On the rare Sunday, while sipping a steamy mug of Sumatra Monkeypod coffee, warmed for the third time in my very expensive...
The Value of ‘Old Vines’
Although the stunning 2005 vintage of Bruno Clair's Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Dominodes is just being released (at about $85 a...
Vermouth, One of the Best Values In Wine
Let's talk about cool summer drinks on hot summer days, and take a look at Vermouth, the key ingredient in many cool drinks,...
Dining in France: A Sweet and Sour Experience
PROVENCE, France -- As an unapologetic Francophile, I do not engage in France-bashing. But their unique combination of...
Dr. Apstein Turns Up His Nose at Roses of Provence!
NICE, France -- I am about to commit wine writing heresy. Except for rosé Champagne, I am not a fan of rosé. I am...
Scary Days in South Australia
George Taylor, vineyard manager for Foster's Wine Estates' Barossa properties insisted I put on protective paper booties before...
You Can Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
Despite the attention focused on Carménère, a grape originally from Bordeaux but now found rarely outside of Chile, Cabernet...
Wakefield Rieslings Confuse Issue of ‘Clare’ Style
The first time I tasted an Australian Riesling, years ago, I was amazed. It was from the Clare Valley, located in the...
Selection, Selection, Selection
'The 2005 vintage allowed us to make excellent wine in 2006,' said Thomas Duroux, General Manager of Château Palmer. Duroux...
Mouton, Lafite Pull Off a Success With ’06 Vintage
BORDEAUX, France -- Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Mouton Rothschild both excelled in 2006, making stunning wines. ...
A Fine Irish Mate With the Corned Beef & Cabbage!
'I cook with wine; sometimes I even add it to the food.'-- W.C. Fields St. Patrick's Day is a big deal in my house. My...
Variability the Forecast After Early Peek at 2006 Bordeaux
BORDEAUX, France -- Variable. That's the best way to describe the 2006 vintage in Bordeaux after my first day of tasting...