During this time of year, there are plenty of holiday gift choices. Certainly,a bottle (or two or three) of wine is entirely appropriate for our wine-loving friends and Direct Cellars members. But the question is, of course, what kind of wine to buy for whom. Here are some of my thoughts and suggestions. First, consider …
Winemakers create blends for many reasons. This example is a crafted mix of several of Spain’s most characteristic grapes, carefully blended in proportions that give it exceptional complexity, excellent balance, and mouthfilling flavors. Almost all of Spain’s red grapes make rich, dense wines — there’s nothing delicate about them. Just one look at this wine …
Many winegrowing regions have so-called “signature” grapes and wines they produce. For example, when we think of Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon comes immediately to mind. Mention the Burgundy region of France, and it’s all about Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Chenin Blanc, also known as “Steen,” is the signature white wine of South Africa. Our Direct …
Here’s a big, bold Cabernet that will complement a wide variety of flavorful foods…but more about that later. The reputation and quality of Washington State wines have really soared in the last ten or so years…and for good reason. The winegrowing regions in the south and southeast of the state are very dry, so the …
Winemakers are attracted to the Carménère grape because of its pure fruit flavors and just a hint of pepper. Even though this varietal originated in France, it has been almost forgotten in that country. In fact, probably 70 or so acres of vineyard survive, mainly in the Bordeaux region. In Chile, there are over 28,000 …
This white grape is an ancient and traditional varietal in Portugal and Spain, but the Australians have taken to it, making it with their very own style. And they’re being tremendously successful. We sourced this wine from a selection of prime vineyards throughout the country. It’s worth noting that the Australians have a different view …
If there’s one question we get asked more than any other, it’s about sulfites in wine. What are they and what purpose do they serve in our wines? Check out this Q&A and “MythBusters” blog with our Wine Whisperer, Jerry Greenfield. We bet you’ll learn a thing or two! Q: What Are Sulfites? A: Chemically, …
When I first received this wine with my monthly shipment, it was a real revelation for two reasons. First, because I’ve been working in the wine industry for over 20 years and had never heard of the grape, and second because it immediately became one of our favorite whites. The name “bombino” means “little bomb” …
In Spain, “Castilla” is the name for the very central region of the country, around Madrid. In the last decade or so, new winegrowing areas have emerged in Castilla, and their quality and creativity are challenging the more traditional regions. You want to serve this wine well chilled. It’s pale straw yellow in the glass, …
Since the Mendoza region has been exporting tons of high-quality Malbec in recent years, it’s easy to understand why other varietals are not getting the same attention. Well, that needs to change. In addition to Malbec, they’re also doing incredible things with a very characteristic Spanish varietal called Torrontes. The sparkling extremely pale yellow color …
