Have you noticed everybody is talking about Cabernet Franc lately? It’s no surprise—Cabernet Franc has medium body and moderate tannin and acidity with great texture that makes it a worthy addition to the dinner table. Cabernet Franc offers up the softer side of Cabernet Sauvignon, to which it is the parent grape. Here […]
Trying to find the perfect holiday gifts can put a damper on the spirit of the season. Once I figured out that wine was the best gift for almost everyone on my list, the holidays got a lot easier. Still not convinced? Let me share some ideas with you! Business to Business Gifts How many […]
Zinfandel is know as the All American grape and has been grown in California since the 1800’s. Yet the grapes true roots are in Croatia where it’s known as Tribidrag. In Italy Zinfandel is called Primitivo. Although the majority of California producers label their wine as Zinfandel, you may see a few Tribidrag’s and Primitiov’s […]
Last month’s blog began this series on multigenerational family wineries along the Wine Road. We’ve had great feedback from so many folks who’ve enjoyed learning about the rich histories of these family owned and operated businesses. Time now to explore five more multigenerational family wineries and their stories. An Iconic Wine Family If you’ve ever […]
Summer is the season of the grill and a great red wine for pairing with things from the BBQ is Sangiovese. Originating in Italy, Sangiovese derives its name from the Latin —Sanguis Jovis— meaning “the blood of Jove”. This medium-bodied dry red wine has a range of flavors that include red cherry, black plum, sun-dried […]
Widely planted around the world, Sauvignon Blanc has an array of styles from lean and bright, to juicy and plush. Sauvignon Blanc typically offers great aromatics and flavors that range from zesty citrus, to tart apple, to creamy peach and lean nectarine. Best bets for paring are briny oysters, Thai food, crab cakes, and goat […]
Barbera, a variety native to Italy, can vary in flavor depending on where it’s grown; be it warm or cool climate, and how it is produced. Wines from cool climes tend to display brighter tart red fruits and warmer climes revel deeper dark berry fruit flavors. Typically Barbera is delightfully spicy with good acidity, and […]
When we think of Malbec the first thing that may come to mind is Argentina. But the variety actually originated in the Cahors region of France and is one of the building blocks of Boudreaux blends. But Malbec from the Mendoza region of Argentina is where the grape developed it’s following and found it’s place […]
A visit to Sonoma County means I’m well on my way to having a perfect day, for I have a few days off, can relax and do the things I enjoy. I live in northwestern Minnesota, and travel much of the workweek for my job. I’m fortunate to have a family member in Santa Rosa, and […]
Volunteer Firefighter — another facet of Fred Peterson Fred Peterson, owner of Peterson Winery and long-time local vineyard manager and grapegrower, shares some stories from his time as a volunteer firefighter / engineer. Fred’s stories are graphic, so please be prepared for a dose of reality not often found in the fun-filled world of […]