The debate around natural wine continues to provoke strong reactions, with critics often labeling them as strange or unclean. These wines, which emphasize minimal intervention and little to no additives, have faced skepticism similar to how organic wines were once regarded in the early 2000s. However, as organic wines have become widely accepted and even … Read more
Many wine drinkers mistakenly believe that Riesling is always sweet, a misconception that frustrates wine professionals. While Riesling can produce fruity wines with residual sugar, it also excels in making bone-dry, high-acid wines. In Germany, its homeland, dry Rieslings are actually more popular today. However, distinguishing between sweet and dry Rieslings based on labeling can … Read more
Corks and screw caps serve the same purpose: keeping wine from spoiling. However, the choice between them remains a contentious issue among winemakers and consumers. Some argue that corks contribute to superior aging, while others prefer screw caps for their convenience and consistency. To better understand the advantages and disadvantages of each, winemakers and sommeliers … Read more
Sulfites are chemical compounds used as preservatives in food, beverages, and medications to prevent spoilage and discoloration. According to the Cleveland Clinic, they naturally occur in some foods and drinks but are also added during production. In wine, sulfites are often confused with sulfur, sulfa drugs, and sulfates, though they are distinct compounds. Andrew Bell, … Read more
Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer, has launched a new addition to her Dolly Wines brand, a Pinot Noir, just in time for Valentine’s Day. At 79, Dolly is introducing this red wine after a long-standing aversion to the color red, which she once associated with betrayal, stemming from the infamous song Jolene. In a … Read more
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
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
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
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
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