Wine 988

We’re back on the Wine Walkabout bus, still buzzing from Portugal’s sun-drenched slopes. This time, we’re careening into Spain, where the air fills with the scents of dust, rebellion, and jamón that might make you weep. Before we dive in, let’s clarify: leave your wine snobbery at the door. In Spain, wine is a part of life, woven into the fabric of every meal since the Phoenicians first brought vines over 3,000 years ago.

Rioja — The Grand Dame with Attitude

Our first stop is Rioja, where Tempranillo reigns supreme, often blended with Garnacha, Graciano, or Mazuelo, and aged in American oak to perfection. Rioja presents a delightful blend of contradictions—a cooling Atlantic breeze here, a warm, fruity note there, each area contributing to its unique spirit.

• Crianza: Young and vibrant, like cherry candy with a peppery jab.
• Reserva: Aged with vanilla and leather complexity.
• Gran Reserva: A sage with cedar and tobacco notes that feel luxurious.

Choosing the best bottle is always debated, but the Marqués de Murrieta Ygay Gran Reserva Especial stands out ($100+). It’s a moody Tempranillo, lush and complex. As for a medium-priced option, Muga Crianza ($20+) serves up vanilla with hints of oak—a fiesta in a bottle.

Pair it with charred lamb chops and revel in the atmosphere at Logroño’s tapas bars, where you might even find yourself singing flamenco until dawn.

Ribera del Duero — The Bad Boy

Next up is Ribera del Duero, known for its powerful Tempranillo, or Tinto Fino. The high altitude creates an extreme growing environment, yielding bold reds with dark fruit and smoky undertones.

• Best Bottle: Vega Sicilia Único ($400+) epitomizes quality with its rich blackberry and espresso flavors.
• Medium-Priced Pick: Emilio Moro Finca Resalso ($18) offers juicy plum and spice without breaking the bank.

Perfect for a hearty ribeye, Ribera del Duero wines are unyielding and memorable.

Priorat — The Rebel’s Elixir

Traveling further south to Priorat in Catalonia, we find the intense reds crafted by medieval monks. These wines are bold, built from Garnacha and Cariñena, known for their abrasive texture derived from llicorella soil.

• Best Bottle: Álvaro Palacios L’Ermita ($150+), a cult classic.
• Medium-Priced Pick: Torres Salmos ($30) which captures Priorat’s essence.

A perfect pairing for roasted venison, this wine makes meals feel like grand occasions.

Rías Baixas — The Mermaid’s Kiss

Galicia’s Rías Baixas region offers Albariño, a white that’s as crisp as the ocean’s waves, born from vineyards that kiss the Atlantic.

• Best Bottle: Pazo de Señoráns Selección de Añada ($50+), filled with citrus and coastal notes.
• Medium-Priced Pick: Martín Códax Albariño ($15) provides a budget-friendly, zesty option.

Excellent with fresh shellfish, this wine invites you to savor the flavors of the sea.

Cava — The Fiesta Fuel

Finally, we head to Penedès, home of Cava. This sparkling wine, created from local varietals, thrives in cool underground cellars.

• Best Bottle: Recaredo Turó d’en Mota ($100+) delivers elegance akin to Champagne.
• Medium-Priced Pick: Bohigas Brut (~$16) offers lively bubbles perfect for any celebration.

Spain’s cuisine enhances the wine experience, with cheeses like nutty Manchego, funky Cabrales, and tangy Mahón taking center stage alongside their local wines.

Ultimately, Spain shouts in flavors—packed with enthusiasm and passion. To truly appreciate this country, dive in, indulge, and laugh out loud. Chef Molly’s soul-searing paella, paired with Martín Códax Albariño, is an unforgettable experience perfect for your next dinner gathering.

