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The Ultimate Guide to Wine Vineyard Getaways

Mon, 02/10/2025 - 16:44 -- johnk

Aerial view of vineyard landscape

Key Highlights

  • Discover the best wineries & vineyard destinations across the United States, from the iconic Napa Valley to hidden gems.

  • Indulge in world-class wine tasting experiences, savor gourmet dining with local flavors, and relax in luxurious accommodations.

  • Immerse yourself in the art of winemaking with vineyard tours and learn from experienced winemakers.

  • Find valuable tips for planning your perfect wine country getaway, including the best times to visit and what to pack.

  • Explore activities for non-wine drinkers, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone in your group.

Immerse yourself in wine country at these winery hotels

Immerse yourself in wine country at these winery hotels, where you can experience the beauty of vineyards, indulge in wine tastings, and relax in luxurious accommodations. These wineries offer a unique getaway experience, allowing you to unwind while enjoying their own wine in the peaceful surroundings of rolling hills and lush grapevines. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a serene retreat, winery hotels provide the perfect escape for a memorable vacation.

Discovering the Essence: What Is Brandy?

Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:03 -- johnk

Brandy, in its simplest form, is distilled wine. The name itself comes from the Dutch word brandewijn, meaning "burnt wine," a nod to the heating process used in distillation. While most brandy is made from fermented grapes, other fruits—such as apples, pears, cherries, and plums—also serve as a base, producing variations like apple-based Calvados from France or the cherry-infused Kirsch of Germany. Regardless of the fruit, brandy undergoes a careful distillation process to concentrate both alcohol and flavor before aging in wooden casks, usually oak, which adds layers of complexity, from caramel and vanilla to deep spice and nuttiness. The Origins of Brandy Brandy's history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of distillation itself. The technique likely dates back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, where alchemists experimented with extracting essential oils.

Vavarious types of brandy bottles

Key Highlights

  • Brandy means "burnt wine" and is a drink made by distilling fermented fruit.

  • Most brandy is made from grapes, but there are others like Calvados, which comes from apples, and Kirsch, which is made from cherries.

  • To make brandy, you start by fermenting fruit mash. Then, you distill it and age it in wooden casks.

  • The taste of brandy depends a lot on the fruit used, the way it's distilled, and how it is aged.

Uncorking the Mystery of Cork Taint: A Guide for Wine Lovers

Mon, 01/20/2025 - 09:22 -- johnk

 

corks in wine glass

If you’ve ever encountered a bottle of wine that smelled more like a damp basement than a vineyard, you’ve likely experienced cork taint. This elusive phenomenon has puzzled and frustrated wine drinkers for generations, impacting both the wine industry and wine lovers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just beginning your journey into the world of wine, understanding cork taint can help you navigate the complexities of tasting wines and selecting bottles with confidence.

glass of wine

Recently I was in touch with a winemaker from Livermore California. He told me what he experienced at a very nice restaurant sometime back. The winemaker is Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge. Here is what Larry shared. “I find that most people do not know why fine restaurants provide a taste from a purchased bottle for approval; and before pouring out the wine. Most people think it’s to make sure the wine is good (which is subjective), I tell them the only reason you are doing the taste is to make sure the wine is not corked. If it is, it is OK to reject/return the wine. With that said, I was at a (fine) restaurant once where I brought my own bottle (of Cuda Ridge of course), and the waiter didn’t have me taste the wine before pouring it out into all the glasses. The bottle was corked, and we had to have him give us new glasses because the cork taint would bleed into our new wine, lesson learned.”

The History of Cabernet Sauvignon

Thu, 10/31/2024 - 11:46 -- johnk

Cabernet Sauvignon Clusters

A Journey Through Time: The Development of Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Grape

taste, wine, tasting

Cabernet Sauvignon, the monarch of red wine grapes, has earned its place as a staple in vineyards across the globe. Its rich history intertwines with the evolution of winemaking itself, spanning centuries of cultivation, refinement, and global migration. From its humble beginnings to its current reign as one of the world's most revered varietals, the story of Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring allure of the red wine grape.

This article is one of several articles that will feature grapes most known for being grown in California, Cabernet sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel.

grapes, vines, grapevines

Origins of Cabernet Sauvignon: Bordeaux France

road, nature, vineyards

Orange County’s Wine Landscape a Hidden Gem: Laguna Canyon Winery

Tue, 10/29/2024 - 20:08 -- johnk


 

Just a short distance from the art-strewn streets of Laguna Beach and the urban pulse of Orange County, Laguna Canyon Winery stands as a unique expression of passion, craftsmanship, and innovation in California’s wine scene. Founded by award-winning vintner J.J. Huber, this boutique winery defies expectations by blending urban winery traditions with world-class grapes sourced from Napa and Sonoma Valley. With a nod to both Canadian and Italian winemaking techniques, Laguna Canyon Winery has crafted an identity that sets it apart from the typical California vineyard experience.

The Origins: From Canada to California

J.J. Huber’s journey into winemaking is far from conventional. Hailing from Canada, Huber was immersed in the world of urban wineries, which thrive in metropolitan areas rather than in sprawling vineyard estates. It was this quintessence that inspired him to bring the concept to Southern California, where wine lovers could enjoy high-quality wines without venturing far from the coast. Laguna Canyon Winery reflects this philosophy—a place where the beauty of wine meets the energy of city life.

