalco, Umbria. The local … Continue reading
A Day in Chablis Pt.2 – A Visit to Château de Béru
The Camaraderie of Vignerons My favorite “aha” moment of the day was this: The 2016 harvest was a disaster at Château de Béru. An early killing frost devastated the majority of their vineyards, followed by hailstorms later in the spring. The silver lining to the 2016 weather was a story of the “Camaraderie of Vignerons”. When … Continue reading
A Day in Chablis – Part One: The Town & Chablis Grand Cru
Save Time for a Trip to Chablis When you trip to Bourgogne, save at least a day for Chablis. Physically separate from the Cote d’Or, you might be tempted to leave it for a future trip, but you would be missing a gem. On our last trip to Beaune, I set a aside a day … Continue reading
Explore Lesser Known Bourgogne at Domaine Chevrot & Fils
Explore a Lesser Known Village with Domaine Chevrot & Fils It’s difficult to think of any part of Bourgogne (Burgundy) as anything other than famous, and expensive. However, there are lesser known villages which offer beautiful wines at more reasonable prices. On my recent trip to Beaune, I made a point to spend time exploring … Continue reading
The Cook’s Atelier: French Cooking Experience in Beaune
Market Day Cooking Class at The Cook’s Atelier When you come to Bourgogne (Burgundy), set aside your Wednesday or Saturday for a day with The Cook’s Atelier. And don’t forget to book it in advance! Marjorie and Kendall are the mother-daughter team behind the shop and cooking school, and they will lead you through a … Continue reading
