Wine 1004

Canadian stores have recently embarked on a notable movement by removing American liquor and wine from their shelves in direct protest against President Trump’s tariffs. This initiative reflects a growing wave of nationalism in both Mexico and Canada, driven by Trump’s "America First" policy.

The situation has garnered attention as the Canadian response has been framed by some media outlets, including the New York Times, as Canada taking Trump’s rhetoric of being treated as the "51st state" quite seriously. With the trade tensions escalating, Richard Haass, a senior counselor at Centerview Partners, joined Chris Jansing to discuss the implications of the ongoing trade war and its impact on both nations.

This protest is part of a broader backlash against U.S. trade policies, which are perceived as detrimental to cross-border relationships and economic ties. As retailers in Canada make this symbolic gesture, it signifies not only their economic grievances but also a rallying cry for national pride amid external pressures.

For more insights into the unfolding situation, visit MSNBC.

Framed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the north and the Chihuahuan Desert in the south, New Mexico is the United States’ fifth-largest state, showcasing a rich landscape of rolling sand dunes, prehistoric petroglyphs, fairytale caves, and dormant volcanoes. Along with its diverse topography, New Mexico boasts a vibrant cultural tapestry woven from the histories of Indigenous peoples, Hispanics, and Anglo Americans who’ve coexisted here for centuries.

While the state’s cuisine, a colorful blend of Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences, often captures the spotlight, the story of its wine heritage is one worth exploring. Long before vineyards were established in California, New Mexico was home to grape cultivation, with its first vineyard recorded in 1629 by two Franciscan monks. By 1880, over 3,000 acres of vineyards were producing nearly one million gallons of wine, but the industry faced decline due to floods and competition. It wasn’t until the 1970s that wineries began reemerging, leading to a resurgence in wine production.

Despite this growth, the state remains relatively unknown to international wine enthusiasts, as about 85% of its wineries are small businesses producing fewer than 7,000 cases per year. The personal charm of tasting wine in New Mexico’s wineries adds to its allure, with informal interactions that make visitors feel at home.

The primary wine regions lie between Albuquerque and the Texas border, where the warm days and cool nights of the Middle Rio Grande Valley and Mimbres Valley are ideal for growing Italian varietals such as Sangiovese and Montepulciano. Albuquerque, with its abundance of tasting rooms, serves as the best starting point for wine lovers looking to explore local flavors.

Taos, which is home to one of New Mexico’s most interesting winemaking regions, presents unique challenges for its producers, who grow Merlot and Riesling at high altitudes. The region gives visitors the chance to experience wines from its northernmost wineries, surrounded by historical pueblos and breathtaking landscapes.

In a state with a high percentage of Hispanic residents, the diversity of its winemakers enriches the cellar-door experiences, allowing travelers to engage with wines crafted by a mix of Native American, female, and Hispanic artisans. For example, guests can enjoy a traditional Spanish dish while sipping wine at Las Nueve Niñas Winery or experience flamenco performances at Vara Winery. At Vivác Winery, visitors may sample unique wines like chokecherry wine, created in collaboration with Grammy Award-winning musician Robert Mirabal.

Traveling to New Mexico is simple, with several airlines offering flights to Albuquerque. For a local stay, options include Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm in Albuquerque or El Monte Sagrado in Taos. Each offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the state’s rich culture and burgeoning wine scene.

Discover more about New Mexico: New Mexico Tourism

MONROE COUNTY, Mich. – In a court session on March 6, 2025, evidence was presented showing Marshella Chidester, the woman accused of drunk driving and crashing into a birthday party, holding wine shortly before the incident. The trial, which involves the crash that occurred on April 20, 2024, is now in the jury’s hands.

During the proceedings, Deputy Hooper from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office testified about the findings from a search warrant executed at Chidester’s residence. Hooper revealed that a camera in Chidester’s kitchen had recorded her actions leading up to the crash. The footage showed her with a mini bottle of wine around 9:30 a.m. and throughout the day leading up to the accident, including her appearing to toss an empty bottle into the trash just prior to the crash.

Chidester claimed she consumed only one glass of wine at a local restaurant before driving. However, bodycam footage contradicted this, as it showed her stating she had a glass of wine "about a half hour ago." A restaurant employee confirmed her presence from 11 a.m. to noon, with the accident happening shortly after 3 p.m. Evidence presented in court indicated that her blood alcohol concentration post-accident was .18, which is over twice the legal limit in Michigan.

An employee at Warehouse Beverage in South Euclid reported being attacked by a disgruntled customer on February 25. The incident occurred when a 42-year-old man, who is a regular customer, requested to take a package of cigars and pay for them the next day. When the employee informed him that this was not allowed, the customer proceeded to grab a bottle of wine and head towards the exit.

