#Cool Climate Syrah

[wine-porn]

The Special Occasion

I don’t know when this one drops, but you’d be wise to get on the list. Such an amazing little wine: so FRESH, so packed with young wiry fruit, so Cotes du Rhone, the pithy cherry shielded under a glaze of thin raspberry while graceful vegetal green-ness sullies and expands the nose along leathery layers into dirty brightness and mineral aplomb. The blue-purple rim tells the same story, and the…

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Wine-Tasting

for your wine-tasting scenes

Enhance your wine-tasting experience and better identify different wines with these tips:

Cleanse your palate between sips. When tasting for flavors of the wine, you must cleanse your palate by using a spittoon and drinking water. “I regularly cleanse my palate with water. I like to use high-pH water, eight or above . . . . I find that alkaline solution of water cleanses my palate much better and reduces the acid in many wines,” James Suckling, a wine critic, says. “I also might have some bread, or olives are great with red wine. You want things that refresh your palate.” Cleansing your palate helps your taste buds enjoy more subtle flavors.

Do a blind tasting. “When I was starting as a taster in the ’80s, when I studied to be a master of wine, I was always blind tasting,” James says. Tasting blind means not knowing the kind of wine you are tasting—be it a zinfandel, rosé, pinot grigio, or syrah—so that will not influence your tasting. Moreover, tasting blind means not looking at the label; sometimes, a label plays up the fruit flavors or connotes an older wine, which can impact your interpretation of the varietal while tasting.

Get the wines to the right temperature to rate. Temperature is critical for wine tasting. “I think it’s important for whites to be between fourteen and sixteen degrees centigrade—not too cold but cold enough to be fresh. If it’s too cold, I’m not going to be able to discern the aromas, taste, and texture,” James says. “The reds I also like a little bit cooler than normal. A lot of people serve their reds at twenty-two or room temperature. I like them around nineteen or twenty.” Using wine glasses with a stem is essential, so you can adequately hold the glass without warming the wine.

Pay attention to scent. Articulating scent is an essential tasting skill. In trying one wine during a blind tasting, James notes “some warmth. Aromas of lemon curd, maybe some fresh basil. And I get a sensation of ash. Like, ash from volcanoes; there’s a number of white wines made in Italy that are coming from volcanic soils such as Etna in Sicily, Campania near Naples, and Soave near Verona.” Quality wines give you primary and secondary aromas, sometimes even tertiary ones. Breathe in your wine with your lips slightly parted to anticipate a wine’s flavor and notes. Take a small sip of wine and see if you sense wooden notes from oak barrels, high acid from citrus fruits, or sweetness from red fruits or tropical fruits.

Swirl your glass of wine. Getting your wine to move around enlivens its scent. “When you’re tasting, it’s really important to swirl the wine to get some air in there to bring out the wine aromas,” James says. “Also, it’s important not to have too much wine in the glass. I like to have about thirty or fifty milliliters in the glass. Then you can really give it a good swirl.” After swirling, note the viscosity and the tannins, the sediment along the bottom or sides of the glass. Use a new wine glass for each new bottle of wine in a blind tasting.

Taste in a clear space. Sometimes, you might taste wine in the cool climate of winemakers’ cellars or a busy room full of people as part of a wine club. To concentrate on the wine’s color and qualities, try to taste the wine in a well-lit, not-too-noisy tasting room. Light is essential when applying the [wine point] scale to red, orange, or white wines. “It’s important that the environment’s clean [and] well-lit,” James says. “I can concentrate on the wines. Sometimes that’s not possible if I’m in a cellar, traveling at dinner, or in a restaurant. But ideally, when I’m tasting, especially blind, it’s important to have a place where I can concentrate.”

Use the wine point system. Following the 100-point wine system can help you determine a good wine. The 100-point system is a rating scale for wine quality. Wine scores go up to 100 points, with 100 points going to the best wines. Whether you’re trying a dessert wine or a dry wine, this scoring system helps you better break down and comprehend the quality of a wine. “I think it’s an easy way to communicate about wine,” James says. “It's an easy way for you to understand quality.”

