IMPORTANT NOTICE

ALL MY BLOGS can now be found on my website at http://winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine/

IMPORTANT NOTICE

ALL MY BLOGS can now be found on my website at http://winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine/

Presentation of Cork

Did you know that the historical reason the waiter or sommelier in a restaurant gives you the cork when the bottle is opened is to prevent fraud? The presentation of the cork originated to curtail fraudulent dealers from passing off a wine for something it wasn’t. Usually, the cork was stamped with the producer’s name. When it was extracted from the bottle, it was presented to the purchaser to prove it actually was the wine stated on the label that was requested. Today, the presentation of the cork continues that tradition, but goes further. If the cork looks mouldy or defective or smells bad, then the wine might be problematic. If so, address the issue with the sommelier, wait staff or owner.

Climate Change and Natural Disasters

It’s no secret that climate change is affecting our weather, changing what grapes can grow in what places. Weather is also more severe. Stronger storms (rain and snow) are damaging vineyards. This ever-changing climate seems to also be causing more earthquakes. They’re on the rise, especially in parts of the world that are prone to them. Check out the “Ring of Fire”, that part of the Pacific: the east coast of Japan and New Zealand and the west coast of North and South America. Except for North America, all of these countries have recently had earthquakes. It’s only a matter of time until the Pacific coast wine regions of N. America get hit. Even Italy’s wine regions have had several. Scary stuff!

Signature White Grape Varieties

Many countries are also known for particular white grape varieties that they excel with. France has numerous in specific regions. Chardonnay shines in Burgundy with very elegant versions sporting lots of finesse. Chenin Blanc in the Loire Valley is the ultimate incarnation of this grape. Gewurztraminer in Alsace is rich and aromatic and the best this varietal can be. Canada, especially the Niagara region in Ontario, does a phenomenal job with Riesling. The Marlborough region of New Zealand’s south island produces a rich, tropical fruity version of Sauvignon Blanc that is to die for and the north of Italy shines with crisp, fresh, models of Pinot Grigio. Gotta try some of these varietal wines that make these countries/regions famous. 

Signature Red Grape Varieties

Certain countries are known for particular grape varieties that they excel with. Argentina does a great job with Malbec because of longer hang time on the vines. Due to its terroir, Australian Shiraz takes on more of a coffee, chocolate character than its Syrah persona and is divine. Zinfandel has become a national treasure of California and is exclusive to that region. Italy boasts two biggies: Sangiovese (Brunello, Vino Nobile, Chianti) and Nebbiolo (Barolo, Brabaresco) which are legendary. Pinotage in South Africa has become their hallmark varietal. For Pinot Noir, Burgundy, France, hands down, provides the most consistent offerings and finally, Spain’s Tempranillo is world-famous in the likes of Rioja.

Sagrantino

Sagrantino is a little known, small production, red, grape variety from the Umbria region of central Italy, primarily grown around the village of Motefalco. There are about 50 producers who make a DOCG wine from it. It must be aged for at least 29 months before it can be released. It’s a tannic little bugger resulting in a rustic wine that is black to inky purple in colour and smacks of dark red fruit, with earthy, cinnamon, tarry, plumy, leathery notes. It originated as a “passito” style wine where the grapes were dried out on mats increasing the alcohol and sweetness resulting in a potent (aprox. 16% alcohol) dessert-style wine. In the last 40 years or so it has evolved into a dry style, although some producers still create the “passito” version.

Unoaked Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of those grape varieties that takes oak treatment extremely well and consumers just love the toasty, vanilla, creaminess it adds. In fact, oak is what gives the “vanilla of wine” most of its character as it’s pretty bland without. Most producers worldwide use it, often overdoing it. However, some producers choose not to oak their Chardonnay. Chablis in Burgundy was known for its unoaked Chardonnay before many winemakers jumped on the oak bandwagon. Selected producers elsewhere in the world create unoaked version. Truthfully, it is very difficult to make a really good unoaked Chardonnay. Without oak, this grape must rely on other winemaking techniques to add character and even then, great ones are hard to come by.

