Wine 1043

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Greece boasts a remarkable wine-making tradition that spans over 6,500 years, making it one of the oldest wine-producing regions globally. This ancient heritage has evolved into a sophisticated selection of wines that are gaining recognition among sommeliers and wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Historically, wine was made on a small scale, often for household consumption, but today over 300 indigenous grape varieties, alongside a wealth of international grapes, contribute to Greece’s diverse wine offerings. The country’s different regions produce a variety of wine styles, presenting both red and white options that cater to a range of palates.

The four primary grape varieties that showcase the essence of Greek wine are Assyrtiko, Moschofilero, Agiorgitiko, and Xinomavro, each offering unique qualities and characteristics.

Assyrtiko

Assyrtiko is Greece’s most recognized white wine, particularly popular in the United States. This dry wine is known for its mineral-driven profile and sea-salt finish, primarily grown in the volcanic soils of Santorini. It is also cultivated in other Greek regions, producing softer and fruitier versions than its counterparts from Santorini.

Moschofilero

Moschofilero offers an aromatic experience with floral and fruity notes. Traditionally from Mantinia in the Peloponnese, this pink-skinned grape is transformed into a refreshing white wine that pairs well with seafood and various global cuisines. The versatility of Moschofilero allows it to be crafted into still, sparkling, and dessert wines.

Agiorgitiko

Known as the "king of the Peloponnese," Agiorgitiko is a red wine with a wide range of expressions. Historically grown in Nemea, this grape produces approachable wines that are food-friendly and showcase flavors of red fruit and sour cherry. Agiorgitiko can vary from lighter styles to bolder blends that pair well with grilled meats and delicate vegetables.

Xinomavro

Xinomavro is celebrated as Greece’s premier red wine and is particularly noted for its aging potential. Grown mainly in four specific regions, it presents complex flavors of olive, dried fruits, and spices. Xinomavro is often compared to high-end international varietals and requires careful vineyard management to showcase its robust nature.

Incorporating these four pillars of Greek winemaking not only reflects the rich heritage of Greece but also highlights the ongoing evolution and recognition of its wines on the global stage.

For more details on Greek wines, you can explore related articles about Greece’s viniculture and discover the growing popularity of these extraordinary wine varieties.

The Sonoma County Winegrape Commission held a packed meeting in Santa Rosa as part of its public feedback process regarding a contentious proposal for a wine improvement district. This initiative aims to finance wine marketing efforts in Sonoma County through a self-imposed tax on all direct-to-consumer winery purchases.

Introduced in July, the proposal has ignited spirited discussions among Sonoma County’s wine industry and consumers about the direction of this prominent wine region. If approved, the fee would be applicable to all purchases at tasting rooms—including merchandise and events—but would exempt grocery stores and restaurants. Consumers could expect to pay around 1% extra unless wineries absorb this cost.

For the proposal to go ahead, it must gain at least 51% support from a weighted vote based on the wineries’ direct-to-consumer sales. Additionally, all nine city councils within the county must consent to the district, followed by final approval from the County Board of Supervisors.

Initially unclear regarding its instigators, the initiative was described as a collaborative effort by the Sonoma County Winegrowers and Sonoma County Vintners. However, this was challenged by the Vintners board, clarifying that they had not endorsed the initiative.

Joe Bartolomei, a member of the steering committee, expressed concern that neighboring regions, such as Santa Barbara, could overshadow Sonoma County’s market. Drawing on his extensive experience in the tourism sector, he emphasized the benefits of a collaborative marketing strategy, highlighting the success of the county’s existing 2% tourism assessment in promoting visitor engagement.

However, some industry figures, like Dan Kosta of Convene Winery, warned against the creation of yet another marketing entity, arguing that the community already has several organizations fulfilling this role. Kosta raised questions about potential negative implications for the Sonoma County Vintners should the improvement district proceed, while others stressed the importance of ensuring well-rounded community support before moving ahead.