Spanish Paella with Shrimp, Roasted Connecticut Corn & Poblano Peppers

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 6 U-10 shrimp (shells reserved for stock if desired)
• 4 cups homemade shrimp/lobster stock (kept warm)
• 2 cups bomba rice
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 poblano pepper, diced
• 2 golden tomatoes, grated (discard skin)
• 2 purple tomatoes, grated (discard skin)
• 2 cobs Connecticut sweet corn, roasted until lightly charred, kernels cut off (reserve some for garnish)
• 1 roasted red pepper (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tsp toasted saffron threads, bloomed in 2 tbsp warm stock
• 2 tsp smoked paprika (pimentón de la Vera)
• ½ tsp cayenne (optional)
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Method

1. Prepare the Base (Sofrito)
   Heat olive oil in a paella pan over medium heat. Add onion and poblano; cook until softened (8–10 minutes). Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne; cook for another minute. Add grated tomatoes and simmer until thick (10–12 minutes).

2. Toast the Rice & Corn
   Stir in bomba rice and corn kernels. Toast for 2 minutes until rice absorbs flavors.

3. Build and Cook the Broth
   Add warm stock and saffron infusion, then season. Shake pan gently to level rice, and do not stir thereafter.

4. Add the Shrimp
   After 8 minutes at medium-high, lower heat and cook undisturbed for 15–18 minutes until most liquid is absorbed. Nestle shrimp atop and cook until opaque.

5. Develop the Socarrat
   Raise heat for 1–2 minutes until a faint crackle is heard, forming the crispy crust.

6. Rest & Garnish
   Cover with a towel and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish before serving with fresh parsley and lemon.

Charred Corn–Saffron Aioli

Ingredients

• 1 ear Connecticut corn, charred, kernels cut off
• 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1 small garlic clove, grated
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ cup neutral oil (like canola) + 2 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch toasted saffron threads, bloomed in 1 tbsp warm water

Method

1. Char the Corn: Roast or grill the corn until blackened; cut off kernels and mash.
2. Start the Aioli Base: Whisk together egg yolk, garlic, Dijon, salt, and lemon juice.
3. Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in oil while whisking until creamy.
4. Flavor Boost: Stir in saffron water and the corn puree.

This recipe brings the flavors of Spain to your home. Enjoy with chilled Albariño or a light Spanish rosé, and don’t forget to invite a few friends to join the fiesta!

Sunset Magazine has recognized several locations in Oregon as standout spots for food and wine in the Western U.S. Among the highlighted venues are Soter Vineyards and Hood River’s innovative mocktail trail.

Soter Vineyards, located in the Willamette Valley, is noted for its commitment to sustainability at the biodynamic Mineral Springs Ranch. The winery offers a tasting experience featuring nuanced Pinot Noirs and an optional Provisions Tasting menu. This unique pairing focuses on foraged, locally sourced seasonal ingredients such as morels, favas, duck confit, and Oregon birch syrup, combining a relaxed vibe with luxurious elements.

In addition to Soter, Hood River was praised for its mocktail trail, a concept focused on non-alcoholic drinks. It features a range of local producers creating high-quality botanical spirits, tea, and housemade beverages. Wilderton Distillery, noted for its non-alcoholic spirits, is a key player in this thriving movement within the Columbia River Gorge.

While the list primarily highlights Oregon locations, it also mentions Echolands Estate in Walla Walla, Washington, which has made a name for itself with its impressive new estate, tasting room, and sustainable farming practices.

For further details on the top locations for experiencing great food and wine, check out the full article from Sunset Magazine: Sunset Magazine Best Places for Wine Tasting 2025.

As the last vestiges of summer fade, South Florida gears up for a vibrant weekend filled with concerts, culinary experiences, and festive events that mark the transition into autumn. Here’s a guide to what’s happening across Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties from Friday, September 20, to Sunday, September 22.

Friday Activities

One of the highlights is the Wines of the Mediterranean Coast sunset tasting cruise hosted by the Small Wine Shop in Fort Lauderdale. Passengers will board the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi at 6:30 PM for a two-hour journey featuring Mediterranean wines, concluding with an after-party at Olive & Sea. Tickets are $75. For reservation details, visit SmallWineShop.com.

Not to be missed is chef Michelle Bernstein’s pop-up at the Hard Rock in Hollywood. This event celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with her latest culinary creations from La Cañita, available from 5 to 10 PM.

Fans of live music can enjoy Ordinary Boys, a tribute band, at Respectable Street in West Palm Beach, starting at 9 PM, and comedian Tom Segura at the Kravis Center for two performances. Tickets for Segura’s show may still be available, with options starting at $44.86.