Mead (Honey Wine)

While reading or studying ancient history or folk literature, you’ll most likely come across an alcoholic beverage called “mead”. Very simply, it is a type of wine made mostly from honey. Fermentation usually includes water, but often other ingredients like spices, fruits, hops or grains for additional flavour. It’s versatile too as it can be made still, sparkling, crackling (naturally sparkling), dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, or even very sweet. This interesting beverage has really fallen out of grace over the last century, but surprisingly is enjoying a resurgence of sorts. Many wineries and even breweries are producing meads today.

The modern version has come a long way from the somewhat cruder drink of times gone by.

Chaptalization

Sometimes when a producer is making wine, he/she will discover even before fermentation is complete that the finished product will not possess enough alcohol. As to what qualifies as enough alcohol depends on the grape variety, wine structure/style and winemaker’s taste. So what can be done? Sugar can be added, not to increase the sweetness of the wine, but to provide more food for the yeast to feed on creating more alcohol. This is chaptalization. Only one problem! This process is not allowed everywhere in the world. Generally, cooler regions that don’t get substantial heat units to create enough sugar in the grapes that translate into potential alcohol are allowed, but even in some of these, it is forbidden.

Green Wine

“Green wine” is one infused with marijuana and the only place it seems to be commercially available (with a medical marijuana card) is, you guessed it, California. Surprise, surprise! It’s actually been around a long time and its modern version came about in the late ‘70s. It’s meticulously made from organically grown marijuana and biodynamically farmed grapes and tends to be more pungent than potent because higher fermentation temperatures don’t release THC, the active “high” ingredient of pot. The result is a mellow physical feeling as opposed to a mental buzz, one that is apparently effective as a stress reliever, mood elevator and medicine. And the price - anywhere from $120 to $400 a half-bottle!

Hosting a Wine Tasting at Home

Choose a part of your home that is free of traffic and extraneous smells. Limit the number of people to 6 -8 and ask them not to wear perfume or aftershave. Focus on a country, region, style, varietal, or vintage. Taste only about 6 wines. Mask the wines, maybe in paper bags with numbers on them. Use at least 2 glasses or more. Keep pours at around 2 ounzes each. Provide spittoons; water and crackers, bread sticks or bread for cleaning the palate, and paper and pencils for making notes. Afterward, discuss the wines tasted and compare notes. Remember, this is a tasting, so don’t swallow. After the formal tasting portion, you can party on down and drink some wine and nibble food. Be responsible and most importantly, have fun.

Aging Wine Under the Sea

The discovery of intact wine found on sunken ships after many years has led some producers to experiment with aging it under the sea. Aside from space limitations at the winery, they believe that the oceanic factors of consistent temperature, lack of light, relative lack of oxygen, underwater pressure, and tidal movement will affect their wines interestingly. Some age finished bottles (with both cork closures and crown caps), others, barrels. Results vary from wines maturing quicker; having more complexity; being fresher with more tannin; and having more, earthy, saline notes. The extra work involved makes these wines much more expensive. So is it a gimmick or a worthwhile venture? I guess only time will tell.

Social Aspect of Wine

Why is wine such a social drink? Aside from the obvious aspect of promoting relaxation, there are several reasons. One could argue that these apply to most alcoholic drinks, but not as much as to wine. This is most likely due to the fact that wine, more than any other alcoholic drink, is usually consumed with food and breaking bread with others is a very, special, social phenomenon. Sipping with others like this allows for social interaction, promotes conviviality building and strengthening interpersonal bonds and connections between people that endure. It breaks down barriers allowing communication between those of different cultures, races and social status. Generally, it implies friendship, generosity and the joy of sharing something.

Ordering Wine in a Restaurant

Ordering wine in a restaurant can be intimidating. Here are some helpful hints. Decide on what you want to eat first before selecting a wine match. If you’re the only one in your party drinking wine or plan to have only a couple glasses, don’t order a bottle. Order by the glass instead. Avoid ordering the “house wine” as it usually has the highest mark-up and, most of the time, is mediocre. You are better to “drink up”, spending a few more dollars delivering a better sip and more value. Don’t order wine that is extremely alcoholic, overly oaky or too tannic as it will overpower the taste of the food. Finally, don’t be shy about asking the wait staff or sommelier for suggestions and guidance.

