The Other 46

The hardest decision at the end of the day can sometimes be the wine choice.  Whether selecting a wine to pair with dinner, or simply finding a wine to enjoy on its own, the decision can be daunting. The other night I wanted a glass of wine to pair alongside a veggie flatbread pizza.  Nothing [...]

Over the holidays, I tasted a number of wines from the other 46 states, with a Bordeaux-style blend leaving a lasting impression.  The wine, the Yonah Mountain Vineyards 2006 Genesis, is produced by Yonah Mountain Vineyards.  I’ve written about their wines a number of times (read more here), and each time I come away more impressed. [...]

Partners Maynard James Keenan and Eric Glomski produce a number of wines from 100% Arizona fruit under their Arizona Stronghold Vineyard label.  Well-priced and widely distributed for local wines, the ASV portfolio of wines are a great introduction to the Grand Canyon State. A Rhone blend, the Arizona Stronghold Vineyards 2009 Nachise is made up [...]

Staying true to my home state and my drink local motto, I recently pulled the cork on a local wine not far from my home base in Orlando.  Located in Plant City, Florida, Keel & Curley Winery was started in the spring of 2003 by founder and owner, Joe Keel.  A blueberry farmer, Keel decided to try [...]

After the classic vintage of 2007, Virginia turned in a typical, if not uneventful vintage in 2008.  In a state where quality can vary greatly, I usually turn to winemakers who consistently produce excellent wines no matter the vintage.  This is never more evident with Jeff White, Owner and Winemaker of Glen Manor Vineyards. The [...]

I’m often asked what I miss most from Virginia.  Aside from the four seasons, the history and of course Virginia wine, I often receive a puzzled look when I mention apples.  As the cold weather moves in, I often find myself reminiscing about my trips to the farmer markets to get my fill of hot [...]

Blind tastings don’t lie.  It’s an opportunity for the underdog to shine, especially in the case of local wine. Usually not given a fighting chance, especially by the mainstream media, a blind tasting removes the regional and label prejudices.  So when I read Yonah Mountain Vineyards eked out a victory against the mighty Kistler in a controlled [...]