Cachagua, a remote subregion of Carmel Valley, is accessible only by a winding mountain road about 25 miles inland from Carmel-by-the-Sea. The landscape is dotted with remnants of a trailer park and a massive satellite dish, but its most striking feature is its sprawling vineyards. Among them, the historic Massa Estate, formerly known as the … Read more
Vermouth plays a crucial role in elevating many classic cocktails. It enhances drinks like the Martini, transforming them from mere chilled spirits into flavorful concoctions. In a Manhattan, it adds depth, while in a Negroni, vermouth acts as the bittersweet link between gin and Campari. Despite its importance, vermouth is often misunderstood and improperly stored, … Read more
The Lahaina Food & Wine Festival, a first-of-its-kind event, will take place from February 19-23, 2025, in West Maui. This inaugural festival aims to unite renowned chefs, exceptional wines, and memorable dining experiences in one of Maui’s most scenic locations. Attendees can expect a variety of exclusive events, including wine-paired dinners, industry tastings, and hands-on … Read more
Wine tasting fees have experienced a dramatic rise over the past decade, with U.S. tasting costs increasing by nearly 350% since 2012. In Napa Valley, where Christy Coors Ficeli purchased Goosecross Cellars in 2013, the tasting fee has risen from $20 to $50. Coors Ficeli reflects on a time when tastings were nearly free, and … Read more
Cabernet Sauvignon stands among the most renowned and recognizable red grape varieties worldwide. Grown in top wine regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Washington State, it enjoys a reputation so strong that many wine lovers simply call it “Cab.” Known for producing long-lived wines that can age for decades, this grape caters to both collectors … Read more
The wine industry is currently navigating a turbulent period, as highlighted in the recent Silicon Valley Bank Wine Report. The report indicates that total wine volumes dropped by 2.4% in 2024, and the trend is expected to persist. Several factors contribute to this decline, including an oversupply of wholesale inventory, a growing global anti-alcohol movement, … Read more
Recent research suggests that wildfire smoke may not be as detrimental to wine grapes as previously thought. A study conducted by Oregon State University and researchers in New Zealand found that many wine consumers enjoy smoky flavors in their wine. This discovery presents new market opportunities for winemakers in regions affected by wildfires, as there … Read more
Bronco Wine Company, the producer of the well-known Charles Shaw wine, commonly referred to as “Two Buck Chuck,” has announced plans to lay off 81 employees. The company filed a legally required Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice on February 7, informing the state of the upcoming job cuts. The affected employees all work … Read more
The relationship between the NBA and the wine industry has evolved into a deep-rooted cultural connection. This weekend, as the NBA hosts its All-Star festivities in the Bay Area, the event will not just highlight basketball but also celebrate wine culture. Many league players, coaches, and owners have developed a strong appreciation for fine wines, … Read more
The Boston Wine & Food Festival is back for its 36th year, hosted at the elegant Boston Harbor Hotel at 70 Rowes Wharf. The festival spans several months, featuring a variety of wine-related events, including tastings, master classes, and curated wine dinners. However, due to renovations in the hotel’s special function rooms, this year’s festival … Read more