California Chardonnay: Exploring this Iconic Wine Grape

Tue, 07/23/2024 - 16:24 -- johnk

 

Exploring the Versatility of Chardonnay Wine Grapes

glass and bottle of wine - Chardonnay

The Jewel of White Wine Grapes: Chardonnay

Chardonnay, hailed as the "queen of white wine grapes," has long captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide with its versatility and expressive character. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay has long found a second home in the Santa Lucia Highlands, where its grapes thrive in the region's cool climate and well-drained soils.

Areil view of Santa Lucia Mountains and vineyards

Sonoma Chardonnay's

Simi Chardonnay and a Caprese Salad

Sonoma County wineries and wines provide an authentic taste of Northern California Wine Country, renowned for their genuine and delicious offerings. With over 425 wineries, there's an estate and vintage for every palate.

Rudy Zuidema : Crafting Excellence in Every Bottle

Mon, 07/22/2024 - 21:12 -- johnk

A few years back while judging wines in Copperopolis, CA Rudy gifted each of the judges a bottle of his 2017 Grenache. Today I opened and enjoyed this wine of Rudy's along with grilled meat and veggies.

Rudy and Amy in Barrel Room

Rudy Zuidema Winemaker

Rudy Zuidema is a name synonymous with innovation, dedication, and exceptional craftsmanship in the world of winemaking. With a career spanning over three decades, Rudy's journey has seen him collaborate with some of the most prestigious wineries in Napa Valley, leading to the creation of his own brand and numerous consulting ventures. His influence in the industry is profound, marked by a relentless pursuit of quality and a passion for the art of winemaking.

Early Career and Influences

Rudy's journey began with his work at renowned wineries such as Honig, Robert Craig, and Ehlers Estate.

At Honig Vineyard & Winery, Rudy honed his skills in sustainable viticulture, embracing practices that would later become hallmarks of his approach to winemaking.

His tenure at Robert Craig Winery allowed him to delve into the complexities of crafting high-elevation wines, while Ehlers Estate provided him with the opportunity to blend traditional methods with innovative techniques.

The History of Pinot Noir

Mon, 07/22/2024 - 14:37 -- johnk

Tale of Elegance: The History and Legacy of Pinot Noir Wine Grape in California

Origins of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir's origins can be traced back to the Burgundy region of France, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Known for its thin skin, delicate flavors, and susceptibility to terroir, Pinot Noir is a grape of unparalleled complexity and finesse. In California, Pinot Noir thrives in cool coastal regions, where maritime influence and diverse soils lend a unique character to the wines. Common descriptors for California Pinot Noir include bright red berry fruit, earthy undertones, silky textures, and vibrant acidity.

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grape varieties in the world, with origins dating back over 1,000 years before the emergence of Cabernet Sauvignon. This grape was a favorite in Roman times, alongside other now-extinct varieties. Columella, a Roman writer, described Pinot Noir in the 1st century CE in Burgundy, France, although its cultivation extended as far north as Belgium.

Pinot Noir is highly prone to mutations, leading to hundreds of unique variations globally. Over 50 of these are officially recognized in France. The finest quality grapes are typically found in France and Oregon, USA.

Santa Lucia Highlands Vineyards

Sat, 07/20/2024 - 09:50 -- johnk

Santa Lucia Highlands - Santa Lucia Mountain Range

Positioned within the breathtaking landscapes of California’s Monterey County lies the Santa Lucia Highlands, a region renowned for producing some of the finest Chardonnay wines in the world. Here, amidst rolling hills and cool coastal breezes, a cadre of esteemed wineries craft exceptional wines that embody the essence of this unique terroir. In this article, we explore the allure of Chardonnay wine grapes and the celebrated wineries of the Santa Lucia Highlands that bring them to life.

The Unmatched Chardonnay Vines of Santa Lucia Highlands

Chardonnay, hailed as the queen of white wine grapes has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide with its versatility and expressive character. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay has found a second home in the Santa Lucia Highlands, where its grapes thrive in the region's cool climate and well-drained soils. Chardonnay wines crafted from Santa Lucia Highlands grapes are celebrated for their vibrant acidity, lush texture, and complex flavor profile. From crisp green apple and citrus zest to tropical fruits and subtle hints of vanilla and oak, these wines offer a sensory journey that reflects the unique terroir of the region.

Santa Lucia Highlands Vineyards

Bottle of SHL Wine on a nicely set table

San Antonio Winery in Los Angeles, a Hidden Gem

Sun, 06/23/2024 - 18:36 -- johnk

 

Riboli Family greeting you with wine

 

San Antonio Winery: A Historic Gem in Los Angeles

Riboli Family - A Rich History

Santos Stefano barrel tasting

Established in 1917 the winery has weathered the storms of Prohibition, the Great Depression, and countless other challenges to become a beloved institution. Its roots trace back to a time when Los Angeles was dotted with vineyards, making it a key player in the region’s winemaking heritage.

The winery was named after Saint Anthony, the patron saint of lost causes and Santo Cambianica patron saint, hoping for divine protection and success in his new venture. Cambianica’s foresight and determination paid off, and the winery thrived, even during Prohibition, by producing sacramental wines for the Church. This strategic pivot not only kept the business afloat but also laid the foundation for its future growth.

San Simeon Wines

San Antonio Winery boasts an impressive portfolio of wines, catering to a diverse array of palates and preferences. The winery produces a variety of varietals, including of reds, whites, sparkling wines, and dessert wines, displaying the rich viticultural diversity of California, Italy and beyond. Some of their most popular lines include:

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