Understanding Tannins How They Shape the Dryness and Structure of Red Wine

Understanding Tannins How They Shape the Dryness and Structure of Red Wine

When red wine is described as “dry,” it’s the tannins responsible for this sensation. Tannins are compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems, which contribute to the astringent feeling in the mouth. A simple experiment to understand this is to taste a tannic wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. After swishing it around your … Read more

Discover Costco’s Hidden Selection of Rare and Exclusive Luxury Wines

Discover Costco’s Hidden Selection of Rare and Exclusive Luxury Wines

When you think of Costco, you likely imagine bulk goods and great deals on everyday items. However, Costco is quietly making waves in the luxury wine market. While it’s known for affordable Kirkland wines, there are rare and expensive wine collections available, though they can be hard to find. For instance, a Costco in Burbank, … Read more

Is Non-Alcoholic Wine Still Wine? The Debate Over Essence and Authenticity

Is Non-Alcoholic Wine Still Wine The Debate Over Essence and Authenticity

The debate about authentic lasagna centers around whether it should be made with bechamel sauce or ricotta cheese. A professional chef friend of the author firmly believes that lasagna must contain bechamel to be considered “true” lasagna, while using ricotta may result in a delicious dish but doesn’t hold the same authenticity. The author, however, … Read more

States Push to Lift Alcohol Shipping Restrictions Ahead of Valentine’s Day

States Push to Lift Alcohol Shipping Restrictions Ahead of Valentine's Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, several states in the U.S. are working to change one of the last remaining “blue laws” that prohibit the direct shipment of alcohol to consumers. Delaware, Mississippi, and Utah are among the states pushing for reforms to allow the shipping of alcoholic beverages, including wine, directly to family and friends. These … Read more

Distillers Introduce Ultra-Low-Alcohol Drinks to Meet Growing Consumer Demand Amid Changing Regulations and Health Trends

Best Legendary Low-Alcohol Drinks Gain Popularity as New York Distillers Adapt to Changing Market

As health concerns drive down the demand for alcohol nationwide, some distillers and vintners are turning to ultra-low-alcohol products to meet the market’s shifting preferences. In December, Brooklyn’s St. Agrestis introduced the Phony 1 Proof Negroni, a ready-to-drink cocktail containing just 0.5% alcohol. This version contrasts sharply with the typical Negroni, which is 24% alcohol … Read more

Australian and New Zealand Wines Unite for Historic London Tasting, Balancing Efficiency and Regional Identity

Best Legendary Australian and New Zealand Wines Shine Together in Landmark London Tasting Event

On Thursday, January 30, over 80 wine brands from New Zealand and 150 from Australia came together for a combined tasting event at the Royal Horticultural Halls in London. This marked the first time the two countries had showcased their wines side by side. The event attracted over 750 trade visitors and offered a unique … Read more

Discovering the Depths of Aged Wine and the Stories It Tells with Every Sip

Discovering the Depths of Aged Wine and the Stories It Tells with Every Sip

The first time I realized I loved older wine came with a jolt—a profound experience that felt almost personal, as though I had discovered something long hidden. I was at my father-in-law’s home in Carlsbad, California, holding a glass of 1995 Château Cheval Blanc, a rare and prestigious red wine from Saint-Émilion. At the time, … Read more

How Decanting Enhances Wine Flavor and What You Should Know Before Pouring

How Decanting Enhances Wine Flavor and What You Should Know Before Pouring

Decanting wine involves transferring it from the bottle to a decanter, where it can interact with oxygen to “open up.” This process helps release aromas and flavors, enhancing the wine’s complexity. The decanter, which can vary in shape and size, is designed to allow the wine to breathe effectively. The process is particularly useful for … Read more

Why Your Fridge Isn’t Ideal for Storing Wine and How to Properly Age It

Why Your Fridge Isn't Ideal for Storing Wine and How to Properly Age It

Refrigerators are commonly used to store food and wine, but they may not be ideal for aging wine. Most refrigerators maintain a temperature between 33 and 40°F, which is too cold for wine aging. Leonara Varvoutis, a sommelier, explains that this temperature can shock the wine, affecting its taste and complexity. As a result, wine … Read more

How Long Does Open Wine Last? Key Factors and Tips to Extend Its Freshness

How Long Does Open Wine Last Key Factors and Tips to Extend Its Freshness

Wine, like all fruits, has a limited lifespan once opened. Jonathan Ross, wine director at The Global Ambassador, compares opening a bottle of wine to slicing an apple. Both begin to degrade upon exposure to oxygen. While apples brown, wine’s delicate flavors start to fade, eventually turning into vinegar. Danya Degen, general manager and sommelier … Read more