When visiting the local grocery store, Trader Joes, or COSTCO to shop for wine, I see many people staring into an abyss of wine. I can see the struggle in some of their eyes of not knowing what they should purchase. Most people simply do not want to gamble their money on plonk wine. Research statistics indicate the vast majority select their purchases on price point being the number one contributor.  

Of course there are many different circumstances someone might want a bottle, but at the end of the day, everyone wants something that tastes palatable or better for a ...

Andrew Murray Vineyards Esperance 2011 is a special blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre. The label indicates "Central Coast" as both the Grenache and Mourvedre come from West side Paso Robles, while the Syrah is Santa Ynez Valley. 

The name "esperance" translates from French to English meaning "hope." A few years ago I had the honor of interviewing this legendary and humble winemaker that major wine press put on the "watch list" when he is just 20 about years old. I am pretty sure he can still fly on airplanes without issue, as that is an entirely ...

When Cellars of Sonoma has winemaker Ted Elliot as a guest on thier Tuesday night show (6:00 PM), it is something special. He, nor the wine disappointed. For those wine enthusiasts that really like to follow some of the great names in wine, this is someone to add to the list.

Tuesday night Ted came on the live-stream with Scott Jordan to share about his wines as we tasted together and interacted with questions via Twitter. Ted said."I love aromatics in Pinots." I must say it is one of the aspects I appreciate so much about Pinot Noir ...

Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure

Coming to Solvang this Saturday,February 16th, 2013 is another extension of events from the Garagiste Festival. When it comes to food, so often foodies gravitate towards a local chef that uses fresh ingredients to "cook with love." There are of course rare occasions were there could be mass hysteria over a box of nuclear fall out food like twinkles or Coke Classic, however, most lean towards well prepared foods.

Translating this over to wine is where the Garagiste wine producer comes into play. These are typically dedicated, highly passionate people that produce wines with soul ...

Calling all Pinot Noir fans! Saturday February 9th is the 6th annual Pasadena Pinot Fest to be held at Altadena Country Club.

This event will host many spectacular wineries and winemakers from Sta Rita Hills, Santa Maria Valley, Russian River Valley, Willamette Valley amongst several other regions. 

From my experience, having the opportunity to focus on one grape varietal can be a fun and an educational experience. For me, it has allowed the opportunity to focus on what styles I gravitate towards, what regions I prefer, and even dialed in my ability to taste the difference in clones on some ...

The 2011 Syrah "Tour les Jours" has been touted by major wine press for many years as being a consistent top value rated wine. From my memory the scores have typically been 89-91 and at a price point of around $16.00 there is a clear reason for the accolades and press he has received.

This 2011 vintage got my attention quick. The first thought I had was "wow, this is the front line?" That is a big deal. The first thought I had was "wow." From my viewpoint not much more matters. If someone told you that there was ...