Merlot has a rich history, with the earliest mention of the grape noted in Bordeaux in 1784. But in our modern wine drinking era, the variety’s reputation has been on a roller coaster of social acceptance. Merlot went from being abundant to awkwardly ignored after one infamous line screeched by Paul Giamatti’s character in the 2004 movie “Sideways.” But the grape still remains important to the world of wine and shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s been making excellent wine since at leas...| VinePair
Despite what the powers that be might tell us, there are no hard and fast rules dictating how and when to enjoy wine. Once you buy a bottle, it’s yours, and you can drink it in any context you wish. That said, it is true that the seasons often dictate the wine styles we gravitate toward at any given time. In the summer, it’s typically rosé and high-acid, crisp white wines. In the winter, it’s usually full-bodied, cozy reds. The article Wine 101: PSA: Do It ALL In Fall appeared first on...| VinePair
When it comes to oysters, which have been all the rage in restaurants for years now, the mineral-driven Chardonnays of Chablis and the nervy Muscadets of the Loire Valley have been go-to wine pairings. But there’s another excellent choice, also from France, that’s under the radar: Picpoul de Pinet. For those unfamiliar, Picpoul, or Piquepoul as it’s sometimes spelled, is the name of the grape. The article 9 of the Best Picpouls From France’s Languedoc and Beyond appeared first on Vine...| VinePair
All too often, when the world’s white cult wines are lined up, Burgundy, and its star grape Chardonnay, steal the show. Even beyond the Côte de Beaune — from Sonoma to South Africa to Australia — Chardonnay remains the most celebrated white variety in the world. Frankly, it’s gotten a bit boring. So for this list, Chardonnay is out. The article The Prized White Wines Collectors Covet Most — That Aren’t Chardonnay appeared first on VinePair.| VinePair
Pinot Noir is notoriously one of the most challenging grapes to cultivate, but if there’s a state with near-perfect conditions for doing so, it’s Oregon. Most of the Pinot Noir coming from the state is produced in the Willamette Valley, a region just south of Portland that spans roughly 150 miles. Given its size, the Willamette Valley has a multitude of soils, each of which produces a very distinct style of Pinot Noir characteristic of the region. The article The 10 Best Oregon Pinot Noir...| VinePair
The once-obscure (and slightly frowned upon) concept of chilling red wine is now undoubtedly a full-blown category. The popular new style of “chillable reds” has gained favor with wine pros and casual drinkers alike over the past several years for its juicy, easy-drinking profile. And with this newfound popularity, there are more chillable reds to explore than ever before. When the category first took off, many looked to regions and varieties historically associated with cool-climate, lig...| VinePair
Whether you're looking for a special wine to serve on Christmas day or bubbles to serve throughout the holiday season, this guide has everything you need to pick a great Champagne for Christmas.| Eat Something Sexy