Winemaking

Article: Scenes from an Industrial Winery

Not long ago, I had the opportunity to tour a couple of the world’s largest industrial wineries. It was an eye-opening experience. The scale is awesome, stunning really. With the...

Article: 2010 Alpha Omega Syrah Krupp Brothers Vineyard Napa Valley

Alpha Omega first opened the doors of their hip yet inviting

Article: Profile of McCay Cellars: Video Interview with Michael McCay, Photos, More

McCay Cellars is a small, family-owned winery in Lodi. They make...

Article: In-Depth Interview with Antonio Galloni, Part 3

In case you missed them, here are

Article: 23 California Sparkling Wines for Your Holidays — and All Your Other Days Too

I was going to title this article, “New Year’s Resolution: Drink More Bubbly.” But I didn’t want you to get the idea that you should wait until New Year’s Eve to...

Article: “Strong Victory for Organic Winemakers” is a Loss for Consumers and Common Sense

Let me be clear. I have no general issues with organic foods or wines made from organically- grown grapes. In fact, I believe many of the best wines made today are derived from either...

Article: 2009 Quivira Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley

I like Zinfandel. As a 5th generation Northern Californian, I suppose fondness for that grape may be in my blood. I don’t like all wines made with Zinfandel though. While Zinfandel wines tend to be high in alcohol, some are allowed — perhaps...

Article: 2010 Folk Machine Jeanne D’Arc California

We see disclaimers and caution statements every day. “Objects in mirror may be closer than they appear.” “This page left intentionally blank.” “Keep away from small children.” Wine comes with its own set of warnings on every bottle, mandated...

Article: Vintners Hall of Fame Announces New Inductees

On Monday, November 8, I attended a luncheon at which the five 2011 inductees to the

Article: Thoughts on 2010 Vintage from Sierra Foothills

Fermentation begins...

Article: Take A Harvest Tour At Niner Estates

Many wineries offer tours these days, but few offer comprehensive tours during harvest. This is a very busy time for wineries. They are under the gun to get the fruit in and...

Article: In Depth: La Follette Wines

Winemaker Greg La Follette is making wine for a new wine brand and this time it bears his name. Mr. La Follette has been working in the wine business since 1991 when he was a research...

Article: Terroir is Money

A truly unique product feature or benefit is a very powerful selling tool. Coca Cola and KFC safeguard their recipes more carefully than some countries do state secrets....

Article: Winemaker Joel Aiken Launches Wine Consulting Company

St. Helena, CA – Internationally known winemaker, Joel Aiken, has left the position of Vice President of Winemaking at the world-renowned Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) in Napa Valley to begin working as a consulting winemaker. Aiken is w...

Article: Sure, Vinny... And you blend!

Article: Good Wine & Entrepeneurialism Thrive at Crushpad

Crushpad is a company in San Francisco that gives wine enthusiasts, with or without...