Since the Romans began planting vines throughout their empire in the centuries before the birth of Christ, man has had to adapt to environmental issues and problems. Since the European monks began toiling in their sophisticated vineyards and wineries in
Read MoreLast week my column focus was the macro issues influencing the price of a bottle of wine. This week, I analyze the micro issues of the cost to produce and the profit margin of the $75 and $30 bottles of
Read MoreFor the past few weeks, we’ve been on a virtual tour through a number of Italian wine regions. I hope you’ve enjoyed our journey. However, this week’s planned virtual tour to our next destination is suspended. As we are about
Read MoreThis week we resume our series of trekking through Italy, in search of lesser-known grapes grown in the midst of historic regions. I trust you’ve picked up a few ideas for new wines with which to experiment, and wine regions
Read MoreThis week, our virtual tour of Italian regions growing lesser-known grapes brings us to one seemingly forgotten (or avoided) by the Renaissance. Lacking the major architectural relics of other regions, or a history of fine art, this region is not
Read MoreItalian winemakers have a storied history of developing grapes that are symbiotic with their climate and soil conditions. The characteristics of each grape have been tailored to the land and to the local cuisine – and vice versa. Until recently,
Read MoreI’ve become infatuated, and circling in on obsessed, with the latest wines from Italy arriving on our shores. Not simply the significantly improved traditional wines such as Chianti Classico and Pinot Grigio, but previously unfamiliar wines produced for centuries and
Read MoreItalians have been lauded and derided for their affinity for a unique sensibility concerning life and their pursuit of a philosophical, religious and hedonistic lifestyle. Throughout Italian history, this approach to life, this engrained pursuit of all things expressive of
Read MoreThe wines of Italy have been popular in the United States for decades. Until a few years ago, however, a select number of offerings dominated these wines. Many Americans are familiar with the “Italian Big Four” table wines, as I
Read MoreI am always on the lookout for unique wines from unique locations. And when I find one, I savor it, seeking out its aromas and flavors, its acidity and balance – all of the factors that create a new wine
Read More