Wine 679

Wine is often a delightful choice, but many people make subtle mistakes that prevent them from fully enjoying their bottles. To glean insights on avoiding common wine-related errors, we reached out to Jerry Chandler, the general manager of The Bohemian Wine Bar and a wine consultant. Here are five prevalent mistakes that can undermine your wine experience:

1. Serving Temperatures

White wine is typically served straight from the refrigerator, while red wine often comes straight from the counter. Both extremes can hinder the expression of their aromatic compounds. Ideally, white wine should be in the 40s or 50s Fahrenheit, and red wines should be in the 50s or 60s.

Pro Tip: Briefly chill red wine in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. For white wine, remove it from the fridge 15 to 20 minutes prior, or chill it in a bucket of ice water. Avoid leaving a bottle in the freezer too long, as this can negatively impact the wine.

2. Incorrectly Opening Sparkling Wine

The pop of a sparkling wine bottle can be exciting, but it also jeopardizes the carbonation and can be dangerous. To safely open a bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine, leave the cage on the cork while loosening it, allowing for controlled release of the pressure.

3. Improper Storage

Even a few hours of improper storage can impact a bottle of wine. Factors such as light, heat, and motion can degrade wine quality. Avoid storing wine in places with fluctuating temperatures or direct sunlight. For better quality wine preservation, store bottles on their sides in a cool, dark place.

4. Being a Packaging Snob

While it may seem that heavy bottles or cork closures guarantee quality, recent advancements in wine technology have changed this perception. Many high-quality wines now come with screw tops, which are perfectly acceptable for wines consumed within a short period. Don’t dismiss wines based solely on packaging—some may surprise you.

5. Sticking to the Familiar

Many wine drinkers tend to stick to familiar labels and grape varieties, missing out on the diverse landscape of wines available. Instead of repeatedly purchasing the same brands, consider exploring new options and communicating with wine professionals who can recommend based on your taste preferences.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can elevate your wine experience and discover the delightful spectrum of flavors each bottle has to offer.

Enjoy an enchanting evening of tamales and wine at a special Posada Navideña on December 14, from 5 to 8 PM, at Los Palos Vineyard and Art Studio in Agua Caliente. This intimate event, organized by winemakers Luies Gallegos from Surcos Wines and Salvador de la Cruz from Gibson Family Wines, promises to be a delightful culinary experience. Attendees will be guided through a unique tasting of specifically chosen wines that beautifully complement a variety of tamales, featuring flavors from spicy and savory to sweet.

Due to the exclusive nature of this event, attendance is limited to just 30 guests. Tickets are priced at $85 plus tax and can be purchased through Eventbrite. The exact location details will be shared with guests upon booking.

For more updates on food and wine happening in the area, check additional news here.

Nomadica is revolutionizing the perception of boxed wine, moving away from its stereotypical association with college parties to a more sophisticated image. This shift is facilitated by the innovative packaging designs forged by founder Kristin Olszewski, whose approach combines appealing aesthetics with sustainability.

Launched in 2017, Nomadica initially stood out with its premium canned wines, which were unique for their artistic packaging. Now, it has ventured into boxed wines, which are resplendent with eye-catching abstract art and challenge the notion that quality wine must come in a glass bottle. Olszewski’s mission is to bring "some romance back into everyday life" through these products.

Her journey to creating Nomadica was unconventional; starting with a background in sustainable agriculture, she briefly attended Harvard Medical School before shifting gears to pursue wine, ultimately qualifying as a sommelier and working in high-end restaurants. This experience allowed her to realize the environmental impact of glass packaging, which she aimed to mitigate with her creations. Nomadica’s cans and boxes significantly reduce carbon footprints—by around 70% and nearly 90%, respectively.

Nomadica wines are sourced from California vineyards that utilize sustainable farming practices, and the brand has gained traction, even capturing the attention of Whole Foods Market, which is exploring unique and sustainable packaging solutions.

The boxed wines—available in several blends—agar guaranteeing freshness with a resealable spout that maintains the wine’s integrity for weeks. This model allows consumers the luxury of savoring wine over time without the pressure to finish a bottle in one sitting.

