California Wine Guide
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California Wine Country Articles
While the wine industry is flourishing in many states across America, most people think of California wines first. California has many of the same conditions as the great wine regions of Europe, which is partly why California got a head start on the wine industry in this country. The region is also extremely beautiful, which has led to a profitable tourist trade as wine lovers flock to the California wine country for tastings, gifts, and the experience of visiting their favorite wineries. With several fine wineries being founded by some of the best winemakers in the world, it was inevitable that California would end up producing some of the world's finest wines.
On this page, you will find a collection of articles dedicated to California wine and everything you can do with it. It does not matter if you are someone who occasionally enjoys a little wine or a connoisseur, we will have something for everyone. If you have suggestions for us to cover here regarding California wine, contact us and let us know. Our information is found on our contact page. We would be happy to consider adding it in the future.
Touring California Wine Country
Northern California, where most of California's wineries are located, is a beautiful place. Sloping hills, deep valleys and a perfect climate make it a wonderful tourist destination as well as the perfect place to grow grapes. Almost every winery offers tours and wine tasting. Sign up for those that interest you. Some also have restaurants, gift shops, and historical interest. For the wine lover, a visit to their favorite winery can be a dream come true. Take lots of photographs when you visit. Do not be afraid to ask questions, even if you think they are not important. This is your chance to learn more about the vintages you love best.
History in the Making
While the history of winemaking stretches back thousands of years in Europe, it is relatively new in the United States. The oldest continuous winery in California can only date itself back a little less than 150 years. That's a drop in the bucket compared to those old European estates. Many wineries had to shut down during Prohibition, which lasted throughout the 1920s. Learning how these wineries managed to stay in business and what prompted the creation of more than 1000 wineries in the past 50 years is fascinating. Do not miss out on the historical aspects that affect your favorite wines. It adds to their provenance and mystique.
Gifts for Wine Lovers
For wine lovers, there is nothing better than a wine-related gift. Perhaps it is a bottle of a vintage they have been wanting to try, or the newest wine bottle opener. A decorative wine rack or some pretty wine collars can go a long way towards building their collection. Wine related gifts can be given for birthdays, holidays or just because you happened to see something that made you think of that person.
Wine accessories of all kinds make excellent gifts. Read about what accessories are available and how they are used. You will also find a lot of other useful information about potential gifts for your favorite wine aficionado.
From vacation packages to elusive vintages, you can explore the world of wine when you search for gifts. Scan through our articles here and learn where to find some exquisite items that any wine lover would appreciate.
So, enjoy browsing our extensive collection of the best wine country articles and happy wine tasting!
California Wine Guide Articles
Cooking Oil
Califorina Wines
California Wine Country
California Wine Country Tours
California Wine Tasting
History of California Wine
Wine Accessories
Wine Gifts
Wine Storage
California Wine Country Mini Articles
Califorina Wines
California Wine Country
California Wine Country Tours
California Wine Tasting
Wine Accessories
Wine Gifts
Wine Storage
Food Articles
Cooking Oil
Using Oils to Add Flavor
Another way to add more flavor to your recipes is through your choice of cooking oils. Extra virgin olive oil, for example, gives a lot more flavor than plain olive oil. This is because the extra virgin is from the first pressing right after harvest. Olive oil is also a very healthy choice. You can also use flavored cooking oils. They are simple to make. Herbs or savory ingredients are merely steeped in the oil of your choice. The oil takes on the flavors of whatever you put in. Garlic, basil, rosemary, and thyme are a few of the more popular choices. Take a look at our offerings and learn more about using oil to add flavor to a dish.
Gourmet Cooking Oils
Gourmet cooking oils add a lot of different flavors to a recipe. From high quality extra virgin olive oil to infused truffle oil, these ingredients can make a big difference in how your recipe turns out. Cooking with gourmet oils is a wonderful way to add more flavor to almost any dish. Oils tenderize our food, add richness to sauces, and provide a medium for cooking many types of food so they do not stick to the pan. Your choices of oil can also make your food healthier for you. Always use the right oil for the right application. If you were going to deep fry, for example, you would not want to use olive oil; you want one with a tolerance for higher temperatures. Learn what oils are best for which recipes.