The employee followed him, leading the customer to retaliate by throwing the bottle underhand at his face, resulting in a minor injury. Although the employee declined medical assistance, he reported the incident to the police.

Officers apprehended the suspect at the nearby Tiki Time Bar after he initially resisted arrest. During custody, he exhibited signs of mental distress, including talking about suing the government. The man now faces charges for assault.

For more local news, visit the Sun Messenger.

On February 26, 2025, Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves signed a significant bill that allows wineries to ship wine directly to consumers in the state, marking a major change in Mississippi’s wine landscape. This law will take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing residents to order wine from both in-state and out-of-state wineries. With this new legislation, Mississippi joins a growing list of states that permit direct-to-consumer (DTC) wine shipping, leaving Arkansas, Delaware, Rhode Island, and Utah as the only states that still restrict it.

State Senator Walter Michel’s Senate Bill 2145 was passed by the Mississippi Legislature on February 18 and is seen as a positive step for wine lovers and businesses in the state. Senator Jeremy England, one of the bill’s supporters, emphasized its importance in promoting consumer freedom and attracting businesses to Mississippi. The legislation aims to enhance the state’s image and provide new choices for residents eager to explore wines not available through local distributors.

Accompanying legislation in the state House, HB 1175, faced challenges but ultimately contributed to passing the bill. Some lawmakers, such as State Representative Hank Zuber, argued that the law would not threaten local alcohol retailers, as it restricts direct shipments to wines not already distributed in the state.

The new law stipulates that licensed wineries must obtain a direct wine shipper’s permit and comply with regulations, including maintaining records and labeling shipments with alcohol content warnings. Consumers will be able to have wines shipped directly to their home, provided they are over 21 and sign for their deliveries. However, restrictions remain, such as not being allowed to send more than twelve cases to a single address per year, and shipments cannot be made to dry counties.

While this development is predominantly seen as a win for consumers, some voices within the wine industry express concerns about the limitations imposed by the legislation. Critics argue that consumers may still face restricted options, as they may only order wines that are not already available through local wholesalers.

The law comes amid broader challenges for DTC wine shipping in the U.S., with recent data indicating a decrease in both the volume and value of wine DTC shipments. Despite these concerns, the addition of Mississippi to the list of states permitting DTC shipping is seen as a positive development that could inspire similar legislative action in other states.

Moving forward, the effect of this law on both wineries and consumers in Mississippi remains to be seen, but advocates believe it could serve as a model for change elsewhere. Lawmakers in states like New York and Delaware are reportedly considering their own DTC legislation in response to Mississippi’s new law.

For more detailed information about state shipping laws, check out Wine Spectator’s comprehensive guide.

Wine Retailers Disappointed by Court’s Upholding of Discriminatory Shipping Law

The National Association of Wine Retailers (NAWR) has expressed disappointment following the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in the Day v. Henry case, which validates Arizona’s law that prohibits the shipping of wine from out-of-state retailers to consumers within the state. This ruling highlights a split among circuit courts regarding the constitutionality of state alcohol laws that may discriminate against interstate commerce.

Currently, Arizona allows local wine retailers to ship to state residents but denies this same privilege to out-of-state sellers. As a result, Arizona consumers are restricted from accessing a vast selection of wines that are not available through local wholesalers, ultimately decreasing the state’s tax revenue and interfering with commerce between states.

Tom Wark, NAWR’s executive director, emphasized the need for the U.S. Supreme Court to hear this case to address what he perceives as discriminatory practices in wine shipping laws. He pointed out that the recent ruling creates a circuit split, which underscores the inconsistency in how courts are interpreting state laws related to alcohol distribution.

The 9th Circuit’s ruling aligns with decisions from the 4th and 8th Circuits, which have upheld state regulations requiring out-of-state retailers to establish physical locations within the state to be permitted to ship. Conversely, courts in the 6th and 1st Circuits argue that states must provide substantial justification for such requirements, asserting they must serve public health and safety interests.

Wark criticized the 9th Circuit’s prioritization of an outdated "Three-Tier System" over the rights of consumers. He noted that dissenting opinions within the court acknowledge that the purpose of the three-tier system is to promote public welfare rather than serve as a barrier to broader market access.

In light of this ruling, NAWR continues to fight for equitable access for wine retailers and looks towards future legal avenues to combat such discriminatory laws.

For more context about the National Association of Wine Retailers, visit their official site: NAWR.

Peter M. F. Sichel, a renowned wine merchant and expert on German wines, passed away at the age of 102 on February 24, 2025. While he was celebrated in wine circles as an eminent connoisseur, his life story is much richer due to his clandestine past as a CIA spy in Berlin, which he chronicled in his autobiography, The Secrets of My Life (2016).

