Check out WINE-OPOLY!! (Yes, this is a real thing!)
So you love wine!? And you love board games?! (Seriously, who doesn't?). Well, thank goodness for WINE-OPOLY! This post is just a quick shout out to the awesome-ness that is the internet and creative wine lovers. If you pick one up, let me know! (I call banker!)
Cheers!
Syrah: "It's a sexy beast of a wine, that warms the mortal soul with ripe, rich fruit and manageably moderate tannins." - Mark Oldman
Could not have put it better myself! When I saw the above quote, it reminded me how much I love the "sexy beast" that is Syrah, how I can't wait for cooler nights to open some and that I need to write a post completely dedicated to Syrah. If you are watching the news, listening to NPR or basically being an active participant in society... you know there has been a bit of drama going down in D.C. What better way to celebrate the government dysfunction than with a lovely glass of Syrah?
Introduction.
The blog has introduced the Syrah grape
But as a reminder, Syrah and Shiraz are actually the same grape! (And actually one of my favorites!) The grape originated in Southern France and is known for it's intense flavor. Thus, Syrah is commonly a blending grape.
Growing Profile.
Now for the details on the production of Syrah.
Where it's grown:
Rh
ône
Valley, France and Austrailia (under Shiraz).
Common Characteristics:
Blackberry, tar, leather, anise, black pepper, smoke and earth. (Totally deserving of it's "sexy beast" nickname, right?!)
Acidity:
Low to medium
Tannin:
High
Alcohol:
High
Now that we have covered the basics, time to delve deeper into the details. First, remember that Petite Syrah and Syrah are actually
different grapes.
Syrah (aka Shiraz) is considered one of the noble grapes. While, Petite Syrah is a humble French grape also known as Durif. The difference tends not to matter in the end because both grapes made intense red wine. If you are wondering what type of food to pair with Syrah, it goes great with heavier foods like stews, steak, lamb or anything charred or served with a pepper sauce. (yum!)
Producers to look for: Chateau St. Michelle, Rabbit Ridge, or Columbia Crest.
Cheers!
“The fate of the bridges is to be lonely; because bridges are to cross not to stay!”
―
Mehmet Murat ildan
View of NYC from I-78
Ok, this may be the nerdiest thing I have ever said ...
but I love bridges. Maybe it's because I come from a family of Engineers, or maybe its just because bridges are awesome engineering triumphs! (Well, unless you're on the
.)
I appreciate them for the great views. This post features a snapshot of the last great view I saw. So, be sure to appreciate the view next time!
Cheers!
Dear Enthusiasts! This month's wine club brings us back to the good, ol' U.S. of A -
get excited
- we are learning about the Wines of America!
Now before you all head to your wine cellars and grab your favorite bold Cabernet Sauvignon or creamy Chardonnay from California - take note - CA wines are
off limits.
That's right folks, this week we are examining American wines and totally not inviting the most popular kid in school.
So, let's talk history!
In case you didn't know, the U.S. has its own native grapes! The most common,
vitis lambrusca
, produces an exotic, but somewhat wild wines (at least for the Europeans). But these wild wines satisfied the local thirst and Americans kept producing wine. Until, duh... duh... duh... Prohibition. This "dry legislation" resulted in the uprooting of hundreds of vineyards and the destruction of the wine industry. Prohibition, together with the Great Depression and those pesky World Wars left the American wine industry very out-dated.
Yet around the 1960s, Americans began to produce wine from
vitis vinifera
grapes and eventually the great Europeans regions began to sense the competition. Today, wine all across American is recognized internationally.
U.S. Appellation System.
So what will you see on the wine label?? Historically, much of American wine is organized around the political borders of the 50 states. However, much of the major wine regions are organized into
Approved Viticultural Areas
(AVAs), based on geography and climate. You may think, this sounds similar to the European tradition of placing the village or vineyard on the label. However, I still think it is extremely uncommon for American winemakers to label based on region or sub-region without also putting at least the state or grape on the bottle as well.
A Few Fun Facts...