Opposition emerged as well, particularly from Adam Lee of Clarice Wine Company, who launched a petition against the proposal that has gathered over 700 signatures. Lee criticized the plan as placing undue burdens on consumers and diverging from logical approaches to reviving the struggling wine industry.

On the other hand, Karissa Kruse, president of the Winegrowers, underscored success stories from other regions like Temecula Valley, where such funding has reportedly bolstered sales and tourism significantly. Critics argue that the success claimed by Temecula may not be directly applicable to Sonoma County due to differing metrics.

The meeting revealed a strong desire for a solution to the industry’s challenges, with suggestions for innovation as crucial. Rubin, owner of River Road Family Vineyards, emphasized the urgency of finding new strategies, as traditional methods might no longer be effective.

In light of continued disagreements and the need for more community engagement, the steering committee announced future town hall meetings to facilitate discussions around the proposal. This openness is seen as a positive step towards collaboratively addressing the challenges facing Sonoma County’s wine industry.

Livermore Valley: California’s Hidden Wine Gem

While many may think of Napa or Sonoma when discussing California wines, Livermore Valley is a noteworthy contender, rich in history and noteworthy wines. This region, which is the oldest wine area in California, is credited with being the genetic origin of approximately 80% of California’s Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Its wines have consistently received recognition, as evidenced by the 174 medals won at the 2023 San Francisco Chronicle wine competition.

During a recent girlfriend getaway, we traveled about 40 miles from San Francisco to discover Livermore Valley’s charm, which is characterized by rolling hills, boutique wineries, and a delightful downtown filled with shops and restaurants.

Upon arrival, we checked into The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa, a cozy boutique hotel nestled among grapevines and olive orchards. The resort features inviting guest rooms, outdoor pools, and a spa. Each evening, complimentary wine and cheese hours were held, offering a relaxing ambiance before we ventured out to explore the local wineries.

One of our first stops was Darcie Kent Estate Winery, owned by fifth-generation vintner Darcie Kent. Known for its stunning 70-acre property, the winery offers estate-grown wines and a friendly atmosphere. During our visit, we enjoyed a range of wines, including a Sauvignon Blanc and a Cabernet Franc, all while learning about the winery’s history and the community’s commitment to winemaking.

Feeling peckish after the wine tasting, we visited The Cheese Parlor, a local gem in downtown Livermore. Here, we indulged in a beautifully presented tasting platter featuring artisanal cheeses with wine pairings that enhanced the experience.

Our next destination was McGrail Vineyards and Winery, where president Heather McGrail shared that her family initially made wine for fun before being guided by established local winemakers. We enjoyed a beautiful tasting experience, sampling a lively Sauvignon Blanc and a rich Cabernet Sauvignon while appreciating the atmosphere of the estate.

Dinner at Sons of Liberty Alehouse provided a lively end to a day filled with wine tasting. The culinary offerings included elevated pub classics such as chicken pot pie and fish tacos, all in a casual setting.

The following day, we made our way to Charles R Vineyards, renowned for its serene tasting room set among ancient oak trees. We participated in a "Hike and Wine Reception," where we hiked to a hillside overlook while tasting an array of wines, including a refreshing Chardonnay and a vibrant Petite Sirah.

As we wrapped up our trip, we visited two formidable wineries: Concannon Vineyard and Wente Vineyards. Concannon is historically significant, having established America’s First Petite Sirah. Wente, the oldest continuously operated family-owned winery in the country, is famous for propagating the Wente Clone, integral to the majority of Chardonnay produced in California.

As our adventure drew to a close, the prospect of shipping a selection of wines home through the "You Sip. We Ship." program was a sweet ending to our escapade. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming wineries, Livermore Valley proved to be a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking a unique wine experience away from the more popular destinations.

For more information on Livermore Valley wines, visit www.lvwine.org.