Celebrity-Owned Wineries

What does a movie star, professional athlete, iconic musician or other celebrity do when they have more money than they know what to do with? They invest in a winery, of course. The majority of celebs who do this enjoy wine, but don’t make the wine or run the winery. They’re merely looking for a tax write off and something else to display and extend their brand. Actors like Dan Aykroyd, Antonio Banderas, Emilio Estevez and many others have done so. Professional athletes such as Mike Ditka, Ernie Els, Wayne Gretzky, Mike Weir and Jo Montana have taken the plunge. Musicians, the likes of Mick Fleetwood, Madonna, Dave Maththews and Olivia Newton-John own wineries. Even Donald Trump has one in Virginia.

Wine in Barbershops/Beauty Salons

Hold on to your hats folks, California may soon be serving wine and beer in establishments where you get your hair cut or done. The state is considering allowing this, with some restrictions, of course. There must be no extra charge or fee for the wine or beer, the establishment’s license must be in good standing, and the servings limited to specified amounts. Seems civilized to me! As expected though, there is some resistance to the idea by the California Alcohol Policy Alliance, a group who amongst other things, fights against the harmful practices of the alcohol industry. Nonetheless, this would certainly make going to the barber or salon much more interesting. A little off the top and a glass of Chardonnay, please!

Wine in a Box

Boxed wine has never had a good reputation, synonymous with poor quality. Too bad…the concept itself is great. The reduced packaging, production and transport costs are cheaper; the plastic bladder in tetra-packs prevents oxygenation and the pressure to finish a whole bottle; they’re environmentally friendly (renewable, recyclable and biodegradable) and they eliminate the possibility of “corked” wine. Although they’re not great for wine that needs aging, most boxed wine is meant for immediate consumption. Originating in Australia, the packaging is now all around the world. Some decent ones are out there. For best results look for those that have a vintage date, grape variety and/or specific appellation on the package.

Crisp Wine

The term “crisp” when it comes to wine has a very specific meaning. It usually refers to dry, young, whites with good, pronounced acidity. Acidity is the sour component experienced on the sides of the tongue like biting into a Granny Smith apple and all that tingling sensation you get. These wines make great aperitifs as they get the gastronomic juices flowing and give you an appetite. They’re fabulous in the warm weather because they refresh. They’re also great with oily, fried and salty foods as the acid cuts through the coating these foods leave in your mouth and cleanse the palate. Crisp wines generally do not age well, but are meant for early consumption.

Red Wine Pill

Scientists are now trying to put resveratrol, the ingredient in red wine that’s supposed to be beneficial in protecting us from such maladies as Alzheimer’s, diabetes and heart disease, into pill format. Although present in red wine, it’s in such small amounts, one would theoretically have to drink mega amounts to benefit and suffer the damage of excessive alcohol in turn. The liver breaks down purified resveratrol very quickly, so researchers in Australia have been experimenting blending it with wine’s other components that appear to make it more effective.  If successful this would be a great accomplishment. I wonder if the pill will come in different varietals!

Potential World Wine Shortage

Until recently, there has been lots of wine in the world for drinking. In fact, there has been a surplus. Unfortunately, over the last number of years supplies have dwindled because of climate change and more frequent, severe weather. Now we basically drink what we produce. It is estimated that European production, led by France, one of the largest global producers, will probably decrease by approximately 8% from last year. Large producers in the Southern Hemisphere like Argentina (down 30% from 2015) and Chile (down 25% from 2015) are feeling the effects of El Niño. South Africa is down 7% from last year. It’s simply becoming more challenging to grow wine. Why it’s enough to drive one to drink!

Drinking Wine Before Bed Helps Weight Loss

There’s certainly enough scientific evidence out there that claims sipping some wine in moderate amounts is good for you. However, there’s an interesting bit of research that says that drinking some before hitting the sack can help you lose weight. While I don’t understand the chemistry behind this logic, it seems implausible. Wine contains alcohol that has calories and packing on added calories before bedtime without any exercise to work it off does not make sense. Some of the research was also carried out on mice and I don’t believe those results translate to humans that readily. As great as this concept would be, in my mind there simply isn’t enough human evidence from research that backs up this line of thinking.

