I’ve lived in Sonoma County for more than 15 years. Visiting countless wineries, I always discover something new. The adage “what’s old is new again” though, is why I headed up to Dry Creek Valley to spend time at Michel-Schlumberger. Read more...
Though the California wine industry is big it still embraces small, family-owned wineries crafting boutique bottles. Here’s a roundup of my latest discoveries... Read more...
I’m not easily impressed by celebrity wines especially when they simply slap their name on a bottle. But there are plenty of wine-loving celebs I’ve written about who have a commitment to quality. Read more...
There’s an old adage in wine touting Cabernet as King.
Grown all over the world from France to Australia, and Chile to California, the thick-skinned red grape variety produces classically complex wines. Like a monarch, Cabernet Sauvignon often rules alone, but shows its strength as well in Bordeaux-style blends alongside varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.
Read more...
You're filling Easter baskets with treats for the kids, but what about yourself? How about a little vino to tempt us grown ups? Whether your menu for Sunday is filled with sweetly-glazed ham, rosemary-scented lamb, decadent Eggs Benedict, or fresh-from-the-garden vegetables, these picks will have you -- and the Easter bunny -- smiling. Read more...
Anyone who knows me or has ever heard me speak, knows I like -- no, love -- screwcaps. I think they're a great closure for wine. So, when I got this email in my inbox I had to post it. The fascinating pictures show just what happens to wine under different closures.
A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS!
Read more...
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what wines would you crave? I’m a Riesling and Pinot Noir gal. As two of the most flexible food wines, these noble varieties go with freshly-speared fish, roasted wild boar, and even homemade coconut cream pie. Read more...
Do you drink sake? So many people think it’s just a hot beverage sipped at Japanese restaurants. I guess that’s true, but that’s like saying wine is only about cheap Chianti in a flask drunk at old-fashioned Italian restaurants.
Sake is one of my favorite libations that showcases diversity and uniqueness.
Read more...
I went through stories and tasting notes from last year – still seems strange to say that – and found some wine favorites from bubbles to bargains. Please share your top picks with the rest of us Thirsty Girls.
Read more...
With perfect scores from top wine pubs and celebrities hankering to get his wine, Chris Ringland is one of Australia's hottest winemakers. Read more...
A misunderstood wine, Sherry's history dates back centuries. Luckily perceptions are changing and it's becoming chic to sip. Sherry is my secret-weapon wine because it's affordable and versatile.
Read more...
As a judge on the first and now second season of a PBS reality show called The Winemakers, I got a chance shoot in Central California's rugged Arroyo Grande Valley
Read more...
Annika Sorenstam is the world's most famous female golfer and she loves cooking and wine. Read more...
Last year sales of Argentine wine soared nearly 40 percent due to quality and affordability. The country’s wine sales are growing, but so is tourism. As an international judge at the Argentina Wine Awards, I was impressed by the number of American wine tourists. Read more...




Recent Comments
Margie Tosch writes on 08.31.10 in response to A day at Michel-Schlumberger
Nice work Leslie, Jim & Judd!
Deb Dobson writes on 08.24.10 in response to A Big State on a Small Scale
I’m going to have to try the Jorian Hill. It sounds wonderfully tasty!
Ashton Keefe writes on 08.23.10 in response to A Big State on a Small Scale
Merlot Mondays are key to starting off the week right. I’m all about keeping it small, local, and fabulous. Love the great spots can’t wait to try them in person!
Janet Fouts writes on 08.23.10 in response to A Big State on a Small Scale
I just had the Longoria Tempranillo last week. Lovely stuff that.
Fisherman writes on 08.08.10 in response to It's hip to be screwed
good article,
thanks