Source ⚜ Writing Notes & References

[yellowgnomeboots]

Trying a wine from a grape I never had before - Grenache. From reading Wikipedia I assume we don't really have the climate for it in NZ so that's why, but also it's commonly blended with other grapes.

It's a four year old wine from Australia and at the slightly more expensive end of supermarket supplied wines, but I'm not a huge fan. Like it's fine, and once again Wikipedia seems to indicate it's actually a fairly tricky grape to use so good job them, but I'm not going to add it to my favourites.

I actually have very little interest in wines, so my favourites are Syrah/Shiraz, a Semillon I tasted once nearly 20 years ago, wines with cool labels, and wines I think are funny.

[hillfamilyestate]

2021 Clarke Vineyard Syrah Wine - Hill Family Estate

The Clarke Vineyard in American Canyon has a cool breezy climate that brings out the depth and finesse of the Syrah grape. Clone 877 is used for body and raspberry chocolate fruit, and a little Clone 383 for extra color and smoky complexity.

[cosmosim]

The Best Wine Tasting Tours in the United States

The United States offers some of the best wine tasting tours, featuring renowned regions like Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and Oregon's Willamette Valley. These tours provide exclusive tastings of world-class wines, guided vineyard walks, and insights into the winemaking process. Highlights include visits to iconic wineries, gourmet food pairings, and picturesque scenery. Whether you're exploring California's lush vineyards or the scenic Pacific Northwest, these tours offer unforgettable experiences for wine enthusiasts.

Introduction to Wine Tasting Tours in the United States

Wine Tasting Tours in the United States offers diverse and enriching experiences across various renowned wine regions. From California's Napa Valley to Oregon's Willamette Valley, each destination provides unique opportunities to explore vineyards, taste exquisite wines, and learn about the winemaking process. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveller, the best wine tasting tours in the U.S. promise unforgettable adventures.

Exploring Napa Valley A Wine Tasting Tours Icon

Napa Valley is synonymous with wine tasting travel in the United States. Known for its premium wineries and picturesque landscapes, Napa offers an array of tours that cater to all tastes. Visitors can enjoy private tastings at iconic estates like Robert Mondavi and Opus One, partake in food and wine pairings, and experience the valley's famous wine train. Napa's combination of world-class wines and stunning scenery makes it a must-visit destination.

Discovering Sonoma County Wine Tasting Tours at Its Finest

Sonoma County, neighbouring Napa, is another top destination for wine tasting travel. With over 400 wineries, Sonoma offers a more laid-back and diverse experience. Tours in Sonoma often include visits to boutique wineries, scenic vineyard picnics, and eco-friendly wine tastings. The region's emphasis on sustainable practices and varied terroirs provides a rich and rewarding wine tasting journey.

Unveiling the Charm of Oregon's Willamette Valley in Wine Tasting Travel

Oregon's Willamette Valley is renowned for its Pinot Noir and picturesque vineyards. Wine tasting travel in this region offers intimate tours with a focus on artisanal winemaking. Visitors can explore family-owned wineries, engage in barrel tastings, and enjoy the valley's lush, green landscapes. The Willamette Valley's commitment to quality and hospitality makes it a standout destination for wine lovers.

Experiencing Wine Tasting Tours in Washington’s Walla Walla Valley

Walla Walla Valley in Washington State is an emerging star in the wine tasting travel scene. Known for its robust red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, Walla Walla offers personalised tours and tastings in a charming, small-town setting. Visitors can explore historic vineyards, engage with passionate winemakers, and enjoy the valley's vibrant culinary scene, making it a unique destination for wine tasting travel.

Exploring New York’s Finger Lakes A Wine Tasting Tours Gem

The Finger Lakes region in New York is celebrated for its cool-climate wines, particularly Riesling. Wine tasting travel in the Finger Lakes includes tours of scenic lakeside vineyards, tastings at historic wineries, and educational sessions on the region’s unique glacial terroir. The combination of stunning natural beauty and exceptional wines makes the Finger Lakes a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts.

