T.G.I.F. Champagne and the like…2008 Raventos i Blanc Cava L’Hereu Reserva Brut

This post is an “update” in that I blogged about the 2007 Raventos i Blanc Cava L’Hereu Reserva Brut last year (see below for link).  That vintage also made my “Top 10 Sparkling Wines Under $20” list.  So how’s the 2008 vintage?  Before I get to that, now that I’m a Cava convert here’s the…

What Are The Best Types of Wines For Picnics?

Now that Memorial Day weekend upon us.  And it’s widely considered to be the unofficial beginning of summer.  And summer is primetime for picnics….well you get the picture.  Here’s a list of the types of wines that will be a good match for picnic fare, along with some recommendations to get you started! 12 Most…

Wine Words Demystified: Estate Bottled

What does the term “Estate-bottled” mean…and does it necessarily mean the wine is better?

Value Alert! Great Everyday Petite Sirah for $8!

If you’re looking for a Petite Sirah that’s a great value – look no further!

Wine Words Demystified: Fermentation

You know the deal; the more some folks learn about a topic, the more shortcuts/slang/acronyms/initials/technical jargon can be tossed around.  I’m here to help you understand those sometimes mysterious words and phrases, thus – Wine Words Demystified! This week’s word/phrase is Fermentation According to Karen MacNeil‘s The Wine Bible:  The process during grape fermentation whereby yeasts convert the natural sugar in…

Wine Words Demystified: Fining

What does it mean to “fine” a wine,and why it may matter if you’re a vegan…

Which Wines Go Best With Oysters?

Well it turns out there’s a competition for that!  The most recent edition was the 18th Annual 2012 Pacific Coast Oyster Competition.  Are you kidding me?  They’ve done this 17 times before this year and I just found out?!;-) Here’s what the website says… Traditionally, restaurateurs have looked to France for wines like Muscadet and…

Wine Of The Week: 2006 Miner Family Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard

My wine of the week for April 28-May 4  is the 2006 Miner Family Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard The Winery Miner Family Winery – Napa Valley is located in the eastern hills of the Oakville AVA in Napa Valley.  They source their grapes from various vineyards throughout California, and offer a wide range of wines. …

Wine of the Week: 2008 Cypher Winery “Cypher” Paso Robles Eclectic Red

My Wine Of The Week is an eclectic blend of 12 grape varieties!