An Introduction to Cooking Oils
Healthy Cooking Oils
Common Cooking Oils
Canola Oil
Corn Oil
Diacylglycerol (DAG) Oil
Olive Oil
Palm Oil
Soybean Oil
Vegetable Oil
Seed Oils
Cottonseed Oil
Flaxseed Oil
Grape Seed Oil
Hemp Oil
Mustard Oil
Pumpkin Seed Oil
Rapeseed Oil
Rice Bran Oil
Safflower Oil
Sesame Oil
Sunflower Oil
Nut Oils
Almond Oil
Coconut Oil
Hazelnut Oil
Peanut Oil
Walnut Oil
Gourmet Oils
Califorina Wines
Types of California Wines
California is home to sparkling, red, and white wines of many varieties. You are sure to find something you like. Whether you are drinking wine along with your meal or using it in a recipe, you can rest assured that you will find quality wines from California to fit any budget. If you cannot attend a wine tasting at the wineries, you may be able to sample some in your local wine shops. Ask for their schedule and when they will be highlighting California wine. This kind of event will let you try several wines without buying a bottle of each. Take a look at the different types of California wines and what they are like. This may help you decide what you are likely to like when you try them.
What it Takes to Make California Wine
From the soil to the climate, everything affects the grapes that will someday become wine. If blackberries grow nearby, you may taste notes of it in the grape. This is also true of other fruits, green meadows and everything else grown anywhere in the vicinity of the vineyard. True master winemakers know how to make the most of these complex flavors. Wines should be filled with all sorts of different flavor notes that you will learn to pick out, as you get more familiar with wine. Read on to learn more about how California wine is made. From choosing the right soil to creating the right atmosphere for aging, there is a lot of art as well as science in wine making.
A Look at Different Types of Wine
Best Southern California Wines
Best Central California Wines
Best California Chardonnay Wine
How to Learn about Wine
Wine Information for the Beginner
A Beginner's Wine Guide
Red Wine and Your Health
Pinot Noir Wine
Choosing your Wine Type
Types of Red Wine
What Type of Wine is Pinot Noir
Free Wine Information Worth Reading
Two Steps to Better Wine Education
A Closer Look at Red Wine
A Guide to Wine Basics
Examples of Tasty Sweet Red Wine
Types of Wine from the Sierra Foothills of California
Different White Wine Types - Chenin Blanc
California Wine Country
Wine Regions of California
Wineries have sprung up all over northern California. You can get wine made in Paso Robles, Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma, and even the Sierra Mountain Foothills. These regions all offer the growing grapes their own special soils, microclimates and more. Learn what makes each region special for growing wine grapes. As you become more attuned to each region's wines, you may even be able to tell where it came from. You can explore these regions bottle by bottle, by recipes or by actually being there. There is a lot to learn about the attributes of each of these beautiful regions. Take a look at the articles we have that describes each region and why they are special.
Enjoying the Wine Country
California wine country is known for its scenic beauty. Rolling hills, deep forests, rich soils and other attributes not only grow great grapes; they please the senses. Today, wine country is a big tourist draw that brings more revenue to the wineries. You can book tours, buy gifts, and even eat at restaurants that use the local wines on the menu. You will not only get to enjoy your favorite wines, you can learn a lot about how they are made, and the history involved. If you get an opportunity to visit this area, make the most of it. The California wine country is more than a geographic area; it is an experience to be tasted with all of your senses.
The Many Delights of California Wine Country
California Wine Country Mendocino
California Wine Country Monterey and Carmel Wineries
California Wine Country Napa Valley
California Wine Country Paso Robles
California Wine Country Russian River and Healdsburg
California Wine Country Santa Barbara
California Wine Country Santa Cruz Mountains
California Wine Country Sierra Mountain Foothills
California Wine Country Sonoma Valley
Information on Sonoma and Napa Valley Wine Country
California Wine Country Tours
Types of Wine Country Tours
There are lots of ways to see the beauty of the California wine country. You can pick your own itinerary and drive yourself if you like. You can also take a tour in a luxurious limousine or custom van that offers you entertainment and luxury as you travel from winery to winery. Plan your tour so you visit the historic sites or choose a theme like a Champagne tour through Carneros or pick a specific region to explore like Napa or Sonoma. Many tours begin in San Francisco and will return you to the city at the end of the journey. Choose from full day or half day trips and see some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. You can even take a train through Napa Valley while you enjoy the wines of the region. Find out about all of your options by perusing our list of articles about the California wine tours.