Weekend Preview

On Saturday, Hardy, a rising star in country metal, will perform at the iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach. Early birds can enjoy Java & Jam, a coffee and DJ event at Java & Jam on Las Olas Boulevard from 3 to 7 PM.

Adam David, the latest winner of The Voice, will showcase his talents at Revelry in Pompano Beach at 8 PM. Tickets are priced at $30.52.

In addition, the Broward Center will host “Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert” at 7:30 PM, combining a live orchestral performance with the animated series.

Sunday Highlights

Sunday will culminate with a performance from Al Green at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood. Known for his timeless hits, tickets start at $47.

In between, local favorites Spam Allstars will celebrate the birthday of percussionist Tomas Diaz with a special party in Miami, promising good vibes and great music.

For those interested in theater, Conundrum Stages will present short works by local playwrights at Savor Cinema at 6 PM, with tickets for just $10.

Ticketing and More Information

Be sure to check specific venue websites for ticket availability and additional details. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live performances or engage in community festivities, this weekend promises an array of options to celebrate the change of season in South Florida. Visitors can also participate in the Witches of Delray Beach charity bike ride, a fun costume event that supports local charities.

Related Links

• Wines of the Mediterranean Coast
• Michelle Bernstein Pop-up
• Hardy Concert Tickets
• Adam David at Revelry
• Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert
• Al Green at Hard Rock Live

Make the most of this weekend filled with music, flavors, and community spirit as the summer sunsets give way to fall festivities.

LYNCHBURG, Va. — The 16th Annual Lynchburg Beer, Cider, and Wine Festival is happening this Saturday, offering a wide selection of beverages and entertainment for attendees.

Event coordinator Kim Cheatham highlighted that guests can look forward to over 75 different options, including a variety of beers, wines, and ciders, with a special focus on Oktoberfest and fall-themed selections. Cheatham expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, "We’ve got some great bands coming. There’s literally going to be something for everybody, from the artisans and crafters to the food vendors to the live music. It’s just going to be a fun day for everybody to come on out to the stadium and just enjoy this fall weather."

Tickets are currently available for purchase both online and at the gate. Each ticket provides attendees with ten complimentary beer samples and unlimited wine samples. Cheatham mentioned, "People love having the option of being able to have the wine or the beer, or even spirits," noting that three distilleries will also be present at the festival.

The festival will take place from 12 PM to 7 PM at the Lynchburg City Stadium.

The latest issue of Food & Wine is out now, unveiling a delightful compilation of fall recipes that capture the season’s essence. Offering a mix of convenience and comfort, these dishes feature rich flavors and quick preparation times. This month also marks the annual restaurant issue, showcasing favorites from Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs, who have contributed their go-to recipes that can be made in a snap.

Here’s a roundup of ten must-try recipes that are perfect for cozy nights this fall:

1. One-Pot Chicken Arroz Caldo: A soothing Filipino chicken and rice porridge, this dish features creamy arborio rice infused with ginger and chicken fat. Get the recipe.

2. Chicken Thighs with Tomato-Pepper Sauce: This simple one-pan meal boasts crispy chicken thighs complemented by a creamy tomato and bell pepper sauce, highlighted with sherry vinegar. Get the recipe.

3. Bucatini with Shiitake Cream Sauce: Featuring an umami-packed mushroom sauce made with bucatini pasta, this dish also incorporates crumbled Italian sausage and sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meal. Get the recipe.

4. Double-Chocolate Brownie Cakes: A captivating dessert that combines the best of brownies and moist chocolate cake, perfect for entertaining or enjoying during the week. Get the recipe.

5. Cheese Tarts with Bacon and Fingerling Potatoes: This irresistible dish features a golden puff pastry crust topped with rich French cheese, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions. Get the recipe.

6. Roasted Squash with Spicy Nori Butter: Acorn squash is roasted to perfection and tossed with a spicy melted nori butter for a unique side dish bursting with flavor. Get the recipe.

7. Steak with Miso-Pistachio Romesco: Enjoy a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak served with a smoky, miso-infused romesco sauce that includes creamy pistachios. Get the recipe.

8. Flounder with Lemony Butter Beans: This elegant dish features delicate flounder poached in a zesty white wine sauce, served alongside butter beans. Get the recipe.

