Archive for the ‘Terroir’ Category

Dec 7, 2012

Saving the Idea of “Reserve” At Smith-Madrone Winery

Here’s something relatively rare in the wine business: An established Napa Valley winery that has never affixed the term “Reserve” to a wine. You can swing a dead cat in this Valley and knock over five or six “Reserve” wines before the feline makes a full revolution. But, say what you will about the term “Reserve” on wines (The term isn’t regulated”. “There are too many synonyms for the term”. “It’s just a marketing gimmick”), the fact is it can…

Oct 22, 2012

Terroir: Who Cares?

Ted Lemon knows what he wants from his wines. Characteristics that are pure reflections of the physical environment that make up the individual vineyards where he sources grapes. He want’s the terroir to show through. This desire is at the top of his list when it comes to the Pinot Noirs and Chardonnay’s he produces under the Littorai label. What surely makes him happy is that he is successful in this pursuit. However, what struck me as I tasted through…

Oct 16, 2012

The Great Debate: Seasonal Beauty in Wine Country

It’s the burning question that divides Wine Country locals, visitors, and artists: During which season of the year is Wine Country most beautiful? The deliberations, debates and fisticuffs that have resulted from this question are innumerable. And this is so for the simple reason that each season—Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter—brings with it a special and truly unique palate of colors and array of textures. I bring this burning question up today as we are now, in the Northern Hemisphere…

Oct 2, 2012

What Wine Lovers Should Watch For In Tonight’s Debate

Today is a big day for political junkies and wine lovers. The punditry and blogosphere all seem to agree that this first presidential debate of the 2012 general election campaign is not just the most important, but could decide the 2012 election. Here’s what America’s wine lover should be watching for . Can Obama Defend his Biggest Achievement: ObamaWine The right side of the wine drinking spectrum has made repeal of ObamaWine their number one goal since the president pushed…

Aug 14, 2012

Examining Antonio Galloni’s Palate

The appointment of Antonio Galloni to the California reviewer position at Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate a year and a half ago was an important event in the world of California Wine. For years, Robert Parker’s palate was the source of reviews of the state’s wines at the influential Wine Advocate. How things might change under a Galloni palate has been the topic of some conversation. No matter who might have been appointed to the California Chair of the Wine Advocate,…