Green, rough, bitter—for a hard-working grape, carignan shoulders an awful lot of insults. And it’s true the prolific variety, traditionally used in reds from France’s Languedoc region, has produced a lot of undistinguished wine. But lately, carignan has been coming-read more-
The blend of the warm climate Alexander Valley fruit with cooler climate Russian River, makes for a unique, flavorful wine. A color of clear light straw, and aromas of citrus and kiwi fruit. On the palate are flavors of grapefruit,-read more-
A rather fascinating red blend from South Africa. A wine that is fat but racy enough that it doesn’t have to go on a diet. A big nose of smoke, bacon fat, and blackberries. Follows through with vanilla and cumin-read more-
In preparation for Open That Bottle Night (live, only on Palate Press; Saturday, February 26 from 7 pm - 10 pm EST), editorial board member Becky Sue Epstein shares some thoughts on the bottle she plans to enjoy. 1983 Château-read more-
Dark cherries, cola, a touch of cranberries, and some mushrooms are on the palate, all with a background of spice, wood, and a teriyaki-like umami. Tannins are fine and sweet. It does not offer delicacy or flow with multiple layers-read more-
Red Rhône blend. Dark red/purple color. Nose of blueberry, black fruit, touch of smoke, and meat. Bright red berry fruit on the palate. There are times when I want something layered and complex, to pull apart and mull over. Other-read more-
Dottie and John will host Open That Bottle Night live, on February 26, 2011, from 7 pm to 10 pm Eastern, only on Palate Press: The online wine magazine. Join us on OTBN to chat with Dottie and John. Tell-read more-
Here is a elegant and earthy red from Spain’s Catalonian region and the Montsant D.O. Very tight when first opened, with aromas of bittersweet chocolate and black tea. It gives up its secrets slowly and you’ll be rewarded by keeping-read more-