Wine 1106

It all began unexpectedly when I took my first journalism job in a vibrant wine region. Writing for a newspaper in the Finger Lakes, I had the fortune of exploring the burgeoning wine industry and engaging with its pioneers. An inspiring lunch with a magazine publisher sparked my determination to write for trade publications.

After some time, I returned to Northeast Pennsylvania and began writing a general-interest wine column for The Scranton Times-Tribune, a journey that has now spanned nearly 18 years. As I pen this final entry, I reflect on the mission of my column, "Empty Bottles": to simplify the complexities of wine and present it as an accessible beverage for everyone. My goal has always been to provide knowledge that makes wine shopping simpler and encourages readers to explore new options, leaving their final preferences in their hands.

My involvement with the American Wine Society also added depth to this adventure, especially during my tenure as executive director from 2016 to 2022.

To conclude this chapter, I return to the Finger Lakes, home to one of the first small wineries, Wagner Vineyards. Their 2022 Dry Riesling, with its fragrant white flower and limestone notes, boasts flavors of white peach with a refreshing acidity—priced at $18 and rated four stars.

Also noteworthy is Fox Run Vineyards’ 2022 Seneca Lake Dry Riesling, characterized by lime and mineral notes, featuring a zesty finish, priced similarly at $18 and receiving four and a half stars.

Dr. Konstantin Frank, a legendary figure in the region, cultivated over a hundred grape varieties. Today, while the selection has been refined, unusual varieties persist. His 2024 Finger Lakes Rkatsiteli, with notes of lemongrass and tropical fruit, is available for $20 and rated four and a half stars.

For those who haven’t yet visited the Finger Lakes, now is the perfect time, and be sure to explore Pennsylvania’s fine wineries as well. My parting recommendation: keep an eye out for the promising 2024 eastern reds, which are shaping up to be exceptional.

Finger Lakes Wine Region

Napa Valley is predominantly known for its breathtaking vineyards and fine wines, with over 400 wineries enticing visitors to indulge in wine tastings and vineyard tours. However, the region offers a wealth of activities that extend beyond the wine experience.

Cycling Adventures

Exploring Napa Valley on two wheels is a fantastic way to enjoy the stunning landscape. Fat Tire Bike Rentals, located in downtown Napa, provides electric bike rentals that can be delivered right to your lodging. They offer guided tours, some featuring winery visits and others focusing on art and history, making cycling accessible to everyone.

Hot Air Balloon Experiences

For a unique perspective, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. Napa Valley Aloft provides a family-run experience with a strong emphasis on safety. Their pilots are FAA-certified, ensuring a memorable and safe adventure as you soak in panoramic views of the valley from above.

Train and Sidecar Tours

Exploring wine country can also be enjoyed via the Napa Valley Wine Train, a vintage excursion train showcasing scenic views while serving gourmet meals. Alternatively, Sidecar Tours Inc. allows you to travel through the vineyards in a motorcycle sidecar, creating an exhilarating and enjoyable experience.

Photography and Art

For photography enthusiasts, Art & Clarity offers a program called The Art of Seeing, where participants learn to enhance their photography skills while appreciating Napa Valley’s beauty. Additionally, art galleries and festivals abound, like the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, which features works mainly from Northern California.

Outdoor Nature Activities

Take a break from wine and immerse in nature by hiking in nearby state parks. Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and Bothe-Napa Valley State Park provide trails for all skill levels, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and opportunities for family outings.

Water Activities

Diving into the water can be refreshing during warmer months. Kayaking with Enjoy Napa Valley offers guided tours, giving participants a chance to explore the Napa River. Paddleboarding and kayaking rentals without guided tours are also available through Napa Valley Paddle, perfect for a more independent experience.

Culinary Adventures

Your visit shouldn’t skip the opportunity to enjoy local culinary offerings beyond wine. Participating in olive oil tastings at places like Round Pond Estate and Grove 45 enhances the gastronomic experience. The Napa Table specializes in cheese tastings, making it easy to pair with any wines you might take home.

Breweries and Distilleries

Napa Valley’s beverage scene extends into craft breweries and distilleries. Fieldwork Brewing and St. Clair Brown Winery and Brewery offer unique craft beers, while Napa Valley Distillery is known for its various spirits including gin and whiskey.

Relaxation and Wellness

To unwind, visit one of the local spas. The Spa at Solage utilizes Calistoga’s natural hot springs, offering treatments that refresh and rejuvenate.

While wine tasting remains a popular draw to Napa Valley, the region is rich with diverse experiences that allow visitors to enjoy a fuller spectrum of what this beautiful area has to offer. Whether it’s cycling, ballooning, engaging in art, or tantalizing your taste buds with oils and cheeses, Napa Valley ensures that every visit can be uniquely memorable.