What to Expect on a Wine Tour
What you get to do on a California wine tour will depend a lot on what time of year it is and even what day of the week. Visiting during the busy harvest season lets you see a lot more of the action involved in making wine, but the employees will be too busy to spend a lot of time answering questions. In the tasting room, you will find that the servers will have more time to talk with you and teach you about the wines and ask about your experience, as you taste if you visit in the middle of the week when there are not as many visitors. If you show up on the weekends, they will not have time to interact with you because they get very busy. Take a look at our articles to learn more.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About US Wine Trails
California Wine Tours - When to Visit
California Wine Tasting
Wine Tasting Parties and Tours
Many people enjoy going to wine tasting parties or tasting wines on tours. Enjoy tasting a number of wines at a wine tasting. Many wineries have special wine tasting rooms where visitors can sample several of their wines and learn more about them. You can also go to a wine tasting party. Take a look at our articles to learn about hosting your own wine tasting party. You can also learn what to look for when you taste wine and what order to serve the wines in so you get the best tasting out of them. Learn about how to host a themed wine party and more. You will find that wine tasting is more enjoyable than you would have believed.
How to Enjoy Wine Tasting
Learn the basics of wine tasting with our informative articles. If you are not familiar with wines, and after all, we all need to start someplace, we will guide you through the basics of learning the sights, scents and tastes of various California wines. Wine tasting uses all of your senses working together to truly assess each wine. You want to learn about color, clarity, smell, and taste. As you taste, you will learn how to assess the texture and pick out the various notes in the wine. Feel free to start writing down the impressions you get from each sip. Eventually, you will grow very knowledgeable.
The Feeling of Wine Tasting and Pleasure of Sparkling Wine
Wine Etiquette - How to Enjoy Wine in Style
Understanding Wine Ratings
Red Wine Rating
What is Wine Tasting
Some Import Information to Consider When Choosing Wine Clubs
History of California Wine
The Early History
The first written record of a vineyard in California was in 1683. The vineyard was planted by a Jesuit missionary called Eusebio Francisco Kino in San Bruno. Unluckily, the mission was abandoned a short 18 months later, so the vineyard never had a chance to mature. From this haphazard beginning, the California wine industry has grown to be one of the finest in the world. Other missionaries also planted vineyards throughout the 1700s. These were the early roots upon which California learned about wine. European grape roots were imported to California in the early 1800s and so it began. Learn about the early beginnings of the California wine industry and see how the seeds of great vintages were first sown.
Making History
Prohibition made a big dent in the California wine industry. Less than a hundred wineries had survived Prohibition in the entire country. By 1960, that number had only grown to 271. While California had over 700 wineries before Prohibition was enacted, it took the state until 1986 to have that many again. Today, there are thousands of wineries operating in California alone. During the 1990s, California really made its mark in the world of wine, becoming one of the world's foremost producers of fine wine. In fact, California would be the 4th largest wine producing country in the world if it were its own country. Learn how all this took place and where California wine is headed for the future.
The Rich and Colorful History of California Wine
California Wine History
Wine Accessories
Necessary Wine Accessories
Probably the most important accessory you need to enjoy wine is a good wine bottle opener. It does not matter which one you prefer, it just has to do the job easily. Glasses are also very important. Red wine is better served in a glass with a larger bowl than what you would use for white wine or champagne. Learn all about the necessary wine accessories you need to enjoy the occasional bottle of wine around the house. You do not need much to feel confident serving a nice glass of wine with a meal or to choose a good wine to use in a recipe. Read our helpful articles so you know what your options are. You want to be able to have the right accessories on hand to make your wine experience enjoyable.
Fun Wine Accessories
Some wine accessories are not must haves; they can be fun, however. To prevent drips on your table, you can pick out decorative wine collars, for example. You can make a wonderful hobby of collecting them. They come in many different designs and you can use them to express yourself. Like wine collars, not all the accessories available for wine are necessary to have on hand. Learn what is available and why you might want to have one. If you really get into wine tasting or collecting, some of these fun accessories can be a part of your hobby. Take the time to learn about all the tools used with wine. It is educational and a fun hobby to pursue.
A Guide to Wine Glasses
The History of Wine Glasses
Wine Accessories
The World of Unique Wine Glasses
Wine Gifts
Gifts for the Wine Novice
Everyone is a wine novice at some point in their lives. If you are looking for gifts for someone who wants to learn about the world of wine, take a look at our articles that discuss many of the best wine gifts for those just starting out. From a good bottle of wine to glasses to a recipe book, there are many things you can get for someone who enjoys a little vino with their meal or wants to learn to cook with wine. You will be able to find just the right gift to please whomever you are buying for. You might find something that interests you as well. You can never know too much about wine. It is a science as well as an art.
