I was recently part of a three-person panel of judges at the 34th San Francisco wine competition. Since there are about 20 panels, you never know what your group will be asked to evaluate. Fortunately, our panel was blessed to begin the second day of judging with an assortment of sparkling wines. Trust me, after four years of participating in this elite competition, there are worse ways to start your day.
My
second favorite saying in Washington is, “it ain’t the heat, it’s the humidity.” Who are they kidding? Either way, it’s hot and I need a wine that cuts through a Washington summer like a motorcade cuts through rush hour traffic. I need a “Summer” wine.
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Regular listeners and readers will know that I am a huge fan of Rhone wines – and that definitely includes Rhone-style wines that are grown domestically.
CLICK HERE to LISTEN to this week’s Wine of the Week segment on WTOP Radio
Regular listeners and readers will know that I am a huge fan of Rhone wines – and that definitely includes Rhone-style wines that are grown domestically.
Southern part of France. It is technically two distinct vinicultural areas; the Northern Rhône Valley and the Southern Rhône Valley, that derive their specific characteristics from the unique soil compositions found throughout the Valley.
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While Rosés are not just for summer sipping any more, I still find myself gravitating towards the pretty and refreshing pink wines when the weather warms up. For my money – and fortunately, most rosés are easy on the wallet – few wines are as versatile as rosés. Served well-chilled, they’re the perfect hammock companion or aperitif. Served slightly chilled, they can keep up with grilled seafood or roasted chicken. And sparkling versions simply shout, “party on.”
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May 25th is National Wine Day – not like I need an excuse to open a good bottle of wine – but just in case you do, consider opening a great bottle of wine this Sunday. Just make sure you don’t fall victim to these five common mistakes that many wine lovers make.
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A couple of days ago, a business associate sent me an email and asked me for a few wine recommendations. He said, “I need a reasonably priced red and white wine for a party I am having. Any suggestions?”
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The best way to buy Bordeaux wines is to buy them early. Now this may be a bit counterintuitive, because many Bordeaux wines are really at their best when they have five, ten even twenty years of age on them, but buying the usually-expensive wines before they hit the traditional retail market (called “futures”) is a smart – and lower-cost – bet.
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I know that the old adage about gift giving says, “it’s better to give than to receive,” but this Mother’s Day, I think it would be wonderful to give and receive a “thoughtfully tasteful” gift. After all, having a wife/mother who loves to cook – and occasionally enjoy a delicious glass of wine along with her culinary efforts – I like the idea of giving her a special bottle of wine with a theme (flowers, jewelry, candy). And if it really is the “thought that counts,” chances are good that this thoughtful spouse will receive the benefits of mom’s kitchen creations.
CLICK HERE to LISTEN to this week’s Wine of the Week segment on WTOP Radio
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Horsing Around for A Worthy Cause
On the evening of October 25th in Poolsville, Maryland, I am proud to be the Master of Ceremonies for Horses on Pointe, an evening dedicated to raising funds necessary to continue the therapeutic riding programs that bring so much joy to children and adults who can find a connection to the world through their bond with horses.
The evening will be filled with musical rides by Great and Small riders as well as some of the best riders, both professional and amateur, in the region. I encourage you to check out the link below and consider attending or donating to this little-but-amazing event.
Horses On Pointe