Riesling, Germany’s flagship grape, celebrates 590 years of noteworthy cultivation this year. Known globally for its purity and finesse, Riesling is deeply embedded in the fabric of German wine culture, having been cultivated since at least the early 15th century.

Origins

Riesling is believed to have originated in the Rhine region of Germany, with its first documented mention occurring on March 13, 1435, in a cellar inventory from Rüsselsheim near the Rheingau. By the 15th and 16th centuries, it became popular in the Rhine and Mosel valleys, tailored to thrive in steep, slate-rich vineyards. This grape flourished in Germany’s best vineyard sites and historically commanded higher prices than some prestigious Bordeaux and Burgundy wines. Today, it accounts for roughly 25% of Germany’s vineyard area.

Notably, Riesling exhibits a high degree of terroir expression—where the vineyard’s soil type impacts its mineral character and flavor profile. Its naturally high acidity enhances its vibrancy and longevity in the bottle, allowing top-quality Rieslings to evolve over decades, bringing forth complex notes of honey, petrol, and dried fruit.

Aroma and Taste Profile

Riesling is known for its intense aroma, with young dry examples showcasing vibrant notes of green apple, lime, and white peach, often accompanied by floral hints. As the wine ages, it develops a unique kerosene note—a hallmark for aficionados. The marked acidity provides a perfect balance to the wine’s sweetness, ensuring even the sweetest styles maintain a refreshing, acidic backbone.

Here are tasting notes for several representational Rieslings that highlight their diversity:

• Karl Haidle, Ritzling, 2021 Riesling Trocken, 12% ABV: This dry style offers crisp aromas of green apple and lime zest, alongside mineral notes from the slate. The palate presents refreshing acidity with lingering orchard fruit.

• Dönnhoff, Oberhäuser Leistenberg, Riesling Kabinett, 2021, 8.5% ABV: Known for its precision, this Kabinett showcases aromas of white peach and wet stone, balanced by a hint of sweetness and vibrant acidity.

• Monchhof, Mosel Slate, Riesling Spätlese, 8% ABV: This wine features notes of apricot and honeysuckle, complemented by crisp acidity and a clean slate finish.

• Selbach-Oster, Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Auslese, Schmitt, 2019, 8% ABV: This luscious sweet wine highlights flavors of peaches and orange marmalade, balanced by lively acidity.

• Dr. Loosen, Riesling Beerenauslese, 2017, 7% ABV: A luxurious dessert wine, rich in aromas of dried apricot and caramelized orange peel, showcasing a luscious sweetness countered by zesty acidity.

• Dr. Loosen Bros, Riesling Sparkling, 12% ABV: This fresh sparkling Riesling is crisp and fruity, featuring notes of citrus balanced by vibrant acidity, making it an excellent aperitif option.

Celebrating the 590th anniversary of Riesling’s cultivation in Germany calls for an exploration of its diverse styles, whether sweet or dry, still or sparkling. There’s a Riesling that matches every palate—making it the perfect choice for any occasion.

Unicorn Auctions Expands Platform with Acquisition of The New Wine Review

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing its presence in the wine and spirits sector, Unicorn Auctions has acquired The New Wine Review, a respected independent digital publication. Known for its insightful editorial focus on wine and whiskey collectors, the brand will now be rebranded as The Unicorn Review, signaling a broader scope of content and richer offerings for enthusiasts.

“The New Wine Review has fostered a dedicated audience of discerning collectors who prioritize quality, history, and taste,” said Phil Mikhaylov, CEO of Unicorn Auctions. “We are not just continuing its legacy, but rather expanding upon it. With the launch of The Unicorn Review, we are committed to making education, storytelling, and in-depth collecting knowledge freely accessible.”

The Unicorn Review will serve both novice and seasoned collectors, featuring diverse content such as bottle highlights, market insights, trend analysis, and interviews with industry experts. This initiative will help demystify the evolving wine and spirits landscape, covering topics from newly emerging brands to collection management techniques.

Backed by Unicorn’s comprehensive database of secondary market transactions—which houses millions of bids and insights into collector behavior—the new platform will leverage this data to deliver valuable trends, guides, and narratives about both established and emerging producers.

By launching The Unicorn Review, Unicorn Auctions is taking a significant step toward creating a transparent and engaging environment for wine and spirits enthusiasts, with new articles expected weekly alongside a newsletter for collectors.

For more details, visit The Unicorn Review.