Now we know that wine is produced in all 50 states (yes even Alaska). But, I know we don't have time talk about everything from Alaska to Wyoming, so I have featured the top 15 based on wine production:
1. New York (3.692% of US Production).
Leave it to the Empire State to come in at #2 after California, who produces nearly 90% of American wine. Most wine nerds argue that New York has the greatest potential for wine-making in the Atlantic Northeast, but isn't quite reaching that potential yet. Biggest problem - New York is still producing wine with native grapes (thus not using the major players consumers are used to from Europe). Yet, the New York soil does yield some interesting wines (mostly shale, slate, schist and limestone). So check out Long Island, Hudson River Valley and the Finger Lakes wine regions.
2. Washington State (3.250% of US Production).
Until 1889, when Washington became the 42nd state, there was an issue of sovereignty because Spanish, American Colonists and British had all claimed the land as theirs. Identity issues aside, the Pacific Northwest produces some great wines, focusing on Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling and Syrah. Best recent vintage for Pacific Northwest was 2008.
3. Oregon (0.906%).
Much of Oregon's success actually came from new winemakers who decided to dropout of California and set up shop in a different region. Specifically, winemakers from Hill Crest, The Eyrie Vineyards and Tualatin were some of the early producers that helped establish Oregon as a notable wine region.
Primary varieties grown here include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. Favorite regions include Columbia Valley (which includes Walla Walla and Yakima) and Willamette Valley.
4.
Pennsylvania (0.476%).
Man, in Pennsylvania all roads lead back to William Penn. Penn established the first vineyard in PA in 1683 (unfortunately, it failed). But lasting wine producing success can be linked to Conrad Weiser in 1729. The most successful varietal in the state is Chambourcin, a native grape known for its tough resistance to rot and producing Beaujolais-like red wine.
5. Ohio (0.440%).
Ohio may be the dark horse of the Atlantic Northeast. Back in the 1860s, it rivaled California for vineyard acreage. While the vineyards dwindled for much of the 19th century, there has been expansion lately. The most popular varietal grown there is Catawba, a
lambrusca x vinifera
hybrid, known for its "foxy" aroma. Some notable wine regions include: Grand River Valley, Isle St. George, Loramie Creek, Lake Erie and the Ohio River Valley.
6. Kentucky (0.316%).
There are approximately 65 wineries and 4 vineyards in Kentucky. Most stick to growing the native American grapes and there has been some success with the American-French hybrids. One notable
vinifera
producer is Chrisman Mill, known for their Cabernet Sauvignon. Or... you could stick to drinking Bourbon, we all know Kentucky does that well.
7. Missouri (0.270%).
The "King of Missouri grapes" is Norton. Norton is a black grape variety (sometimes called Cynthiana) native to the United States
without
a "foxy aroma." (And while I don't know what "foxy" means in terms in flavor, I think going without it is a good thing). The wine made from these grapes can been tannin and high in acid. Producers to look for - Mount Pleasant Vineyards and Stonehill Winery.
8.
Florida (0.258%).
The first wines in FL were made around 1563. Beware the local grape, Muscadine (not to be confused as a member of the Muscadelle family), its not too tasty. Its safer to try some of their fruit based wines. Yes, they make wine with oranges, key lime, mango and passion fruit in Florida!
9. New Jersey (0.207%).
New Jersey is actually more famous for cider rather than wine, but actually produced the first American wine to win an international award. In 1767, two NJ vintners were recognized by London's Royal Society of the Arts. Today, there are approximately 32 vineyards but no major recognition of late.
10. Texas (0.182%).
Who knew the Lone Star State made wine in addition to great BBQ. Much of France should be indebted to Texas winemakers because it was Thomas Volney Munson who saved the phylloxera-infected vines by sending Texas rootstock. Producers to look for - Caprock (aka Teysha Cellars), Flat Creek Estate, and Messina Hof Wine Cellars.
11. Michigan (0.179%).
Initially, Michigan vintners only grew native grapes, but around the 1960s there was a major transition to French hybrids. What is interesting about Michigan is the soil - glacial scree in Fennville. I don't know if glacial soil produces tasty wines, but its definitely something different! Wineries to look for: Left Foot Charley and 2 Lads.