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A new specialty wine shop may soon open its doors on Malmesbury High Street, pending approval for an alcohol license. The Malmesbury Wine Company has submitted a licensing application for the retail unit located at 47 High Street, situated among other shops.

The company aims to cater to local wine enthusiasts by offering a variety of wines from around the globe, along with locally sourced beers, ciders, and spirits. Additionally, they plan to host ticketed wine tasting events at the shop, utilizing a small courtyard at the back of the premises for outdoor events during suitable weather conditions.

Residents interested in expressing their opinions regarding the application can submit their comments to Wiltshire Council before August 19, referencing application number PR202507-577821.

One of the oldest wineries in Chile, Viña Santa Rita, has recently garnered acclaim for its premium dry-farmed Carménère wines sourced from some of the oldest vines in the region. An incident in 1994 led agronomist Dr. Jean-Michel Boursiquot to discover that what was thought to be Merlot brought over from Bordeaux was actually Carménère, a grape nearly lost to history after the phylloxera crisis. This pivotal moment shifted Chile’s wine identity, making Carménère its signature grape.

The unique challenge that Carménère faces is that it ripens later than Cabernet Sauvignon, leading some growers to overlook it in favor of more popular varieties. Dr. Boursiquot’s chance visit to Viña Carmen, along with his expertise in French viticulture, not only unveiled the truth behind Carménère’s identity but also set the path for Chile to embrace this varietal fully.

Viña Santa Rita, one of the oldest producers in Chile, now excels in producing premium Carménère wines from old vines located in the "grand cru" area of Apalta, Colchagua. Winemaker Sebastián Labbé, after working at top wineries in New Zealand and Australia, prioritized the purity and freshness of Carménère. His dedication to achieving a balance, alongside the care he takes in the vineyard, has cultivated two esteemed single vineyard wines—"Floresta" and "Pewën de Apalta."

The "Floresta," a vibrant and charming wine, is noted for its raspberry flavors enriched with a backbone of minerality. In contrast, the "Pewën de Apalta" offers a richer profile, showcasing a complex array of flavors, including blackberry liqueur and black truffle, with a smooth and luxurious finish.

Thus, Carménère has transformed into more than just a misidentified grape; it now represents the essence of Chilean viticulture, thriving in the heat of its new home and offering wines that reflect its unique terroir. As a testament to its growing reputation, these wines are not only seen as local treasures but are gaining international recognition, solidifying Carménère’s status as an emblematic Chilean varietal.

If you’ve opened a bottle of wine but don’t plan on finishing it in one sitting, you might be wondering how to store it to preserve its taste. The good news is that wine doesn’t spoil immediately after uncorking; you can extend its freshness with proper storage techniques.

General Storage Tips

1. Recork the Bottle: Always put the cork back in to minimize air exposure.
2. Refrigerate: No matter whether it’s red, white, or sparkling, refrigerating opened wine can help slow down oxidation.
3. Store Upright: This reduces the surface area exposed to air, further minimizing oxidation.

How Long Wine Lasts After Opening

• Red Wine: 3-5 days in the fridge. If a red wine is high in tannins and acidity, it will last longer. Take it out of the fridge 10 minutes before serving for optimal taste.

• Full-bodied White Wine: 2-3 days. Wines like oaked Chardonnay oxidize quickly, so it’s best to keep them tightly sealed and refrigerated.

• Light White, Sweet White, and Rosé: 4-5 days if corked and stored in the fridge. Light white wines can last up to a week, although the taste will change slightly after the first day.

• Sparkling Wine: 1-3 days. Sparkling wines lose their fizz rapidly, so using a special sparkling wine stopper can help preserve carbonation for a bit longer.

Recommended Storage Products

Investing in a wine preserver might be worthwhile if you frequently leave wine unfinished. Products like Coravin or vacuum stoppers can help reduce oxygen exposure, extending the lifespan of the wine.

