Wine 1020

In the upcoming weeks, you might come across the phrase “Come Over October” and related signs as part of a new international marketing campaign, particularly in places where wine is available. This initiative encourages us to connect — inviting us to “come over” and enjoy wine together, fostering companionship and conversation.

This campaign emerges at a time when wine sales are struggling and there is a growing anti-alcohol sentiment, highlighted by movements like “Sober October” and “Dry January,” alongside a shift in public health recommendations from encouraging moderation to endorsing complete abstinence from alcohol.

It also coincides with a contentious election season, amidst a backdrop of divisive politics, as many Americans are still hesitant about socializing due to the impacts of the pandemic. “Come Over October” aims to remind us of the role wine has played in nurturing social, cultural, and religious bonds for the past 8,000 years.

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“The most crucial aspect of Come Over October is the ‘come over,’” remarked Karen MacNeil, a wine writer from Napa Valley and author of “The Wine Bible,” who came up with the idea for the initiative.

“This evening, I shared a meal with five individuals who were complete strangers just a couple of hours ago,” she continued. “By the end of our dinner, we embraced and became friends. It may seem simple or sentimental, but I believe every wine enthusiast has experienced this. After enjoying a meal, some wine, and good conversation, you end up as friends.”

MacNeil developed the campaign earlier this year in collaboration with Kimberly Noelle Charles and Gino Colangelo, renowned figures in wine marketing. The response from the wine community has been overwhelmingly positive. Sponsors include Total Wine & More, Jackson Family Wines, various individual wineries, and winery associations from regions such as California, Oregon, Champagne, Sicily, and more, along with several wine publications.

“We find ourselves in challenging times, and it’s clear that good company, engaging conversation, laughter, and a sense of togetherness enhance our lives,” MacNeil commented in a news release regarding the initiative. “Our aim is to inspire individuals to disconnect from their devices and enjoy each other’s presence. Throughout history, wine has fostered conversation, cultivated new friendships, and strengthened existing ones.”

Come Over October brings a joyful contrast to Sober October, which, along with Dry January, is one of the two months when many individuals choose to refrain from drinking alcohol for several weeks.

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Prohibition measures are also gaining traction. In January 2023, the World Health Organization revised its stance to proclaim that “no level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health.” This marks a significant departure from the previous guidance encouraging moderation. The US government is contemplating incorporating this stricter perspective into its dietary guidelines, and this anti-alcohol sentiment has already begun to permeate discussions in media outlets.

MacNeil expressed hesitance in portraying Come Over October as an overt response to this growing anti-alcohol movement, although she did emphasize the difference between the traditional role of wine and the alarming notion that all alcohol is detrimental.

“This is not Come and Party October, or Binge January,” she explained. “It’s come over and share some wine. We don’t even phrase it as a bottle of wine; we emphasize sharing some wine to honor its historical and cultural significance in fostering connections among people.

“This isn’t about discussing alcohol abuse,” she clarified. “It’s merely acknowledging something profoundly significant: We are social beings who enjoy each other’s company, and wine plays a valuable role in uniting us.”

Encouraged by the enthusiastic response from the wine community, MacNeil mentioned that she, along with Charles and Colangelo, intend to establish Come Over October as an annual initiative and are exploring the idea of a related event for the spring season.

In the upcoming weeks, consider reaching out to a friend you haven’t connected with in a while, a neighbor you’d like to know better, or a colleague you had a disagreement with recently, and invite them over. Offer them a glass and allow the wine to create connections that have been cherished throughout culture and time for thousands of years.

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This biodynamic domaine is located in Hunawihr, within the Alsace wine region.

Alsace consistently produces exceptional quality, making it challenging to choose just one bottle from this small, renowned region in northeastern France. However, a Grand Cru Riesling from Domaine Christophe Mittnacht’s “Terre d’Etoiles” collection truly distinguished itself among a plethora of white wines this summer.

A dry and delicious Riesling crafted by a biodynamic producer.

This wine greets you with an alluring aroma of lemon curd, combined with classic Riesling notes of petrol and honey. The palate is enriched with more lemon, vibrant acidity, hints of tarragon, and herbal undertones, alongside a stony minerality. The overall experience is smooth and refined, delivering a luxurious mouthfeel and a lengthy, refreshing finish.

Alsace is a region characterized by a diverse array of soils and terroirs, renowned for its Grand Crus. The area has a rich history of producing exceptionally crafted wines that offer remarkable value. One notable figure in this landscape is Christophe Mittnacht, a pioneer of biodynamic practices in the region. His vineyard was certified organic as early as 1999, making it one of the first in Alsace. The grapes used are harvested from a 35-year-old vineyard in the Rosacker Grand Cru of Hunawihr, which is celebrated for its acclaimed Riesling, Clos-St.-Hune. The clay and limestone soils in this area contribute to a wonderfully rich flavor profile.

Inspired by his wife Yuka’s Japanese heritage, Christophe aimed to create wines that would complement sushi and other seafood dishes served in her father’s restaurant. The “Gyotaku” white blend stands out as a delightful choice specifically crafted for this culinary pair. With a suggested retail price of approximately $29, it is a fantastic value.

