Cabernet Franc: A Comprehensive Guide
Pronunciation: kah-buhr-NAY FRAHNK Cabernet Franc, a red wine varietal, embodies rustic charm. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a curious beginner, this comprehensive guide introduces you to Cabernet Franc. What Kind of Wine is Cabernet Franc? Cabernet Franc is a medium-bodied red with medium acid, medium to pronounced tannins, and medium alcohol. It often falls […]
Beginner’s Wine Terminology Guide
Understanding wine terminology will help you pick wines you love. Wine terms cover structure, flavors, winemaking, and vineyard vocabulary. Here’s a quick wine terminology guide to get you started. Wine Tasting Terminology If you head out for an afternoon of wine tasting, or swirl and sip with enough wine lovers, you’ll start to pick up […]
Alcohol’s Influence on Wine Aging Potential
You’re right to think that alcohol has something to do with a wine’s aging potential. Wines with higher alcohol levels (+14%) can usually age longer than lower-alcohol wines (under 14%). Alcohol acts as a natural preservative and antioxidant in wine. Examples include Amarone, Port, Madeira, and Shiraz. Some lower-alcohol wines can also age, though, like […]
11 Popular Wine Regions and Their Signature Wines
Whether you’re a budding wine enthusiast or simply curious to learn more, anyone can explore top wine regions, famous wine appellations, and iconic wines. From Bordeaux to Napa Valley, uncover the top destinations, wine styles, and notable appellations in this quick guide to popular wine regions. Indulge in the flavors and embrace the allure of […]
How to Read a Wine Label: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re new to the scene or just curious about wine, understanding how to read a wine label can unlock a wealth of information about the bottle in your hands. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the various elements you’ll find on a wine label so that you can use this information to buy […]
What’s the Aging Potential of Merlot Wines: Cellaring Secrets
Merlot Aging Guidelines Merlot Category Aging Recommendation Inexpensive Merlots (Under $10 USD) Enjoy within a year of purchase Standard Merlots ($10-$20 USD) Best consumed within the first 3 to 5 years after release Premium Merlots ($20+ USD) May be able to age for 5-7 years Merlot is a red wine grape variety that is known […]
Buying Great Wine Under $50: Discovering Quality for Value
Looking to uncork a special bottle of wine without breaking the bank? Whether it’s for a celebration, gift, or simply indulging in a delightful sip, buying great wine under $50 gives you lots of options. For the best $50 bottles of wine, look for $50 bottles from Chile, Argentina, or South Africa. These regions give […]
How Old Does Wine Have to Be to Be a Vintage?
One of the biggest challenges the wine industry has is its web of complicated terms. Like the term “vintage”, which has nothing to do with a wine’s age. This is unhelpful. A vintage wine isn’t a certain age. A “Vintage Wine” is a wine where the grapes used to make it all came from the […]
Merlot Wine Regions: Why It’s So Darn Delicious
Merlot Styles in Different Regions Region Merlot Style Bordeaux Structured, elegant, with plum and cedar notes. California Ripe, fruit-forward, often with hints of chocolate and vanilla. Washington Rich and full-bodied, showcasing dark fruit and firm tannins. Tuscany Smooth, medium to full-bodied, with cherry and herbal tones. Australia Bold, with ripe fruit flavors and a touch […]
What Meat Dishes Go With Merlot?
Merlot’s a classic red wine grape from Bordeaux, so you know that Merlot will pair well with your favorite meat dishes. Meat dishes that pair with Merlot wine include savory beef dishes, like beef stew and meatloaf, and lighter dishes, like roasted chicken or chicken tacos. Heavier Merlot wines Merlot (e.g. Paso Robles) work well […]