Portlands' veritable pantheon of viniculture mastery … your very own Iron Sommeliers By Marshall and Carolyn ManningAnd on April 13th, 2007, these masters of wine sat back and watched a private dining room brimming with anticipation. These brilliant matchmakers had already done their part days before. This was the first in a series of “Dueling Sommelier Dinners” planned in … [Read more...] about Dueling Sommeliers: Who’s the Best?
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
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?
The Beaus You Love Are The Beaujolais
"Yes, you read that correctly…Beaujolais. I’m not talking about Beaujolais Nouveau, the overproduced wine that’s rushed to market right after the harvest, more as a gimmick and celebration wine than anything else." As I type this, I’m enjoying some good roasted chicken. While this may not be the best way to keep the laptop keyboard clean, I find it’s easier to write about wine … [Read more...] about The Beaus You Love Are The Beaujolais
Review: Higgins Bar
Lazin’ On a Sunny Afternoon - Marshall Manning reviews the bar at Higgins Restaurant [Note: this review is only of the bar area. There is a full review of the entire restaurant here.]Friday was one of those days I don’t have often enough. It was the kind of day I’d have frequently if I ever got lucky enough to win the lottery. It was a clear, nicely warm fall day, still … [Read more...] about Review: Higgins Bar