Auction Issues: Where Has this Wine Been?

Three decades ago, at a Napa Valley wine auction, two giants of the Southern California retail wine trade became locked in a battle to acquire a large bottle of a Chappellet Cabernet. The bottle was a major prize. And the two men basically didn’t… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – … Continue reading “Auction Issues: Where Has this Wine Been?”

Chilling Whites and Other Foods

Chilling Whites and Other Foods Several years ago I wrote an article in which I suggested that the best temperature at which to serve all wine was 60°. It was a compromise, I realized. Some wines (rosé, Riesling, Silvaner, Fino Sherry among other… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you … Continue reading “Chilling Whites and Other Foods”

A Wine to Discover

NV St. James Winery Pioneer Red ($11): the climate in Missouri makes it extremely difficult to grow the Traditional wine grapes from French varieties. Three crosses/hybrids that do well here are Norton, Chambourcin, and  Rougeon. These three greats … Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you may login here. If you … Continue reading “A Wine to Discover”

Tasting Notes

2015 Cadaretta, Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley ($50): For the last decade, this Cabernet-based Washington state wine has been about as good a value as you will find on the West Coast. I equate it because of its style (Classic Cab aromas, fir… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you … Continue reading “Tasting Notes”