Ben Carter, Author at Palate Press

4 min read

The Lodi Native Project highlights non-interventionist winemaking and individual style. When I headed off to Lodi for a press visit, I got some ribbing from other wine writers. All good natured, but if you’re already irritated by the stereotypical California style of wine, Lodi might seem to be the worst Read More

The Wine Guy in the Real World

Ben Carter

Features

4 min read

Wine chats should sound more like The Office than Sideways I can talk about Japanese efficiency methods all day but most people doze off after 30 seconds. However, when it comes to wine, people are instantly and totally engaged. Particularly if there’s the chance of me sharing some samples with Read More

The Real and the Ideal in Wine: A few of my awkward moments

Ben Carter

Features

7 min read

In wine, there is an ideal version of the experience – and then there’s the reality. Rarely are the two identical. I’ve had plenty of awkward moments over the years; the four examples below are just the tip of the iceberg, for me. I’ve also seen seasoned professionals break expensive Read More

Can You Stand the Heat? The Challenges of Drinking Wine in a Hot Climate

Ben Carter

Wine Spotlight

3 min read

The trees outside are green and lush with only a hint of yellow or orange in the leaves. With my windows open to get a little breeze going, I can hear lawnmowers buzzing in the background, a reminder that I need to mow my own lawn. Just moments ago, an Read More

Southern Pairings: Wines for BBQ, Fried Chicken, Collard Greens and More

Ben Carter

Features

4 min read

I had an odd moment in New York City a few months ago. A lot of wine bloggers had come together from across the country, and on Sunday morning, everyone chatted about what they had for dinner the prior evening. A few started raving about the deviled eggs at a Read More

Author Ben Carter

Out in the Fields Drinking Old Vine Zinfandel

The Wine Guy in the Real World

The Real and the Ideal in Wine: A few of my awkward moments

Can You Stand the Heat? The Challenges of Drinking Wine in a Hot Climate

Southern Pairings: Wines for BBQ, Fried Chicken, Collard Greens and More