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Courtesy of A Cork in the Road, LLC

Returning to Atlanta, GA this December, Sommlympics is a multi-event challenge of knowledge and skills capturing the competitive interest of wine professionals from coast to coast.

As with every sporting competition that aims for a championship, the second annual “Sommlympics” is set to be the premier test for wine connoisseurs. This esteemed, high-stakes competition is tailored to honor the craftsmanship of wine and the expertise of sommeliers, featuring numerous unexpected challenges that have already piqued the interest of wine professionals nationwide. This innovative multi-stage competition brings together teams of three competitors from the wine industry who face a series of demanding tasks that cover wine theory, service, and blind tasting. Attendees can buy tickets to observe the exhilarating competition, savor fine wines, and gain valuable insights from the various challenges.

Courtesy of A Cork In The Road, LLC

The first Sommlympics in 2023 was an electrifying event, filled with excitement and a sense of community. It created unforgettable memories for everyone present. Following the success of the previous year, the competition is set to expand in scope this December in Georgia. Attendees can choose to purchase tickets for individual events or opt for a full-day pass that includes access to all events and an awards ceremony where winners will be celebrated and prizes awarded. This year’s event will also feature a special bonus prize – the “Star de Spectacle” or Star of the Show, which will be presented to one of the participants at the end of the day. These prize packages have been made possible through the generous contributions of sponsors both locally and internationally, who support wine education and the joy of wine exploration within the community.

From Concept to Competition: The Sommlympics Origin Story

The idea behind Sommlympics came from Chelsea Young, a self-proclaimed cork dork who transitioned into an industry professional. As the Founder & Lead Educator of The Oenophile Institute, she aimed to create an accessible platform for wine education. After facing challenges in finding convenient learning spaces on her own journey, Young partnered with Anthony Alvarez, the owner of The Vineyard Wine Market in Smyrna, GA, to establish the Institute. Through its programs, she aspires to make wine and beverage education readily available to all interested parties. “When I first opened the Institute, I envisioned the ‘The Sommelier Games’ as a fun field day for wine enthusiasts,” Young reminisces. “However, I learned from friends competing in national and international contests that there weren’t enough opportunities available. Thus, I aimed to create something challenging yet more transparent and fair.” The Sommlympics was designed for teams of three, allowing sommeliers to showcase their talents while remaining accessible to those who study wine. “Most importantly, I wanted to retain the fun,” Young explains about her thought process, “so I incorporated twists, strategic team gameplay, and interactive elements for the audience.” Young has enlisted fellow wine industry friends to volunteer for this successful event and even arranged for a surprise guest judge this year to assist with scoring. “Above all,” she expresses regarding this year’s competitors, “I hope they enjoy themselves and forge new friendships. But as an educator, I also hope everyone walks away having learned something!”

Photo by Kristin Estadt

Since its inception, the Sommlympics has seen a remarkable expansion in its pool of participants, with the upcoming 2024 competition set to showcase a diverse range of professionals. Competitors this year include a Master Sommelier, candidates training to become Master Sommeliers, WSET Diploma students, sommeliers from Michelin-starred establishments, retail experts, and representatives from distribution. Ultimately, the championship will honor three exemplary wine professionals at the pinnacle of their careers. Registrations for the 2024 competition have already come in from various locations across the U.S., including New York, Florida, California, and Georgia. Janeen Jason, a Certified Sommelier and Buyer for VinoTeca Wine Store in Atlanta, GA, participated in the inaugural event and is returning in 2024 with the same team. She emphasizes that the Sommlympics highlights the many aspects of advanced wine education within her community. “As a black queer woman, representation is crucial for me. Atlanta stands as a hub for diversity and inclusion, which is reflected in our wine community,” Jason states. Serving once again as her team’s representative for the blind tasting event, she incorporates her experiences from the retail shop into her weekly practice sessions. Additionally, she is meticulously documenting the wines selected for her blind tasting kits, which she curates as mentorship offerings for aspiring sommeliers looking to enhance their tasting skills. “To spectators, Sommlympics can spark a passion for diving deeper into wine,” Jason adds, “and witnessing professionals in their element sets the standards expected on restaurant floors and highlights vital elements of certification.” Jade Palmer, a WSET Diploma Candidate and Wine Buyer for Hop City Beer & Wine at Krog Street Market in Atlanta, GA, was part of the 2023 championship team, and she concurs that the Sommlympics provides an enjoyable, low-pressure arena to engage with some of the industry’s most brilliant minds. “I’m always studying,” she shares, “so regardless of anything that may arise in the theoretical segment, I’ve either encountered it, am currently tackling it, or will soon.” Palmer and her team named “Grand Crew: Carignan My Wayward Son” are gearing up to return and defend their title at the 2024 competition.

