Nebbiolo is Italy’s great black grape, source of some of the longest-lived Italian wines—Barolo and Barbaresco—and many people do not have the foggiest idea about the grape, what kind of wine the grape makes, or even where it is from. Continue reading “Nebbiolo”
Category: Wine & Grapes
Mourvèdre
Mourvèdre may be the most famous grape you don’t know about and certainly is among more intimidating to pronounce: Moor VAY druh. Continue reading “Mourvèdre”
Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc is among world’s most planted, most versatile, most delicious wine grapes, and one you probably only experienced at its worst. Continue reading “Chenin Blanc”
Beaujolaise 2 of 2
Last week, Beaujolais problems. This week, reasons to drink this wine and suggestions which to buy. Continue reading “Beaujolaise 2 of 2”
Beaujolaise 1 of 2
Beaujolais is wine region where French label laws, clever marketing, and Californiated confusion collided to sour people on great value. Continue reading “Beaujolaise 1 of 2”
Moscato d’Asti
Italy produces more sparkling wines from more grape varieties than any other country. Continue reading “Moscato d’Asti”
Grenache
Grenache resembles an actor who just misses in a solo leading role, but consistently shines in an ensemble cast. Continue reading “Grenache”
Petite Sirah
California, epicenter of image, got it wrong with Petite Sirah. Big, bold, black, loaded with tannins—there is nothing petite about Petite Sirah wine. Continue reading “Petite Sirah”
Syrah / Shiraz
Syrah dates to Roman times, but the grape’s fame begins in 1700s in the northern Rhône region of France where it is the main wine grape. Continue reading “Syrah / Shiraz”
Viognier
If you are relatively new to wine—experienced enough to search for alternatives to Chardonnay, not ready for big, bold reds—suggestion: Viognier. Continue reading “Viognier”