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Tasting Tips and Notes
Cava, Prosecco, and Champagne

Cava, Prosecco, and Champagne

When it comes to sparkling wine, three names shine prominently on the global stage: Cava, Prosecco, and Champagne. I am often asked "What's the difference between them?" and "Why is Champagne so expensive?!" This blog post is not exhaustive for each area, but more of...

2015 Special Edition Rioja from Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante

2015 Special Edition Rioja from Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante

In the enchanting region of Rioja, where winemaking is an art, a true gem shines brightly. The 2015 Special Edition Rioja from the esteemed Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante. This wine is not just any Rioja. It has earned the coveted title of Wine Enthusiast's #1 Rioja...

Let’s Talk About Sekt

Let’s Talk About Sekt

Yep - Sekt. Today we're talking about Austria and Germany's response to Champagne, Sekt. So, Let's talk about all the good things and the bad things that may be. In the past, Sekt's reputation has been soiled as cheap (because there's a lot of poor Sekt wines made out...

Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds

Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds

If you're a Chardonnay lover, consider exploring Australian Chardonnay. From bright and fruity flavors, to complex and rich oak-aged expressions - this variety is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s explore what makes it so unique. Australia is renowned for its...

Discover South African Chenin Blanc

Discover South African Chenin Blanc

Want to expand your wine horizons? Consider exploring South African Chenin Blanc! Whether you prefer a dry white or something more sweet, there’s a wide variety of styles on offer from this region. Let’s explore why they are so special. Chenin Blanc Overview Chenin...

7/8/22 Weekly Wine Picks

7/8/22 Weekly Wine Picks

On the list for 7/8/22 weekly wine picks is a Champagne that pairs with nearly anything on your table, a Rosso from a powerhouse Brunnello producer, and a white that's the #1 value pick of 2021 wine pick from James Suckling. NV Laherte Frères Blanc de Blancs Brut...

7/1/22 Weekly Wine Picks

7/1/22 Weekly Wine Picks

7/1/22 Wine Access Weekly picks this Week: A Rosé Champagne that will blow your mind not your budget, from a winery that Dom Perignon and Krug get grapes from. A red from Bandol that's a darling of Michelin restaurants that just might become your new Cabernet...

Review of Martha Stewart Wine Co

Review of Martha Stewart Wine Co

As a wine educator, Martha Stewart Wine Co sounded really interesting to me for a number of reasons. I'll let you know that I am an affiliate with Martha Stewart Wine Co, but I only started recommending her products after going through this experience. This blog post...

Portuguese Wine Travels: Villa Rosa Bairrada Baga Wine Review

Portuguese Wine Travels: Villa Rosa Bairrada Baga Wine Review

Portuguese Wine is some of the best and most memorable wine I've ever tasted. One of the most memorable experiences I've had was perhaps at a Michelin Star restaurant, at The Yeatman, in Porto. Every course was served with a Portuguese wine to match. And every wine...

Grillo: Sicilian White Wine

Grillo: Sicilian White Wine

This Grillo from L'arca was the first bottle of wine I tried from Martha Stewart Wine Co. Sicilian White Wines You Need to Know: Grillo We’ve already done a post about an intro to Sicilian reds, covering Frappato, a native red grape. Later this month I will also be...

Intro to Napa Chardonnay: Chateau Montelena

Intro to Napa Chardonnay: Chateau Montelena

Chateau Montelena may not be a name you're too familiar with. However, you may have heard of the movie "Bottle Shock" with all-star cast Chris Pine, Alan Rickman, and Bill Pullman. This film is (loosely) based around the blind tasting in 1976 called the Judgement of...

Alexander Valley Cabernet : Jordan 2008 Wine Review

Alexander Valley Cabernet : Jordan 2008 Wine Review

Alexander Valley may not be the first place you think of when you hear "California Cabernet Sauvignon." Typically, one's mind most naturally thinks of Napa Valley. However, today we are going to take a look at an exceptional winery in Alexander Valley, in Sonoma...

Barbera, Barbaresco and Barolo: How They Differ

Barbera, Barbaresco and Barolo: How They Differ

I am pretty excited about this Barbera post because I think there's a ton of confusion about Barbera. It's sort of pushed to the side and forgotten, seen as the "lesser" sister from the famous land where big brother and sister, Barolo and Barbaresco (the King and...

End of Summer Wine List: Transition to Fall

End of Summer Wine List: Transition to Fall

With labor day around the corner, I felt it was high time for an end of summer wine list. It's nearly September, but some of us are a little weary of stepping into fall. We're slowly transitioning from light meals to heavier ones, incorporating pumpkin spice into...

