A two-hour drive from San Francisco, northern California´s Sonoma County with its picturesque landscapes and wineries producing world-class wines is an utterly enchanting haven for oenophiles seeking an unforgettable getaway. There are plenty of historic sites and other fetching spots, including the 201-year old Spanish Mission San Francisco Solano; the former Russian trading post Fort Ross, founded in 1812; the ranch of iconic 20th-century writer Jack London, woodsy resort area Russian River;
WINE (151)
Think Massachusetts is all about historic sites and clam chowder? Think again. The Bay State is also pouring up some seriously impressive wines that are catching the eyes and palates of wine lovers near and far. Whether you’re looking to break out from your usual weekend routine or planning a special day out with family, friends, or coworkers, a tour through Massachusetts' top wineries offers a unique blend of flavors and experiences that go beyond the bottle.
From Cape Cod's laid-back shores t
Located in south central Washington state and only a few hours from Seattle or Portland, Yakima Valley is a vibrant wine growing region and home to over 100 wineries. About one-third of the state’s wine grapes are grown in the Yakima Valley AVA. As a member of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association, I had the privilege to sample a Cabernet Frac wine from Dineen Vineyards, while participating in a webinar sponsored by Adam Stewart, Yakima Valley Tourism; Marissa Dineen,
With a winemaking tradition dating back to the 6th century BCE, France is of course one of the world´s most renowned countries for wine, and this is especially true when it comes to its whites, known for their rich flavors, elegance, and complexity; the best of them can be aged for decades and goes through many different stages before finally being bottled for consumption. It possesses an earthy aroma and taste that you won't find in whites from other countries, due to its temperate cl
The Walla Walla Valley's success story is a combination of ideal conditions. Warm days with cool nights allow grapes to ripen slowly, developing concentrated flavors and balanced acidity. The valley floor is covered in rich, fertile loess soil, left behind by ancient glacial floods. This unique soil composition provides excellent drainage and imparts distinctive mineral characteristics to the wines. Finally, a deep-rooted agricultural heritage and a passionate community of winemakers contribute
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Summer is right around the corner, and that means - among other things - rosé, that pink, light, refreshing variation on white wine which icorporates some of the color from red grapes skins but not enough to qualify as a red wine. And actually, it´s no longer just a summery tipple to enjoy on the patio but a year-round favorite among wine lovers of all ages. And for the right reasons: besides being refreshing, rosé is versatile; can be enjoyed with a variety of foods; and is always a
Close your eyes and imagine yourself amidst the sun-drenched foothills of the Andes. The air shimmers with crisp mountain freshness, and a glass of vibrant liquid dances between your fingertips. This is the magic of Torrontés wine, Argentina's hidden gem waiting to waltz across your palate and into your heart. Forget the usual suspects; Torrontés wine offers an exhilarating adventure, a tango of unexpected aromas and refreshing flavors that will leave you wanting more.
But before we emb
California, the land of sunshine, sprawling vineyards, and world-renowned wines, often conjures images of buttery Chardonnays and bold Cabernet Sauvignons. But what if I told you there's a whole other side to the California wine story, waiting to be explored? A side where lesser-known white grape varieties whisper tales of innovation, terroir, and unique flavor profiles? Buckle up California wine lovers, because we're diving into the exciting world of California's "underdog" white grapes!
Why
Step aside, predictable Pinot Noir! Cast aside that Cabernet comfort blanket! Shove Sauvignon Blanc to the side, because here we're throwing a sun-drenched fiesta for the underdog, the chameleon, the globetrotting wanderer of the wine world – Grenache! This ruby-shimmering grape deserves not just a sip, but a full-blown toast, a vibrant ode to its soul that whispers tales of Spanish hills and dusty Rhône valleys. So clear your palate, vino adventurers, and get ready to paint your taste buds with
Pigeon Forge's popularity has long been anchored in its ability to offer outdoor adventures and family-friendly entertainment. However, nestled within this lively destination are lesser-known treasures that promise an equally captivating experience. The local wineries and distilleries of Pigeon Forge are where tradition meets craftsmanship, offering visitors a glimpse into the artisanal processes that produce some of Tennessee's finest wines and spirits. These hidden gems provide a taste of the
Raise a glass to the world of sparkling wine! French Champagne is the most famous, of course, but there are many types of bubbly wine enjoyed around the world, and some of the best/most nobale hail from Europe. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a glass with friends, there is a sparkling wine out there for everyone. Here are some of the most popular types that you can find at your favorite wine shop or online.
