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.

I tried Pizza Hut’s new tomato wine. Tell me why it was garlicky

As a registered dietitian who enjoys indulging in a variety of foods, pizza holds a special place in my heart. It’s a culinary masterpiece that combines tangy, sweet, salty, and spicy flavors—all packed into a single slice. When I learned about Pizza Hut’s new offering, a pizza-flavored wine, it piqued my interest.

Contrary to what I hoped—a wine curated to enhance the pizza experience—this new product is, indeed, pizza-flavored. Crafted in collaboration with Just Beyond Paradise Winery from Kansas, the wine is meant to complement Pizza Hut’s signature menu items, featuring tomatoes and natural basil as the primary components.

Described as “crafted from ripe, juicy tomatoes” infused with basil, I was uncertain about how apt such a blend could be outside of a sauce. But with tomatoes being fruits and basil frequently used in beverages, I proceeded with cautious optimism. However, my excitement waned when I noticed the inclusion of garlic in the mix—garlic in a wine?

The packaging came with a bit of flair: two stainless steel glasses, a corkscrew, and a $60 price tag. Although the wine sold out faster than the last slice at a party, a waitlist is available for future orders.

Pouring a glass revealed a startling color, reminiscent of a faux-red wine mixed with an artificial hue. The aroma offered a strong punch, perhaps more akin to a strongly seasoned dish than a delicate wine. Along with tomato and basil, the flavors of oregano, garlic, and oak screamed for attention.

I chilled the bottle as instructed and, at the outset, was met with a profile more comparable to a pinot gris rather than any traditional red wine—a necessary improvement, considering the baking ingredients listed. The taste was overwhelmingly seasoned, featuring a prominent garlic presence that turned out to be its most dominant characteristic.

While it was not the pleasant sipping experience one might hope for, it could lend itself well for cooking, particularly in a rich sauce. Though the taste left much to be desired in the realm of drinkability, the experience encapsulated a whimsical culinary endeavor—a testament to how innovation can sometimes take unexpected turns.

In the end, while I wouldn’t dare serve this wine at a dinner table, it certainly has a unique place in the world of experimentally flavored liquids. What it taught me is that sometimes, products designed for enjoyment can provoke revelations instead.

For more about the collaboration, you can explore listings from Irvine Winery.

Temecula’s wine country is facing significant challenges as an increasing number of vineyard owners—including previous Baby Boomers—are moving to sell their properties. This trend is primarily driven by retirement and rising debts, which are posing risks to the region’s winemaking economy.

Many vineyard owners, who had sustained their businesses through years of labor and investment, are now at a crossroads. With the costs associated with winemaking ever-increasing, coupled with the pressures of aging, many owners find themselves grappling with difficult decisions. The wine region, once flourishing, appears to be hitting a financial skid as the demographic of ownership shifts.

As vineyard owners deliberate over their futures, the impacts of these sales could disrupt the local economy reliant on wine tourism and agricultural production. This situation raises concerns not only for the viability of individual vineyards but for the greater health of Temecula’s wine industry moving forward.

For more information, visit OC Register.

Whether you’re new to wine or searching for an affordable bottle, it’s possible to discover great wines without overspending. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to pay exorbitant prices to enjoy quality wine. To aid in this quest, sommelier Cara Patricia from San Francisco’s DecantSF shares tips on how to find excellent wines without breaking the bank.

Understanding the Difference: Cheap vs. Value Wines

Cheap wines might come at very low prices, but their quality is often questionable. Value wines, however, span a range of prices and provide exceptional quality for the money spent. Patricia emphasizes that if a bottle seems too good to be true, it probably is. While wines can be cheap, they usually come with hidden costs.

Strategies for Buying Great Value Wines

1. Shop Local:Seek out boutique wine shops where knowledgeable staff can offer personalized recommendations based on your budget. They often have their own favorites, which may just align with your taste. Local shops frequently conduct tastings that allow you to sample before you buy.

2. Know Your Price Point:Be honest about your budget when speaking with wine professionals. They appreciate transparency and can guide you to options that fit your financial range. Using wine apps can help ensure you aren’t overpaying.

3. Avoid Wine Trends:Be cautious of popular wines heavily marketed on social media, as they often come with inflated prices. Instead, focus on quality producers who prioritize the wine itself over marketing gimmicks.

4. Utilize a World Map:Familiarize yourself with wine regions outside of the well-known ones. For instance, if a Bordeaux wine is too pricey, consider similar options from regions like Chile or Washington state, which may offer better value.