Venturing into Virginia's Wine Country for Wine Tasting Tours

Virginia's wine country, with its rolling hills and historic charm, is an emerging destination for wine tasting travel. Known for its Viognier and Cabernet Franc, Virginia offers tours that highlight the state’s rich history and modern winemaking innovations. Visitors can enjoy tastings at boutique wineries, explore colonial-era estates, and savor farm-to-table cuisine paired with local wines, providing a well-rounded wine tasting travel experience.

Conclusion

The best wine tasting travel experiences in the United States span coast to coast, offering something for every wine lover. From the iconic vineyards of Napa Valley and the artisanal charm of Oregon's Willamette Valley to the emerging wine regions of Walla Walla, the Finger Lakes, and Virginia, each destination provides unique and memorable tours. Embarking on a wine tasting travel adventure in the U.S. promises not only exceptional wines but also rich cultural and scenic experiences.

[kakivino]

Clonakilla 2017 Hilltops Shiraz

High-toned aromatics. Black raspberry, garrigue, rose hip and hibiscus, with hints of black pepper and five spice, evoke Crozes-Hermitage. Red fruit pastille palate is densely knitted, plummy and spicy but never full-on jammy. Fresh even. Accessible now, with good depth, balance and sleek texture thanks to soft tannins. Juicy finish. A welcome departure from powerful Barossa shiraz, this cool-climate interpretation ought to be spelt 'syrah'. — ★★★½

Appellation: Hilltops Region: Hilltops, New South Wales, Australia Subzone: Cépage: 100% Shiraz Abv: 14% Production: n/a Élevage: 11 months in Allier oak barriques and puncheons (15% new) Distributor: Tong Woh

Critic Reviews:

One of the more annoying phrases heard in modern life is “this just happened”, or it is when it immediately precedes some kind of highly or dubiously manufactured brag. So let me annoy myself by noting that we’ve reviewed 17 vintages of Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz on The Winefront but, having just opened the 2017, this just happened. I’ve liked a great many of the previous releases of this wine but this is my favourite of the lot. It’s a ripper. Balanced, well fruited, spice-laden, perfumed, floral and then sweetly exotic. It smells and tastes beautiful, and is so finely etched with tannin; it has everything exactly where you’d like it to be. I’d send a case of this straight into the pool room but I’d like my stash kept a lot closer to me than that and, besides, I don’t have a pool room anyway. Buy. Drink: 2018-2025+ Campbell Mattinson (The Wine Front, 07/2018) 94

[worldfoodwine]

One particular grape variety that shines in the Rhône Valley, France, is Syrah, also known as Shiraz in other parts of the world. This bold and full-bodied red wine has gained a loyal following among wine enthusiasts for its rich and spicy flavor profile. 🍷🇫🇷

Syrah, or Shiraz, is a versatile grape that can produce both delicious single varietal wines and powerful blends. It is believed to have originated in the Rhône Valley, where it has been grown for centuries. 

Syrah wines from the Rhône Valley are often described as bold and full-bodied, with a dark purple color and aromas of blackberries, plums, and spices. They have a high tannin content, giving them a firm structure and the potential for aging.

The climate and soil in the Rhône Valley provide ideal conditions for growing Syrah grapes. The hot summers and cool nights allow the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors. The region's famous "Mistral" winds also play a crucial role in keeping the vines healthy by preventing diseases.

[wineriesvineyardsinidaho]

Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Wineries & Vineyards in Idaho, United States

Idaho, a state known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, has also been quietly gaining recognition as a burgeoning wine destination. Nestled within its picturesque valleys and undulating terrain, you'll discover a thriving wine culture that's been flourishing over the past few decades. From the Snake River Valley to the scenic Sunnyslope Wine Trail, the Gem State offers a delightful journey through its wineries and vineyards.