Aiming primarily for younger consumers, Nomadica simplifies its labels to just colors rather than specific grape varieties, mitigating the intimidation that often comes with wine selection. A QR code on the packaging provides additional information, fostering curiosity and engagement.

Retailers are increasingly receptive to alternative packaging, and Nomadica is positioned as a premium choice among its competitors. As boxed wine continues to gain traction, Nomadica stands at the forefront, redefining rules in the wine industry with its stylish design and sustainable practices. This change speaks volumes about evolving consumer expectations and the shifting landscape towards eco-friendliness in food and drink industries.

Nomadica is redefining the boxed wine market, shifting the image of this once-mockable vessel to something more sophisticated. The brand, founded in 2017 by Kristin Olszewski, has embraced innovative packaging that not only looks good but also aligns with sustainable practices, appealing to a new generation of wine drinkers.

Historically, boxed wine has been associated with budget drinking and parties, but Nomadica aims to change that perception with artfully designed packaging that portrays quality. Olszewski’s journey began with a focus on sustainable agriculture, which later led her toward sommelier training and working at renowned restaurants before creating Nomadica. She was driven by the desire to make high-quality wine more accessible while reducing its carbon footprint.

Traditional glass wine bottles are heavy and have a significant environmental impact, with only a fraction being recycled. Nomadica’s approach includes packaging wine in cans and boxes that are much lighter and more environmentally friendly—cans reduce carbon footprint by around 70%, while boxed wine offers a nearly 90% reduction. Whole Foods has noticed and embraced this shift, supporting Nomadica as part of its commitment to sustainable products.

The company’s wines are packaged in a way that enhances the drinking experience. Each box contains the same quality blends found in the cans but is designed to keep the wine fresh for longer, eliminating the urgency often felt with traditional bottles. The wines are labeled simply—red, white, rosé—making it easier for younger consumers, who are increasingly seeking to moderate their alcohol intake, to engage with the products.

Nomadica is not alone in exploring alternative packaging solutions, though it stands out as a premium option within a growing niche. Other brands are also making strides, but Nomadica’s focus on quality and sustainability positions it well for future growth, tapping into a market that is shifting away from conventional wine consumption. With its commitment to changing perceptions around boxed wine, Nomadica is helping redefine what premium wine can look like and how it can be enjoyed.

Curious wine enthusiasts often seek innovative ways to enhance their experience with red and white wines beyond simply choosing the right bottle. Recently, a discussion with Jerry Chandler, the general manager of The Bohemian Wine Bar in Charlotte, highlighted surprising wine serving tips that can elevate the tasting experience.

One of the most notable suggestions was to briefly chill red wine in the fridge before serving. While most people serve red wine at room temperature, this can be too warm for optimal flavor expression. Chandler recommends putting red wine in the fridge for about 10 to 15 minutes before pouring. This simple trick can help achieve an ideal serving temperature that allows the wine’s aromatic compounds to flourish, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Common Wine Mistakes to Avoid

1. Improper Serving Temperatures

   • White wine is often served straight from the fridge, and red wine directly from the countertop. Ideally, white wines should be served in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit, while reds are best enjoyed in the 50s to 60s.

2. Incorrectly Opening Sparkling Wine

   • When uncorking a bottle of sparkling wine, it’s essential to keep the cage on while loosening it. This provides safety and control as you pop the cork, allowing for a gentle release of pressure without excessive carbonation loss.

3. Improper Storage Methods

   • Storing wine improperly can spoil even inexpensive bottles. Wine should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and constant movement. Ideally, bottles should be stored on their sides to prevent cork drying.

4. Bias Against Certain Packaging

   • Dismissing wines with screw-top closures can limit your options. Many quality wines are now available in this packaging, designed for shorter-term enjoyment, and there’s been significant advancement in sealing technologies over the past two decades.

5. Sticking to the Familiar

   • Many wine drinkers tend to stick with well-known brands and varietals, missing out on a vast world of flavors. Exploring diverse grape varieties and less commercial producers can lead to exciting new discoveries. Wine tasting should be about exploring and enjoying new experiences rather than sticking to old habits.

These tips encourage wine enthusiasts to refine their approach to serving and enjoying wine, making it a more enriching and flavorful experience. Embracing these practices can lead to newfound appreciation and enjoyment of these beloved beverages.