Sichel’s remarkable journey began in Mainz, Germany, where he was born into a Jewish family in 1922. He spent his youth immersed in his grandfather’s wine business, and his education extended to England. During World War II, he was captured by the Germans while working in Bordeaux. He evaded capture, fleeing to Portugal and Spain before enlisting in the U.S. Army. There, he was trained by the Office of Strategic Services to use German POWs as spies. By 1946, Sichel found himself in Berlin, where he reported on Soviet actions in East Germany and later joined the CIA, serving in Berlin, Washington, and Hong Kong until 1960.

After leaving the CIA, Sichel took over the family wine business and partnered with the Schieffelin Company to introduce Blue Nun, a German white wine that became immensely popular, selling 1.25 million cases in the U.S. and 3 million globally by the 1980s. This semi-sweet wine was a blend of Müller-Thurgau, Sylvaner, and Gewürztraminer.

His written works, including Which Wine: The Wine Drinker’s Buying Guide (1975) and The Wines of Germany (1980), alongside his memoir published at 90, established him as an influential figure in the world of wine. Sichel was a passionate ambassador for German wines and was known for his engaging storytelling and approachable demeanor.

Many wine enthusiasts first encountered Sichel’s wines before ever knowing of the man himself. In college, popular choices ran from jug wines to well-known brands like Blue Nun, recognizable by its image of nuns in blue habits, a stark contrast to the more complex labels of traditional German wines.

Throughout his life, Sichel was appreciated not only for his wine expertise but also for his charm and wit. Those who met him often described him as the epitome of a cultured European connoisseur, devoid of pretension and with a voice reminiscent of a classic character from a literary espionage tale. Given his intriguing background, it’s easy to imagine why some considered him capable of penning a compelling spy novel.

In reflecting on Sichel’s life, the saying “may you live in interesting times” rings true. He not only lived through incredible historical events but also enriched the lives of many with his stories and knowledge.

Buying wine can feel overwhelming, like a pop quiz without any preparation. When faced with shelves filled with bottles labeled in unfamiliar terms, it’s easy to feel lost and unsure if you’re making a smart choice or wasting money. However, understanding wine labels doesn’t require expert-level knowledge. Knowing the essential elements to look for can simplify the process immensely.

The Winery Name: Who Made This Wine?

Most wine labels prominently display the winery or producer’s name. Some names, such as Château Margaux or Robert Mondavi, may be more familiar than others. For lesser-known producers, a quick online search or a conversation with a knowledgeable wine shop employee can provide valuable insights. Popular names often indicate consistent quality, while smaller wineries could yield delightful surprises.

The Grape Variety: What’s in the Bottle?

Not all bottles specify the grape variety, but when they do, it offers a helpful hint about the wine. Familiar varieties like Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon can signal what to expect. Conversely, some European regions name wines based on location rather than grape variety; for instance, a wine called Chablis is Chardonnay, while Chianti mainly consists of Sangiovese. If you’re unsure, a quick lookup will clarify the contents.

The Region: Where Is This From?

The location where a wine is produced significantly influences its flavor. Generally, a California Cabernet may taste bolder and fruitier than one from Bordeaux, which might feature earthier notes. Certain regions also have regulations that hint at quality; wines labeled DOCG in Italy or AOC in France must meet stricter standards than those with more lenient classifications.

The Vintage: What Year Was This Made?

The vintage indicates the year the grapes were harvested, which impacts the wine’s flavor and quality due to varying weather conditions. Wines from exceptional years (like 2010 in Bordeaux) may age better. However, for most wines, staying under five years for whites and ten for reds is a safe bet.

The Alcohol Percentage: How Strong Is This Wine?

Typically found at the bottom of wine labels, the Alcohol By Volume (ABV) percentage helps determine the wine’s strength. Common ranges include:

• Lighter whites and rosés: 11-13%
• Fuller-bodied whites and reds: 13-15%
• Fortified wines (like Port or Sherry): 17% and up

Higher alcohol levels often correlate with richer flavors, while lighter wines tend to be more refreshing.

Other Terms That Might Actually Be Useful

Labels often include terms that can provide useful context:

• Reserve/Riserva/Reserva: Indicates longer aging and potentially better quality, although in the U.S., "Reserve" is loosely regulated.
• Old Vines: Suggests more concentrated and complex flavors but lacks a strict definition.
• Estate Bottled: Affirms that the winery controls the entire process, ensuring better quality.
• Unfiltered: Indicates a wine may have a cloudy appearance but is rich in flavor.

What’s Probably Just Marketing Hype?

Some phrases appear on labels that sound impressive but lack meaning:

• “Handcrafted” or “Artisanal”: Without legal definitions, these terms are vague.
• “Winemaker’s Selection” or “Private Reserve”: Unless regulated, these are marketing terms.
• Gold Medals or “Best in Show”: While some competitions are legitimate, many can be pay-to-play, and a medal does not guarantee quality.

