Category: Recent Columns

Wine challenges 3-13-2024

Posted on by gusclemens

While wine has been an integral part of civilization for at least 8,000 years, it also is subject to the waxes and wanes of fashion. What is rad and fav today can be tomorrow’s meh. Think merlot. Think white zinfandel. Think Milli Vanilli. Continue reading “Wine challenges 3-13-2024” →

Wine glut 2-14-2024

Posted on by gusclemens

Wine has enjoyed quite a run. Consumption up for decades. Quality up—the best in the 8,000 year history of wine. Availability up, thanks in no small part to elimination of antediluvian restrictions on direct-to-consumer wine sales. Continue reading “Wine glut 2-14-2024” →

Valentine’s Day 2-7-2023

Posted on by gusclemens

Valentine’s Day, the inspired capitalist fabrication of greeting card makers, florists, and chocolatiers, happens next Wednesday. Here are some notions about wine to titillate your cherished someone. Continue reading “Valentine’s Day 2-7-2023” →

Scientific proof of terroir 1-31-2024

Posted on by gusclemens

Terroir is that baffling French term you often encounter with wine. There is another French term that sums up the meaning of terroir—je ne sais quoi [something that cannot be fully described or expressed]. Continue reading “Scientific proof of terroir 1-31-2024” →

Old Vines 1-24-2024

Posted on by gusclemens

You likely have seen the description “old vine” on a wine label. What exactly does that mean and is it important? Continue reading “Old Vines 1-24-2024” →

Laura Catena interview Part Five 1-17-2024

Posted on by gusclemens

Dr. Laura Catena, managing director of Bodega Catena Zapata, is considered the face of Argentine wine and a major spokesperson for wine in general. Continue reading “Laura Catena interview Part Five 1-17-2024” →