Ideal Temperatures for Wine

• Sparkling Wines: 40-45°F
• Light Whites and Rosés: 45-50°F
• Full-bodied Whites: 48-56°F
• Medium-bodied Reds: 55°F
• Full-bodied Reds: 59-68°F

By following these storage guidelines and understanding how different types of wine behave after opening, you can enjoy your bottle over several days without sacrificing quality. Cheers!

Useful Links

• Wine Preservation Systems
• Best Wine Clubs and Subscriptions

National White Wine Day, celebrated on August 4, is a perfect occasion to explore beyond the familiar white wine varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The white wine market has been growing steadily, with a report from NIQ indicating that white table wines are the only category to experience sales value growth in recent years. This trend is set to continue, with predictions of a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% by the end of 2025.

Despite its growth, many consumers still stick to a narrow range of white wines. However, sommeliers like Calvin Barnett of Perilla in Chicago and Phillip Dunn of Wally’s encourage wine lovers to venture into the expansive world of white wines. They highlight unique varietals—such as Carricante, Vermentino, Roussanne, and Palomino—that can offer sophisticated flavors reminiscent of popular choices yet distinctly different.

To celebrate National White Wine Day, here are eight exceptional white wines recommended by these sommeliers:

8 Unique Bottles for National White Wine Day

1. 2022 IDDA Etna Bianco

A favorite of Barnett, this wine showcases the Sicilian Carricante grape, offering flavors of sweet citrus, apricot, lemongrass, and a hint of sea salt.

2. Benanti Etna Bianco Carricante

Recommended by Dunn, this wine comes from one of Etna’s pioneering producers and captures the volcanic terroir’s essence, producing elegant and age-worthy Carricante.

3. 2022 Sylvain Pataille Aligoté

Dunn points out this once-forgotten Burgundy grape has been revived by skilled vintners, offering vibrant citrus and floral notes that make it a fantastic alternative to Sancerre.

4. 2024 Alois Lageder ‘Misto Mare’ Blanco

This biodynamic Italian white from Trentino Alto-Adige is a field blend of 14 grape varieties co-fermented to create a complex wine with citrus, floral, and herbal notes.

5. 2023 Pedro Méndez Albariño, Rias Baixas

An example of the native Albariño grape, this wine is known for its bright, crisp character and is layered with citrus and tropical fruit flavors, making it food-friendly.

6. 2022 Hiedler ‘Thal’ Grüner Veltliner

This Austrian Grüner offers juicy stone fruit flavors coupled with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon, ensuring it remains light and refreshing.

7. 2022 Rumor Cotes de Provence White

Made from Rolle, the Provençal take on Vermentino, this wine features a round stone-fruit profile with vibrant acidity, perfect for salads and light dishes.

8. 2023 Renaissance ‘Cote de l’Epee’ Sancerre

A classic from the Loire Valley, this Sancerre exemplifies the region’s ability to produce crisp Sauvignon Blanc with a mineral quality and refined finish.

This National White Wine Day, consider these unique selections to broaden your palate and enjoy the diversity of white wines available.

The recent USA Today 10Best awards have recognized two Northern Michigan wineries as the top wine country hotels in the United States: the Inn at Black Star Farms and Chateau Chantal.

Taking the #1 position, the Inn at Black Star Farms is located in Suttons Bay on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula. This charming inn sits on a sprawling 160-acre estate, featuring a well-appointed tasting room and a restaurant, alongside vineyard trails perfect for hiking. The inn is popular among returning guests, thanks in part to its nightly hospitality hours that include wine tastings and small bites.

Chateau Chantal, situated on the nearby Old Mission Peninsula, claimed the #2 spot. This French-inspired B&B offers 12 suites renowned for their exceptional wine pairings and chef-prepared breakfasts. Visitors enjoy stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and easy access to the surrounding vineyards and walking trails.