5. Explore Entry-Level Wines:Renowned wineries often produce more affordable bottles that still reflect their prestigious winemaking standards. For example, try a less expensive varietal from a favored producer instead of their top-tier offerings.

6. Consider a Wine Club Membership:Joining a local wine club can provide access to discounts and special selections tailored to your preferences. However, be cautious of online wine clubs that promise overly cheap options—they may not deliver the quality you’re seeking.

7. Buy in Bulk:Purchasing multiple bottles at once usually results in savings. Many local shops offer discounts for buying in bulk, which can help lower your overall cost.

By applying these strategies, you can enhance your wine selection while remaining budget-conscious. Exploring value wines doesn’t mean compromising on quality, and with the right approach, you can enjoy a delightful wine experience without overspending.

Fresh off winning a Freedom of Information request, FT Alphaville is diving into the contents of the UK Government Hospitality Wine Cellar (GHWC). This cellar, which has operated for over a century in Lancaster House, is supposed to be self-funded through wine sales.

The GHWC is overseen by the Government Wine Committee (GWC), composed of a former diplomat and several Masters of Wine (MWs). Our journey started when we queried the FCDO for details on the stock, but initial attempts were met with redactions and rejections. Eventually, thanks to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), we gained access to not only the wine quantities but also the GWC’s terms of reference.

What did we uncover? As of the most recent count, the GHWC houses approximately 32,259 bottles of wine and spirits. Among these, the most frequently stocked is Chapel Down Bacchus, an English white wine favored for events. In terms of value, the highest auction-priced wine is Château Latour Grand Vin 1961, with 107 bottles valued at around £3,500 each.

Moreover, the cellar’s total estimated value sits at approximately £3.8 million, though this figure may be optimistic. While we’ve arrived at various calculations based on community and auction prices, certain bottles remain elusive in terms of pricing. Notably, around 15,356 of the bottles are considered past their prime for consumption.

This investigation highlights the importance of transparency in government holdings. Despite our findings, there remain questions about the FCDO’s continued transparency regarding the cellar’s contents. As this story unfolds, we’ll keep you updated on further developments in the realm of governmental wine collections.

The Piedmont region in northwestern Italy is celebrated for its exceptional wines, particularly dry reds like Barolo and Barbaresco, and the sweet sparkling wine, Moscato. However, it has a rich but often overlooked history of producing sparkling dry wines.

In the early 1600s, a jeweler-turned-winemaker named Giovanni Battista Croce pioneered a sparkling wine made from Nebbiolo grapes, praised for its unique characteristics. Notably, Thomas Jefferson, prior to his presidency, found the sparkling quality of Piedmont’s Nebbiolo impressive when he visited Turin in 1787. He likened it to a hybrid of Madeira, Bordeaux, and Champagne. Additionally, the esteemed author Stendhal acknowledged Asti’s sparkling wine in his 1838 novel.

By the early 1900s, Piedmont’s sparkling wines were showcased at the Universal Exhibition in Paris, indicating a growing recognition. In the 1930s, Asti Spumante gained prominence both in Italy and abroad, eventually featuring in royal weddings, such as that of Umberto of Savoy in 1930.

Today, the Alta Langa designation represents a high-quality appellation of sparkling white and rosé wines from southern Piedmont, crafted using the classical two-fermentation method. These wines, made primarily from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown at least 250 meters above sea level, must adhere to strict DOCG regulations. This includes a minimum vineyard density and a maximum yield, alongside a mandatory aging period on lees of 30 months.

The establishment of the Alta Langa appellation stems from a phone call on January 18, 1990, where winery owner Ottavio Riccadonna and oenologist Ugo Conti expressed their determination to challenge the perceived exclusion of Piedmont wines from the classical method of sparkling wine production. In subsequent meetings, they rallied support from seven key producers, forming a coalition dedicated to promoting this forgotten tradition, leading to the establishment of the Alta Langa consortium and its eventual recognition in 2002.

The formation of Alta Langa DOCG significantly transformed the Piedmont wine landscape. Many local producers take pride in its success, highlighting its quality during tastings and food pairings.

The sparkling wines from Alta Langa showcase a vibrant and harmonious quality, often presenting tropical fruit aromas like guava and pineapple, alongside complex flavors that evoke a satisfying richness, perfect for culinary pairings. Alta Langa continues to be a symbol of elegance and tradition, inviting enthusiasts to explore its depths alongside the celebrated reds and sweet Moscato of the region.

For more comprehensive tasting notes and evaluations, visit my Vino Voices website.