The innovative framework of this competition not only attracts a spectrum of wine professionals but also provides a platform for celebrating how wine acts as a communal bond. Advanced Sommelier Elizabeth Dames, Cofounder and Wine Director of The Perlant, shared that serving as her team’s representative during the theory segment afforded her the opportunity to test her limits alongside some of the finest talent in the wine industry. “It’s the ideal blend of serious competition and a celebration of all the facets of wine that I adore,” Dames remarks, “and competing with dear friends as part of an encouraging community serves as a significant source of motivation. The camaraderie found within the wine sector is unique, and the Sommlympics truly highlights that.” Last year, as she prepared for the Master Sommelier theory examination, Dames maintained a rigorous study schedule, remaining intensely focused. However, this year she plans to adjust her tactics by prioritizing a calm demeanor under pressure, which she aims to integrate into her Master Sommelier studies as well. “I’ve also been learning alongside new sommelier friends to keep the experience vibrant and gain various insights,” she notes, “which continues the enjoyable learning from last year!” While exam preparations may often feel like solitary, rigorous academic endeavors, the Sommlympics engage wine professionals in real-time scenarios that challenge their quick-thinking abilities and capacity for managing high-pressure service situations. Dames recollects how the presence of an audience heightens the experience, where knowing people are observing every action adds an additional layer of intensity. “Participating in this competition is excellent practice for examinations and real-world situations I may encounter in restaurants, enhancing my professional skills overall. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and honestly, immensely fun — far more dynamic than poring over a study guide!”

Thanks to A Cork in the Road, LLC

This year, each event of the Sommlympics is designed to offer spectators a distinctive experience, ensuring an engaging view of the unfolding action. Every team, comprising three members, will designate one participant to take part in the following three events:

Medals and prizes will be presented to the highest-scoring Sommlympian at the conclusion of each individual event. However, the final point totals and the Grand Prize team will be disclosed during the grand Awards Ceremony at the end of the day’s celebrations.

From Champagne to Culinary Getaways: The Prizes for Sommlympics 2024 Increase the Stakes

In the previous year, the victorious team enjoyed their $1,000 cash award by dining at Bern’s Steakhouse, complete with accommodations across the street at the Epicurean Hotel in Tampa, FL. This year, with an impressive group of elite competitors participating, the caliber and volume of prizes have significantly improved. At each of the three individual events, gold medalists will receive enrollment in a Master Level Course from Wine Scholar Guild, in addition to a bottle of Champagne from one of three prestigious wine retailers in Atlanta, GA – Press Shop, Elemental Spirits, and VinoTeca. The three members of the Grand Prize winning team will once again receive a complimentary one-night stay at the Epicurean Hotel in Tampa, FL, along with a $1,000 gift card for Bern’s Steakhouse. Moreover, they will also take home a personalized bottle of 100-Year-Old Para Tawny from Seppeltsfield in Barossa, Australia. A new bonus prize has been introduced for the 2024 competition, destined to grab the attention of participants: one Sommlympian will be honored as the “Star du Spectacle” and awarded a trip to Champagne, courtesy of Comite Champagne. Such high-caliber prizes offered by generous sponsors are bound to heighten the excitement throughout the day for both the Sommlympians and the audience.

Joe Herrig, the Director of Education for Georgia Crown Distributing Co. and a graduate of the WSET Diploma program, was part of the championship team in 2023. He remarked, “what’s not to love?” when asked about his favorite aspects of the previous year’s Sommlympics. “This event is all about geeking out, pulling some corks, and challenging each other to improve,” Herrig explains. “Competitions like this inspire every participating wine professional to refine their skills, ultimately enhancing wine sales, service, and hospitality in the host city.” As he returns to defend his title this year, Herrig recognizes the heightened competition and is planning to enter with an open mind, relying on the expertise of his teammates. “I genuinely don’t know what challenges await us this year, so we’ll just show up, enjoy ourselves, and see where the day takes us,” he adds. Herrig and his fellow returning Sommlympians agree that the community within the wine industry is exceptional, making it the perfect occasion to celebrate with some fine Champagne and toast together at the celebration’s end. “I’m an enormous supporter of every participant and those who cheer us on from the crowd, so I want to share that joy with them,” Herrig states. “Bringing people together is what wonderful wine is truly about, isn’t it?”

To learn more about the Sommlympics, visit this link and keep an eye out for the team of wine experts that will seize the championship title in 2024!

Photo credit: Kristin Estadt

The wine selection at Costco features a delightful range, including the highly sought-after, $40k cases of Romanée-Conti along with more affordable choices like the $13 Kirkland brand boxed wines. However, amidst these great finds, there are also some misses. In a recent evaluation of 23 popular wines to buy at Costco, taste testers at Tasting Table identified one white wine that should be avoided — the Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio. The critique isn’t based on poor taste, but rather something quite the opposite.

Santa Margherita is renowned for its pinot grigio, which hails from vineyards nestled at the foothills of the Italian Alps — an area our taste testers are quite fond of. Customers appreciate it for its crisp, refreshing flavor, often highlighting its perfect balance of sweetness that makes it versatile for pairing with various dishes. With delicate notes of apple and citrus, there’s little negative to say about it except for the price point.