The Glancy Wine Education Foundation (GWEF) recently concluded its online silent auction, raising $49,247 with substantial participation from across the United States. This year’s event saw an impressive 299 bids from 154 bidders, marking it as one of the most successful auctions in the foundation’s history. The funds raised will provide scholarships to wine and hospitality professionals from diverse backgrounds facing financial challenges.

High-value items included a weekend getaway for four at Keller Estate, owned by GWEF’s President Ana Keller, which was offered twice due to high demand. Additionally, an Oceania cruise arranged with the San Francisco Wine School contributed to the competitive bidding. The scholarships average around $1,400 per student, and GWEF boasts a remarkably low administration fee of only 9%, thanks to its all-volunteer board. Since its inception four years ago, the foundation has awarded 204 scholarships, totaling $299,695.

In 2024, GWEF has experienced several milestones, including the addition of new members to its diverse board and a partnership with the Association of African American Vintners. Plans to broaden the geographical reach of its scholarship program will be announced early in 2025.

On #GivingTuesday2024, GWEF is seeking further support to continue its mission. Donations can be made through corporate sponsorship or individual contributions.

About The Glancy Wine Education Foundation

Founded in 2020, GWEF is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping underserved communities by providing scholarships for professional wine education, enhancing diversity, and increasing earning potential. The foundation has received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator and holds a Platinum Transparency rating from Candid. More information can be found at GlancyWineEducationFoundation.Org, where professionals in need are encouraged to apply for scholarships year-round.

Wine requires careful storage to maintain its quality once opened, and different types of wine come with diverse timelines for freshness. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maximizing the lifespan of opened wine.

Storing Open Wine

When the cork is popped, the clock begins ticking—wine deteriorates quickly once exposed to air. Therefore, understanding how to store each variety can help prolong its enjoyment.

Sparkling Wine

• Shelf Life: 1-3 days in the fridge.
• Sparkling wines lose their effervescence rapidly after opening. For best results, use a sparkling wine stopper to keep the fizz longer. Specialized systems like Coravin can maintain the bubbles for weeks.

Light White, Sweet White, and Rosé Wines

• Shelf Life: 4-5 days in the fridge.
• Light whites and rosés can be stored corked in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, expect subtle changes in flavor due to oxidation.

Full-Bodied White Wines

• Shelf Life: 2-3 days in the fridge.
• Fuller-bodied whites, such as oaked Chardonnay, oxidize faster and should also be kept corked and refrigerated to maintain quality.

Red Wine

• Shelf Life: 3-5 days in the fridge.
• Open red wine can be stored in a cool dark place or refrigerated, especially wines high in tannins. Remove from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving for optimal taste.

Tips for Storing Wine

1. Invest in Wine Preservation Tools: Consider using products like vacuum caps or systems such as Coravin, which replaces oxygen with argon gas, preserving the wine for an extended period.

2. Keep Wine Refrigerated: This slows down the aging process. The ideal temperature for storage hovers around 55°F.

3. Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight: Store wine away from heat sources to prevent cooking the wine, which can spoil its flavors.

Ideal Serving Temperatures for Wine

Serving wine at the right temperature is also crucial for flavor:

• Champagne and Sparkling Wines: 40-45°F
• Light White Wines and Rosés: 45-50°F
• Heavier Whites: 48-56°F, depending on preference.
• Lighter Reds: Best served at the cooler end of the spectrum, around 55°F.
• Medium-Bodied Reds: Ideally served at cellar temperature around 55°F.
• Full-Bodied and Aged Reds: Best at 59-68°F.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy opened wine over several days without compromising taste or quality. Adhering to proper storage practices will ensure that none of your wine goes to waste. Cheers!

In a surprising move, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis recently legalized the sale of 15-liter bottles of wine, a size previously outlawed for over 80 years. The Florida Legislature’s decision to reverse this prohibition was nearly unanimous, with legislators from both political parties expressing confusion over the need for such a rule. Until July 1, 2024, residents could only purchase wine in bottles up to 1 gallon (about 3.8 liters), while the sale of larger formats was illegal, despite being commonplace elsewhere in the U.S.