Champagne (France)
The world´s most renowned bubby
This winery is more than just a producer of fine wines in the heart of Sonoma County's picturesque landscapes. Balletto Family Vineyards is a story woven into the very fabric of this wine-rich region, and its tale is as captivating as the wines it crafts. Come along with us as we discover the secrets and stories behind Balletto Family Vineyards, a place where passion and tradition meet, and every Balletto wine bottle is a testament to the dedication of its maker. Browse our online wine store for
Photos by Victor Block unless otherwise noted
The platter that was set before me was covered with what resembled small piles of leaves from a fall lawn raking. The little brown, green and black heaps hardly invited sniffing, much less tasting. Yet sniff and taste I did.
Little did I know, before this introduction to “cheese wrapping,” that a gastronomic tradition in this corner of Italy is aging cheeses by encasing them in leaves. Nor was I aware that there are highly respected professional “c
Sometimes we want to drink a powerful wine, at these times Syrah is the best choice. Contrary to common thought, the true origin of Syrah wine lies in the Northern Rhone of France, not Shiraz, Iran. Despite the longstanding tradition of viticulture in Persia, there is no relation between Syrah and the wine that was once produced there. The fame of Syrah has however been extended to Australia, where it has become the country's most popular red wine variety.
It is a popular grape in warm regions,
photos: Victor Block
Some places are more than a destination, and topping that list is Provence. This Maryland-size region, nestled in France's southeastern corner, immediately immerses visitors in a setting and lifestyle that cajole and captivate. And while the glitzy French Riviera has many advocates, my wife Fyllis and I limited our recent stay to what we what we call the “real” Provence.
It’s an area of tiny towns and even smaller villages. Mountain chains overlook valleys blanketed by a c
Our Southern California Wine Council welcomed the holiday season by tasting and pairing four whites and four reds from the Livermore Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA), just over an hour east of San Francisco. With a climate consisting of warm days and cool nights, the area has been conducive to wine grape growing since the late 1800s.
Omega Road Winery Gratia, 2019 ($23) was our first tasting. Omega Road Winery is run by father-daughter team Ken and Alexandra Henkelman. A flavorful
Are you thinking of what to do during the holiday? Well, a wine tour is an ideal thing for you. As you plan for the significant experience, Major Vehicle Exchange is readily available to sort your transport need by providing you with amazing secondhand tour buses. Used buses for sale are there for you ensuring that your tour remains memorable and worth the time. Before making a move, this what you need to know.
Why go for a wine tour?
Depending on where you have decided to visit with family member
Paris and Lile аrе undеnіаblу twо of the world’s grеаtеѕt сіtіеѕ but Itаlу’ѕ hеаrt lіеѕ іn France. Rolling hills tорреd with mеdіеvаl towns and wіndіng rоаdѕ lіnеd with cypress gіvе France a tіmеlеѕѕ арреаl but to rеаllу experience
France уоu’vе gоt tо еxреrіеnсе it’s wіnе. Going оn a wine tоur іn France tорѕ many Itаlіаn trip wіѕhlіѕtѕ but wіnе tasting іn France іѕ a bit dіffеrеnt than іn the Unіtеd States. On a recent trір tо Paris I got tо explore France’s rich hеrіtаgе on a рrіvаtе France fоо
Becker Vineyards
It all began when the Becker family began searching for a log cabin to renovate for their Texas Hill Country getaway from their main residence in San Antonio. Inspired by travels abroad where they developed a passion for wines, the Beckers felt that central Texas was ripe for supporting more top quality vineyards. They purchased a cabin in 1990 on 46 acres of raw land and quickly discovered that native mustang grapes left over from German settlers grew abundantly in the fallow f