12. Virginia (0.137%).
Despite Thomas Jefferson's attempts, Virginia was not the first state to make wine - that honor goes to Florida. Virginia was the first state to attempt to cultivate the
vinifera
grapes, but unfortunately most attempts failed due to the hot and humid growing season. (The heat leads to overripe grapes and the humidity encourages disease). The quality of each vineyard widely varies.
13. Colorado (0.046%).
Its a bit tough to actually grow grapes in Colorado, but the number of wineries is on the rise. In the past 20 years, the number of wineries has grown from five to ninety! The most popular varieties are Chardonnay and Merlot.
14. Maryland (0.045%).
Sadly, my home state of Maryland is not a major player, producing a mere 0.045% of American wine, and most of it is a fruity sugar bomb. But, Maryland has been making since 1662 (shout out to Lord Baltimore for that one!) and has three major wine regions: Catoctin, Cumberland Valley and Linganore. Look out for wine festivals that feature small producers because there is quality out there, its just hard to find. My favorite local winery - Boordy Vineyards (Who couldn't love a bottle of wine with a Terrapin on it - honestly!).
15. Idaho (0.042%).
For you east coasters (myself included) that aren't exactly sure where Idaho is on the map, its technically grouped with the Pacific Northwest when discussing U.S. wine. Wine production here is typically an extension of Washington State's Snake River, where extreme
diurnal*
differences create wines with high acidity and alcohol balance.
Primary varieties grown here include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling.
And that wraps up our overview of American Wines. While the International community makes a mean glass of fermented grapes, get out there in you local community and see what is available. You just may find something delicious!
Cheers!
*Wine Nerd Definitions...
diurnal, term used for extreme temperature variations between day and night (warm days and chilly nights).
Dear Enthusiasts! My latest travels have brought me to the fine state of Delaware. Some of you may know it from its nickname "The First State," or the state dessert... peach pie? (I'm partial to the Smith Island Cake of Maryland, its no competition right). If none of that refreshes your recollection on that awesomeness that is Delaware, this
sums it up perfectly. (Shout out to my favorite, Vico, for originally sharing this pop culture gem with me!)
All joking aside - Delaware is a fun little state with a good sense of community. You may have heard, I have a tradition finding my favorite wine stores (and bars) when I visit a new place. You may ask, is this really worth it's own post? It's just a wine store... To those nay-sayers and skeptics, I scoff in your general direction!
The wine store is an essential neighborhood spot. The best ones have the perfect combination of selection, affordability, and knowledgeable (and approachable) staff. A great wine store will have a variety of wines to choose from. This doesn't mean millions of bottles, but at least a few carefully selected bottles from the major wine producing countries of the old
and
new world. However, this doesn't mean picking only the high-end bottles, but searching for those quality producers that offer affordable options (in the $10-$20 range). Finally, my favorite stores have great staff. People who know about wine, but also know how to talk about it in a normal (non-wine snob) way.
With all that in mind, here are the results for Wilmington, DE (in no particular order):
1. The Wine & Spirit Co of Greenville.
A smaller store, packed with carefully selected variety of wines (plus beer and spirits)! Super friendly staff! What pushed them over the edge was their thoughtful set up and wide array of affordable bottles.
2. Frank's Wine.
This store is packed with wine. If you can't find a bottle of something delicious in here, I will be a bit concerned. Loved the staff here as well. Only concern is that if you don't know what you want, the selection can be a bit overwhelming. Solution - go in with a game plan. (Or lots of questions! The staff is super knowledgeable!)
3. Kresto.
Affordability meets wide selection. This store has tons of wine and its neatly organized. Downfall - staff usually situated behind the counter, so you have to be outgoing if you need help.
4. Moore Brothers Wine Company.
If you want a rare bottle, head to Moore Brothers. They have several locations, including one in NYC. They are known for extreme climate control in the store
and
during shipment from producers (this means greater quality control). But, it also means less selection. So unless you know they have a specific bottle or are looking for a high quality recommendation, you may want to head somewhere else.