Red, Wine & Brew in Mentor is gearing up for two exciting wine tastings that promise to elevate your palate. On July 16, attendees will have the chance to sample a selection of wines from Oregon’s A to Z Wineworks, known for its commitment to sustainability and quality. The tasting will feature their Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Riesling, Rosé, and Pinot Noir from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $20 and can be purchased at the store located at 9620 Old Johnnycake Ridge Road or online at bit.ly/rwb-oregontasting-25. This ticket also grants a 15% discount on food purchases that evening.

Following this, on July 30, there will be a tasting event showcasing wines from the St. Helena, California-based Duckhorn Vineyard. This session, running from 6 to 8 p.m., will highlight limited offerings such as Migration Chardonnay Sonoma Coast, Migration Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast, Paraduxx Red Blend, Canvasback Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, and Postmark Cabernet Sauvignon. Once these wines run out, they will no longer be available for purchase.

For those who make dinner reservations alongside ticket purchases, a food discount will be available. Additionally, visitors can experience new beers from Allagash Brewing, featuring their Allagash White, Allagash Tripel, and Allagash Surf House on tap.

For more information, you can visit Red, Wine & Brew or call 440-210-0024.

An open bottle of wine doesn’t last forever, but with proper storage, you can extend its lifespan significantly. Whether you’re pouring a glass of red, white, or sparkling wine, the way you store it is crucial for retaining its quality.

Wine educator Rachel Thralls emphasizes that proper storage techniques can help preserve an opened bottle for a few days to even a week, depending on the type of wine.

How Long Does Open Wine Last?

1. Red Wine:

   • Lifespan: 3-5 days in the fridge.
   • Storage Tip: Keep it in a cool, dark place with a cork or in the refrigerator. Red wines with higher tannins and acidity, like Cabernet Sauvignon, tend to last longer than light reds, like Pinot Noir. Take the bottle out about 10 minutes before serving to bring it back to room temperature.

2. Full-Bodied White Wine:

   • Lifespan: 2-3 days in the fridge.
   • Storage Tip: Oaked varieties like Chardonnay are more prone to oxidization, so keep them corked in the refrigerator.

3. Sparkling Wine:

   • Lifespan: 1-3 days in the fridge.
   • Storage Tip: They lose carbonation quickly after opening. Using a sparkling wine stopper can help retain bubbles for longer.

4. Light White, Sweet White, and Rosé Wines:

   • Lifespan: 4-5 days in the fridge.
   • Storage Tip: These wines can stay drinkable for several days if stored with a cork in the refrigerator.

General Storage Tips

• Invest in a Wine Preserver: Tools like vacuum pumps can help remove air from the bottle, preserving the wine for an extended period.
• Keep It Cold: Refrigeration slows down the wine’s development and keeps it fresh. An ideal temperature is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Avoid Sunlight and Heat: Direct sunlight can ruin the flavors and aromas of wine, so store it in a dark place.

Ideal Serving Temperatures

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

Storing wine properly ensures you enjoy every drop without worrying about it spoiling too quickly. Whether it’s a weeknight glass or a special occasion bottle, these tips will help respect the wine’s character and enhance your drinking experience.

On June 21, 2025, Coolray Stadium in Lawrenceville, GA, came alive with the vibrant energy of the annual R&B Wine Festival. Organized by Streetz 94.5 and rolling out Magazine, the event showcased a perfect fusion of smooth music, delicious food, and community camaraderie, establishing itself as a highlight of the summer calendar.

Hosted by the charismatic Jigi Deniro from Streetz 94.5, the festival radiated positivity and engagement as he connected with both performers and attendees. His presence significantly enhanced the festive spirit, ensuring that everyone felt included in the day’s celebrations.

As the festival opened, festival-goers encountered a plethora of food trucks offering diverse culinary delights. From the unique dishes of Maras Mobile Kitchen to the flavors of Brooklyn’s Caribbean cuisine, the food options catered to a variety of tastes, with long lines forming as attendees sampled the offerings.

In addition to food, a bustling marketplace highlighted local commerce, featuring numerous vendors showcasing their crafts and products. Attendees had the opportunity to explore unique fashion items, artisanal goods, and refreshing beverages, with stalls from popular vendors like Miazza Couture and The LemonLaid Lady. This atmosphere not only provided shopping opportunities but also supported local entrepreneurs and amplified the community spirit.

The centerpiece of the R&B Wine Festival was undoubtedly its live musical performances. The stadium resonated with the sounds of R&B, inviting attendees to sway and sing along. A diverse lineup combined established artists with emerging talents, ensuring that the musical experience was both engaging and memorable.

The event’s success can largely be credited to JDJ Entertainment, which skillfully managed the logistics and production. Their collaboration with Streetz 94.5 and rolling out Magazine created a powerful synergy, resulting in a well-coordinated event that delighted attendees from all walks of life.

