Erin-Marie Palmer was the owner of The Wine Cellar in Beaverton as well as Shaker and Vine in Portland [ed 2016 - now closed]. Palmer is best described as a feisty, well-spoken local wine expert who has no qualms about expressing her preferences for what makes a great glass of vino. Shaker and Vine is a quirky, hip reflection of this passion set in what is otherwise a very … [Read more...] about Interview: Erin-Marie Palmer of Shaker and Vine
All of our Wine Related News Stories in One Place
The writers in this section have a vast experience and knowledge of wine. You'll find all kinds of articles, from equipment, to selecting wines, suggestions, and travel experiences.
Reaffirmations – as a Sommelier, How Am I Doing?
Food Dude Article #10 By Ken ColluraEvery year, I try to assess the goals I've set for myself as a sommelier and whether they are being achieved. I know most people do this around New Year's Day, but August is just as good.So now is the time to reaffirm a couple of these resolutions, my raison d'etre, so to speak. So, here's what I came up with, and how I feel I'm … [Read more...] about Reaffirmations – as a Sommelier, How Am I Doing?
Wine Competition Pits France Versus USA
30 years ago, a blind tasting was held comparing French and California wines. At that time, France was defeated after French judges decided the wines from California were superior. From the BBC News, "The result was seen as a blow to French national pride and shocked the country's wine industry."Now the contest has been recreated, and once again, California wines have come … [Read more...] about Wine Competition Pits France Versus USA
Small Wines – Suggestions for Good, Everyday Drinking Wines
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
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?