Gifts for the Wine Connoisseur
If you are looking for a wine related gift for someone who already knows a fine wine when they see it, there are lots of gifts you can get them aside from a bottle of their favorite vintage. New glasses are always welcome. For those who have everything, take a look at refrigerated wine cabinets, traveling safes and all sorts of other goodies. Introduce them to your favorite recipes with wine or see if they have room for wine furniture like tables made from retired wine barrels or finely crafted wine cellars. Read all about the incredible items on the market that any wine connoisseur would love.
Gourmet Wine and Cheese Gift Baskets
Wine Gift Baskets
So You Have Decided to Give Wine Gifts - What You Need to Know
Wine Storage
Simple Wine Storage
Most people just need a simple way to store wine at home before they are ready to drink it or use it for a recipe. A simple wine rack will suffice in many cases. Others may enjoy a more substantial rack or one that fits beneath a table or cabinet. Racks should be positioned in such a place that the wine will not get overheated or in an exceptionally dry room. Learn about all the different ways you can easily store wine at home without taking up a lot of space. Wine also needs certain conditions for storage. If you cannot meet these conditions, do not keep a lot of bottles on hand for long periods of time. Purchase what you want and use it up. Read our articles to find out the best way to store a few bottles around the house.
Permanent Wine Storage
If you are lucky enough to have room for a permanent wine storage facility, there are several ways to design it. Use the traditional limestone used to age wine in France if you have the budget. It is beautiful to look at, and is an excellent way to keep the proper temperature and humidity. If not, you may prefer a beautiful wine cellar made from hardwoods. You can also choose racks to install that give you just the basics but will hold a lot of wine. Read about the various things you need to take into consideration when you want to store wine for a long period of time.
Everything You Need to Know About Wine Refrigerators
Wine Racks and Wine Storage Racks
Wine Coolers
Wine Racks More Then Just Useful Storage
An Insider's Guide to Wine Bottles
How Wines Age in Wine Cellars
California Wine Country Mini Articles
Does the thought of pairing wine with food intimidate you? What about cooking with wine? While you may not know everything about wine, it is not too hard to figure out what you like and what you do not like. Taste a few types and learn what you prefer. Use these same wines when you are serving by the glass or using wine in a recipe. Before long, you will develop confidence in your abilities. Try a few recipes and choose a wine for a special dinner. You will see it is not too hard to master these simple things. Hopefully our site will give you that little push in the right direction you needed to start experimenting with our recipes. Once you take a bite of your finished meal, you will see why cooking with wine makes such wonderful flavors.
Take a look all over our site for our mini articles. They will help you learn about California wines. You will learn about where they come from and what makes them so delicious. You will learn about how to use them in all sorts of recipes. You will learn how to properly store wine so it keeps between uses. We have a plethora of information here at the California Wine Guide. We are happy to take some of the stress off when it comes to choosing the right wine for your meal. Relax and learn about some of the most famous California wineries. Perhaps you will decide to take a tour on your next vacation. The beauty of a vineyard on a warm summer's night is something that no one should miss. The sweet grapes contribute their own qualities as well as taking in all the qualities of the plants growing around them into the wine. This is what makes wine so special. Kick back, enjoy a glass, and start reading.