The high-altitude vineyards of Idaho, with their cool nights and warm days, provide the ideal conditions for cultivating a wide variety of grape varietals. In recent years, this unique climate has given rise to a remarkable array of wines, from elegant Rieslings to bold Cabernet Sauvignons. One such hidden gem within Idaho's wine landscape is Coeur d'Alene Cellars, an establishment that has consistently impressed wine connoisseurs with its exceptional vintages and warm hospitality.

Coeur d'Alene Cellars

Coeur d'Alene Cellars, located at 3890 N Schreiber Way, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, is a testament to the state's burgeoning wine culture. Situated just a stone's throw away from the scenic Coeur d'Alene Lake, this boutique winery and tasting room is a true haven for wine enthusiasts. Established in 2002, Coeur d'Alene Cellars has made its mark by producing limited-production, handcrafted wines, with a primary focus on red varietals.

Their flagship wines, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, have garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing the unique terroir of the region. The winery's inviting tasting room, with its rustic charm and knowledgeable staff, offers an excellent opportunity to explore the flavors that Idaho's wine country has to offer.

The Glidden Group simplifies the process of finding the best Idaho Medicare plans. We are your trusted Medicare agent near you, serving Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Visit us at 402 W Canfield Ave # 2, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815.

Driving Direction:

[generateawareness]

OutPour: Unveiling Argentina's Finest Wine Selections

Introduction: Argentina, known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and passionate tango, has also earned a well-deserved reputation as a world-class wine producer. With its unique climate, diverse terroirs, and a rich winemaking heritage, Argentina has carved a prominent place on the global wine stage. Among the myriad of options available, OutPour takes pride in offering the finest wines from Argentina, allowing wine enthusiasts to embark on a journey of unparalleled taste and sensory delight.

The Enchanting Argentine Terroir: Argentina's wine production primarily centers around the western region, nestled at the foot of the majestic Andes Mountains. The combination of high altitude, ample sunshine, and cool breezes from the mountains creates an exceptional terroir for grape cultivation. The unique climate allows for slow ripening, resulting in wines with concentrated flavors, balanced acidity, and remarkable aromas.

Malbec: The Iconic Argentine Wine: When it comes to Argentine wine, one grape variety stands out above all others—Malbec. Originally from France, Malbec found its true home in the fertile soils of Argentina. The country's signature red wine showcases the grape's full potential, with deep purple hues, intense fruit flavors, velvety tannins, and a luscious, lingering finish. OutPour boasts an exquisite selection of Malbecs, ranging from the elegant and refined to the bold and robust, ensuring there's a perfect match for every palate.

Beyond Malbec: A World of Diversity: While Malbec takes center stage, Argentina offers a remarkable array of grape varieties that thrive in its diverse terroirs. OutPour's collection proudly presents a range of wines crafted from other noble grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Bonarda, and Merlot. Each varietal showcases the unique character of the region it hails from, offering a delightful spectrum of flavors and aromas.

Torrontés: The Captivating White Wine: For white wine enthusiasts, OutPour's selection also includes the captivating Torrontés. Indigenous to Argentina, Torrontés is an aromatic grape variety that produces wines with enticing floral notes, vibrant acidity, and a refreshing finish. This aromatic white wine pairs beautifully with seafood, light salads, and spicy cuisine, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a new and exciting wine experience.

Artisanal Excellence and Sustainability: OutPour prides itself on curating a collection of wines that embodies the craftsmanship and dedication of Argentina's winemakers. From small, family-owned vineyards to renowned estates, the wines featured at OutPour represent the passion and artistry of the winemaking process. Many of these producers embrace sustainable practices, preserving the natural resources and ensuring the longevity of Argentina's wine industry.

Experiencing Argentine Wine Culture: At OutPour, it's not just about the wine itself; it's about immersing yourself in the rich wine culture of Argentina. Through tasting events, educational workshops, and expert guidance, OutPour invites wine enthusiasts to delve into the stories behind each bottle and gain a deeper appreciation for Argentina's winemaking heritage. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or an enthusiastic beginner, OutPour offers an unforgettable journey through Argentina's vinicultural wonders.

