The Paso Robles Wine Country is one of the fastest growing premium vineyard and winery regions in California.
When it comes to Rhone reds, syrah (sometimes called shiraz) grabs most of the attention. But there are 11 recognized red grape varieties from France’s Rhone region. Some play only a minor role in France and are virtually unknown here. Others are used mostly for blending. But some, like grenache, can play a starring role […]
E very year, on the evening before the opening of the California Mid- State Fair, the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, in partnership with the Independent Grape Growers of Paso Robles and the San Luis Obispo Vintners Association, announce the San Luis Obispo Wine Industry Awards for the year.
This week, the four recipients of these […]
California appellations like the Russian River Valley, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills grab most of the attention for pinot noir, but the appellations of San Luis Obispo County also produce some interesting — in some cases, outstanding — examples. Pinots from throughout the county were the subject of a symposium at the recent […]
When you fire up the grill for that tri-tip, consider petite sirah as an accompaniment. There’s nothing “petite” about it: The grape produces a wine that’s robust and hearty. For another possibility, I’m suggesting a zinfandel from Arroyo Grande Valley.
Big House 2005 “The Prodigal Son” Petite Sirah $15
Bonny Doon Vineyard sold its Big House Wines […]
There was a time, perhaps 20 years ago, when a Chilean cabernet sauvignon was one of my ?house wines.? It was inexpensive enough for everyday drinking, and the quality was better than average. But in subsequent years, I found myself less and less impressed by cabernet from Chile.
Then along came some high-end cabs and cab […]
A lot of people assume I don?t like chardonnay because I criticize many examples for being clumsy and boring. That has prompted readers and even winemakers to advance the view to me that chardonnay styles are changing to become less overtly oaky and buttery.
Although I have seen a slight shift away from this style?unoaked chardonnay […]