As a wine writer, 2020 took on a different significance in terms of wine tasting. You might say enjoying a bottle of wine brought us to a happier place. The virtual wine tasting was the norm and still will be in 2021. Wine get-togethers with friends are now virtual. Looking back at the wine I
Halleck Vineyard: Discover the First Sebastopol Winery
The art of giving is part of the intrigue for Halleck Vineyard because philanthropy and outstanding wine go together in Ross Halleck’s mind. There is more to the story of Halleck Vineyard as they develop a community through wine, making this small Sebastopol winery a gem of discovery as you become part of Halleck Vineyard
Rosé Wine 2020: Seven Must Try Rosés
For me, when I think of the best summer wine, I think of Rosé because it makes an enjoyable and refreshing summer fare. Discovering the intricacies of Rosé, one finds diversity, whether it is the varieties that make up the wine or if the grapes are grown specifically for Rosé or utilize the Saignée method
Irvine & Roberts Vineyards: Expressing the Splendor of this Ashland Winery
A special place defines our memories. People we meet also characterize the location and how we remember it. Often we meet people who are so hospitable and gracious, welcoming us into their home or in the case of Irvine & Roberts Vineyards, into their Ashland winery. These traits flow into their wines. It also extends
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir Comes Alive At Papapietro Perry Winery
Steering his way to Sonoma County, Ben Papapietro, along with his partner Bruce Perry traversed the roads on a journey from the family garage to their winery in Dry Creek Valley. Along the way, Ben maneuvered his way via a truck working for the San Francisco News Agency; the San Francisco Examiner and Chronicle. No
Camins 2 Dreams: Highlighting the path to Grüner Veltliner and Syrah
As we follow the path of life, our journeys enrich us through the people we meet, the places we visit, and even the wine we taste. Recently visiting with Tara Gomez and Mireia Taribo Tena and learning about their Camins 2 Dreams winery, you know their love of wine, and each other has led them
Long Meadow Ranch: Full Circle Farming At Its Best
Long Meadow Ranch is a pioneer in the concept of full circle farming. This notion plays a vital role in every aspect of their enterprise. This family-owned agricultural estate grows grapes, olives, fruits, and vegetables produces wine and olive oil as well as raises cattle, sheep, and chickens. Combining organic and sustainable practices to achieve
Best Father’s Day 2020 Wine: Seven Wines To Brighten The Day
Father’s Day 2020 is upon us. Many of us will celebrate as usual, but for others celebrating our dads is quite different in these days of the pandemic and sheltering at home. We can still have a barbeque, a picnic, or a brunch as long as we practice social distancing. For some, it may be
National Rosé Day 2020: Six Rosés For Your Summer Pleasure
June marks the beginning of Rosé season and the start of summer. Although we can drink Rosé all year long, it is really a summer wine to enjoy poolside or dining Al Fresco. National Rosé day 2020 this year falls on June 13th and is always celebrated on the second Saturday in June. I find
Ripe Life Wines: Elevating Unoaked Chardonnay and Rosé
What does a New Jersey Clambake have to do with wines made with Mendocino grapes? In comes Mary McAuley, owner of Ripe Life Wines, a sommelier and culinary school graduate, who wanted to pair the perfect wine for her friends at a clambake. Mary decided after struggling to find the ideal wine, and with her