Califorina Wines
Types of French Wine
How to Describe Different Types of Wine
California Wine Labels
Wine and Health
How to Serve Wine
California Dry White Wine
California Red Wines
California White Wine
California Sweet White Wine
Cooking with Wine
Best California Wines Under $20
Serving Red Wine with Fish
Pairing Wine with Spinach Salad Recipes
More Benefits of Wine
How to Prolong or Recycle Wine
What is Wine - A Beginner's Guide
Why Chardonnay is So Popular
Pairing Red Wine with Popular Recipes
Pairing California Wine with Vegetable Recipes
Sauvignon Blanc - Some Interesting Facts
A Guide to Pinot Gris
Classic Fish and Wine Pairings
Comparing Italian Wines with California Wines
Some Facts About Red Wine
Chardonnay - Versatile and Delicious
How to Pair Wine with Spicy Food
Interesting Greek Wine Varieties
Different Types of California Sauvignon Blanc
Different Riesling Styles
A Look at Muscat Wines
California Wine Country
California Wine Country Tours
Napa Valley Accommodation for California Wine Tours
California Wine Country Hotels
California Wine Tasting
How to Taste Wines
What to Expect at a Wine Tasting
Wine Accessories
The Many Types of Wine Glasses - Are They Really Necessary
Wine Gifts
Wine Storage
How to Tell if Wine is Corked
Storing Opened Wine
Storing Wine the Correct Way
Storing Wine - Temperature for Different Wines
Food Articles
Different Kinds of Risotto Recipes
What is Viognier Wine Like
Other Types of Czech Food
Different Kinds of Stuffed Mushroom Recipes
Exciting Ways to Liven Up Shrimp Cocktail Recipes
Typical Spanish Desserts
A Few Fruit Salad Ideas
Different Kinds of Honey Used in Desserts
Different Types of Mashed Potatoes
What is Gratin
How to Impress People with an Easy Seafood Salad Recipe
Seafood with Wine - A Classy Meal
Tips for a Perfect Fruit Salad Recipe
Ethnic Rice Salad Recipes
Tips for Frying Pork
Chicken Cooking Tips
What is Aioli
Tips for an Impressive Garnish
Tips for Moist and Tender Chicken
Using Wine in Cake Recipes
Working with Wonton Wrappers
Tips for Using Zucchini
Tips for Cooking Chicken
A Look at Brie Cheese
Facts About Tuna
How to Cook an Artichoke
Types of Tartlet Shells
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup Recipes
Different Types of Scallops
Cooking Inspiration for Veal
How to Make Red Wine Sauce
How to Make a White Wine Sauce
Handy Shrimp Tips for Everyone
Can You Grill Rack of Lamb Recipes
Different Types of Kabobs
The Best Drinks to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cherries
What is Fennel Exactly
How to Marinate a Pan Seared Steak Recipe
Try Dry Fino Sherry with Garlic Lime Shrimp
Seafood Spaghetti Recipes Around the World
How to Make Your Own Taco Seasoning
How to Cook Corn on the Cob
What is Saffron and How to Use It in Recipes
Adding Wine to Soup and Stock Recipes
What is Polenta
Why Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are So Special
Ideas for Fancy Gourmet Appetizer Stacks
A Closer Look at Puff Pastry
Delicious Ideas for Calamari Recipes
The History of the Chicken Bacon Club Salad Sandwich
Delicious Recipes with Green Peas
Types of Seaweed You Can Eat
Choosing the Best Steak for Steak Salad Recipes
Different Types of Grilled Chicken Salad
How to Grill Fish - Handy Fish Cooking Tips
Filet Mignon - A Few Key Facts
What is a Typical Asian Chicken Salad
A Closer Look at Tilapia
How to Blacken Fish on the Grill
Tips for Perfect Fruit Tart Recipes
How to Make a Canned Spiced Apples Recipe
How to Make the Best Strawberry Sundae Recipes
Investing in Wine
Thinking about investing in wine? Not only is it a delicious beverage, it can be a wise investment. One positive note on why wine increases its value is the fact that a given vintage gets rarer every year. Why? Because people are drinking it! With each bottle that is poured, there are fewer left from that vintage. Not every wine will increase in value; you must choose a wine that ages well and comes from a good vintage. Bordeaux wine is generally considered investment-worthy. Some Burgundies, Tuscans, and Champagnes are also well known for their increasing value. These are all European wines. When it comes to California wines, there is a small selection that are worthy of investment.
Some people take this speculation further; they buy the wine before it is even bottled and the qualities of that vintage are known. This is known as investing in wine futures. Sometimes people do very well with this and sometimes they do not. To help increase your wine's value, keep meticulous records and store the wine properly at the right temperature and humidity. Wine kept properly can be liquidated at auction or by enjoying it by the glass. How many investments can you say that about?
If you are serious about investing in wine, it is just as important where you buy the wine as what you buy. With California wines, most investors buy directly from the wineries. High end wine shops in major cities are also a good place to find these premium wines. Many of the California wines worth investing in are only available to people on the mailing lists of the wineries producing them. It can take a long time to get on the mailing lists; do not get discouraged if it takes awhile. Do not expect a wine from the grocery store to improve in value.