Burgundy in Trouble

If you love Burgundy, you’re in for some hard times and higher prices. Burgundy production has never been large and has been dwindling continuously over time. However, for the last 6 years or so bad weather has devastated vineyards in the famed wine region, especially in the Côte de Beaune, reducing crops to scary low levels. Rain, floods and hail have done their damage causing consumer prices to sore even for low-end wines. As a producer, it’s bad enough if you own your own vineyards, but if you have to buy grapes from a grower, it’s insane. There’s so little fruit, that they can virtually ask whatever price they want, so the finished wines are much pricier. Consumers will have to lower their expectations and shop very carefully.

Natural Wine

“Natural Wine” is one of the hottest buzz concepts in the wine world today. Very simply, it is wine produced without chemicals and minimal technological intervention in the grape growing and winemaking. Although most is made organically and biodynamically, it differs in its winemaking and cellar practice. Nothing is added or removed during winemaking. Criteria include dry farming resulting in low yields; hand-harvested grapes only; no added sugars, foreign yeasts or bacteria; no acid adjustments; no additives for colour, mouth feel or minerality; minimal or no oak contact; minimal or no fining or filtration; no manipulation techniques to enhance flavour whatsoever, and minimal or no added sulfites.

Orange Wine

You know what style of vino is really popular right now? It’s “orange wine”. It’s simply white wine made from white gapes that have been macerated on their skins before fermentation. White wine is usually made without skin contact. This extended maceration on the skins gives the finished wine a golden pink to deep amber and burnt sienna colour. Like rosé, it’s very visually appealing. Although this style appears new the concept is ancient and has been around for some 8,000 years. It came to the foreground in the late nineteen-eighties when an Italian winemaker visiting Georgia resurrected the style. Now it’s hot, hot, hot and countless restaurants and bars around the world are having fun with it.

Wine Shampoo

We know that wine, especially red, in moderation is good for your health and its refuse (skins, seeds, stems, etc.) is used in vino-therapy for body wraps, messages and baths. Did you know that it’s also good for your hair as well?

Celebrity hair stylist John Blaine has launched a new hair care range (shampoo, conditioner, hydro serum) all infused with red grape extract. This “Vine de la Vie” contains multiple vitamins, 10 organic healing ingredients, possesses high levels of polyphenols and is sulfite free. It claims to heal and strengthen hair leaving it healthier, softer and richer in colour. Costing $35-$50 a crack, stars like Pamela Anderson are fans. Now if it only came packaged in a wine bottle or wine glass shaped container!

Glass Size Affects Amount Consumed

Glass size can affect how much wine you drink. For instance, 4 ounces poured in a small 6 oz. class looks like a lot more than that same amount poured into a larger 12 oz. glass. Aside from the obvious, it plays tricks on your mind either making you think you’ve sipped much more or not that much at all. Restaurants have tried this experiment by changing glasses from their regular size to either smaller versions or larger ones. They immediately noticed that their wine sales changed. With the smaller glasses, many folks would not order a second glass feeling that they may have had too much already, while with the larger glasses, would definitely order more. Using a smaller glass might be a better way to control consumption.

Wine Theme Park

Disney World has nothing on this place. It’s an adult theme park in Bordeaux, France, that’s dedicated to the nectar of the grape. This brand new wine amusement park, called “La Cité du Vin” (“the city of wine”) sits on the bank of the Garonne River in the heart of the famous wine region. Taking seven years to complete, every aspect and structure of the place is wine related representing such things as wine swirling in a glass and gnarled vine stocks. There are tastings led by experts, famous stories of drunkenness and a place to purchase wine. And yes, like other amusement parks, there are rides too, like a simulated boat journey on a merchant’s galley around the world. It opened June 1 and costs about $20 to get in. (www.laciteduvin.com/en)

Alcohol and Happiness

Researchers in the UK have discovered that alcohol makes you happy. Well duh! Tell us something we don’t already know. Most folks feel elated or more relaxed after a drink or two and depending on the person, some more than others. It really enhances social get-togethers with friends and loved ones and can escalate romance. In other words it makes pleasurable activities even more pleasurable. However, this research discovered that alcohol had an even bigger impact on an individual’s happiness when consumed along with what most folks would consider unenjoyable activities like waiting, commuting, doing paperwork or the tediousness of travel, therefore making them much easier to cope with.