9. Choripán (Argentinian Chorizo Sandwich): A street food favorite, this sandwich includes juicy chorizo links, paprika, and toppings of chimichurri sauce. Get the recipe.

10. Coconut Banana Pudding: A delightful fusion of American banana pudding and Vietnamese chè chuối, this dessert features layers of coconut and pandan for added flavor and color. Get the recipe.

For more inspiration, you can read the original article on Food & Wine.

So many aspects of Sicily evoke a sense of enchantment. Picture winetasting dinners under the stars in a Catania courtyard, the bustling narrow streets of Siracusa by the waterfront, and the stunning limestone architecture in the hilly streets of Noto. Amidst these picturesque settings lies the undeniable quality of Sicilian wines, particularly its exceptional red varieties.

This week highlights some notable red wines from Sicily, including the celebrated Nero D’Avola grape and other prominent red varietals.

Sicilian Wine Statistics

• 242,000 acres of vineyards
• 7,200 wine growers
• 530 wine bottlers
• 30% of organic Italian wine is produced in Sicily

Historical Background

Wine production in Sicily has thrived for over 4,000 years, tracing its roots to the Greeks. Ideal conditions for winemaking abound due to its hot summers, mild rainy winters, diverse soils, and a rich variety of grape species—over 70 types flourish on the island.

Regions of Winemaking

Sicily’s four distinct climatic zones contribute to the richness of its wines:

• Coastal Climate: Milder and beneficial for grape growth.
• Mt. Etna Area: Features humidity and warmth in the east, transitioning to cooler northern slopes.
• Mountainous Areas: Colder regions compared to the island’s other areas.
• Inland Area: Hotter and more humid conditions prevail here.

Notable Sicilian Red Wine Grapes

Sicily showcases more than 70 red grape varieties, with three key players producing some of the island’s finest wines:

• Nero D’Avola: Indigenous to Sicily and recognized for its fruit-forward character. Gaining popularity since the 1600s and 1800s, it set the stage for Sicily’s wine renown.
• Frappato: Often blended with Nero D’Avola, this native grape lends a fresh, floral finish.
• Nerello Mascalese: Grown predominantly on Mount Etna’s volcanic slopes, it produces elegant wines reflecting the unique earthy qualities of the region.

Recommended Tasting Notes

The following wines offer an exciting glimpse into Sicily’s red wine offerings, all sampled by the author:

• 2022 Kaggera Nero D’Avola: A lush, dense wine with floral aromas, hints of dark chocolate and leather.
• 2022 Colosi Nero D’Avola: Delicate and fragrant, with lasting cherry and raspberry notes.
• 2021 Fondo Antico ‘Nene’ Nero D’Avola: An outstanding wine with notes of black licorice and raspberry, revealing elegant flavors over time.
• 2020 Eruzione 1614 Planeta (Highly Recommended): A lively red from Nerello Mascalese, it boasts bright, intense flavors reminiscent of Beaujolais.
• 2021 Donnafugata Sul Vulcano Etna Rosso DOC: A light, bright red with vivid fruit notes of cherry and raspberry.

Local Wine Events

For those interested in further exploring exceptional wines, a wine tasting class focusing on New Zealand wines is being held at Provisions in Longmeadow on September 23 from 6 to 8 PM. Tickets are available for $25.

Whether you’re indulging in an everyday wine or looking to splurge, Sicilian red wines offer a delightful experience, showcasing the island’s rich viniculture and flavorful grape varieties. Cheers!

Renowned celebrity chefs Todd English and Michael Mina are set to headline the 2025 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic. Both chefs will host their signature tasting experiences and participate in meet-and-greets during the event, which will take place on November 14 and 15, 2025.

About the Chefs

Todd English and Michael Mina are celebrated figures in the culinary world, each having won James Beard Awards. They are also known for their restaurants at the Walt Disney World Dolphin: Todd English’s bluezoo and Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. Guests can expect a strong culinary presence and innovative cuisine from both chefs during the festival.

Signature Tasting Experiences

Guests attending the festival can participate in special tasting events:

• On November 14, Chef English will present “A Culinary Journey Through Asia,” featuring a unique five-course menu with dishes like Bluefin Tuna trio and Koji-cured short rib, paired with wines and sake.

