The wine world has its own version of a Star Trek convention or Comic Con. It’s called Hospice du Rhone—three glorious days in Paso Robles, California, of letting your wine geekdom fly.   The 2018 festival, which took place April 26-28, was the first I’ve ever attended, having been kindly invited as a member of the wine media.... Read more →

There’s another Renaissance happening these days in the fabled Italian wine country of the Old World. To experience it fully, however, you have to look in places where you’re probably not looking.   One of the best wine events that takes place in Los Angeles every year is one put together by world-renowned critic James Suckling,... Read more →

When entering the hotly competitive arena of creating a line of Oregon Pinot Noirs specifically derived from just a single vineyard located in the county, a winemaker is going for the gold. It’s the Olympics of Oregon winemaking—where only the top talents earn the right to play and where champions maintain a stronghold for a long time... Read more →

If you want to make an impression as a relative startup in the California winemaking business, start by making two great Viogniers.   That’s what Workman Ayer, whose production facilities are located in Santa Barbara, has done. The first one, called “Ipso Facto,” is a quintessential California Central Coast’s take on this... Read more →

Are we out of line for calling Smith-Madrone a “hidden” winery of Napa Valley, considering it was established in 1971? No, not until the world recognizes there may not be a better $50 Napa Cab for the money than Smith-Madrone’s. Not to mention they also produce one of America’s most essential white wines.    What the heck... Read more →