"Ode to Joy" played on wine glasses
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Tips on how to become an effective wine taster
Millions of people all over the world are drinking wine but only few know how to recognize or distinguish its characteristics. Today, wine tasting parties are organized to bring together all wine lovers and test their expertise. It takes a lot of experience and exposure before a person can be called a wine expert. However, becoming one is surprisingly easy. Here are some tips on how to become an effective wine taster:
1.Preparing the tongue.
Obviously, the tongue plays a major role in wine tasting. It contains taste buds that are responsible in detecting if food or drinks being eaten are bitter, salty, sour, or sweet. To make them work as intended, swish wine around the mouth, this will signal the tongue to get ready in identifying the wine.
2.Preparing the sense of smell.
75% of taste is actually dictated by the sense of smell. Aside from the tongue, the nose will also play an important role in tasting a wine. Wine experts know that it isn’t a good idea when tasting a wine while having a running nose or colds because it will affect their sense of taste. In smelling the wine, it is necessary to swirl it first. This will release molecules that produce aroma.
3.Examining the wine’s appearance.
To determine color of the wine, pour it in a clear glass and use white paper or tablecloth for background. This procedure will give you an idea about the age of the wine. For example, when white wine appears whiter it means it contains more flavors and it may be vintage. On the other hand, red wines appear lighter as they age.
4.Evaluating the wine.
After following the first 3 steps, it is time to evaluate the wine. In order to do so, these questions must be answered: Is wine rich or light? Is it too harsh or too smooth? Does it have pleasant aftertaste? Is it too dry? The answers will lead the wine taster to decide if the taste is appropriate for a specific brand or type of wine.
To become an expert wine tester, you need to taste several wines. It would help to keep notes on the impression and labels of each wine. This would make the identification process easier and more accurate. Learning this skill requires a lot of time and experience. Do not be in a hurry to learn it, take time to enjoy while doing so.
About the Author
Vernon Hale is an author living in Bowling Green, Ky, USA. Find more about fine wines and wine specialties at http://www.best-wine-online.com wine taster
1.Preparing the tongue.
Obviously, the tongue plays a major role in wine tasting. It contains taste buds that are responsible in detecting if food or drinks being eaten are bitter, salty, sour, or sweet. To make them work as intended, swish wine around the mouth, this will signal the tongue to get ready in identifying the wine.
2.Preparing the sense of smell.
75% of taste is actually dictated by the sense of smell. Aside from the tongue, the nose will also play an important role in tasting a wine. Wine experts know that it isn’t a good idea when tasting a wine while having a running nose or colds because it will affect their sense of taste. In smelling the wine, it is necessary to swirl it first. This will release molecules that produce aroma.
3.Examining the wine’s appearance.
To determine color of the wine, pour it in a clear glass and use white paper or tablecloth for background. This procedure will give you an idea about the age of the wine. For example, when white wine appears whiter it means it contains more flavors and it may be vintage. On the other hand, red wines appear lighter as they age.
4.Evaluating the wine.
After following the first 3 steps, it is time to evaluate the wine. In order to do so, these questions must be answered: Is wine rich or light? Is it too harsh or too smooth? Does it have pleasant aftertaste? Is it too dry? The answers will lead the wine taster to decide if the taste is appropriate for a specific brand or type of wine.
To become an expert wine tester, you need to taste several wines. It would help to keep notes on the impression and labels of each wine. This would make the identification process easier and more accurate. Learning this skill requires a lot of time and experience. Do not be in a hurry to learn it, take time to enjoy while doing so.
About the Author
Vernon Hale is an author living in Bowling Green, Ky, USA. Find more about fine wines and wine specialties at http://www.best-wine-online.com wine taster
How to Preserve a Wine Collection
Storing wine with cooling units is easy. This is also something you should do to preserve your wine collection. Many times people do not realize the importance of proper wine storage and how it is done. There is no substitute for wine storage with proper wine temperature and the only way this can be achieved is through a wine cellar or wine room with a cooling unit.
