Summer Diversions: Rioja Wines Excel
Once again, this year as Memorial Day approaches, we are looking for updated “Hot Weather Quaffs” to enjoy informally this summer. But if you really want to know, “Summer” actually started about a month ago here in Phoenix. So, as the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, we enjoy lighter goodies to...
5/23/26
A New Mexico Wine Oasis: VARA
If you enjoy wineries with extensive tasting options, you may come up a little “short” during a tasting tour in New Mexico. But it is possible to work around this limitation and imbibe in some of the most eclectic wine flavors that New Mexico (and the world for that matter) has to offer...
1/14/26
Up from the cellar: Jennifer’s Pinot Noir
Would you believe that there are wine aficionados who say, “A good Pinot will change your taste in wine forever!”? Who knows, maybe that’s true. But if there was ever a wine to put that statement to the test, it’s Hartford’s Jennifer’s Pinot Noir...
12/9/25
Southwestern Eggs and Sparklers: Scrumptious
But think back to your favorite southwestern brunch spot, remember what drink seemed to be flowing, and you may recall the standard Mimosa. But also, did you notice those glasses of Champagne?
So, what if you were to pair some real locally produced southwestern bubbly with a southwestern egg dish? Well, it works a lot better than you may think...
10/1/25
Spanish Rioja: Summer Refreshers
This year, Spain’s Rioja region celebrates 100-years (that’s 1925) as an official DO (Designation of Origin). This is a big deal, not only for a region’s reputation, but also for their ability to grow into the future with new investments. Much to our delight, Rioja has taken advantage of this opportunity every year since then. Even though the Rioja region...
7/19/25
L’Ecole Semillon: Pairing Champ with Seafood
If you’re setting out to pair wine with seafood, Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay usually are the first thing to grab. But what if that recipe includes a little more spice, seasonings, and garlic? If you can find a Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc blend having complex flavors, outside of Bordeaux, to pair with stuffed shrimp, why not enjoy one of our domestic alternatives...
6/5/25
Finding a Mate for Sushi: In Arizona!
Sushi’s traditional wine partner has always been Sake. But Sake is best served hot. Please realize that there are times, especially during a sweltering summer in Arizona, when hot Sake is just a little too much. However, serving cold Sake is plain sacrilege, so what to do...
4/18/25
Enjoying Old Wines: Consistently Age-Worthy is the Word
When it comes to racking now and tasting later, well-aged red wines require consistency. Erratically produced wines, especially those that don’t come cheap, are no fun when consumed years down the road.
One way to improve your odds of success, is to stick with a consistent producer that you have tasted before buying bottles destined for that long wait...
2/28/25
Miramonte Tempranillo: A West Coast Rendition
Just NE of San Diego & SE of LA, your will find the Temecula wineries. Close to urban locales but quite rural, they do not produce the “ same-ol’- same-ol’ ” wines. This is because many are not the standard California adoption of French varietals. Rather, they feature the varietals of Spain and Italy in their lineups. One of my favorites is Miramonte’s Tempranillo...
1/7/25
On the Napa Wine Trail: Tasting @ Frank Family
With an amazing history of growth, Frank Family’s fully equipped tasting facility is just as fun and friendly as in the past. And now, there are more wines to pick from and even sparkling wines for those in love with the bubbly ...
11/21/24
When Wine is Cheaper Than Beer
One of the most amusing debates is about the perfect beverage to consume with Italian cuisine. This often develops into banter over Wine versus Beer.
There is always the "which one pairs better" discussion.
But most people gloss over one important point. Which one actually costs you more? ...
10/31/24
South Rim Made Easy: Grand Canyon Railroad
With about 5 million people now visiting the Grand Canyon every year and with car parking often difficult to find, it would be nice to visit without the family vehicle. Sure, they have parking at the South rim, but you still must find a space at every overlook, and they require a shuttle to see the west side of the South Rim. So why put up...
10/1/24
Grilled BBQ Chicken: A Merlot That Pairs It Well
Anyone who loves grilled chicken should keep one thing in mind about wine pairing, don’t rule out today’s Merlots. They are bigger than past vintages and are an essential pairing choice. Also, with the wide variety of Merlots on the market, there’s always a good one to match your favorite chicken seasoning style...
9/13/24
National White Wine Day: Celebrate California
It’s summer, and with more hot days to come, most of our wine picks are going to draw from the white wine category. Also, with National White Wine Day coming up this Sunday August 4th, this may be an excellent time to take on a few new white wine pairing options...
7/31/24
Getting Fancy: And Wine Glasses to Match
Yeah, you order some wine, and they bring you a glass, big deal. But did you ever notice a glass that was a little different than usual? Fancy wine glasses are also the norm for special tastings, usually away from the main bar in a special area. But do you ever enjoy wine in fancy wine glasses at home?...
6/25/24
A Rutherford Complex: Freemark’s 2019 Cabernet Bosché
After tasting a lot of Napa Cabernets, it becomes obvious why the ones that are simply “different” fetch big ratings (and prices). Granted, if a top-shelf wine doesn’t work for you, it’s not worth it. On the other hand, those who enjoy these puppies will pay the price, knowing that their real value is somewhat intangible. And that’s what drives the...
5/3/24
Wine glasses clean in 8 minutes: A high-end solution
We once wrote about using a dishwasher to clean wine glasses, and you still can, if you use the right additives. However, if you are using many glasses to set up numerous tasting flights for people, you might want to consider a capable dishwasher with a little more oomph....
3/28/24
Matsu El Picaro: A stunning wine from Spain’s Toro
Great wines are often described as having Character, Depth, Fullness, and Distinctiveness. But in a world where so many offerings are simply “just there and quaffable”, distinctive selections that standout are always worth remembering. For many reasons, a good chunk of...
3/12/24
Mixing A.I. Into Your Wine Pairings
Ever feel like things are moving a little too quickly these days? Wondering about how the latest Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) craze will affect our everyday lives? You are not alone. Well, AI is here and there are some very real applications coming down to...
2/22/24
Wonderfully Balanced: La Follette Chardonnay 2021
As Greg La Follette moves on to the 2021 vintage, the trend in his Chardonnay’s combination of elegance and careful balance continues. Although the “Los Primeros” Chardonnay has a few less dimensions than the “Sun Chase”, it still offers a captivating character that the unoaked Chard fan will appreciate...
12/26/23
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