The size and shape of the bowl as well as the type of glass used all make a huge difference in extracting the truest quality of wine, so if I have one major resolution for the New Year – other than the traditionally failed attempts to lose weight, learn a new language and stop tailgating – it is the endeavor to use the proper glass for the appropriate type of wine.
DC Examiner January 06, 2011 – Wine Glass Insights for the New Year – The Vine Guy
Each year I try to write one column about the best wine experience of the year. However, looking back, it occurs to me that there was not just one noteworthy event, but, indeed, several. Best of all, most of these affairs involved friends, both inside and outside of the wine trade, who are all as enthusiastic about wine as I am. While the list was hard to narrow down, here are my favorite wine experiences of 2010.
Have a happy, healthy and wine-filled 2011.
DC Examiner December 30, 2010 – The Year In Review – The Vine Guy
Sparkling wines has been stereotyped as something only to be enjoyed during special birthdays, weddings or, as is currently the case, year-end celebrations which is too bad since sparkling wines are incredibly versatile. They pair well with a variety of food or can be enjoyed on their own. But just in case you want to enjoy a sparkling wine on New Year’s Eve, here are a few recommendations – and please forgive my raspy voice…
WTOP Wine of the Week – December 24, 2010 – Sparkling Wine Companion
To quote wine writer Willie Gluckstern, “In a perfect world, everyone would have a glass of Champagne every evening.” This holiday season, make a new resolution to drink more Champagne and sparkling wines. Here’s a quick guide to finding the right sparkler to celebrate with now and all through next year.
Happy Holidays!!!
DC Examiner December 23, 2010 – Annual Sparkling Wine Companion – The Vine Guy
Here we are at the height of the holiday party season and many people are intimidated about bringing wine as a host or hostess gift and others are confused about what to serve at holiday parties. The trick is you want to find a wine that is fun, versatile and priced around $20. Whether you are going to or hosting a holiday party, here are several wine suggestions you can bring as a gift or serve to your guests.
WTOP Wine of the Week – December 17, 2010 – Wines for the Holidays
Recently, representatives of the Union des Grands Cru – a trade association of top Bordeaux Chateaux – traveled to Washington, DC to help the French-American Cultural Foundation celebrate the 25th anniversary of France Magazine. Here are some highlights from the tasting.
DC Examiner December 16, 2010 – Wines of the Union des Grands Cru – The Vine Guy
Winter has come to Washington, with a vengeance. Even the dog doesn’t want to go outside. What is it about cold nights that beg for the company of big red wines? They just seem to go together. The essential qualities that I look for in winter reds include depth, structure and power. Big, full-bodied black fruit – such as blackberry, dark plum and cassis – usually supplies the power. Tannins provide structure while acidity keeps the wine balanced.
Check out this week’s WTOP Radio Wine of the Week segment for some great recommendations on Winter Reds.
December 10, 2010 – WTOP Radio Wine of the Week – Hot Wines for Cold Nights
Rare, indeed, is the producer who can, year after year, make great wines on a consistent basis. But then again, if you loved doing what you do as much as Nils Venge does, you’d probably be happy to just keep getting back on your proverbial horse, vintage after vintage and keep the grape rodeo going.
DC Examiner December 9, 2010 – Back in the Saddle with Saddleback Wines – The Vine Guy
2006 Saddleback Merlot
If you’re looking for some fun wines to try during the eight nights of Hanukkah, check out this week’s Wine of the Week segment on WTOP Radio. Best of all, you don’t need to celebrate Hanukkah to enjoy these wines, you just need a cork screw! Cheers! December 3, 2010 Chanukka Wines
Looking for the perfect gift for the wine lover in your life? A little nervous about buying a bottle of wine? How about a great book on wine… from novice to pro, there is a wine book out there for every wine aficionado. Check out this week’s DC Examiner Vine Gal column to see which book your wine lover will love to get. DC Examiner December 2, 2010 – Wine Books for the Holidays – The Vine Gal
