September, 2011

Facts September 14, 2011

The Origin of the Booze Cruise

National Prohibition (1920-1933) led to a huge boom in the cruise industry. By taking what were advertised as “cruises to nowhere,” people could legally consume alcohol as soon as the ship entered international waters where they would typically cruise in circles. The cruises quickly became known as “booze cruises.”

Read More
Reviews September 13, 2011

Dr Pauly Bergweiler Noble House Riesling

Grape 100% Riesling   Facts If German Riesling conjures up images of Blue Nuns and Black Katz, you’re forgiven! I’ve been saying for quite some time now that Riesling is one of the most misunderstood grapes there is; but sometimes it’s like banging your head against a brick wall! The perception of the “average” consumer is that all Rieslings are sugar-water, in the form of wine. But who can blame them!?!? The market is dominated…

Read More
News September 12, 2011

A Tour of the Languedoc

Pick up any wine book, and flip to the page on the Southern Languedoc region of France. More often than not, the term “wine lake” or “ocean of vines” will be used, usually within the first set of paragraphs. No-doubt, the Languedoc certainly has some marketing challenges on its hands! With wine history in the region dating back to Roman times, the Languedoc has had plenty of time to practice the art of winemaking. However,…

Read More
Pairings September 9, 2011

Tortoise Creek Pinot Noir Paired with Hanger Steaks with Wilted Spinach and Gorgonzola Sauce

The Mrs. wanted burgers, I wanted steak. Since it way my day off, and therefore my turn to cook: STEAK IT IS (WAS)! Hanger Steak is one of my favorite cuts of meat, however, I think my brief stay in England a few weeks ago might have impaired my ability to grill red meat to a cooking temperature of rare. I’m serious! It’s a major problem over there, with most beef being served to the…

Read More
Reviews September 6, 2011

Familia Zuccardi Malamado Fortified Malbec

Grape 100% Malbec (fortified with brandy)   Facts Q: When is a Port not a Port? A: When it’s made in Argentina. – The Malamado holds the title of the first ever fortified Malbec produced in Argentina; however it can’t be considered a true Port since it isn’t actually made in Portugal, even though it’s produced in the same style.   – All Zuccardi wines are made from estate-grown grapes (they generally don’t buy from…

Read More
Reviews September 1, 2011

Caymus Cabernet 2009 for #CabernetDay

  Grape(s) 81% Cabernet, 19% Merlot.   Facts I was thinking to myself the other day; “I wonder if readers of my website think that I’ve decided to take a stance toward only featuring affordable wines?” Not that this is too far from the truth, but the real reason that I feature a great deal of wines under the $20 retail mark, is that I purchase the wines for review myself. Affordability is therefore key!…

Read More