Choosing Wine Accessories
Having the right wine accessories can make wine tasting more enjoyable. From glasses to stoppers, there are lots of different accessories you can get. Some are designed to be practical, while others are strictly decorative. It is up to you and your budget what you will deem necessary and what you consider indulgent.
Not everyone will need every wine accessory. Unless you are making your own wine, you probably will not need a wine thief or a tastevin. A wine thief is a thin pipette used to transfer wine from the cask to the bottle. A tastevin is a shallow saucer used to judge the clarity and color of a given wine. Other accessories will depend on how much wine you use and your own personal preferences. If you only have a bottle or two on hand at a time, you probably will not need a wine rack; on the other hand, if you keep several bottles available, a wine rack may be a necessary item.
If you really like doing wine tastings, you may want to keep a wine journal. This could be a fancy journal, an empty nothing book, or a notepad. Write down the vintage, price, winery, region and store or restaurant where you sampled it. Write down your impressions of the wine. This will let you know which wines to buy again and which to avoid.
Some items, like wine collars, look purely decorative. They serve an important purpose, however. Collars fit around the neck of the bottle and prevent drips from soiling the tablecloth. You can also get decorative stoppers, but they are truly useful. It can be hard to recork an opened bottle. A stopper will close up the bottle and keep the air from oxidizing the wine.
What Makes the Best Wine Accessories
Ideally, you want to invest in the wine accessories you need most. First and foremost, you need a high quality wine bottle opener. You can get all sorts of fancy ones on the market, but you want to choose one that is easy for you to use and will not wear out quickly. You can find wine bottle openers as a simple corkscrew, screwpull levers, and even carbon dioxide driven openers. The most popular choice is known as the wine key or sommelier knife.
Stock the proper wine glasses if you drink wine frequently. Red wine does better in glasses with a large bowl, while white wine is best in a narrower glass. Champagne should be in flutes to keep the surface area small to prevent oxidation.
Another important accessory to have on hand is a wine stopper. Corks are very difficult to replace once they have been removed, so stoppers will close up the bottle so you can store the remaining wine. There are all sorts of stoppers to choose from. Choose the one that appeals to you most.
If you do not have room in your refrigerator for chilling wine, another terrific wine accessory is a wine cooler. You can get a small one that chills one bottle at a time, or you can get a larger cooler that will chill several at once. Just plug it in and you are good to go.
Finally, if you really want to make a good presentation when you are entertaining, you may want to invest in a wine decanter or two. These are bottles for serving wine. They can be used to remove any sediment that may have formed in the wine, aerating the wine or to make an elegant presentation.
Famous Californian Wineries
While there are more than 1400 wineries in California, there are a few that stand out and are famous for what they do. These historic wineries have put California on the map as a wonderful wine producing region.
Domaine Chandon
Founded in the early 1970s by the renowned Moet & Chandon of France, Domaine Chandon has become one of the most famous wineries in California that produces sparkling wine. With their Champagne roots, it was obvious that their American venture would be a success. The winery produced its first vintage in 1976.
Robert Mondavi Winery
Robert Mondavi played an important part in getting the Napa Valley recognized worldwide for the quality of its wines. He promoted gracious living and transformed the wine culture in the United States into what it is today. Some go so far as to suggest that he is the father of California wine. His winery is just outside of Oakville and has been in operation since 1966. In 1967, Mondavi began his Wine Education program. The winery is designed after the Franciscan Missions that sprung up all over California and was designed by Cliff May. In 1982, Mondavi was named winemaker of the year by the American Wine Society.
Rubicon Estate
Originally founded in 1880 as Inglenook by Gustave Niebaum, the Rubicon Estate was made famous by the Inglenook wines it once produced. Production at the winery ceased for three years starting in 1908, when Niebaum died. During Prohibition, the winery stopped production again, surviving by selling fresh grapes, instead. In 1975, the winery was purchased by Francis Ford Coppola, the Hollywood director who gained fame with "The Godfather" movies. In 1995, he restored the entire original vineyards to the winery. He changed the name from Niebaum-Coppola to the Rubicon Estate in 2006. They currently produce high-end wines focused on Napa Valley.
Beaulieu Vineyards
Founded in 1900 by George de Latour, the Beaulieu Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in the Napa Valley. Latour brought his French wine skills to play here making fine wines. Though sold to the Hublein Corporation, it continues today to make excellent wines. It has had a great deal of influence on California wines and is a wonderful historic site just outside of Rutherford.
