We all know the names Martini & Rossi and Cinzano, the popularized vermouths used primarily for Martinis and assorted cocktails. However, the Spaniards have taken Vermouth to another level. These tend to come from boutique vermouth specialists or serious winemakers who’ve added vermouth to their lineup. So, what is Vermouth? It is a fortified and aromatized wine that is macerated with a selection of herbs, […]
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Recently, we had the honor of welcoming some truly special visitors, prompting me to delve into my treasured Rioja wine collection. It was an occasion to celebrate both the cherished classics and the exciting new additions. These wines perfectly embodied my philosophy, which centers around enjoying well-crafted, naturally grown wines that are ready to be savored. Each bottle was a delightful experience, and we were […]
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Ladies and gentlemen, gather around and let me regale you with the tale of my epic quest to discover the most magnificent summer white wine for 2023. Armed with an insatiable thirst and a questionable sense of adventure, I set forth on a perilous journey through tasting rooms, determined to find the elixir that would quench my summertime desires. My encounter with Janare del Sannio […]
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From the New York Times June 28, 2023 By:Rebekah Peppler A drink built and named for summer, Spain’s effervescent tinto de verano (summer red wine) matches the season’s easy-going nature. At its most traditional, the recipe sticks to just three ingredients: ice, red wine and citrus soda. (La Casera, from Spain, is most classic, but 7Up and Sprite also work.) This version includes an option […]
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Baron de Ley Reserva, Rioja 2014 Magnum I wasn’t familiar with this producer initially, but what caught my attention was the combination of price and bottle size. Who doesn’t love a Magnum? It’s perfect for a dinner party, as why open two bottles when one is easier? Baron de Ley is a relatively new producer, established in 1985, boasting an expansive vineyard spanning almost 1500 […]
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Union Sacré, Edelzwicker 2022 For those of you that have never heard of Edelzwicker, it is a term used to describe a type of wine, specifically a blended white wine, originating from the Alsace region in France. The word “Edelzwicker” is of German origin and translates to “noble blend” or “fine blend.” In Alsace, where both German and French influences are prominent, Edelzwicker wines are […]
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La Jota Vineyards Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 1990 In 1983, the Howell Mountain American Viticultural Area (AVA) became one of the first official sub-appellations of Napa Valley. While rivers, creeks, and property lines typically define an AVA, the boundaries of Howell Mountain are defined by a 1,400-foot elevation contour line as the lowest point, with the highest vineyards situated at 2,500 feet above sea level. […]
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Montenidoli is situated on 500 acres of woodland atop a hill that overlooks San Gimignano, facing the Chianti Classico region between Florence and Siena. This pristine land resides high up on the hill, benefiting from clean air and remaining untouched by any chemical pollutants created by humans. Under the guidance of Elisabetta Fagiuoli for over fifty years, Montenidoli has emerged as a leading producer of […]
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Brace yourselves for two more fabulous rosé wines to tickle your taste buds! We’ve got one straight outta Napa, CA, and the other hailing all the way from the charming land of Veneto, IT. Now, I know when you think rosé, you automatically picture French regions like Provence, Bandol, and the Loire. But hey, let’s not forget that these wines are crafted with finesse in […]
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Bodegas Breca – Brega 2018 Elegance and finesse are words commonly associated with high-end, expensive French wines such as those from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, and the overly priced Napa Cabernet Sauvignons like Heitz, Stags Leap, and Opus 1. However, in this case, I’m referring to Spanish wine. Spain has been producing incredibly elegant and nuanced wines, utilizing heirloom, native grapes from 100-year-old vines and exceptionally […]
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Rizzardi KEYA Bardolino Chiaretto Classico The wine shop was pouring this, so I decided to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised by its color and freshness. It had a beautiful watermelon color with hints of peach and orange. On the palate, it revealed soft melon and herbal flavors. The wine had a long, tenacious finish that lingered with tropical fruit notes. KEYA is […]
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Made from a combination of 34% Grenache, 32% Barbera, 16% Counoise, 14% Mouvedre, and 4% other reds from the Windmill Vineyard, and Barbera from the Muller Vineyard, both in the Dunnigan Hills, CA Since 2003, Matthiasson Wines has produced wines organically and using sustainable agricultural methods. Very pale salmon color. Subltle aromas and flavors of strawberry and pink grapefruit. Dry and bright with strong acidity. […]
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