Conclusion: OutPour's dedication to offering Argentina's finest wines creates an extraordinary opportunity to explore the vast and diverse world of Argentine winemaking. From the iconic Malbec to other exceptional varietals, each bottle reflects the country's unique terroir and the passion of its winemakers. Embark on a sensory adventure at OutPour, where the finest wines from Argentina await, promising an experience that delights the palate and nourishes the soul.

[dethracischedruif]

© Paige Stampatori

Wine Enthusiast Podcast: California Cool-Climate Syrah

https://www.winemag.com/2020/11/25/cool-climate-syrah-podcast/

[thegrandstoreofficial]

Top 5 Wines You Must Try

Red, white or sparkling? Dry, semi-dry or sweet? Choosing wines can be baffling at times when you have so many wines online that are available to you to choose from. If you want to shop wines online to keep a wine collection at home, host a party or just taste a few samples, here’s a list of 5 popular wines that we at The Grand Store recommend you to try:

1. Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is on top of our list as the world’s most sought-after wine. While its origins are in the Burgundy region of France, it is grown now in many parts of the world. Most of the Pinot Noir wines are light to medium-bodied, dry and red, but they can be made into a lovely rosé, white or sparkling wine too. Pinot noir has perhaps the deepest complex character of any grape wine. Wine connoisseurs love to keep exploring its gorgeous colour, captivating body and fresh acidity along with complex aromas and taste. It can be paired with a large variety of food. No wonder, the soft and silky Pinot Noir is the first choice of a lot of people for a romantic date.

Our picks:

Creation Pinot Noir 2021/22

De Grendel Op Die Berg Pinot Noir

2. Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon, originating from Bordeaux, France is a hybrid of the white Sauvignon Blanc grape and red Cabernet Franc grape and is also known as Sauvignon Rouge, Petit-Bouchet or Petit-Cabernet. Cabernet Sauvignon wines range from deep red to almost black colour, are full-bodied and have an astringent nature that helps the wine age well. Generally, it is dry, has medium to high acidity, tannins, good acidity and tastes of bell peppers, tobacco, black cherries, dark plums with hints of herbs and wood. Cabernet Sauvignon wines age very well and improve over time as they age getting more complex and elegant for 10 - 20 years and sometimes even for 50 years or more. It pairs beautifully with hearty food flavours such as steak, fillet mignon or mushroom risotto.

Our picks:

Boekenhoutskloof Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 2017/18

3. Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wine varieties and has also originated in Burgundy, France. Since it is relatively easier to grow, it is now found in several places globally. Depending on the ripeness of the grapes used, Chardonnay’s flavours can range from fresh citrusy or green apples to ripe peaches and pineapple. If it is oak-aged such as those made in mostly warm wine regions, Chardonnay could also develop hints of vanilla, creamy butter and coconut. If not oak-aged such as those made in mostly cool climate wine regions, it is usually lean, dry and has hints of mineral taste. Chardonnay has moderate acidity and is best paired with light, creamy, lightly spiced foods. Avoid Chardonnay with acidic foods such as tomatoes, as it could give a more sour taste to the wine.

Our picks:

Steenberg 1682 Brut Chardonnay

Siwela Brut Chardonnay 2019

4. Syrah/Shiraz

Syrah wine is also known as Shiraz wine. It is said to have originated from the Rhône Valley, France. It is usually a full-bodied dark-coloured wine with medium to high acidity, high tannins and a bold palate of blackberry, blueberry, plums, smoke, black pepper and earthy flavours. Syrah also has strong aromas of blackberry and oak along with slight hints of ripened fruit. As Syrah is full of bold complex flavours and has a strong aroma, it is best suited with bold, robust dishes like barbequed game meats, roast lamb, braised short ribs etc. It is preferable to serve Syrah in a Bordeaux wine glass at slightly less than room temperature and decant it before serving to experience the full range of flavours and aromas.

