I wrote about corks versus screwcap for wine closures back in 2010, and the argument continues five years later. Strangely enough since screwcaps have proven their worth over and over again. But…ah… the romance of cork still wins over the hearts of wine lovers. This infographic, shared ... Read More »

Since I already own just about every food and wine gadget, I can imagine what a pain in the ass I am to shop for. Some tools I use regularly, like my J Vineyards branded Champagne opener or Microplane grater. But some ended up either being re-gifted or donated, like the cordless, electric corkscrewoddly ... Read More »

The 2012 vintage in Sonoma and Napa was legendary – lauded by many a wine writer as well as those who really know, the winemakers. The red wines from 2012 are starting to hit the shelves and I wanted to find out the real deal on the hype. So I had a chat with Mark Beringer, a fifth generation winemaker ... Read More »

When I was growing up, a dusty bottle of Greek Retsina held court in our pantry cupboard. My mom purchased it while traveling in Greece back in the 50s, hoping one day to open it with fanfare. To my knowledge, it’s still there, crusty and dusty. Sometime after I’d gone deep into wine, she did ... Read More »

The request arrived like manna from wine heaven — three days post mortem of my 70+ bottle wine fridge. “I’d like to discuss the possibility of sending one of our products for you to review… the NewAir AWC-330E 33 bottle compressor wine cooler,” the nice lady wrote to ... Read More »

America’s wine lovers — both new and experienced — have come a lllooonnnngg way in the past twelve years or so since I’ve been writing about my favorite beverage. Old and young, female and male, we have spoken and have gathered together to become the planet’s thirstiest ... Read More »

Can I get a whoop-whoop? I think we Americans are finally moving in the right direction. At least, from a wine perspective. Have you noticed that many people are reaching for and craving something out-of-the-ordinary, the unexplored, the less commercial? Let me know if this is all in my head because ... Read More »

Although most are loath to admit it, we all want to squeeze as much value from every dollar, even if we’re rolling in it. I have a friend who doesn’t want for much, but games the sales and savings cards systems with the giddy relish of a child at Chuck E. Cheese. I’ve not graduated to her level ... Read More »

Cool things abound this year for the alcohol-minded folks on your gift list. Or for you, if you swing that holiday way. Here are a a few ideas of the best offerings out there for wine, beer or whisky enthusiasts and one quick trip to Amazon will get you closer to being finished with your Christmas ... Read More »

As we meld into more of America’s melting pot, Thanksgiving is becoming a more difficult wine pairing challenge. And every host wants to look cool/educated/sophisticated/knowledgeable when it comes to pairing food and wine. Or, at least, Food Network says you do. But no one says you need to be perfect ... Read More »