Prosecco-Champagne

Champagne and prosecco are sparkling wines. Both can be delicious, liven up an event, pair well with many foods. But they are completely different wines. Comparisons: Continue reading “Prosecco-Champagne”

Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2017

Pale gold color; pineapple, mango, milk chocolate on the nose; ripe peach, pear, apricot, honey, green apple, Meyer lemon, lime, beeswax, minerality on the palate. Continue reading “Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese, Mosel 2017”

Direct to consumer boom

The U.S. wine industry enjoyed its largest year-over-year increase in direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales in 2020. Much can be attributed to COVID-19, but even if you bought online because of pandemic fears, many will stay with DTC because of convenience and expanded choice. Continue reading “Direct to consumer boom”

Making wine Part 7–Fermentation

Grape juice is in fermentation vessel—usually stainless steel, but wood or concrete also is used. Yeast decisions are made. More decisions for the wine maker. Continue reading “Making wine Part 7–Fermentation”

Making wine Part 6–Harvest, winery decisions

Good wine is made in the vineyard. The winemaker’s job is to allow fruit the grape grower delivers to express itself. Continue reading “Making wine Part 6–Harvest, winery decisions”

Making wine Part 5–Growing

Grape vines produce grapes in a cycle. They are dormant in winter, but there still is activity in the vineyard. The vines stockpile carbohydrates in anticipation of spring. Roots may push deeper—deep roots are what allows vines to survive and flourish. Continue reading “Making wine Part 5–Growing”

Making wine Part 4–Planting

Land acquired. Grape variety/varieties selected. Vineyard laid out. Training system, other infrastructure in place. Time to put vines in the ground. Continue reading “Making wine Part 4–Planting”

Making wine Part 3–The vineyard

Selection of grape variety, topography of the vineyard, and inclinations of vineyard owner and viticulturist influence the next big decision—vine training system. Continue reading “Making wine Part 3–The vineyard”