Back when I was still finding my footing in the wine world, I doubted myself a lot. I wanted to prove that Deaf people can…read more
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What We’re Drinking: Michele Alois
The wines of Michele Alois are a triumph of matching ancient varietals to modern tastes. Based in an area about 30 miles west of Naples,…read more
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What We’re Drinking: Champalou Vouvray 2023
In 1997, I got my first wine job working at The Sportsman Fine Wine Store in Phoenix. Being an absolute novice, I had a lot…read more
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Unconventional White Wines for Spring and Summer
I recently tasted one of France 44’s popular summer wines, Amity Vineyards White Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The wine is deliciously refreshing, but…read more
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If You’re Into Farming and Fermentation, Wine Travel Might Just Be for You
Notes from a week of travel in Austrian wine country…read more
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The Underdogs of Valentine’s Day
For far too long, it’s been hammered into us that “sweet wines are bad.” Maybe not morally, but just simply bad quality. For a variety…read more
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Southern Italian Wines: Ancient Tradition, Bold Flavor, Unbeatable Value
When you think of Italian wine, no doubt your mind goes to Tuscany and Piedmont. But further south—in Puglia, Sicily, Campania—winemaking traditions date back over…read more
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The Beaujolais Renaissance & Arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau
Beaujolais, and its signature grape Gamay, has experienced a remarkable resurgence over the past two decades. What was originally considered by many as a pleasant,…read more
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A Beginner’s Guide to Wine Service
With Thanksgiving coming up in less than a week, we wanted to take some time to talk about serving wine to guests. It can be…read more
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Lesser-known Wine Regions of Central Italy: Umbria, Lazio, Abruzzo, and Le Marche
Dark clouds hang heavy on the horizon as I say arrividerci, ci vediamo dopo, and exit the small tasting room on the outskirts of Assisi,…read more
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The Mountains are Calling, and So Is the Wine
The European Alps hold a majestic, mystical place in the hearts of those who have traveled to, through, or around them. From yodeling cowherds to…read more
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Ribera del Duero: A Journey Through Spain’s Tempranillo Heartland
Back in September, I was able to join a select group of buyers on a trip sponsored by the trade association of Ribera del Duero…read more