You are so jealous of Wilmington right now - aren't you?!
Cheers!
Dear Enthusiasts! This post is for my NYC readers (or NYC Bound readers)! One of my favorite sommeliers, wine blogger/podcaster is hosting an event in NYC. Elizabeth Schnieder of
, is going to be in NYC this week, Thursday October 3! Check out her blurb about the event below!
FULL DISCLOSURE -- you may have to pay for a glass of wine, but there is no cover charge, so still worth the trip to Times Square if you have the time.
"Another reminder to New York City Metro Normal Wine People! Come meet me and other normal wine people this Thursday night! I'll do a reading from the book and we can dork out and drink some nice stuff!"
Thursday, October 3. 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM at NIOS Restaurant at the Muse Hotel (Times Square) Midtown.
http://www.niosrestaurant.com/
If you go, let me know how the event was in a comment!
Cheers!
Photo Source:
http://www.janesgourmetdeli.com/Restaurant/TheWineWall.aspx
Dear Enthusiasts! I am shocked to learn that I have not yet shouted out my favorite wine bars! We have covered my favorite places to grab
and we have considered what to consider when
for your evening - but - now I will give you all my insider tips!
New York.
Let's start with the greatest city in the world. NYC! There are so many options here, frankly too many. Below are my top 5 favorites, places that I could go to night after night and always have a good time. I am
sure
there are tons that I missed, if so, just shout out your favorite place in the comments section.
1. Amelie (Greenwich Village).
I have probably shouted out this wine bar multiple times. But this place deserves it! The ambiance is great - sleek and modern, yet cozy. But what's even better is the food and drink. All the snacks are delicious, but the wine list is extensive. Added bonus - the servers are super fun!
2. The Immigrant (East Village).
I walked by this place most days for almost six months before I actually stopped by, but I was oh so glad when I did! This place exudes simple, rustic charm. The wine list is short, but full of complex choices. Go for drinks and snacks, but don't expect dinner!
3. Terroir (East Village).
Go for the Riesling selection, stay for the snacks! But an insider tip - one of the best happy hour deals I have seen in Manhattan.
4. Cork Buzz Wine Studio (Union Square).
If you want to experience great wine served by a truly knowledgeable staff - this is the place to go! Co-founded by one of my favorite Master Sommeliers (and 1 of only 20 women), the wine list really offers a great selection. Tons of familiar wine styles and even more interesting new glasses to try. Plus the food is delicious!
5. Murray's Cheese Bar (West Village).
Wine + cheese = happiness. Need I say more?
Photo Source:
http://www.allposters.com.au/-sp/
L-Instant-Taittinger-posters_i421309_.htm
Boston.
Now some New Yorkers wouldn't dare admit that there is life outside of the city, but I love exploring new places. One of the first things I do when I visit
a new city is find a great wine store and wine bar within the neighborhood. So this summer when I lived in Boston, I quickly found
Belly Wine Bar
in Cambridge. Rustic style wine bar with a very creative wine list. I wouldn't head there for a filling meal, but the snacks were definitely delicious.
Baltimore.
(No, it's not just like The Wire). I lived in Charm City for over a year and in that time I learned that Baltimore is not really a big wine town. No matter! I still stumbled upon
13.5% Wine Bar
in Hampden. The wine bar has a extensive list and fun snacks. But just in case you needed another reason, Hampden is a must visit neighborhood all on its own - hon fest, hipsters, great food! (Plus my favorite wine store of
all time
The Wine Source).
Annapolis.
I may love living in the City, but I actually grew up in Maryland (aka the mid-atlantic,
not
the South for you Northerners). One of my favorite places to visit when I'm back in town is
Red Red Wine Bar
on Main Street. It a relatively new addition, but well worth the wait.
Wilmington (Delaware that is).
I recently visited family in the Wilmington area, so true to form, I researched the wine bars. My favorite is
Pochi,
a wine bar featuring wines and food from Chile. Delicious!
Cheers!