The easiest and quickest method for wine storage and wine cooling is to buy a wine cellar. Wine cellars can be found in stores or even online at affordable prices. A wine cellar offers not only a place to store as many bottles of wine as capacity will hold but also a place to keep your wine cool and away from the sun light. These units can be built in any room in the house it does not have to be under ground just as long as it stays out of the sun. Once you've picked where you want the wine cellar you simply just construct it or just set it up. Most wine cellar anymore look more like large wine cabinets which I tend to favor. These particular kind can hold anywhere between 300-5000 bottles whichever size you are looking for. Typically they just snap and seal together with ease or even pre-built wine cellars can be purchased but expect a higher shipping price the larger the unit.
Another way to store and preserve wine is by use of a cooling unit. Cooling units are easy to install into any room and with little effort and affordable. Think of them as an small air conditioner for wine as they do look similar in structure. You can install a wine cooling unit into a wine cellar or into a wine room and it can be self done without spending a fortune on hiring someone. I prefer smaller wine rooms over the massive sprawl style of wine basement rooms but whichever you prefer there is a cooling unit that fits your size needs. Cooling units can cool 75 cubic ft. to 3000 cubic ft. and higher so as you can see whatever size you need to cool can be done.
So either use a cooling unit or a wine cellar or the combination of the 2 to achieve the perfect temperature and storage for your wine collection. It adds life to your wine and helps you to store any amount for years to come. However if you collect wine do not over look this storage option your collection simply will not last long without it. Wine Accessories
About the AuthorMichael BrownBuy Wine Buy Coffee Buy Gift Baskets
The easiest and quickest method for wine storage and wine cooling is to buy a wine cellar. Wine cellars can be found in stores or even online at affordable prices. A wine cellar offers not only a place to store as many bottles of wine as capacity will hold but also a place to keep your wine cool and away from the sun light. These units can be built in any room in the house it does not have to be under ground just as long as it stays out of the sun. Once you've picked where you want the wine cellar you simply just construct it or just set it up. Most wine cellar anymore look more like large wine cabinets which I tend to favor. These particular kind can hold anywhere between 300-5000 bottles whichever size you are looking for. Typically they just snap and seal together with ease or even pre-built wine cellars can be purchased but expect a higher shipping price the larger the unit.
Another way to store and preserve wine is by use of a cooling unit. Cooling units are easy to install into any room and with little effort and affordable. Think of them as an small air conditioner for wine as they do look similar in structure. You can install a wine cooling unit into a wine cellar or into a wine room and it can be self done without spending a fortune on hiring someone. I prefer smaller wine rooms over the massive sprawl style of wine basement rooms but whichever you prefer there is a cooling unit that fits your size needs. Cooling units can cool 75 cubic ft. to 3000 cubic ft. and higher so as you can see whatever size you need to cool can be done.
So either use a cooling unit or a wine cellar or the combination of the 2 to achieve the perfect temperature and storage for your wine collection. It adds life to your wine and helps you to store any amount for years to come. However if you collect wine do not over look this storage option your collection simply will not last long without it. Wine Accessories
About the AuthorMichael BrownBuy Wine Buy Coffee Buy Gift Baskets
Why You Should Have a Wine Cellar
If you don't own a wine cellar and you collect wine its time to reconsider. Wine collectors everywhere are learning that to preserve you must have control over the climate and the temperature of the wine. The only real way to do this is to have your very own wine cellar.
In the movies we are used to seeing a wine cellar in some dark damp under ground bunker. However to have and own a wine cellar doesn't have to be exactly that way anymore. Now we have options with our wine cellars and wine storage. Long ago the only way to keep wine at cool enough temperatures to preserve was to store it under ground away from the heat and sunlight. Today things have changed with wine storage greatly.
What purpose does a wine cellar serve you might ask. Well for one a wine cellar keeps the wine at whatever temperature you'd like to store it at. Keeping wine cool and at the right humidity can make your wine store and last years longer than not doing so. Another great thing about a wine cellar is that it can keep your collection organized and free of dust. Many wine cellars have a cabinet style build much like a stand alone closet. I would also suggest getting yourself a set of wine bottle hanging labels as well to help organize your collection. These simple hang around the head of the bottle and on it you list the type of wine and the vintage year.