Millennials and Wine

There’s no question that today Millennials (20- and 30-somethings), more than any other age group, are influencing the wine industry big time. From the styles and varietals they drink, when and how much they consume, and even how they buy it, their impact is huge. They’re much more willing to try new offerings and varietals and their love of rosé is putting this style through a renaissance. Not surprisingly, young women are at the forefront of this revolution. And unlike older generations who would enjoy a glass of wine only with dinner, millennials will sip numerous glasses anytime, even while watching TV. Winemakers are certainly noticing that Millennials are the leading group of wine consumers today.

Oak for Wine

Many wines are aged or fermented in oak to add aroma and texture. Why oak instead of other woods? It’s because of its grains and the tannins and vanilla that it passes on to wine resting within. Oak for wine comes from two major sources: Europe and North America. Most European oak, especially western Europe (more expensive), has tighter pores or grains infusing delicate oaky notes into wine. North American oak, especially from the U.S. (less expensive), has looser pores or wider grains providing more aggressive flavours. The newer the oak, the smaller the barrel and the longer wine spends in it, the stronger the oak character. Barrels can be toasted on the inside (light, medium, high) as well to affect the wine’s flavour.

Synthetic Polymer Corks

If you drink wine then I’m sure you’ve come across these plastic replacements to natural wooden corks. They look like the real thing, come in a vast array of day-glow colours, require a corkscrew to extract, and perhaps most importantly, are free of “cork taint” (TCA). However, I have reservations about them. First of all, they’re difficult to pull out, and if you don’t finish the wine, next to impossible to put back in. That however is not my biggest concern. They are made of an oil-based product and from what I know about wine, and particularly alcohol, it leaches elements out of things it comes in contact with. So would not the alcohol in wine leach chemicals out of these closures? Something to think about!

Who Drinks the Most Wine?

Italy and France may battle it out every year for who produces the most wine, but neither is at the top of the list for who drinks the most. Last year (2015), that wine soaked title was held by the United States. This country consumed a whopping 31 million hectolitres. That’s a lot of vino. France followed with 27.2 million hectolitres, and Italy and  Germany tied for number three with 20.5. Not surprisingly, China weighed in at number four with 16 million hectolitres. Then the U.K. (12.9), Argentina (10.3), Spain (10), Russia (8.9) and Australia (5.4). Shockingly, these few countries in total accounted for approximately 2/3 of worldwide wine consumption last year according to OIV (International Organization of Vine and Wine).

Which Colour Wine Gives Worst Hangover

Hangovers are no fun. Did you ever wonder which colour of wine (white, red, rosé) gives you the worst? Of course, overindulgence with any colour will do you in and one’s tolerance to alcohol is a factor. However, it’s appears to be red that will do the most damage. This is because of the “congeners” (toxic byproduct of the fermenting process) that gives red wine it's dark colour and those that are darker in colour contain more. While our bodies break them down, toxins are released causing us to feel unwell, and that dreaded wine headache is a result of tannins that make wine dry and how effective our body is in metabolizing alcohol. What about bubbly? Personally, I’ve had some real doosies from sipping fizz.

Where Wine Costs the Most

Ever wonder what city in the world is the most expensive to buy wine in? Surprisingly, there are some significant differences in bottle prices from place to place. Whether the retailer is private, a national chain or a monopoly, pricing is quite variable for various reasons. Government regulations, taxes and cost of living in that particular region all play a huge part. Ranking number one as the most expensive city to buy wine in is Singapore. It’s held this position for the third year in a row. Second place is held by two cities: Zurich and Hong Kong. London, New York and Los Angeles are also in the top ten and Sydney, Melbourne and Oslo are not far behind. So if you’re a wine drinker and not in one of the above cities, don’t complain about the price of that bottle.