Beringer Vineyards
Founded in 1876, Beringer is the oldest continuous winery in the Napa Valley. The two Beringer brothers tilled the fields and dug deep into the hills to create aging tunnels to make the perfect wine. The winery specializes in a wide range of wines so you can find something to fit any budget. Recently purchased by the Australian beer company, Foster's, Beringer is continuing its tradition of delicious wines. Known as America's favorite premium wine, Beringer offers time honored tradition and contemporary innovation all in one. The historic Hudson House is the center for culinary arts on the property, while the Rhine House, an exact duplicate of the Beringer family home back in Germany, is the center for library tastings and the reserve collection.
Foods to Enjoy with Wine
You can enjoy almost any food with the right wine. Of course, everyone thinks of cheese or fruit along with wine. These are perfectly good, traditional choices. Pick several varieties of cheese or fruit that you enjoy and have a nice snack.
While many people will tell you the importance of pairing the right wine with the right food, the most important thing is that you enjoy the wine you have chosen. If you only like Cabernet, then go for it. If you are willing to try new things, try some of these pairings and see what you think.
For smoked seafood, try some sparkling wine. The bubbles go well with the smokiness of the fish.
For green vegetables, try a nice Sauvignon Blanc. It goes well with almost any kind of vegetable you can think of. Serve it with a green salad, artichokes, or fried zucchini. It also plays nicely with fresh mozzarella and goat cheeses.
Italian food goes very well with Syrah. Drink it with spaghetti, lasagna, or roasted tomatoes and peppers. It holds its own with bold herbs and tomatoes. Another red wine that goes well with beef, chili, and Mexican dishes is Zinfandel. For anyone who wants to avoid meats, it also goes perfectly with lentils and grilled mushrooms.
Want to enjoy corn on the cob or a creamy polenta? Corn, carrots, and other sweet veggies go really well with Chardonnay. The dry, oaky flavor of the wine brings out the sweetness in these vegetables. If you roast them, it brings out even more of the sweetness.
If you want one that is just versatile enough to go with almost everything, try a Pinot Noir. It works well with everything from roasted squash to a fresh salmon.
Gourmet Wine and Food
Gourmet wine and food is there to be enjoyed, savored, and talked about. It is the polar opposite to fast food, where the aim is to devour and swallow as quickly as possible, without the food touching the sides!
When you think of gourmet food, you will probably think of long, relaxing evenings in (or out!), enjoying everything from the taste of the food to the bouquet of the wine, the table setting to the pleasant atmosphere. Gourmet food and wine are about enjoyment, pleasure, and pure Epicureanism. If you have gourmet food, a great wine that complements the food and good company, you will not go wrong.
What Exactly Does "Gourmet" Mean?
A gourmet is a connoisseur of good food and drink. A gourmand, on the other hand, is a person who enjoys gourmet food in great quantities! Other names for gourmet fans include gastronome, foodie, or bon vivant.
Gourmet food, then, is food that has been lovingly prepared with the senses in mind. It is worth taking your time over the creation of mouth-watering gourmet delights. You do not just taste food. You also see it, sometimes hear it (if it is still bubbling for example), you can certainly smell it and you can touch it and enjoy the texture in your mouth, whether it is creamy, crispy or something completely different. That is all five senses being used at once. No wonder gourmet food is such a delight!
What is Gourmet Wine?
A gourmet wine appeals to the senses in the same way as gourmet food. Everyone has slightly different tastes, whether you are sampling wine or food, and the price is not always the best indicator. You might find a $15 wine, which is heavenly to drink and compare it to a $50 wine, which does not do much for you.
Matching the wine with your food is the best thing to do and there is more to this than the old rule, "red for meat and white for fish", which doesn't fully take into account today's subtle-flavored food and exciting ethnic combinations.
Which Wine Goes With Which Food?
There is plenty of room for self-expression and experimentation. Wine-tasting trips and vineyard tours are a good way to become familiar with various wines. Tannins, acids and sugars in wine work on your palate to alter the flavor of the food, which is why the wine should both be able to stand up to the food without overpowering the flavor.
As a general rule, light-bodied wines go with lighter meals and anything poached or steamed, and heavier, full-bodies ones suit richer food or fatty dishes. Pair the wine with the seasoning, sauce, or the meal's dominant flavor.