Many customers rave about this wine, and their guests agree. It’s been claimed that, among all the options served, the Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio is consistently the first to disappear. Nevertheless, at $18 per bottle, our taste testers believe there are other Italian wines available at significantly better prices — a sentiment echoed by many Costco shoppers who have discovered excellent wines from the same region for less.

Read more: 25 Popular Bottled Water Brands, Ranked Worst To Best

The Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio is undeniably a favorite among wine enthusiasts. While it typically retails for around $25 per bottle at various retailers, you can find much better options at Costco that are just as delightful. Consider saving the Santa Margherita for personal enjoyment, and when hosting your next gathering, choose a bottle like the Scarpetta Pinot Grigio from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, which is known for its stunning Dolomitic Alps, priced at $16 a bottle. Alternatively, you can opt for the Castel Sallegg Pinot Grigio for just $8 from the same Italian wine region in northeastern Italy.

Many other remarkable choices abound—whether you prefer $15 bottles like the Pighin Friuli Pinot Grigio and Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio, or $10 options such as Italian Dreamer Pinot Grigio and Benvolio Pinot Grigio—the selections are plentiful. The essence is that there is an array of high-elevation, Italian Pinot Grigios available that will surely impress your guests without breaking the bank. In fact, with Costco’s pricing, you might purchase several bottles for the same cost as one Santa Margherita, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a second glass—and trust us, they will definitely appreciate it.

For more insights, check the original article on Tasting Table.

The Wine Country Harvest Festival in North East has expanded once again.

This year, thanks to some changes in zoning, festival organizers can now allow attendees to enjoy wine in Heard Park, which offers seating under tents for guests to relax and savor food from adjacent food trucks. This update also creates a larger space for children’s activities, including pumpkin painting, grape stomping, a mini-corn maze, and other delightful surprises for the little ones. Across both parks, there will be 75 art, craft, and specialty vendors alongside food trucks. Live music will fill the air in Gibson Park, complemented by wine pouring from more than 10 local wineries.

Entry to the festival is free; however, those aged 21 and older with valid ID wishing to sample the wine can purchase passes at eventbrite.com, with prices starting at $25 for a single day and $55 for the entire weekend. These passes include a souvenir glass, unlimited tastings, and a token to buy a bottle of wine for on-site enjoyment.

Gibson Park is situated in downtown North East at the intersection of Lake and Main streets, while Heard Memorial Park is just under a quarter mile away at 40 N. Lake St.

The schedule for this year’s festival is as follows:

4-8 p.m.: The wine tents at Gibson Park will open, accompanied by live music.

4 to 6 p.m.: Join us for the first of two bike rides through the wine country. You can register at lakecountrybike.com/tours.

4-7 p.m.: Kids can enjoy pumpkin painting at Heard Park with Little Miss NE, along with grape stomping, a photo booth, and various other activities.

4 p.m.: Gibson Park: The Ralph Chamberlain Duo takes the stage

5:30 p.m.: Gibson Park: Denny & Heather present their performance

7:30 p.m.: Gibson Park: Shoreline graces the audience with their music

8 p.m.: The final pour from the wineries at Gibson Park

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9 a.m.: Wine Fest 5K walk/run. Register at runsignup.com/Race/PA/NorthEast/StrideStomp5k.

9 to 10:30 a.m.: Check in for the second of two wine country bike rides. Register at lakecountrybike.com/tours.

10 a.m.: Bubbly Brunch: The Skunk & Goat Tavern, 17 W. Main St., North East

11 a.m.: Heard Park: Horse and carriage rides, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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12:00 PM: Gibson Park: Kicking off the day’s first pour

12:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Heard Park: Grape stomping, pumpkin painting, and various children’s activities

1:00 PM: Gibson Park: Live performance by Petty Larseny

3:00 PM: Gibson Park: Whiskey Jack takes the stage

3 to 6 p.m.: Join us at Gibson Park for complimentary caricatures.

4:30 p.m.: Experience the Italian dancers of Erie at Gibson Park.

5 p.m.: Enjoy a performance by Never Too Late at Gibson Park.

7 p.m.: Don’t miss Jack Stevenson and the Buried Treasure Band at Gibson Park.

8 p.m.: Gibson Park: Final drink service

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Gibson Park: Wine tents available

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Heard Park: Flower bar (create your own bouquet)

Noon to 4 p.m.: Heard Park: Horse and carriage rides

Noon to 3 p.m.: Heard Park: Grape stomping and pumpkin painting

12:30 p.m.: Gibson Park: Rock Avenue performs

2:30 p.m.: Gibson Park: Carnival Brothers perform

For more information, reach out to Jennie Geisler at jgeisler@timesnews.com. You can also check out her weekly newsletter at https://profile.goerie.com/newsletters/erielicious/.

This piece was originally published in Erie Times-News: Wine Country Harvest Festival in North East opens Friday at 4 p.m.