Chardonnay With a Difference

If you like Chardonnay and aromatic, white grape varieties like Gewurztraminer and Muscat, then you’ll probably like this varietal clone that embodies both. Behold “Chardonnay Musqué”. This genetically mutated version of Chardonnay has all the characteristics of the famous white grape plus additional notes of musk, tropical fruit, honeysuckle, spice and orange blossom. Best unoaked, it tends to excel in cool climates like Ontario’s Niagara region, British Columbia and New York’s Finger Lakes where its aromatic character is maintained and intensified. It makes a great aperitif and works wonders with nuts and cheese. It’s also delightful with exotic cuisine such as Indian, Mexican, Thai and Oriental. Give it a go. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Wine Frappuccino

Imagine sitting at an outdoor café in the summer and sipping on a frappuccino made with wine. Sound good? Well it’s happening. Starbucks in Japan has come up with a version called “Wine Fragginos” that it served at the opening of one of its “Evening Stores”. More like a slushie (made with crushed ice) than a frappuccino (utilizing cream), the coffee was replaced with blueberry wine and costs about $8. Folks who’ve tried it say it’s “refreshing and delicious”. Many other fruit wines would work, as well as versions made with red wine grapes and especially aromatic whites like Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Perfect for the oenophile! Can’t wait 'til this intoxicating delight is available in North America

Caberlot

Ever hear of a wine grape called “Caberlot”? It’s a rare, black grape believed to be a natural crossing of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Exclusively grown at Podere Il Carnasciale in Tuscany, it was first identified in an abandoned vineyard in the late 1960’s in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy. Only about 3,000 bottles of the wine, wearing the IGT denomination, are produced yearly. In some vintages, the Cabernet character seems to shine, while in others, the Merlot dominates. Occasionally, it is Rhone-like. Usually an intensely coloured wine, it smacks of dark fruit, pepper, tobacco, coffee, earth and roasted notes and can age decently. Apparently, it’s a very sought after wine and available in 27 countries worldwide.

New Kind of Cask

There’s a new kind of wine cask on the market. Concrete has long been used for fermenting wine (especially in Europe), much of which is then aged in oak barrels for many months after. Now some producers like Classified Growth Pontet-Canet in Pauillac, Bordeaux and others have starting using “Dolias”, a made-to-measure, concrete barrel in the shape of a Roman amphora, for aging, along with traditional oak versions. After aging, wine from both oak barrels and concrete versions are blended together. The affect on the wine is quite different. Producers who are using Dolias claim that the concrete is softer for the wine and provides more depth and purity in the finished, blended wine.

Trump Wine

The next potential president of the US, Donald Trump, makes his own wine, among other things. He has a 1,300-acre estate and winery in Charlottesville, Virginia near Thomas Jefferson's estate at Monticello. Producing sparkling, red, white, and rosé styles, it’s the largest in the state that has more than 250 wineries. He’s supposedly serving it at press conferences, and if elected, will probably stock the White House cellar with it for state dinners. Don’t be surprised…it’s a “Donald” utopia. His own brand of water, steaks, etc! What’s next…a clothing line, workout routine, line of hairpieces, a book on how to make friends, etc.? Regardless of how you feel about the man, you have to admire his business savvy and “chutzpah”.

Red Wine Before Bed – Lose Weight

Scientific researchers now say that drinking two glasses of red wine before bed could help you lose weight. Apparently, resveratrol, in the skins of red grapes, transforms “white fat” into “beige fat” which is much easier to burn off and helps suppress appetite so you’re less likely to go looking for that late night snack. Whether this is true or not, you’ll probably sleep a lot more soundly after a coupler glasses of vino and, if you’re like me, you may make a few extra trips to the lieu because of the additional liquid. If this practice instills fears of developing a drinking habit, you could substitute the wine for dark-coloured fruit like fresh red grapes, blueberries, blackberries or strawberries that also contain resveratrol.