I have this memory from when I was a teenager. I had developed an insatiable appetite for Mandarin oranges. You know the kind, the ones that come in a can covered in sweet syrup. I would pop them open and devour one after the other. Then one day, after about four of these cans, I became quite ill, somewhat hallucinogenic in fact. At the end of this orange-induced trip, I … [Read more...] about Small Wines – Suggestions for Good, Everyday Drinking Wines
News Stories Relating to Alcoholic Beverages
This covers all of our posts about alcohol: wine, beer, cider and spirits. You'll find all sorts of interesting stories here, new businesses, classes and more.
So you’re a Sommelier?
Customers often say to me, “You must really love your job. But I’m not sure exactly that you do?” So with that in mind, I’ve decided to outline my perception of what a sommelier is, and what he/she should be expected to do.Basically, I dispense hedonism for a living. I bring wines, great and small, to thirsty folks. I also believe wine to be one of the magnificent gifts … [Read more...] about So you’re a Sommelier?
No ‘Pagne, No Gain – All About Champagne
My first column of the year is on Champagne. I know you’re thinking, “What kind of a ninny does an article on Champagne AFTER the biggest Champagne-drinking day of the year?” Well, this kind of ninny does. That’s because I don’t believe that Champagne is only a wine for celebrations a few nights per year, and it deserves more attention than the standard “Oh, it’s two weeks … [Read more...] about No ‘Pagne, No Gain – All About Champagne
Wine Descriptions – Terms Wine Writers Use
Ken Collura has been around the wine scene for many years. His bio is rather impressive: a syndicated columnist for over five years (printed on the east coast in Tampa and Richmond and in Taos, NM.,) and writes for the trade magazines Cheers (on the Editorial Advisory Board) and Sante on a regular basis. Prior to moving to Portland, he was head sommelier for nine years at the … [Read more...] about Wine Descriptions – Terms Wine Writers Use
At What Temperature Should Wine Be Served?
Why can't restaurants get wine temperature right? I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore! “What’s causing this frustration?” you ask. No, it’s not the national debt, not the high price of gas, I get the big bucks for talking about wine. And if the Food Dude can rant and rave about restaurants, then I can too. So, for any restaurateurs who may be listening: WHY … [Read more...] about At What Temperature Should Wine Be Served?