A pour is a pour is a pour, except when it’s not. When it comes to wine, each type of bottle and the different kinds of wine you’re pouring determine how many glasses of wine you’ll get from a single bottle. Most standard wine bottles contain 750 milliliters of wine, which breaks down to about five individual glasses (in case you need a head count for your next shindig). That’s about 150 milliliters of wine per glass.

However, depending on where you are in the world, the number of glasses changes depending on the alcohol content in the wine. In other words, even if the wine bottle contains 750 milliliters of the good stuff, you may not get five glasses of wine from the bottle. For example, a bottle of German riesling, with its 8% alcohol by volume (ABV), would come out to 4.7 glasses of wine instead of five glasses. This is because the wine’s alcohol content sometimes determines how much liquid is in the glass and, therefore, how many units of alcohol you’d be consuming per glass.

This way of ABV-content wine-pouring is usually geographically specific to certain parts of the world, like Australia. That said, you’d follow a similar rule when serving wines like a port. Bottles of port wine net 10 glasses because the alcohol content is higher than that of your standard wines, which means less port in the glass.

Read more: 13 Types Of Beer Glasses And When To Use Them

You may believe that the size of a glass affects how much wine is poured, but typically this isn’t true. There isn’t a bulk-sized option for serving wine, and a larger glass doesn’t equate to a larger serving. The customary serving size is five ounces, regardless of the glass’s volume, although Champagne is an exception.

Standard Champagne bottles are the same 750 milliliters as other wines, but Champagne flutes are slimmer and hold about four ounces due to the effervescence of the drink. This smaller serving size is particularly suited to toasts, during which people generally consume less Champagne compared to other occasions, like sipping wine at brunch. Consequently, you can expect to get approximately six-and-a-quarter flutes of Champagne from each bottle.

While using larger glasses doesn’t change the serving size of wine, the size of the bottle can influence how many servings it contains. For instance, a Piccolo or split bottle holds one glass, a demi contains two, a standard bottle serves up to six, and a magnum offers 12. However, the variety of bottle sizes extends beyond magnum.

Exceptionally large wine bottles such as the Methuselah, Solomon, and the largest, the Melchizedek, provide about 30, 130, and 180 glasses, respectively. Other large sizes like the Nebuchadnezzar can serve 100 glasses. These giant bottles are typically more suited for large gatherings like weddings. Keeping wine in such large bottles for too long without consuming it can lead to the wine aging poorly and becoming stale.

Read the original article on Chowhound.

Evan Sung/La Compagnie

The best wine bars in New York City exude a refreshing fluidity and freedom, showcasing their unique style whether it’s a chic spot for a power lunch, a snug bar on the Lower East Side, or a peaceful backyard in Brooklyn. Chase Sinzer, owner of the Penny wine bar and Claud restaurant in the East Village, describes, “A wine bar might focus more on the wines, inviting patrons to explore the bottles displayed or help themselves to wine from an ice bucket, providing a more casual atmosphere.”

This broader definition of wine bars means that New Yorkers now have easier access to exceptional wines from across the globe. “You can now enjoy Meursault Roulot in Brooklyn, a luxury previously reserved for the top Manhattan restaurants,” states Aldo Sohm, wine director at Le Bernardin. “This diversity excites people about wine, even in more-casual settings.”

If you’re eager to explore Croatian orange wines with friends, or indulge in a Premier Cru Burgundy without breaking the bank, New York City’s wine bars cater to all tastes and occasions. Here’s a guide to where to go and what to try.

At its original Chinatown location, online-bottle-shop-turned-bar Parcelle nails the living room feel that so many wine bars attempt: Guests lounge on emerald-green corduroy armchairs while leafing through a 500-bottle-strong menu that, refreshingly, offers a generous range of picks for under $100, as well as a tidy sake selection. This is one of the few wine bars (especially in this neighborhood) that caters to natural wine devotees as well as fans of, say, rare Bordeaux.

And the newly opened Greenwich Village location of Parcelle sits more firmly in the restaurant category, which makes it better for a full meal; heavy-hitters include the rigatoni with pork and fennel, duck confit, and yellowtail tartare. This location boasts an entirely different wine list from the original, and all of the wines served on-premises are available for delivery through Parcelle’s retail business—meaning you won’t have to go to great lengths to track down that stand-out pick you ordered over dinner.

This is the perfect wine bar to take a party full of dietary restrictions; much of the food is vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free—even the four-course, prix-fixe menu, which is the antithesis of any fussy, over-tweezered tasting experience. Since 2016, this natural-wine powerhouse on the city’s Lower East Side has been pouring over 250 wines by the bottle, organized into cheeky yet helpful categories like: “stoop sipping,” “toothsome reds,” and “roasted whites.”

It’s easy to step outside your tried-and-true grapes with this bottle list, which features wines you’re unlikely to come across at every other menu in the city. There’s an emphasis on Eastern Europe—think Kekfrankos (commonly known as Blaufrankisch) from Hungary, and Greek Malagousia, which is described as a stand-in for Chablis.