In total, 20 wine country hotels across the U.S. were nominated in this contest, with USA Today encouraging voters to choose their favorite destinations for a relaxing getaway among the vineyards. The two Michigan inns stood out despite competition from luxurious properties in California and Oregon.

For more details on the winning hotels, visit the full list on USA Today’s website.

Temecula Valley is experiencing a renaissance in wine production, particularly known for its bold Mediterranean varietals and vibrant rosé wines. Nestled in Southern California, just north of San Diego, this warm-climate American Viticultural Area (AVA) has been developing its winemaking scene since the late 1960s, achieving official AVA status in 1984.

The region’s history with agriculture dates back to the Spanish missionaries and Mexican rancheros of the 18th century, but modern winemaking began with pioneers like Cilurzo Vineyards and Brookside Winery, followed by influential families such as the Callaways and Harts. Today, Temecula Valley is home to over 40 wineries, many family-owned, gaining respect for its Mediterranean varietals and elegant rosés.

Geography and Climate

Temecula Valley’s landscape is defined by a bowl-shaped depression located between the Santa Ana Mountains and the Palomar and San Jacinto ranges. The elevation of vineyards typically ranges from 1,000 to 1,600 feet, providing varied terrain that benefits from cool Pacific Ocean air. This air helps to moderate daily temperatures, essential for preserving grape acidity.

The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cooler evenings. Such conditions, coupled with low humidity and limited rainfall, create ideal circumstances for organic vineyard management. The diurnal temperature shift encourages the development of flavorful yet refreshing wines, particularly well-suited for varietals such as Syrah, Grenache, Sangiovese, and Vermentino.

Soils

Temecula’s soils are diverse, primarily comprising sandy loam on valley floors, which warms quickly and drains well, alongside clay-rich subsoils that retain moisture. Hillsides are typically dominated by decomposed granitic soils that promote deep root systems, well-suited for drought-resistant Mediterranean grapes.

Selection of Temecula Rosé Wines

Here are twelve recommended rosé wines that showcase the region’s emerging talent:

• Bottaia Winery 2023 Blush (13% ABV, $45): Elegant and layered with flavors of strawberries, melon, and citrus.
• Bottaia Winery 2023 Rosé Spumante (13% ABV, $50): A sparkling blend with notes of raspberry and citrus.
• Ponte Winery 2024 Pas Doux Rosé (13.5% ABV, $35): A drier style with floral notes and a tangy finish.
• Ponte Winery 2023 Bubbly Rosé (13% ABV, $35): A sweet sparkling option with fruity aromas.
• Wilson Creek Winery 2023 Rosé of Cinsault (12.6% ABV, $46): A bone-dry rosé featuring raspberry and citrus notes.
• Cougar Vineyard & Winery 2023 Rosa del Vignato (13.8% ABV, $26): Tangy with hints of strawberry and herbs.
• Leoness Cellars 2024 Dry Rosé (14.1% ABV, $32): Dry and crisp with flavors of rhubarb and strawberry.
• Churon Winery 2023 Ruby Rosé (12.6% ABV, $33): Rich in aroma with a robust, fruit-forward character.
• South Coast Winery 2024 Vineyard Rosé (13.3% ABV, $16): Value-driven and refreshing with watermelon and cherry notes.
• Altísima Winery 2024 Coqueta (12.9% ABV, $44): A bold rosé with intense notes of cherry and hibiscus.
• Robert Renzoni Vineyards 2023 Lyric Rosé (11.3% ABV, $34): Elegant and silky, reflecting Italian winemaking tradition.
• South Coast Winery 2023 Vineyard Rosé Sparkling (12.8% ABV, $29): Offers bright fruit notes and a refreshing finish.

Temecula Valley is proving to be a noteworthy contender in the wine industry, blending a favorable climate, innovative viticulture, and passionate winemakers to produce a range of wines that are gaining national acclaim. These rosés, with their flexibility for food pairings, are perfect for enjoying during the warm summer months.