This law’s origins are unclear, and many are speculating why such a peculiar restriction was ever enacted. Historical context reveals a 1939 lobbying effort by liquor dealers who wanted to prevent large quantities of liquor from being sold, fearing it could lead to abuses like bottling wine for resale. The relevant proposal aimed to limit wine sales in containers over 1 gallon. Thus, it appears that this outdated regulation stemmed from a 20th-century concern that large containers would inadvertently promote overconsumption.

In his push for the new bill, Rep. Chip LaMarca emphasized the importance of personal freedom in consumer choices and highlighted the absurdity of criminal penalties—ranging from misdemeanors to felonies—associated with owning large bottles of wine. The legislative turnaround was reinforced by support from various business groups advocating for a freer market, especially in a state with a booming event and tourism industry.

At the signing ceremony, DeSantis celebrated the change as a triumph over excessive government interference, insisting that if Floridians want to purchase a sizable bottle of wine, they should have the right to do so. He described the large bottles as an opportunity for enjoyment and communal celebration.

Wine professionals like sommelier Nick Walters have noted that large bottles often serve more than practical purposes; they exemplify celebration and communal experiences. Large formats, however, pose challenges in pouring, requiring multiple people to assist, and are often reserved for special occasions, from extravagant weddings to high-profile events.

The market for giant wine bottles is niche, frequently appealing to private collectors and event hosts seeking to impress. These oversized bottles need meticulous handling—from production and transportation to storage—and present their own set of logistical challenges.

Now that Florida has opened the door to larger wine formats, retailers and consumers alike anticipate a shift. Places like Wine Watch in Fort Lauderdale are preparing to stock these once-illegal treasures, signaling a new chapter in the state’s wine scene. The first large bottles are expected to be available as early as 2025, offering a luxurious option for celebratory occasions in the Sunshine State.

Ultimately, the new law welcomes a more liberated approach to wine culture in Florida, allowing for unique purchasing experiences while bringing a touch of extravagance to social gatherings.

Grant Hemingway, a Napa Valley winemaker with experience at renowned vineyards, found his passion for wine slipping when he and his wife welcomed their two toddlers. Wine became a distant memory amidst the chaos of parenting. This personal shift spurred Hemingway to create a solution that would offer a better taste experience without the alcohol.

In collaboration with brewing entrepreneur John Green, known for creating the All Day Session IPA at Founder’s Brewing Co., Hemingway launched Libby Non-Alcoholic Wines after nearly four years of development. “When Grant and I connected, we realized we could channel that same ethos into something entirely new,” Green stated regarding their partnership.

Libby aims to tap into the expanding non-alcoholic wine market, which is projected to grow significantly, with estimates reaching $2.57 billion in 2024. Hemingway emphasizes the goal of providing a true wine-drinking experience that doesn’t compromise on quality. “We wanted to capture everything consumers love about wine, minus the alcohol,” he explained. The high-quality production process involved refining flavor profiles meticulously.

The wines are packaged in a lightweight, resealable swing-top bottle, combining functionality and aesthetics. Currently, Libby offers two varieties: a sparkling rosé and a sparkling white, each made from sustainably farmed grapes. The rosé features notes of strawberries and brioche, while the white offers hints of crisp pear and citrus aromas. Retailing at $17.99 per bottle, Libby positions itself as an indulgent yet health-conscious alternative.

Both Hemingway and Green are focused on strategic growth and creating a loyal customer base. “We’re pacing ourselves to build it right, with care and authenticity,” Hemingway noted. The duo is keen on expanding the brand while maintaining a commitment to quality.

While Libby currently has just two offerings, both entrepreneurs are excited about the potential to innovate further in the non-alcoholic wine sector. "We’re also thinking about different formats," said Green. As they move forward, their priority will always be to elevate the quality of non-alcoholic wines and to set a new standard in the industry.

Wine to Water, an organization founded by Doc Hendley, along with his wife Amber, is actively working to support victims of Hurricane Helene as winter approaches. On the show ‘America Reports,’ they discussed their ongoing efforts to provide clean water and other essential resources to those affected by the disaster. The organization’s mission highlights the importance of ensuring that basic needs are met for communities facing challenging circumstances due to natural calamities.

More information on the organization’s initiatives can be found on their official website.