Amusing Adoration
A few weeks ago, some California legislators decided to adopt Zinfandel as the Official Wine of California. Unfortunately for the wine variety, being politics, there was some opposition. Now, it seems that Zinfandel will likely become a “Historic Wine of California”. I am not sure what exactly this means or what honor this […]

It was one year ago today that the Supreme Court ruled that wine laws in a given state must treat in state and out-of-state wineries equally. The consequences of this ruling have been lauded by wine enthusiasts throughout America. While the changes have not taken place overnight - with many states still revising their statutes […]

Sam’s Scandal
For the past year, Sam’s Wine and the Illinois Liquor Commission have battled over alledged extortion. Yep, the distributors were whining (pun intended) that Sam’s was using its size and power to boss around the poor little distributors. Don’t you feel so bad for the distributors, because they are so fair with all the […]

Mountain Toasts
Vermont is now accepting wine shippments. While direct shipping is not as simple as calling to order your favorite bottle, the door is at least starting to open. (Ship Compliant)
West Coast Toast
Washington State is ready for new shipping regulations too. The new regulations are expected to begin on July 1st, just in time for […]

Another Week is coming to a close. What wine will you enjoy this weekend?
Hear the New Health Benefit of Wine?
Scientists in the UK have linked wine with healthy hearing. The antioxidents in wine help protect tiny hairs in the ear, which help in hearing. Mom will definitely start forcing Dad to drink a few […]

Wine-Aid
The EU is starting to reduce subsidies to member countries for wine. Historically, these subsidies have helped modernize and promote wines of lesser-known countires. The plan could benefit France and Italy, the countries with strong wine history. I don’t think Decanter’s pesky “militant winemakers” will fight this proposal. (Decanter)
Man Vs. Machine
A recent exhibition tested wine […]

Hermes Vintage
Bordeaux’s Pichon-Lalande, a second growth chateau, is up for sale. And, the leading buyer for the great wine house - the Hermes family. It would be a fashionable French marriage. (Decanter)
Plumpjack Expansion
One of my favorite wineries, Plumpjack, received approval for an additional site in Angwin, part of Napa. Despites some mild protest from […]

Sweet Love
Chateau Guiraud, one of the top wine estates in Sauternes, is on the block. The Chateau Yquem neighbor also produces great dessert wine. And, with extensive revonnations to the estate and replanting of the vines, the Chateau is primed for sale. Who wants to bet that a British family buys it? (Decanter)
Salud!
A new […]

It is a new week. What is going on in the wine world?
Boutique Beauties
Chicago Tribune has a story on those kitchy boutique wineries that are gaining in popularity. The big fruit wines with limited production are some of my favorites. I have never tried the few mentioned in the article, most of whom can only […]

It is another Friday - Happy Cinco De Mayo.
Miltants Get Serious
Decanter’s so-called “Militant Winemakers” are back at it. This time, they are actually causing some damage. The CRAV (Regional Committee for Viticultural Action) threw a bomb into a France Telecom building, and wine merchants in a few locations faced serious losses due to vandalism. I […]