Germany

What you need to know and more can be found through these sites. Dedicated time to learning about German wines will pay off for years to come.

http://www.vdp.de/en/vdp/klassifikation/the-refined-vdpclassification/

http://www.vdp.de/fileadmin/user_upload/PDF/Der_VDP/Klassifikation/2016_Seminarbroschuere_by_VDP_eng.pdf

http://www.germanwines.de/aktuelles/news/details/news/detail/News/white-pinot-varieties-ascendant-in-germany/

http://www.germanwines.de/press/pressrelease/details/news/detail/News/decanter-pinot-noir-from-germany-tops-global-pinot-tasting/

 

Champagne vs. Prosecco and more French Wine

I do not really love that the wines are being compared as they are only similar in that they are both sparkling wines. That said, this is a good way to learn about both. Please share your thoughts with the class about sparkling wine. Do you have a favorite?

Wine Folly Champagne/Prosecco

http://winefolly.com/review/champagne-vs-prosecco/

While you are at it, why not think about more sparkling wine Wine Folly French Sparklers

http://winefolly.com/review/sparkling-wines-france-much-champagne/

Fun Facts about Madeira

Taste profiles:  caramel, walnut oil, peach, hazelnut, orange peel, and burnt sugar.

A dessert wine that pairs well with dark chocolate, nuts (almonds), and berries.

Generally about 17-20% alcohol content.

Tingly sensation on the center of the tongue is due to sugar and alcohol.

Popular cooking wine, great with mushrooms.  Preferable to cook with madeira wines sold in a wine store.

Madeira has a long shelf life, temperature does not change the product.  If wine is stored correctly, wine will last up to 1 year.

The most popular style of Madeira sold in the United States is called “rainwater.”  Must be aged three years before released.

 

 

 

Winery Makes List of Historic Places for Making Wine History

Chateau Montelena Added to List of Historic Places

It was many years ago but I truly enjoyed visiting Chateau Montelena, it was understated, elegant and rich with charm. I enjoyed strolling through the gardens and of course tasting their wines. The private tour of the cellar provided an insight into their wine-making and storage facilities that I remember to this day. Congratulations to those involved in attaining the prestigious honor.