Wine 101 – Part 2

Back to “Part 1” Part Two … (the rest of the world’s top wine regions) Wine Regions of Italy, Spain, the U.S., and more Having covered the regions of France in Wine 101 Part 1, this second section now covers additional exciting wine regions to round out your growing wine experience. Look up the regions, check them

Sablet. A sensuous Southern Rhone wine from one of the most romantic villages in France.

The vineyards of Sablet, in the Vaucluse department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, are built on a mound of sand, from which its name derives. The town and its surrounding vineyards are located at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The terroir is of sandy soils and decalcified red clays mixed with pebbles of

Cabernet Sauvignon, Franc and Merlot

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot The most famous trio of Bordeaux red wine varietals. Originally from the iconic wine region of Bordeaux, the three have arguably become the most famous red wines around the world. As a blend, either from the original region or elsewhere, these 3 exude robust, bold aromas and tasting notes,

Sauvignon Blanc – the white wine

Sauvignon Blanc   (classic tasting notes of cut grass, lemon, herbs and a hint of gooseberry)   Sauvignon Blanc is a popular alternative to Chardonnay. It makes a crisp, light wine. It originated in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Tasting Notes: Herbal flavors, olive and a soft, smoky flavor. It can range from sweet to

Gigondas means historic, beautiful wine!

I simply adore Gigondas, Rhône, France. The place. The wines. I have pleasant memories of visiting a while back. Beautiful Gigondas village, in the Southern Rhône, is a cute and historic village with stone edifices, narrow lanes and steep hills. The wines are charming and iconic. Area wine regions include Gigondas, Vacqueyras, & Beaumes de

Rhône Valley wine region in 7 days.

Visiting the Rhône Valley wine region. A while back I had the good fortune to visit the various Rhône valley wine regions for seven days. The areas within are visually beautiful. The wines of the North can best be described as elegant and delicate. In contrast, the wines of the South are rustic and full of

On the lookout for truly great red wines? Look into this one. Structure, balance, and very impressive

What do we have to do to get truly great wines? I don’t know about you, but personally, I’m not impressed often enough with the red wines people bring to the house when I’m entertaining. Don’t get me wrong. I’m thankful for the gift, and even more thankful that they’ve come so I can enjoy

Chateau Jean Faure, St. Emilion charms in a most special way, both as a destination and as a wine

I’m at Chateau Jean Faure in St. Emilion. I feel like I’m home. The sunny disposition, soil, and general feeling of this place seem familiar and magical. The chateau’s historic roots, its reference terroir, and a passionate owner: Olivier Decelle make it very special. Monsieur Decelle explains: “This is a historic terroir. There are two

Beautiful Gigondas village, in the Southern Rhône, is a setting of stone edifices, narrow lanes and …

My recent visit to Gigondas, Rhône, France. Beautiful Gigondas village, in the Southern Rhône, is a setting of stone edifices, narrow lanes and steep hills. I am here to taste the iconic wines of the area: Gigondas, Vacqueyras, & Beaumes de Venise. I’m finding truly excellent and affordable wines here. The further south I go

Fab Rhone! 09 Domaine Coudoulis Cotes du Rhone (grenache, syrah, cinsault), 07 Domaine Brice Beaumont Lirac St. P…

Fab Rhone! 09 Domaine Coudoulis Cotes du Rhone (grenache, syrah, cinsault), 07 Domaine Brice Beaumont Lirac St. Pierre (grenache, syrah, cinsault, mourvedre, carignan), 09 Domaine Cabanis Jardin Secret, Costieres de Nimes. Wow. via SimplyTweet