You must figure how much room you want to dedicate to your wine collection. Do you want to dedicate a whole room or basement? If so you may consider custom built wine racks. Custom built wine racks are nice because you can decide how long or wide to have them built. The bad part about customized wine cellar racks is that they are very expensive. I prefer to go with wine cellar cabinets. They typically run in the low thousands but if you are a serious collector that can be pennies on the dollar saved. Some of your collection will one day be worth mid hundreds or more so sometimes spending a little to save a lot goes a long way. Cabinet style wine cellar stand tall and up right and can have solid doors of glass doors to see in. However make sure if you have glass doors it stays away from windows and out of the sunlight. Sunlight even the slightest amount can soil your collection; keep your collection as safe as possible.
If you do not have thousands to spend there are many options that you can find about anywhere that range in the low hundreds and can hold over 150 bottles. This is the best option for anyone who is just starting out a collection. Many times you can find a nice wine cellar with glass doors for well under $500 that holds many more bottles than your collection can amass for the first couple of years. The options are up to you just remember this hobby is what you put into it and without proper wine storage your collection won't last long.
buy good quality wines
Buy Wine Buy Coffee and Gift Baskets Free Drop Shipping
Lowest Prices Wine Cellars
About the AuthorMichael BrownLover of Coffee and Wine 10 years exp.
In the movies we are used to seeing a wine cellar in some dark damp under ground bunker. However to have and own a wine cellar doesn't have to be exactly that way anymore. Now we have options with our wine cellars and wine storage. Long ago the only way to keep wine at cool enough temperatures to preserve was to store it under ground away from the heat and sunlight. Today things have changed with wine storage greatly.
What purpose does a wine cellar serve you might ask. Well for one a wine cellar keeps the wine at whatever temperature you'd like to store it at. Keeping wine cool and at the right humidity can make your wine store and last years longer than not doing so. Another great thing about a wine cellar is that it can keep your collection organized and free of dust. Many wine cellars have a cabinet style build much like a stand alone closet. I would also suggest getting yourself a set of wine bottle hanging labels as well to help organize your collection. These simple hang around the head of the bottle and on it you list the type of wine and the vintage year.
You must figure how much room you want to dedicate to your wine collection. Do you want to dedicate a whole room or basement? If so you may consider custom built wine racks. Custom built wine racks are nice because you can decide how long or wide to have them built. The bad part about customized wine cellar racks is that they are very expensive. I prefer to go with wine cellar cabinets. They typically run in the low thousands but if you are a serious collector that can be pennies on the dollar saved. Some of your collection will one day be worth mid hundreds or more so sometimes spending a little to save a lot goes a long way. Cabinet style wine cellar stand tall and up right and can have solid doors of glass doors to see in. However make sure if you have glass doors it stays away from windows and out of the sunlight. Sunlight even the slightest amount can soil your collection; keep your collection as safe as possible.
If you do not have thousands to spend there are many options that you can find about anywhere that range in the low hundreds and can hold over 150 bottles. This is the best option for anyone who is just starting out a collection. Many times you can find a nice wine cellar with glass doors for well under $500 that holds many more bottles than your collection can amass for the first couple of years. The options are up to you just remember this hobby is what you put into it and without proper wine storage your collection won't last long.
buy good quality wines
Buy Wine Buy Coffee and Gift Baskets Free Drop Shipping
Lowest Prices Wine Cellars
About the AuthorMichael BrownLover of Coffee and Wine 10 years exp.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
ColdTech Wine Cooler One Tinted Glass Door
How To Tell A Merlot From A Cabernet (And Other Wine Mysteries)
By Caroline Silverstone
Red wines are simply beautiful. Striking shades of ruby glimmering through the glass delight those who enjoy it. France has traditionally been the top producer of red wines in the world. Two of the absolutely most versatile of reds to have emerged from there are Merlot and Cabernet. Both these wines have enough body to be enjoyed with most hearty meals such as beef, stews, poultry, pork and rich seafood, such as lobster. Yet there are some big differences between them.
Merlots are well known for their fruitiness. Often when you hear Merlots described the first words are the type of fruit taste it has, followed by a variety of other flavors and aromas found in the wine such as oak, earthy, chocolate, smoky and a variety of other adjectives. Merlots offer a variety of types from a light fruity wine that is easy to drink to a much more complex, tannic wine that can easily be paired with beef.