If you’ve ever struggled to find a wine bar that your pregnant best friend, your annoying colleague who can’t stop talking about low-sulfur wines, and your Barolo-loving in-laws would all enjoy, Compagnie has been the answer all along. The SoHo location opened in 2014 and remains a pillar in the city’s wine scene thanks to beloved events with fun focuses, like Orange Crush and Bojo (as in Beaujolais) Burger Mondays.

While the wine list emphasizes a breadth of French wine, it also boasts a satisfying selection of options from Germany, Spain, and the United States. You’ll also find plenty of nonalcoholic options (over 20 bottles, to be exact) that include fermented teas and dealcoholized wines, some sparkling. The sleek new Flatiron location opened just last month with even more seating than the original and an entirely new menu. Expect stand-out snacks like wagyu skewers, za’atar and feta chickpeas, and some delectable gougeres.

One of the few wine bars in New York City that can accommodate larger groups, even as walk-ins, it’s surprisingly easy to find a pocket of seating here that makes this bustling space feel surprisingly private. There’s also almost always a class, tasting, or industry event going on, which makes it as much a community hub as it is a wine bar.

Corkbuzz’s original Union Square location is a must-visit for its thoughtful wine flights, which range from sommelier’s choice to Iberian hits. The bottle list has some serious range, with cheap and cheerful Beaujolais for $50, as well as Premier Cru Burgundy—and then there’s the outstanding Champagne selection, offered at retail price. Feeling peckish after a few glasses? The charcuterie spreads are generous and always play nicely with the seasonal, rotating flavors of popcorn.

Discussing New York City’s wine scene inevitably brings up Sohm, who runs the wine program at the acclaimed Le Bernardin and authored Wine Simple, a comprehensive guide brimming with advice on selecting delightful wines. His namesake wine bar, Sohm, marks its 10-year anniversary offering affordable options like Lambrusco and Cinsault alongside an array of high-end reserve wines available via Coravin, generally priced over $50 per glass.

Strategically placed in Midtown, the venue includes a prix fixe lunch that guarantees a quick yet satisfying meal, a unique feature in the city where most wine bars do not operate during daytime hours. This makes Aldo Sohm a perfect spot for business meetings over a meal far superior to the typical quick park bench lunch. Additionally, it boasts a comprehensive back bar enhancing customer experience with alternatives like Negroni or spritz.

Running a restaurant in New York City is tough, much like the accelerated aging comparison to dog years, which makes the 16-year-old Ten Bells’ stint in providing natural wine on the Lower East Side a significant achievement. Known for its vibrant atmosphere filled with professionals and enthusiasts, Ten Bells usually is brimming with guests. While the array of unique wines like Georgian skin-contact might be overwhelming, the staff’s expertise will guide you to enjoyable selections. Early birds benefit from discounts during oyster happy hour and should not miss out on the rotating selection of tapas that ranges from classics like boquerones to fried ravioli.

In contrast to many self-described “neighborhood restaurants,” Frog in Bed-Stuy genuinely embodies this term with a regular influx of locals working on their laptops, dogs that are local celebrities on Instagram, and patrons enjoying pool games. Its distinctively natural wine list encourages guest inquiries, ensuring the best choice is made. Besides the curated indoors, Frog’s spacious backyard, adorned with string lights, offers a perfect spot to enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich paired with a vibrant orange wine.

Making your way through the binder-sized menu at Terroir feels like reading a hand-scrawled letter from a good friend who cannot stay focused on a single topic if their life depended on it, but in the best way possible. Owner Paul Greico is known for his obsession with Riesling—”Rudolf Steiner urged us to become aware of one’s humanity. By drinking Riesling, you become a better person,” reads one page.

You can dive into the terroir-verse by snagging a ticket for The Summer of Riesling, an iconic, three-hour booze cruise Greico organizes every year, or just sidle up to the bar and ask the staff about their favorite pours. While Riesling certainly is the main attraction, there’s also plenty of variety from France, Germany, Spain, and beyond, as well as an impressive vermouth list. Not one for the usual wine bar charcuterie and tinned fish spread? The food menu offers more substantial fare like smashburgers, Tteokbukki, and a stellar shaved Brussels sprouts salad.

Shellfish and Champagne go together like peanut butter and jelly, an adage that couldn’t be clearer at Penny. This sleek, L-shaped marble counter is widely exempt from the New York City reservation hunger games, as most seats are saved for walk-ins—that doesn’t mean you’ll sit down quickly, but there’s standing room at the front to pass the time with a few rounds of razor clams and one of the 800-plus bottles curated by owner Chase Sinzer and wine director Ellis Srubas-Giammanco.

Order an icebox packed with oysters, shrimp, mussels, and scallops, and pick a bottle from the stellar selection of Loire Valley white wines, or a Chardonnay from the trendy Jura region in Eastern France. The only real mistake you risk is skipping the brioche ice cream sandwich for dessert.

Between the charming backyard patio and the snug, candlelit interior, there’s a reason to go to June on a year-round basis. Part of the Oberon Group, which also operates Brooklyn institutions like Rucola and nattier-leaning sister wine bar Rhodora, June has been a date night mainstay since 2015. The by-the-glass list is priced entirely under $20, and all bottles are 20% off between the hours of 4:00 and 7:00 PM.

