Ask most people to name a premier wine region in the United States, and they’ll likely mention Napa Valley or Sonoma County. These California destinations have earned their reputation through decades of exceptional winemaking. However, there are many lesser-known wine regions in the US that produce outstanding wines also deserving of recognition. These hidden gems … Read more
Are you selecting the right wine glasses when sipping at home? Here we look at why it matters and how to choose the ultimate vessel for each style of vino. Choosing the right wine glass can be a matter of personal preference. But those in the winemaking industry will tell you one of two things: … Read more
When pouring sparkling wine and champagne, things can go wrong. In this article, we will tell you what to look out for to avoid anything spoiling your sparkling wine enjoyment. The key points Do not store sparkling wine for longer than a year. Chill thoroughly before opening. Secure the cork when opening. Hold the bottle at an angle to prevent the wine … Read more
The world of wine labels is as diverse and complex as the wines themselves. Whether you work in hospitality, wine retail, or are an aspiring sommelier, understanding how to decode wine labels is an essential skill. Consumers often look to wine service professionals and enthusiasts for guidance when selecting a bottle. Knowing how to read … Read more
Why decant wine? The role of oxygen in the enjoyment of wine Particularly with high-quality red wines, it is absolutely essential to decant, which means carefully transfer, the wine into a decanter. There are three reasons for doing this: The supply of oxygen makes a young wine become more mature and rounded, softening the astringent tannic acid. Mature red wines sometimes … Read more
How long should I cellar my wine? Different wines will age at different rates, therefore the ideal cellaring time will depend on the grape variety and the characteristics of the wine. How long should I cellar white wine for? White wines like chenin blanc, dry riesling, gewürztraminer, grüner veltliner, pinot gris and grigio, sauvignon blanc, vermentino and viognier … Read more
fter painstakingly researching vintages—or interrogating your local wine shop on the very best varietal—you finally found it: The perfect bottle of wine for your upcoming dinner party. Or a host gift that’ll make you a shoo-in for another invite. Or honestly, chill night in with someone you love. Either way, you found a great bottle and want to make … Read more
Wine is made with grapes, but not typical table grapes you’ll find at the grocery store. Different types of wine come from various wine grapes (Latin name: Vitis vinifera), which have thick skins, are small, sweet, and contain seeds. There are many kinds of wine grapes (over a thousand), but here are some common choices you’ll … Read more
For avid wine collectors and enthusiasts, maintaining the perfect temperature for their bottles is a top priority. A common question that arises, especially during transport or storage transitions, is whether wine can safely cycle between cold and warm temperatures. The stability of a wine’s environment is vital for its preservation and aging potential. Fluctuations introduce … Read more
When it comes to wine, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you prefer a sweet vs. dry wine is a matter of personal preference and can depend on the occasion. Sweet wines are usually served at social gatherings, such as dinner parties or picnics, while dry wines are typically served with meals. We believe everyone should … Read more