Our picks:

Bellingham, the Bernard Series Basket Press Syrah

Ashton Winery Shiraz 2019

5. Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc was originally grown somewhere in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux, both located in France and it is well-known for its characteristic light body, green herbaceous flavour and lively acidity. It is usually very dry, but some winemakers give it a sweet taste by adding residual sugar. The aromas typically range from gooseberry, grass, bell peppers, asparagus, peach or passion fruit. Sometimes, Sauvignon Blanc is oak-aged to get a lusher, rounded mouthfeel and creamy texture. It is very refreshing to drink and best served chilled. Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with light and herb-seasoned dishes like garden salads, Thai cuisine, sushi, brie or camembert cheese etc.

Our picks:

Constantia Glen Sauvignon Blanc 2021/22

Bosman Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Sauvignon Blanc 2021

There can be some variations in all these different types of wines according to the region, climate, soil in which the grapes were grown in and also their processing techniques. Try out a few wines and see which ones you like the best. Click here to buy www.grandstore.co.za

[wine-porn]

Press for Wine

This is one funky-ass lil bish let me tell you. Wonderful drrrrty poopy grain attached to sublime, ridiculously-ripe blackened berry: all newsprint and India ink and wet, sullen decadence gloriously dark with savory strains of vegetal clogging all pores. A bouquet of lilies left on the table past petal-dropping, soggy natal plum the birds have ignored and mussy strawberry-tree underfoot on the…

[leeuwenkuilwine]

The unique climate of the Swartland (hot and breezy by day, cool at night) and it’s ancient geology of shale, arenite sandstone & granite soils make it ideal for varietals such as Shiraz (and Chenin, amongst others) to flourish. Syrah (another name for Shiraz) is considered to be one of the great noble black grape varieties, because it can produce such deliciously dark, full-bodied and age-worthy wines. Explore our various interpretations of the cultivar in our red range. #knowyourwine #leeuwenkuil #leeuwenkuilfamilyvineyards #swartland #swartlandwines #winesofsouthafrica #harvest2023 #mytrosismytrots2023 #shiraz #syrah #wine #winefarm https://www.instagram.com/p/Co6t-YaKUtg/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[wine-picks]

🇨🇱 🍷  It’s Saturday Night and I’m loving this 2018 Errázuriz Syrah (91 pts, $22) from Chile tonight. Arrives in LCBO VINTAGES next weekend. Full review here: https://bit.ly/3fZuz7r

[johannestevans]

“Laid down at a little past midnight,” Aimé murmured. “Tossed and turned for an hour or so, then got up again – thought I’d paint, but I just sat and looked at the canvas, finished off the bottle.”

“The Australian one,” Jean-Pierre supplied. “Full-bodied, low in tannin, jammier than it would have been if grown in a medium or cool climate – there were notes of anise in it, but because of the low acidity, it would not necessarily age well. You said other wnes from the region, others made with the Syrah grape, have earthier qualities, like leather, but this one was all fruit, and all the better for it.”

Aimé’s eyebrows raised so high it felt like they’d disappeared into his hairline, and at his expression, Jean-Pierre looked almost demure, his cheeks flushing a slight pink, his blue eyes no longer meeting Aimé’s own. He could barely remember what he’d said earlier this afternoon, when he’d been talking to Jean-Pierre about the bottle in his hand, when he’d been explaining how Syrah grapes looked on the vine, how they were different to Cab Sav or Merlot, and different again to Grenache. It was difficult to believe, sometimes, that Jean-Pierre really listened so closely when he talked. God knew he tended to tune himself out.

“Well,” he said softly, brushing his fingers over the front of Aimé’s chest, “You speak with such passion, such expertise, when you speak of wine. There is a handsome allure in it.”

He was wearing one of Aimé’s wool jumpers, one that he’d been wearing earlier today until he’d taken it off to paint – he hadn’t even realised Jean-Pierre had taken it until after the angel had gone.

🥺🥺🥺 they make me so soft