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”
Category: Wine & Grapes
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”
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is one of three major white wine grapes—Chardonnay, Riesling are the others—and one that pairs best with garden salads and fish. One of few wines that shines with sushi. Continue reading “Sauvignon Blanc”
Carménère
Chile provides some of the best wine values today; Carménère is Chile’s signature grape. Continue reading “Carménère”
Malbec
Malbec: immigrant grape that found fame and glory in the Americas. Continue reading “Malbec”
Sangiovese
Sangiovese grapes produce superb wines. They also can make shrill swill that gave wicker baskets a bad name. Continue reading “Sangiovese”
Champagne name
What’s in a name? In the case of Champagne, a bubbly brouhaha. Continue reading “Champagne name”
Varietal wines
There are more than 5,000 varieties of wine grapes (Vitis vinifera). Continue reading “Varietal wines”
Riesling
Normally, you do not associate white wines with aging. Enjoy them young, with frisky spring flowers in the nose and green fruits on the tongue. Continue reading “Riesling”