The holiday season is meant for celebration, but let’s be honest—it often comes with a generous pour of stress, especially when you’re trying to figure out “What wine should I bring?” Between the turkey, ham, prime rib, and all the unique side dishes, finding the perfect bottle can feel like an advanced exam in food…
It’s Harvest Season! A fantastic time to be in wine country and Paso Robles does it right. Be sure to visit downtown Paso for a plethora of fall events. In my latest article for the downtown wine association, I discuss what it takes to go from growing the fruit to picking it and turning it…
September is California Wine Month and in my most recent post for the Downtown Wine District, I provide the history of wine in the Golden State and how Paso Robles came to be the unique and amazing wine region it is. From Missions to Modern Vines: The History of California & Paso Robles Wine ~Slàinte! …
In my latest article for the Paso Robles Downtown Wine District, “From Bordeaux to Paso,” I take you on a deep dive into the classic French region and its unexpected connection to my beloved Paso Robles. Read the full article to discover how a shared love of blending has created two of the world’s most…
If you thought sommeliers had the best noses in the business, think again—turns out the real heroes wear fur and answer to “good dog!” 🐾🍷 In the latest post from the Downtown Paso Robles Wine District, “Sniff Happens: Dogs Saving Wine”, we dive into the fascinating (and delightfully fuzzy) world of vineyard and cellar dogs….
It’s that time of year. The temperatures are climbing and wine lovers begin to instinctively reach for crisp whites and refreshing rosés—and with good reason. These styles of wines shine in the heat. Their bright acidity and vibrant fruit flavors pair perfectly with sunshine and summer shenanigans. But warm-weather wine sipping calls for a little…
Chardonnay, everyone has heard of Chardonnay and is known for its love/hate relationship. The grape’s history can be traced to Burgundy, France. It is considered a noble grape (the others include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling) and was “born” through a natural crossing between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc. Known as…
Viognier is a grape with a remarkable history of survival and resurrection. Once on the brink of extinction, this aromatic and expressive white wine has overcome devastating challenges, from the phylloxera epidemic of the 19th century to its near disappearance after World War II. Thanks to the dedication of vintners worldwide, Viognier has made a…
Wineries today are searching for new ways to save water and to increase their sustainability. Sometimes, it is better to look into the past for answers than into the future. In my latest piece for The Vintner Project, I interviewed Joe Nielsen of Ram’s Gate Winery in Sonoma and we discussed How Old School Technology is Helping…
I had the honor of interviewing Samra Morris, winemaker for Alma Rosa Winery in Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Many people say they have had a difficult childhood, but I don’t many have had to dodge bullets while growing up. I have met many winemakers, but Samra stands out in more than one way. She lived…
