by Rhino Wino on February 27, 2010
While oxygen is a good thing for a nice red wine when you first open the bottle it is not a good thing for a bottle of wine that needs to be kept after opening. Many singles and even couples face this problem each time they open a new bottle. With research showing how a glass of wine a day has so many health benefits this leaves a bottle of wine open but not completely drunk.
One of the wine accessories that should not be skimped on is a quality wine stopper for just the purpose of preserving those open bottles of wine. Not all stoppers are made the same and to keep oxygen from being allowed to leak into the bottle will help preserve the flavor.
Those who only want to enjoy a good tasting glass of wine each evening with dinner or before bed for their health can keep that wine from oxygenating with a tight fitting stopper. With the use of a good stopper each glass of wine will taste just as good as the first making a stopper one of the most important wine accessories that anyone can buy.
by Rhino Wino on February 26, 2010
There has been a flurry of stories coming from Arizona lately regarding the wineries which are trying to create fine wines despite the arid conditions in the region. The latest story is more than just a story but a documentary film on what one winemaker is facing in order to raise grapes and make wine in that area.
The film “Blood Into Wine” features Maynard James Keenan and the efforts he has gone through to learn winemaking. Of course music fans may recognize the name since Keenan is renowned for his role in the bands Tool and A Perfect Circle. While reviews on the film are mixed the acceptance of the wine produced by the vineyard are positive.
While Arizona may not turn into the next Napa Valley wine lovers looking for a new destination for wine tasting this year may consider this arid region in their travel plans just to check it out. Visitors can expect the same treatment that they receive at many of the best wineries and can even purchase personalized wine gifts during their visit to take home. A unique wine from a unique region is something most every wine enthusiast can appreciate.
by Rhino Wino on February 25, 2010
Preparing for a wine and cheese party can seem like a daunting task to some potential hosts, but with the right tools and ingredients it is actually one of the most simple gatherings to have. Once you have your wine and cheese purchased preparing for the party is actually very easy.
While the wine is chilling the cheese should be allowed to come to room temperature, this will make cutting the cheese to much easier. Once the cheese is prepared to cut it is important to use a separate or clean knife for each variety. Using the same knife for preparation and serving will mix the tastes of each cheese and potentially change the flavor.
When serving the cheeses it is helpful to serve them on cheese boards that has a contrasting background for a appealing appearance. The board should also be large enough that the different kinds of cheeses are not allowed to touch. Accompany each cheese board of tray with plenty of crackers, breads, or fruits and you are ready to host your party and serve your chilled wine to your guests while enjoying the company of friends. Everyone will be amazed with just how well your party came together while you are free to have a good time.
by Rhino Wino on February 24, 2010
When we think of paring food with fine wine we usually consider exquisite meals that feature the finest foods served along with premium wines. But on occasion, especially in the winter, we just want some classic comfort food served with a simple table wine. For many, one of the most popular comfort foods is meatloaf since for them it was a traditional meal served at home by mom.
Of course many wine lovers may not stop and think about the wine they serve with meatloaf, but it is possible to find a bottle that will compliment this simple meal perfectly. The best part is there are many kinds that are less than $15 a bottle that will keep the meal simple while augmenting the flavor simultaneously.
Since meatloaf is very similar to meatballs used in some Italian dishes it is no surprise that Italian wines will pare well with this comfort food. A simple Italian red wine will do the trick for the evening but consumers should not forget to use their wine decanters to bring out the flavor in the wine to best go with the meal. For your next meal of comfort food do not forget that there is a perfect wine even for simple classics that reminds of us home.
by Rhino Wino on February 23, 2010
For a truly unique wine experience at your next gathering with friends consider one of the growing wines coming from vineyards made with muscadines instead of traditional grapes. While still grapes these native fruits to Southeast United States are growing in popularity for those who want a local experience. These fruits thrive in warm and humid climates and for those in the south are a real treat.
Wineries in Arkansas and other parts of the south are taking advantage of a traditional crop that has been cultivated since the 16th century and are turning more and more into wine. The demand has been growing to the point many cannot produce enough muscadines for the needs of their wineries. As more people outside of the south discover this version of the grape and as scientist begin to discover its benefit to the body demand is only going up.