The continuous growth of the R&B Wine Festival emphasizes its significance in the cultural landscape of Gwinnett County and its surrounding areas. With each passing year, it strengthens its place as a beloved summer gathering for music lovers, food enthusiasts, and community supporters alike.

The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Music Festival has returned for its 2025 edition, celebrated at the Lake Skinner Recreation Area in Winchester, California, beginning June 20 and running through June 22. This vibrant festival, which has been a local tradition since 1983, offers a variety of attractions including hot air balloon rides, wine tasting, food vendors, and live country music performances.

Attendees were treated to a stunning hot air balloon glow event on the evening of June 20, where balloons were illuminated in a magical display. The event features country music as its highlight this year, with legendary band Alabama scheduled to perform on June 22. The festival grounds are open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., providing ample time for guests to enjoy all the festivities.

For more information, visit Temecula Valley Festival.

My dentist insists that I should brush my teeth every day.

“Every day?” I questioned.

“Every day,” was her firm reply.

“Every tooth?” I joked.

“Well, no,” she laughed. “Only the ones you want to keep.”

Her blend of humor and authority is both comforting and a bit intimidating, but I decided to keep it a secret that I didn’t brush my teeth before tasting the acclaimed Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, which has just been crowned No. 1 on Wine Spectator‘s Top 100 list for 2024. I could already imagine her disapproval, especially since it was an important day: I was going to taste a wine that’s been recognized for its excellence.

Several years back, I had the opportunity to serve as an honorary judge at the American Fine Wine Competition in North Miami, alongside five serious wine judges who warned against anything that could interfere with their wine tasting experience. No fragrances or toothpaste allowed—anything that could distort their senses must be avoided at all costs.

On the day I met Isabel Guilisasti, the President of Fine Wine at Viña Concha y Toro, I took the advice to heart (even if it meant skipping a shower). I figured I should hold back a bit, given the situation, but she made me feel at ease and welcomed me warmly at the restaurant in South Beach.

Guilisasti had captivating stories to share about Don Melchor, the vineyard located on the banks of the River Maipo in the Andes Mountains, as she pulled out a slideshow of stunning images. “It’s a beautiful place,” she said, her enthusiasm undeniable.

As she poured the rich, deep purple wine into my glass, I could already sense the pronounced aromas of red fruits and berries, captivating me instantly. The Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon has a storied lineage, with 93 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and a blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes, aged for 15 months in French oak.

Wine Spectator praised it, stating, “A remarkable effort that channels the finesse of the vintage with rich, muscular edges,” highlighting its notes of graphite, cassis, and elegant layers of spices.

I found myself nodding, in complete agreement with their assessment. This wine felt monumental, and I quietly wished I had better prepared for our meeting. At $294 a bottle, it can be a steep investment, but when compared to a trip to Chile and a car ride over the Andes to see where it’s made, maybe it’s worth it.

So I’ll keep my dental secrets just a little longer—just don’t tell my dentist.

Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, SRP $294. Learn more here.

A brand-new festival celebrating Canadian wines is set to make its debut in Toronto this summer, featuring an array of unlimited samples and local cuisine. While renowned wineries in countries like Italy and France often dominate the global wine scene, Canada boasts a variety of exceptional wineries that deserve recognition.

The inaugural Elbows Up Coast-to-Coast Wine Fair will take place at Fort York on July 12, 2025, dedicated to honoring the nation’s finest grape growers. The festival is inspired by a popular hockey saying from Canadian comedian Mike Myers and aims to elevate locally-produced beverages in response to international market challenges.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore over 25 wineries from diverse regions, including British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley and Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley. Notable vendors like Paradise Grapevine and other Ontario favorites such as Hidden Bench, Rosewood Estates, and Tawse will be present, along with out-of-town participants like Nova Scotia’s Lightfoot & Wolfville and BC’s Ursa Major.

In addition to the wine offerings, a delicious selection of local food vendors will also be on-site, making for a well-rounded experience. Confirmed food vendors include Leslieville’s Ricky + Olivia, known for their innovative takes on classic dishes, and Good Cheese, which will provide artisan cheese plates and generous focaccia sandwiches.

The festival is designed with two sessions: the first from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the second from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Regardless of the session chosen, attendees will enjoy unlimited samples, food access, and a special keepsake glass to commemorate the event.

Tickets are priced at $35 until June 21, after which they will increase to $50, providing an incentive for early purchases.

Event Details:

• When: Saturday, July 12, 2025
• Time: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Where: Fort York – 250 Fort York Blvd.
• Admission: $35 to $80

For more information, visit the official event page: Elbows Up Coast-to-Coast Wine Fair.