In summary, wine labels can present a mix of useful information and clever marketing tactics. Focusing on the producer, grape variety, region, and vintage will help demystify the process of selecting a wine. Ultimately, the best way to discover your favorites is through exploration—try different wines, take notes, and enjoy the journey.

At Domaine de Cousignac in France’s Rhône Valley, winemaker Raphaël Pommier has adopted a distinctive approach to winemaking by blending music into the fermentation process. He believes that sound frequencies not only enhance the wine’s development but also engage the microorganisms that play a vital role in fermentation. As Pommier points out, "Wine is like music. To taste it, you need a little bit of volume."

Inspired by a 2023 study from Pour La Science, which highlights the impact of sound on plant biology, Pommier suggests that vibrations help yeast cells convert sugars into alcohol more efficiently. This innovative technique introduces a new layer of complexity to the wines produced at his estate.

In Pommier’s unique process, each vintage is paired with carefully selected music composed specifically for the wines. He collaborated with French jazz composer Franck Tortiller, who crafted an album featuring tracks inspired by grape varieties, such as "Cinsault" and "Old Red Wine." Each piece of music plays throughout the fermentation, creating what Pommier describes as a moment where wine and music coexist.

Pommier also worked with American composer Mark Millett, who designed an album where different grape varietals were matched with various musical instruments—comparing grenache to the cello and syrah to the viola. This thematic approach aims to create harmony, with each varietal complementing the others in the same way musical notes harmonize.

In his collaborations, Pommier has also engaged modern artists, like French singer Carina, whose electric guitar music added a contemporary touch to a recent vintage. The vineyard even incorporates technology by including QR codes on the wine labels, allowing consumers to listen to the accompanying music via Spotify.

Pommier’s methodology has not gone unnoticed, receiving acclaim for both the music and the wines, with accolades like a 91-point rating from James Suckling and multiple gold medals at wine competitions. Pommier’s unique blending of music and wine production reflects a commitment to innovation, infusing each bottle with an experience that transcends taste, engaging all the senses.

Through these artistic collaborations, Pommier seeks to redefine winemaking, crafting bottles that resonate not just with flavor but with the emotional connections people have with music and wine. In his words, “What is wine but a bottle of feelings?”

Driving through the tranquil Rioja wine region in north-central Spain offers visitors a picturesque view of stunning landscapes dotted with rustic bodegas and ancient bush vines. As the majestic Sierra de Cantabria mountains loom in the background, one particularly remarkable structure emerges: the Macán Winery, a stunning representation of the harmonious beauty between architecture and nature.

The Macán Winery, an artistic achievement designed by renowned Spanish architect Enrique Johanson de Terry, is owned by Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia S.A. The project signifies a collaboration between two of the most prominent wine families globally, aiming to recapture the soul of Rioja’s heritage as inspired by the classic wines of the 1950s and 1960s.

Costing around $34 million, the winery comprises several plots of old vines strategically acquired over the years. Johanson cleverly designed the winery to symbolize the fundamental activities within any winery — elaboration, aging, and expedition — through three distinct structures representing water, earth, and sun, respectively. The features of these buildings include expansive oak and stainless steel vats for wine production, ideal cellars for aging, and sunlit offices that encourage a vibrant work atmosphere.

At the helm of this venture is Pablo Álvarez, owner of Vega Sicilia, who has meticulously dedicated significant time and resources to revitalize the spirit of Rioja. His passion for the Viña Real wines of the past inspires him to source vineyards in the region, particularly in Rioja Alavesa, where the limestone-rich soil enhances the distinctive minerality and acidity of the wine.

Before the Macán Winery’s establishment in 2016, Álvarez spent years acquiring old vines, some dating back as far as 1920. His commitment to perfection in winemaking strives to echo the elegance of classic Rioja wines while elevating the Macán labels to rival the celebrated Vega Sicilia offerings.

Unlike other wineries in the Tempos Vega Sicilia group, the Macán Winery distinctly honors Benjamin de Rothschild, who tragically passed away in 2021, ensuring his legacy continues in the wine world. Álvarez cherished their friendship and collaborative vision, determined to create exceptional wines that would finally recognize Rothschild’s contributions alongside his family’s illustrious wine history.

The Macán Winery has released its first and second wines, modeled after the esteemed Grand Cru Classé wines of Bordeaux. The 2020 Macán Clásico, a refined 100% Tempranillo vintage, showcases a bouquet of raspberries complemented by vibrant citrus notes. In contrast, the 2019 Macán, also pure Tempranillo, offers rich and concentrated flavors of cassis and blackberry, coupled with an intricate depth that reflects the winery’s dedication to excellence.

With a commitment to both quality and tribute, the Macán Winery embodies the rich heritage of Rioja while aiming for the recognition and prestige that its founders envisioned.