While the list definitely shows favoritism to natural French wines, you’ll also find some hidden gems from San Luis Obispo, Umbria, Galicia, and beyond. Come in with a group (but definitely make a reservation) and ask for the magnum list—you won’t regret it.

Originally Appeared on Condé Nast Traveler

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A rapidly growing startup from Southern California, with connections to the North Coast, is actively seizing the opportunity to acquire and rejuvenate direct-to-consumer wine brands and platforms, adapting them into profitable businesses.

The company’s founders are aiming to transform the direct-to-consumer approach within the wine industry.

Established just 14 months ago, Full Glass Wine Co. has quickly enlarged its brand collection, acquiring several well-known DTC wine platforms: Winc in June 2023, Wine Insiders in October, Bright Cellars in March of this year, Splash Wines in June, and Scout & Cellar in August.

On September 17, an affiliate of Full Glass Wine successfully secured a $3.2 million bid at a U.S. Bankruptcy Court auction for Cameron Hughes and Windsor Vineyards wines, along with the Vinesse club – all formerly belonging to the now-defunct Vintage Wine Estates. This acquisition also includes a certain quantity of bottled wine. The court approved the sale among others on Tuesday.

“We’re really focused on improving wine DTC, beyond what’s been done before,” said Neha Kumar, cofounder and chief operating officer of Full Glass Wine. “A big part of that is getting all these companies on the same tech stack to streamline operations and better serve customers.”

By consolidating brands onto shared infrastructure, Full Glass Wine aims to optimize inventory management, shipping logistics, and customer data — key “pain points” that have plagued many DTC wine startups.

The company has already moved Winc, Splash, and Bright Cellars to a network of three strategically located fulfillment centers, reducing costly “zone skipping” and enabling faster deliveries. One of those hubs is operated by third-party logistics provider Wineshipping in Vacaville, strategically positioned to serve West Coast customers.

“We were able to get Winc profitable within 60 days of acquiring it,” Kumar said.

Before Winc fell into bankruptcy in late 2022, it had collaborated with North Coast wine grape growers and wineries to develop its unique brands. Full Glass acquired Winc from Los Angeles-based Amass Brands, which had purchased the club following its bankruptcy.

However, Full Glass Wine is not solely focused on operational enhancements. The firm is keen on broadening its brand assortment to mitigate the risks associated with fluctuating customer acquisition costs and the changing tastes of consumers.

Its purchase of Scout & Cellar, a direct-selling wine brand known for its devoted customer base and upscale products, signifies a tactical pivot.

“Scout & Cellar targets a slightly more upscale market, with an average bottle price of about $30-$35,” Kumar stated. “This variety in marketing channels and customer demographics is crucial for our future plans.”

Moreover, the acquisition of the Splash wine brand, noted for its budget-friendly wine packages in quantities of 15 and 18 bottles, is geared towards a particular market segment that prioritizes affordable and approachable wine options.

“Our goal is to deeply understand the varying preferences of different customer groups and to engage with them effectively,” Kumar explained. “It extends beyond mere marketing and branding; it involves constructing a solid framework to ensure an exceptional customer experience.”

Moving forward, Full Glass Wine is focusing its efforts on appealing to the emerging demographic of wine enthusiasts.

“There is a prevailing skepticism about wine consumption among the youth, yet we perceive significant potential,” Kumar remarked. “Our strategy is centered on revitalizing the wine industry and making it appealing to this upcoming demographic.”

With its expanding portfolio of brands, dedication to operational superiority, and a forward-thinking strategy, Full Glass Wine is establishing itself as a key contender in the dynamic direct-to-consumer (DTC) wine sector. As it continues to expand through acquisitions and brand development, observers within the industry are keenly tracking how this emerging company will impact the DTC wine scene.

Founded in early 2023 by Kumar and Louis Amoroso, Full Glass Wine made its mark quickly. Kumar previously served as the chief operating officer of Create & Cultivate, which was sold to Corridor Capital for $22 million in 2021.

Having a background of more than 27 years in founding DTC ventures in the beverage alcohol sector, Amoroso’s ventures include Beverage Solutions, which was acquired by Direct Wine, and a tech provider named Drinks, from which Full Glass acquired Wine Insiders.

This year, Full Glass is on track to achieve revenues of $125 million and anticipates a growth to $180 million the following year, marking a 44% increase annually. Additionally, the company successfully secured a $14 million series A funding round earlier this year.

“We’re really excited about the growth we’ve achieved in such a short period of time,” Kumar said. “By leveraging our operational expertise and diversifying our brand offerings, we believe we can continue to drive significant value for our customers and shareholders.”

Jeff Quackenbush covers wine, construction and real estate. Reach him at jquackenbush@busjrnl.com or 707-521-4256.

Instead of visiting the expensive and tourist-laden wine regions of Napa Valley or Valle De Guadalupe, consider experiencing the delights of local Californian and Mexican wines at two nearby wine festivals this harvest season.