Cabernet tends to be discussed in more complex terms than Merlots. In general Cabernet tends to be a little more tannic, with less sugar than Merlot. Merlot grapes actually ripen earlier than Cabernet, hence the mildness of Merlot wine compared with Cabernet. Also, Cabernet is usually aged longer than Merlot before serving hence the more sophisticated tastes. While there are numerous similarities between the two types of wine, from their aromas and flavors to their food pairings, Cabernet tends to be the more mature of the two, in age, history and taste.
Another wine mystery, which needs to be unveiled, is that of the Beaujolais Nouveau. What is it and why is it so popular in mid-November? Basically, Beaujolais Nouveau is a lightweight, young wine, which is usually fermented for just a few weeks. It hails from the Beaujolais region of France and goes on sale each year on the third Thursday of November. It has a limited shelf-life and is definitely not the wine you want to put away in the back of your wine cellar to let it age. In fact it is best drunk fresh. In the worst years of production, Beaujolais Nouveau is only good for its first couple of months. In good years, it may be drunk up to a year later.
In the early twentieth century, Beaujolais was not allowed to be sold before mid-December, but the rules were relaxed to mid-November in 1951. The immaturity of this wine often leads to unfavorable ratings, however it should be noted that Beaujolais Nouveau is very different from other French reds and should not be judged on the same standards. It has practically no tannins and should be served chilled. Beaujolais Nouveau has benefited from marketing in a way that no other wine has.
France offers a wide variety of red wines from the different regions of the country. Each wine has its own special aspects just waiting to be discovered. Before dismissing any of them, do a little research to find a highly recommended one, pair it with a suggested food and set aside all preconceptions. Who knows - you might just surprise yourself!
Find unique wine lover's gifts like crystal wine glasses from riedel and several other fine wine accessories
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Silverstone
Red wines are simply beautiful. Striking shades of ruby glimmering through the glass delight those who enjoy it. France has traditionally been the top producer of red wines in the world. Two of the absolutely most versatile of reds to have emerged from there are Merlot and Cabernet. Both these wines have enough body to be enjoyed with most hearty meals such as beef, stews, poultry, pork and rich seafood, such as lobster. Yet there are some big differences between them.
Merlots are well known for their fruitiness. Often when you hear Merlots described the first words are the type of fruit taste it has, followed by a variety of other flavors and aromas found in the wine such as oak, earthy, chocolate, smoky and a variety of other adjectives. Merlots offer a variety of types from a light fruity wine that is easy to drink to a much more complex, tannic wine that can easily be paired with beef.
Cabernet tends to be discussed in more complex terms than Merlots. In general Cabernet tends to be a little more tannic, with less sugar than Merlot. Merlot grapes actually ripen earlier than Cabernet, hence the mildness of Merlot wine compared with Cabernet. Also, Cabernet is usually aged longer than Merlot before serving hence the more sophisticated tastes. While there are numerous similarities between the two types of wine, from their aromas and flavors to their food pairings, Cabernet tends to be the more mature of the two, in age, history and taste.
Another wine mystery, which needs to be unveiled, is that of the Beaujolais Nouveau. What is it and why is it so popular in mid-November? Basically, Beaujolais Nouveau is a lightweight, young wine, which is usually fermented for just a few weeks. It hails from the Beaujolais region of France and goes on sale each year on the third Thursday of November. It has a limited shelf-life and is definitely not the wine you want to put away in the back of your wine cellar to let it age. In fact it is best drunk fresh. In the worst years of production, Beaujolais Nouveau is only good for its first couple of months. In good years, it may be drunk up to a year later.
In the early twentieth century, Beaujolais was not allowed to be sold before mid-December, but the rules were relaxed to mid-November in 1951. The immaturity of this wine often leads to unfavorable ratings, however it should be noted that Beaujolais Nouveau is very different from other French reds and should not be judged on the same standards. It has practically no tannins and should be served chilled. Beaujolais Nouveau has benefited from marketing in a way that no other wine has.
France offers a wide variety of red wines from the different regions of the country. Each wine has its own special aspects just waiting to be discovered. Before dismissing any of them, do a little research to find a highly recommended one, pair it with a suggested food and set aside all preconceptions. Who knows - you might just surprise yourself!
