Pages and Palates – Three Wine Books to Explore
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
1h ago
For many, sipping a glass of wine while reading a juicy novel may be a favorite pastime. I know it is for me. After a day of errands, writing, or organizing the pantry for the millionth time (truth), I enjoy opening a bottle of something delicious and relaxing with a good book. In fact, there’s always a book on my coffee table begging for me to enjoy! In the past few months, I’ve received (as samples) three outstanding reads worth sharing. Find each and let me know your thoughts. Photo Credit: Natalie MacLean Wine Witch on Fire by Natalie MacLean If you haven’t heard of Natalie MacLean, a be ..read more
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World of Pinot Noir 2024 – It’s a Wrap!
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
1w ago
What a weekend! From February 29-March 2, 2024 hundreds of wine lovers participated in the World of Pinot Noir held at the exclusive Ritz Carlton Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara, California. We tasted, learned, and dined (on repeat) with a fervor only true aficionados are able to do. This was my first World of Pinot Noir and I’m already looking forward to next year. A celebration of this noble grape? Absolutely. The annual World of Pinot Noir is the epicenter of Pinot Noir wineries, winemakers, chefs, sommeliers and wine experts for one glorious weekend chock full of events from which to choose ..read more
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Under the Indigo Sky, Tenuta Sette Cieli Produces High Quality, High Elevation Wines in Bolgheri
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
2w ago
“My mother, Erika Ratti, and father are from the area of Milano and Como in northern Italy,” explained Ambrogio Cremona Ratti in a recent virtual tasting with two wines (sent as samples) from Tenuta Sette Cieli. “My mother loved horses and wanted to move to the countryside. In the early 1990s, she started looking for property on the coast of Tuscany. In 1994, she finally found and purchased what set the chain. It’s a very special place – very isolated and remote. It was abandoned for years and had a house dating from the 1200s on the property.” So began the story of Tenuta Sette Cieli located ..read more
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Frappato – The Alluring, Fruit-Forward Sicilian Red Grape Varietal
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
1M ago
Wines, foods and intriguing history of Sicily offer never-ending learning experiences. Just recently, I was sent (as samples) two bottles of Frappato, a wine I’ve tasted in a blend but not recently as a single varietal. Impressed with not only the price point, but with Frappato’s ability to pair with some of my favorite foods, you will be, too. Frappato Can Be Found in a Blend or as a Single Varietal According to authors Jancis Robinson et. al. in Wine Grapes, Frappato is said to have originated in Vittoria, in the provice of Ragusa located in the south of Sicily. The word itself is derived fr ..read more
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Wine Appreciation: Chalone Vineyard Wines Overdeliver on Quality for Price
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
1M ago
A cool, slightly rainy weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California was yet another perfect opportunity for wine tasting (as if I needed another reason to indulge!). This time, a visit to Chalone Vineyard tasting room in Carmel Plaza at Ocean Avenue and Mission Street resulted in a newfound appreciation for Monterey County’s historic, first winery. A bonus? Greg Freeman, Winemaker, spent time explaining his remarkable story and that of Chalone Vineyard. Chalone Vineyard was first planted in 1919 and the brand began in 1960. The land is on a high-elevation (1800’) mountain plateau, the Gavilan Mou ..read more
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A Guide to Perfectly Storing Your Wines Before the Wedding – Guest Post
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
1M ago
A wedding is a time when family and friends get together to celebrate the union of two people in love. Keeping with the theme of “pairing”, wine is an excellent addition to the foods and desserts that you have prepared for the big day. To make sure that you have enough wine for the celebration, purchase what you need in advance and keep it in a suitable space so that it doesn’t spoil before the reception. Whether you are having a destination wedding or a wedding at home, the following guide will help keep your wine in pristine condition. Purchasing Your Wine Unless you are having your big day ..read more
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A Sophisticated Indulgence: Sweet and Savory Cannoli with W. & J. Graham’s Port
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
1M ago
Imagine biting into the crisp, golden layers of a perfectly crafted cannoli, only to have your palate elevated by the rich, velvety texture of a high-quality port wine. The pairing of the classic Italian pastry and the flavorful, fortified wine creates an experience that is anything but ordinary. Just recently, I indulged in three luscious cannolis with three port wines from W. & J. Graham’s (sent as samples). A superb pairing, it’s time you do the same. Why choose Port to pair with cannoli? Port, a fortified wine, is rich and full-bodied with a higher alcohol content. It offers a comple ..read more
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Madeira: A Wine Beyond Borders – A Tale of Islands, Innovation, and Centuries-Old Craftsmanship
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
2M ago
In the world of wines, there exists a unique jewel named Madeira, an intriguing creation that bears the name of both an island and a libation. It’s a place wrapped in the rich history of Portugal, yet hugging the shores of Morocco, adding a touch of mystery to its identity. Madeira is 320 miles west of Morocco, 205 miles north of the Canary Islands and 500 miles from Lisbon, Portugal. Though geologically rooted in the African Tectonic Plate, its population predominantly reflects Portuguese ancestry, connecting Madeira to its European heritage. Photo Credit: Brittanica Intriguing Madeira This ..read more
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Hidden Treasures from Entre-Deux-Mers in Bordeaux
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
2M ago
When you’re ready to discover a captivating wine that’s also affordable, seek those from enchanting Bordeaux. Surprised? Don’t be. There are plenty of hidden treasures found in this iconic wine region – and they’re not all wildly expensive luxury wines. After a trip to picturesque Côtes de Bordeaux within the region of Entre-Deux-Mers over a year ago and opportunities to taste other notable selections from Entre-Deux-Mers, I’ve been seeking Bordeaux wines that offer exceptional value in terms of taste and affordability. Following are two wines (purchased) that are worth every sip. Photo Credi ..read more
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How to Pronounce Spanish Wine Terms (And Sound Like a Pro)
Grape Experiences
by Cindy Rynning
2M ago
Who’s ready for an intriguing Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero? How about a snappy Albarino from Rias Baixas? Perhaps you’d love a glass of Sherry from Jerez de la Frontera. These are terrific choices because quality wines from Spain are exceptional in regards to affordability, flavor, and their ability to complement a variety of foods. But those of you who didn’t take Spanish in high school or college (like me) may be a bit embarrassed when it’s time to ask for the specific wine you’d like to taste. I’ve been there! With some wine education and practice, it’s possible to sashay into tha ..read more
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