Make your way to Huntington Beach on Friday, Nov. 8 and Saturday, Nov. 9, for a taste of premier wines from California’s renowned AVAs at the California Wine Festival held at Paséa Hotel and Spa. This event features a selection of both rare and popular wines from top vineyards across Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, and Temecula.

The event will showcase wines from various producers including Adobe Road Winery, Bellante Family Winery, Bernardus Winery, Doffo Winery, Dracula’s Daughter Prosecco, Hunt Cellars, Michael Mondavi Family Wines, Navarro Vineyards, Santa Rita Hills Wine Alliance, Silva Road, Williams Selyem Winery and Wine Guy & Wine Gal among others.

To enhance your wine tasting experience, local chefs from Huntington Beach and other Southern California locations will offer a variety of culinary treats. Participating restaurants include Duke’s Huntington Beach, Shorebird, and others such as Kai, Cucina Alessa, Bluegold, SiSi Cakes, Miss Mini Donuts, Mendocino Farms, and LSXO.

SEE ALSO: Garden Grove revamps its restaurant initiative with first-ever tasting event

Guests can also look forward to live entertainment from Chris Copeland, who will perform acoustic renditions of pop classics; surf sounds from Matt Hurray; soulful tunes from “American Idol” finalist Adam Lasher; and Hawaii-native Joni Llamedo performing island-inspired music on her guitar.

The Friday tasting will be a VIP event, happening from 6:30 until 9 p.m., showcasing some of the state’s rarest wines. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest resort-wear attire. The event on Saturday, taking place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (with VIP entry at noon), will offer a more relaxed and festive environment.

This event is restricted to individuals aged 21 and over, so make plans for childcare in advance to enjoy a delightful evening.

Tickets run $90 to $235; visit CalifoniaWineFestival.com for more details.

Find it: Paséa Hotel and Spa, 21080 CA-1, Huntington Beach

On Saturday, Oct. 19, the Chaak Mexican Food and Wine Festival, billed as the first event of its kind in the U.S., pays tribute to the wines and culinary culture of Mexico. An entire block of Old Town Tustin will shut down to traffic and transform into a gastronomic party featuring more than 20 wineries from Baja California, Coahuila, Zacatecas, Querétaro, Guanajuato, Aguascalientes and San Luis Potosí.

Co-created by Tom Bracamontes, founder of La Competencia Imports, the largest importer of Mexican wines in the U.S., and Ed and Gabbi Patrick, owners of Chaak and Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen, the festival will feature such Baja-based wineries and wine sellers as Tresomm, Tresparauno, Tribos, Vinisterra Vitivinícola, Viñedos Llano Colorado, Hacienda Florida and more.

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“We’re thrilled to bring Mexican wines to the forefront and offer a unique opportunity for people to meet the winemakers and taste these exceptional wines, which showcase the rich diversity of Mexico’s wine regions,” said Bracamontes in a written release. “This is a rare event, not just for wine lovers, but for anyone looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of Mexico through its wine and food.”

Guests will also enjoy fare from Yucatán and Mexico’s northern regions with bites prepared by Orange County standouts Chaak, Gabbi’s, Socalo, Gema and Maizano.

“Our goal is to make this an annual celebration that not only showcases Mexico’s wines but also promotes the next generation of Latino wine professionals,” said Patrick.

Chaak Mexican Food and Wine Festival is held from 2 to 6 p.m. on October 19. Ticket prices range from $108 to $135. For additional details, visit lacompetenciaimports.com.

Location: 215 El Camino Real, Tustin

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe will host a variety of activities for the upcoming Del Mar Food and Wine Festival. Spanning a week, this second installation of the festival concludes with a Grand Tasting event at Surf Sports Park in Del Mar on Oct. 5-6, showcasing culinary creations from renowned chefs and local eateries, accompanied by a selection of over 200 wines, beers, and spirits.

Leading up to the grand finale, from Oct. 3-5, The Inn will feature a series of wine seminars. These sessions will offer blind tastings conducted by master sommeliers, engaging panel discussions, and exclusive tastings with notable figures from the wine industry. Interested attendees have the option to purchase some seminars individually for $200, and comprehensive event packages are available as well.

An evening named Trattoria di Prato will take place on Thursday, Oct. 3, setting a picturesque scene outdoors on The Inn’s lawn from 6-9:30 p.m. This event starts with a reception offering passed appetizers in the bar area, followed by a four-course Italian meal prepared by celebrated chefs Rocco DiSpirito, Jackson Kalb, and Jason McLeod. The price for attending is $300.

Highlighting some of Napa’s finest vineyards, the Napa Luxe event is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 4, from 6-9 p.m. During this session, guests will enjoy a walkaround wine tasting on the lush lawn, featuring pairing stations designed by The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe’s culinary team alongside creations from Extraordinary Desserts. Tickets to this luxurious tasting are priced at $225.

General admission tickets to the Del Mar Wine and Food Festival are priced at $165. A portion of the proceeds from the festival will go to support Feeding San Diego. For tickets and additional information about the event, visit delmar.wine.