I had been looking forward to the Sierra Foothills Barbera Festival all year. I missed the chance to go last year because I found out about it too late. So this year, I was not going to miss it. This early summer mountain festival is a place where California Barbera producers can gather together and … Continue reading The Sierra Foothills Barbera Festival 2013
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Lagrein
The other night I invited a few friends over to help me celebrate the completion of some of my recent wine projects. It's been such a busy spring that I have been forced to neglect my blog. But I'm back! And ready to cover lots of new stuff. If you have been wondering what the … Continue reading Lagrein
Croatina of the Colli Tortonesi
My favorite thing about Italy, besides the people, is the number of different types of wine grapes you can find growing in every little nook and cranny of the country. There is always a new grape to discover. A fairly recent discovery of mine is Croatina.† By "recent" discovery, I mean that I was able … Continue reading Croatina of the Colli Tortonesi
Dolcetto = Love
What's really a bummer about Italian Dolcetto is that it's so hard to find a good one here in California! Most importers don't bother much with it. Instead they import big hefty and pricey Nebbiolo and important, age-worthy Barbera. Maybe they're thinking Dolcetto isn't as complex as the other wines, hasn't won all the lofty points … Continue reading Dolcetto = Love
Roero DOCG: Arneis
If you read wine books about Roero, they will sum it up (if they even mention it at all) as the neighbor to Barolo and Barbaresco, and the region that is best at producing Arneis, a slightly fragrant, fruity, and light white wine. While I agree that Roero does produce high quality Piemontese white wines, … Continue reading Roero DOCG: Arneis
Barbera and Nebbiolo: California vs Piemonte
Well, I write a lot of notes but have neglected to document one of my most important nights in Italy last fall. Part of me is disappointed and part of me relieved. At the sacrifice of finding every little nuance in every wine I tried, I took the opportunity to just be present and appreciate … Continue reading Barbera and Nebbiolo: California vs Piemonte