Germany and Georg Albrecht Riesling Wine Review

Germany and Georg Albrecht Riesling Wine Review

Riesling can get a bad rap, especially those from Germany. They aren't all sweet though, and those that are can use that sweetness to balance out the incredibly high acidity. Let's step into the world of German Riesling! The Rheinhessen in particular. This is an area...

The Loire Valley and Les Deux Tours Wine Review

The Loire Valley and Les Deux Tours Wine Review

The Loire Valley is a one of a kind, enormous wine region in northern France. The region extends along the Loire River, the mouth of which ends on the western boarder, in the Atlantic and extends over 200km east, a few hours south east of Paris. Because this region is...

Irmàna Frappato Wine Review and Sicilian Wines

Irmàna Frappato Wine Review and Sicilian Wines

Welcome to Sicily! One of the craziest wine regions in the world. Sicilian wines are amazing. I found this wine when I was consulting for a corporate wine and food event - pairing wine and barbecue! This wine is a great, great wine and if you can get your hands on it,...

Chablis, Burgundy & Wine Review

Chablis, Burgundy & Wine Review

photo credit Chablis is a white wine Region with fabulous, bright and zesty Chardonnays.  Chablis (sha-blee) is a region located in North-Central France. An outlier to Burgundy considering that Chablis is geographically (and viticulturally) closer to Champagne....

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THE LATEST & GREATEST

Vineyard {511} 2015 Cabernet: A Wine That Inspires

Vineyard {511} 2015 Cabernet: A Wine That Inspires

Calling all Cabernet lovers and wine aficionados alike! I recently experienced tasting the Vineyard 511 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and I have to tell you about it. When my father-in-law asked what I thought of the wine, I told him that it was inspiring. As a wine...

A Somm’s Holiday Wine Picks

A Somm’s Holiday Wine Picks

6 Holiday Wine Picks at a variety of prices for any Holiday occasion you may find yourself at. From 98-point Chardonnays to Nebbiolo Rosés, and impeccable under $50 Cabernets!

2015 Special Edition Rioja from Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante

2015 Special Edition Rioja from Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante

In the enchanting region of Rioja, where winemaking is an art, a true gem shines brightly. The 2015 Special Edition Rioja from the esteemed Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante. This wine is not just any Rioja. It has earned the coveted title of Wine Enthusiast's #1 Rioja...

Let’s Talk About Sekt

Let’s Talk About Sekt

Yep - Sekt. Today we're talking about Austria and Germany's response to Champagne, Sekt. So, Let's talk about all the good things and the bad things that may be. In the past, Sekt's reputation has been soiled as cheap (because there's a lot of poor Sekt wines made out...

Eggy Bread – aka: French Toast

Eggy Bread – aka: French Toast

French Toast, a beloved breakfast classic, has been delighting taste buds for generations. Its golden-brown exterior, fluffy interior, and versatility make it a cherished morning ritual for many. In this post, we'll explore the dish's history, the core ingredients,...

Perfectly Roasted Potatoes

Perfectly Roasted Potatoes

These perfectly roasted potatoes are the best roasted potatoes I think I've ever had, or made. I cook them at a lower temperature for longer, to develop a crunchy, golden brown layer that looks almost like caramelized glass. The yukon gold potatoes give a creamy...

Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken Salad Recipe

This Chicken Salad Recipe is a true kitchen essential, offering endless possibilities to cater to your taste preferences. Whether you crave extra crunch from celery, a hint of tart sweetness from apple, or a touch of curry for an exotic twist, this adaptable recipe...

Napa valley: 7 Tips Before You Go

Napa valley: 7 Tips Before You Go

Especially helpful if you've never been to Napa - but even if you have, maybe a tip or trick here can help take your next trip to the next level. Check out these 7 Tips to Know Before You Go. Tip 1: Choose Your Hotel Location Wisely Choosing the right location for...

Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds

Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds

If you're a Chardonnay lover, consider exploring Australian Chardonnay. From bright and fruity flavors, to complex and rich oak-aged expressions - this variety is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s explore what makes it so unique. Australia is renowned for its...

Discover South African Chenin Blanc

Discover South African Chenin Blanc

Want to expand your wine horizons? Consider exploring South African Chenin Blanc! Whether you prefer a dry white or something more sweet, there’s a wide variety of styles on offer from this region. Let’s explore why they are so special. Chenin Blanc Overview Chenin...

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