• On November 15, Chef Mina will lead “A Global Inspired Tour With Flair,” a five-course dinner that includes bacon-wrapped scallop and slow-roasted prime rib, accompanied by specially selected wines and a dessert cocktail.

These experiences are scheduled for 3:30 p.m. each day, priced at $185 per person, plus taxes and fees. Tickets are available here.

Event Details

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic celebrates its 16th year with unlimited tastings of over 45 different dishes and more than 170 beverage selections each evening. The event runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., encouraging guests to attend both days for the full experience.

One-day tickets are available for $210.68, and a bundle for both nights is offered at a discounted rate of $403.30. Tickets can be purchased via FoodAndWineClassic.com and guests can call 1-888-828-8850 for exclusive room rates with proof of ticket purchase.

Will you be attending the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic this year?

Costco has issued a warning regarding its Kirkland Signature Prosecco Valdobbiadene (item #1879870) after discovering a defect that poses a risk of the bottle shattering even when unopened. This safety notice applies to bottles sold between April 25 and August 26.

Customers are advised not to open any unopened bottles they may possess. Instead, they should safely dispose of them by wrapping the bottle in paper towels, sealing it in a plastic bag, and placing it in the trash to prevent injury from shattered glass. Costco has requested that customers do not return the bottles to the store.

For those who purchased this sparkling wine, Costco will send letters informing them of the issue and providing details on how to obtain a full refund when they return the letter to their nearest store.

If you have any concerns or need more information, you can reach out to Ethica Wines, the manufacturer, at customercare@ethicawines.com or by phone at 786-810-7132.

The first encounter with mixing wine and soda often evokes vivid memories, like those from childhood, where a family matriarch might mix Chianti with cream soda. Though I initially disapproved of the taste, it opened the door to discussing the varying preferences that people, including celebrities, have for their beverages. Lady Gaga has recently faced some mixed reactions on social media for the way she enjoys her red wine, mixing it with Diet Coke and maraschino cherries.

This revelation came to light when USA Today shared a video of people trying and enjoying this unusual blend. The comments, however, were harsh, with critics mocking the drink. One user remarked, “They just make that s*** up to get y’all to drink nasty s***," while another cruelly dubbed it "Lady gag gag." Yet, TikTok users appear to have a more forgiving stance, with one describing the combination as "mayhem in a glass" but still palatable, even rating it a respectable seven out of ten.

It’s important to note that Lady Gaga isn’t setting a new trend with her preference. The combination of red wine and cola has historical roots in Spanish culture and is known as Kalimotxo, which dates back to the 1920s. The drink gained popularity in the 1970s as a way to mask the taste of spoiled wine during festivals, cleverly named after a festival organizer.

Beyond the Kalimotxo, there are other refreshing wine and soda concoctions, like tinto de verano, which blends red wine with lemon-lime soda for a summertime treat. These drinks are not only designed to be enjoyable in warm weather but also come in with lower alcohol content, making them perfect for casual gatherings. This lighter mix might be particularly appealing to health-conscious individuals like Lady Gaga.

For those wanting to explore unique drink recipes, there’s more culinary inspiration to discover.

Meghan Markle’s Napa Valley Rosé, launched under her lifestyle label As Ever, has garnered mixed reviews from wine experts. The Duchess of Sussex, known for her love of cooking and winemaking, has expanded her brand to include various products alongside her wine. Recent evaluations from a tasting panel revealed differing opinions about the quality of her wine.

Dana Beninati, a classically trained chef and sommelier, rated the rosé a six out of ten. She described the initial sip as "hot on the finish," attributing this sensation to its high alcohol content. Beninati remarked that the wine doesn’t convey the essence of being made with care from family-owned vineyards, suggesting instead it feels like a product created by "expert marketers" rather than Markle herself.

Conversely, Crystl Faye Horton, former wine director at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, praised the rosé. She noted the wine’s robust flavor profile and deemed it a good value at $30, indicating that it appears to be crafted with intention and seriousness.

The contrasting feedback highlights the ongoing debate about Markle’s foray into winemaking, with some experts questioning the authenticity of the product while others see potential and quality in her offerings.