Beware of serving a wine with a food that is sweeter than the wine. Opposites sometimes work too. Heavy, spicy food can sometimes be wonderful with a sweet wine. Opposing flavors can keep the palate cleansed and give a new taste sensation.
You might like to pair them by geographical location. A lot of regional foods and wines from the same area go well together because they have been developed together over time.
Gourmet Wine Baskets
You can order gourmet wine baskets, either on the internet or from an outlet, for a hand-picked selection of quality wines. Such baskets make beautiful gifts but why not spoil yourself with one too!
You can choose from all red, all white, a mixture, German wines, New World wines, Californian wines and many, many more. A gourmet wine basket is a great way to sample some of the best gourmet wines available because someone experienced will have chosen a good selection for you.
Alternatively, a vineyard tour allows you to sample a variety of wines and will teach you some useful wine facts too.
Is Wine Healthy?
Wine has many healthy benefits, and it seems they find more every day. To get the benefits, one or two glasses of wine several times per week seem to do the trick. Drinking wine helps prevent blood clots and reduce inflammation of the veins and arteries. These problems have both been linked to heart disease and cognitive decline.
Some studies showed that wine actually helped improve the memory. It also raises your good cholesterol levels (HDL), which helps to prevent plaque from building up in your arteries. Moderate wine drinkers also tend to be slimmer than those that do not imbibe occasionally. It is thought that the alcohol encourages your body to burn extra calories.
Wine may also help prevent infection by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. These little germs can cause gastritis, stomach cancer, and ulcers. Studies also suggest that wine may help prevent ovarian cancer and build stronger bones. Drinking wine boosts estrogen levels, which helps keep calcium in the bones.
A Harvard Medical School study also showed that premenopausal women who drink one or two glasses of wine every day are 40 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than similar women who do not drink wine. It seems to reduce the incidence of insulin resistance. So do not worry if you have a glass or two of wine several times per week. Drinking to excess seems to cancel out any benefits you may get, so enjoy your wine with your meal, and enjoy the rest of your day.
The Correct Temperature and Humidity for Successful Wine Storage
The point of wine storage is to allow your wines to age successfully without turning to vinegar in the bottle. The two vital components of a good wine storage facility are temperature and humidity.
Scientific stories about vibrations stirring up the wine and interfering with the wine process are believed to be wrong, since although vibrations might stir up the sediment a bit, they cannot affect the quality of the wine if the temperature and humidity are correct.
Wine Storage and Temperature
The best temperature for wine is 55 degrees F, although a range between 45 degrees F and 65 degrees F is considered acceptable. A colder temperature causes the aging process to slow down, which stops the wine from aging properly. A higher temperature will cause the wine to prematurely age in a bad way. Keeping wine over 85 degrees F for a couple of weeks will destroy it, as will keeping it at 90 degrees F for a few days.
The worst thing for wine is temperature fluctuation. It is actually better to keep wine at 65 degrees F every day than allow the temperature to fluctuate between 45 and 60 degrees F. you will need a good digital gauge to measure the temperature. If the temperature is allowed to rise and fall, the cork is pulled slightly in and out of the wine, which can allow oxygen to get inside the bottle. This interferes with the aging process and can turn the wine bad.
There is no point storing wine at a cold temperature either, since this can destroy the wine over time. You can keep wine or champagne in the refrigerator for a day or two but if you are not going to drink it then it is best to put it back in the wine cellar.
Wine Storage and Humidity
A humidity of around 80% is preferred for successful wine aging. Although fluctuations in humidity are not as destructive as temperature fluctuations, it is still important to keep the humidity around 80%. A high humidity can destroy the labels on the bottles, and this can make it unsellable. If the humidity is too low, the cork might dry out, even if the wine is stored on its side. This could let oxygen into the wine which will ruin it.
A dark, moderately humid cellar is your best option for successful wine storage. There are a lot of companies who sell modular wine cellar components so you can design your own wine storage area, or you can get a specialist in to design a custom-made wine cellar with humidity and temperature controls.
Remember that every wine has its own recommended aging time, depending on what type of wine it is, where it was made, the year the grapes were harvested, and the technique that was used to make the wine. White wines do not age for long, as a rule, and reds age for five to ten years, although some can be aged for far longer.
Check a wine aging chart to find out how long to age your wine or ask a wine specialist. Some people like to invest in several bottles of one type of wine and open a bottle every six or twelve months, to see how the wine is aging. If you have the budget for this, as well as the space in your wine storage room, you might like to give it a try.