For those looking for something new to bring home in their wine carriers from the store consider trying a muscadine wine for a truly American experience. As more wineries set up shop in the region expect to see more of these offerings on your store shelves in the future.
by Rhino Wino on February 22, 2010
For wine lovers looking for that special bottle of wine more often than not they tend to buy the products from larger vineyards. Finding those smaller winemakers that produce less 150,000 cases a year can be tough. A diamond in the rough that produces small runs of high quality wine are not always easy to find. Luckily Wine Business Monthly has their list of “Hot Small Brands” each year to help consumers find these gems.
For those looking to expand their horizons, taking the time to find one or even all ten of the winemakers on this list to try their offerings is a excellent way to find new favorites. Just being on the list ensures that these companies produce fine wines that many will enjoy.
Next time you are browsing the shelves trying to find something other than the same old thing for your wine bags to take home for dinner or a night with friends consider one the Hot Small Brands of the year. These wines will surely please even the most discerning palate making them perfect for entertaining. Your guests will be amazed with your extensive knowledge of wine by being able to find such unique tastes that are so uncommon.
by Rhino Wino on February 21, 2010
For the wine enthusiast a exceptional bottle of fine wine to share with friends is one of the best pleasures in life. Many go to great trouble to set up a place in their home to host wine tasting parties and other social events. These rooms most often include a home bar with the finest wine accessories and beautiful art on the wall. Of course many do not stop to think about the lighting they use other than it matches their general décor.
Now Meyda Tiffany has a complete line of wine bottle based lighting which will not only provide lighting for a home bar but do so in an elegant way for the wine enthusiast. These lamps are part of the new fused glass lighting collection that is custom crafted in New York by master artisans.
Each wine bottle pendant light is available in an assortment of colors making it easy to match any color décor that is already in place. Made with high-quality glass and featuring the hardware that is needed to hang the light from a variety of lengths from the ceiling it is simple to install and enjoy. Brighten up your home bar where you enjoy wine in with these beautiful lamps from Meyda Tiffany.
by Rhino Wino on February 20, 2010
Wine has been a chosen drink for many for over thousands of years with archeology constantly finding more and more evidence of large scale wine production. So for as far back as it is known wine, especially red wine, has needed decanting to remove sediment and allow the air to improve flavor. While the earliest recorded uses of wine involved storage and serving in clay jars, the first evidence of glass is as far back as 5,000BC in Syria.
Of course it was the Roman Empire which expanded the use of glass for wine storage and even wine decanters. Though these were still not the same quality crystal decanters which become the standard it was a far cry from the clay jars which allowed wine to turn to vinegar if left around too long.
These advances in not only wine bottles and serving glasses but wine decanters has made enjoying wine an experience that is more than just something for the rich and elite. Now everyone can consume fine wine and get the most from every bottle they open to share with their family and friends.
by Rhino Wino on February 19, 2010
While wine is a popular drink in the UK, the climate in the country is not especially good for growing the grapes needed to make wine. While currently in the south there are some successful vineyards in places such as Scotland in the north the temperatures are just not warm enough for vineyards. But scientists are predicting increasing temperatures in the country and this could mean an increase in wine production.
With current temperature forecasts for the next 20 years increasing slowly experts are predicting that the UK will be the next hot wine producer on the block. While the future may look good for new vineyards opening up, it is also looking better now for existing regions. In places such as Sussex, Kent and more; vines are producing more grapes and of better quality. This is increasing the premium wines which are being bottled in the region and gaining them more respect in the wine community.
For those looking toward the future of wine, a trip to the UK to enjoy the wines coming from the area now and in the future is well worth the trip. Tasting the fine wines while enjoying snacks from cheese boards is a great way to experience the English countryside.
by Rhino Wino on February 18, 2010
Becoming greener and safer for the environment is a prime concern for many winemakers today. While some do it for the increased sales that come from being organic others do it since science shows that organic farming it better for the land itself. In the long run this will prolong the productivity of their vineyard making it continue to be fruitful for growing grapes.
Some winemakers are taking this organic approach one more step where they utilize biodynamic agriculture. This form of agriculture not only avoids pesticides but it requires a complete self-sustained eco-system to be created with the introduction of animals and plants into the vineyard or farm. The end result for winemakers is healthier vines that can stand up better to adversity while continually producing healthier grapes.
For the wine consumer who is wondering what a biodynamic wine can bring to their table the better answer is what it does not bring. There is no chemical residues within the wine creating a purer wine where the flavor of the grapes can completely come through. Wine consumers who only want the best wine accessories and more can truly appreciate a wine made under such careful circumstances.
