Much-Maligned Merlot
Once the darling of wine-by-the-glass programs around the country, and purchased by the gallon by people who didn’t know what else to buy, Merlot has been relegated to the margins of wine culture. “You drink Merlot?” people have asked me with...The Pursuit of Chardonnay
There are days when I just despair for the future of Chardonnay. All it takes is a string of uninspired, overly manipulated examples with loads of fake oak flavors and it makes me swear off the stuff for weeks.But it only takes one good bottle to remind you why some...Napa Cabernet for Under $20
Cabernet Sauvignons from California’s Napa Valley are among the iconic wines of the USA. They have a cult following, and are in heavy demand, which means that they have hefty price tags, too. Is it possible for those with leaner wallets to see what the fuss is...Something to Celebrate
Five years ago, on 7 October 2006, I wrote my first blog post after going wine shopping. Here we are, more than 714, 000 visitors later. As with most things in life there have been ups and downs, some bumps in the road, and some unexpected miracles which led to...When Life Gives You Lemons…
There is something fresh, clean, and bright about the scent of a lemon. No wonder we use the juice to liven up the flavors in food, and put fine ribbons of lemon peel in so many dishes to add just the right crisp, sweet note.Today I have two recommendations for lemony...