As a wine writer, I always strive to find something new and different. While in Lodi I discovered a winemaker, Markus Niggli that does just that. Not only does he utilize less common varieties but also he creates blends that set him apart from others. The wines of Markus Wine Co. are both unique and
Wines of South Africa: Celebrating the wines of the Cape
WineLA recently showcased the Wines of South Africa, WOSA in Marina Del Rey. The wine tasting at the Marina City Club presented the diversity and styles that elevate South African wines into the 8th largest wine-producing region of the world. In South Africa, most vineyards are located in the Western Cape, an area where sea
Discover Lodi and their pet-friendly wineries
For many, traveling with our pets is the optimal way to tour the country. We love having our furry friends tag along and partake in our experiences. Often our canine kids are happier joining us instead of being stuck in a kennel or at home with a pet sitter. Being the wine enthusiast I am,
Mercer Wine Estate: A winery steeped in family traditions
Family traditions are what Mercer Wine Estate located in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA of Washington State is all about. This being my second year sampling Mercer wine, I am very impressed especially with the consistency of the wines between vintages. The Mercer family were one of the first families to establish roots in the
La Rioja Alta: Celebrating Viña Ardanza
One of the most notable wineries in Rioja Alta Region of Spain is La Rioja Alta. In commemoration of the winery’s 75th anniversary of the Viña Ardanza wines, the winery visited several American cities presenting some of their current releases along with a vertical tasting. One city, Los Angeles, La Rioja Alta’s superb wines highlighted
Discover the German Riesling Wine from Nik Weis
After receiving two very different Rieslings from Nik Weis, I decided to create my own side-by-side comparison of the two wines. One Riesling wine, the Urban Riesling and the other the St. Urbans-Hof Wiltinger “Alte Reben” Kabinett Feinherb Riesling each present a very different style. Nik Weis, a third generation winemaker owns St. Urbans-Hof, a
Discover Frappato one of Sicily’s Indigenous grapes
Infatuated with the indigenous grapes of Italy, I love the challenge of trying new wine varieties and learning more about them. Frappato, a variety primarily grown in Sicily is my latest discovery. Sicily has over 50 Indigenous grapes. Those familiar with Sicilian wines recognize several native varieties such as Grillo and Nero d’Avola. On several
It is a Rosé Wine Kind of Day
I think Rosé describes the best type of wine to enjoy during the summer months. Something about Rosé wine speaks to warm weather, days filled with sunshine, outdoor eating and barbecues. Perhaps its refreshing crispness or the flavors of summer fruits like strawberries, raspberries, watermelon and stone fruits like peaches, apricots and nectarines help define
Chaumette Vineyards & Winery: A fabulous Midwest winery destination
My adventures in the Missouri wine region, enabled me to discover Chaumette Vineyards & Winery, a charming getaway that has everything you could possible desire when it comes to a relaxing experience and enjoying sumptuous meals. Chaumette is more than a winery it is a midwest winery destination stop. Located about an hour south of
Sweetzer Cellars: From Chardonnay to Pinot Noir
I first sampled the wines of Sweetzer Cellars at a Pinot Noir wine tasting in Santa Barbara. Since then I have sampled their wines on three other occasions including a luncheon with LA Wine Writers. If I were to pick one of the rising wine stars I discovered this year it would definitely include Sweetzer
