Wente Clone made California chardonnay 5-10-2023

If you enjoy California chardonnay, you likely have Charles Wente and his children to thank for it. Continue reading “Wente Clone made California chardonnay 5-10-2023”

Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Chardonnay, Arroyo Seco, Monterey 2021

Pale gold color; lime, yellow apple, grapefruit, spearmint, vanilla, oak on the nose; pear, citrus, apple, melon, pineapple, oak spice, butter on the palate. Continue reading “Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Chardonnay, Arroyo Seco, Monterey 2021”

Mass production vs great wine 4-19-2023

The wine world divides into two camps: factory wines and distinct wines. That artificial division is black and white while the wine world is grey; it is simplistic and annoys those who recognize nuance. But the paradigm works in broad stroke terms. Let’s explore. Continue reading “Mass production vs great wine 4-19-2023”

Wine grapes 11,000 years old 4-5-2023

It is long established that grapevines and wine date back thousands of years. Until recently, the accepted date was 8,000 years ago. New research has pushed that back to 11,000 years. Continue reading “Wine grapes 11,000 years old 4-5-2023”

What is your vinotype? 3-29-2023

What type of wine do you like? If you are unsure, there are many online tests to point you in the right direction. The most popular determines your “vinotype.” Continue reading “What is your vinotype? 3-29-2023”

Masseria Li Veli Torrerose Negroamaro Rosato Salento IGT 2021

Pale copper color; flowers, apple, peach on the nose; apple, apricot, orchard fruits, watermelon, grapefruit, strawberry on the palate. Continue reading “Masseria Li Veli Torrerose Negroamaro Rosato Salento IGT 2021”

Wine’s love-hate relationship 3-15-2023

Wine has a love-hate relationship to oxygen. Not enough oxygen when it is in the winery and wine can be reductive—engendering volatile sulfur compounds. Burnt match and rotten eggs are common odor descriptors. Too much oxygen and the wine tastes “tired” and eventually turns to vinegar. Continue reading “Wine’s love-hate relationship 3-15-2023”

Chateau Maris, Orange Wine made with Certified Organic Grapes 2021

Very pale amber-orange color; orange perfúm, white peach on the nose; white peach, apricot, summer fruits on the palate. Continue reading “Chateau Maris, Orange Wine made with Certified Organic Grapes 2021”