Find unique wine lover's gifts like crystal wine glasses from riedel and several other fine wine accessories
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Silverstone
Merlot Wine
By Steve Austin
Merlot wine is a rich, soft wine with the flavor of blackberries, beloved because it is seldom harsh and not as acidic as a Cabernet Sauvignon with which it is often blended. Merlot wine has the added advantage of being rich and supple but only moderately tannic and, therefore, wonderfully drinkable from early on.
The Merlot grape is larger and thinner skinned than the Cabernet grape. It has an opulent texture that goes admirably with h'ordeuves or as a dinner drink. Similar to the soft Algerian wines of the Pied Noirs, Merlot wine is used to round out and add complexity to Cabernets.
in today's world, Merlot wine is a premium varietal in its own right. Merlot wine is a round sensual wine that does not need the same care in aging. So Merlot wine can be a splendidly pragmatic and commendable choice for many occasions.
Merlot wine is so popular due to the fact that it is softer, fruitier, and earlier-maturing than cabernet sauvignon, yet displays many of the same aromas and flavors – black cherry, currant, cedar, and green olive – along with mint, tobacco and tea-leaf tones.
The most critically acclaimed Merlot wines are dark, rich and strong. Aromas include scents of plums, black cherry, toffee, chocolate, violets, orange and tea.
Merlot Wine Tip:
Merlot wine is a good accompaniment to simply prepared beef and lamb dishes.
Wine Ratings - Wine ratings, wine and winery related information for the enjoyment of fine wines.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Austin
Merlot wine is a rich, soft wine with the flavor of blackberries, beloved because it is seldom harsh and not as acidic as a Cabernet Sauvignon with which it is often blended. Merlot wine has the added advantage of being rich and supple but only moderately tannic and, therefore, wonderfully drinkable from early on.
The Merlot grape is larger and thinner skinned than the Cabernet grape. It has an opulent texture that goes admirably with h'ordeuves or as a dinner drink. Similar to the soft Algerian wines of the Pied Noirs, Merlot wine is used to round out and add complexity to Cabernets.
in today's world, Merlot wine is a premium varietal in its own right. Merlot wine is a round sensual wine that does not need the same care in aging. So Merlot wine can be a splendidly pragmatic and commendable choice for many occasions.
Merlot wine is so popular due to the fact that it is softer, fruitier, and earlier-maturing than cabernet sauvignon, yet displays many of the same aromas and flavors – black cherry, currant, cedar, and green olive – along with mint, tobacco and tea-leaf tones.
The most critically acclaimed Merlot wines are dark, rich and strong. Aromas include scents of plums, black cherry, toffee, chocolate, violets, orange and tea.
Merlot Wine Tip:
Merlot wine is a good accompaniment to simply prepared beef and lamb dishes.
Wine Ratings - Wine ratings, wine and winery related information for the enjoyment of fine wines.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Austin
Monday, August 25, 2008
Types of Wine Glasses
By David Beart
The type of wine glass that you serve your wine in can have a dramatic impact on the flavor and quality of the wine. There are many factors associated with wine glasses that may add or subtract from the wine's flavor, appearance and quality. There are also some glassware basics that should be considered when choosing glasses.
For a home wine-connoisseur, you may need to take your wine glass selection very seriously. For those individuals that enjoy a variety of different types of wine, you may opt for an all-purpose wine glass. These are tulip shaped and hold approximately 8 to 12 ounces and are appropriate for most types of wine. There are, however, specific types of glasses that you may be interested in purchasing if you enjoy a particular type of wine on a regular basis. You do not necessarily need a special glass for each type of wine, but if you routinely enjoy a particular wine and you have the storage and budget, then you may be interested.
So what are the differences in white and red wine glasses? There are several differences and each affect the bouquet of the wine as well as help to maintain the appropriate temperature of the wine. And of course, white wines are best served out of glasses designed for white wines and red wines are best served out of glasses designed for red wines.
The white wine glass has a narrow mouth, which allows the wine to maintain its chilled temperature. The reduced surface area of the glass does not allow air to permeate the wine as much as it does in a wide mouthed red wine glass. The reduced amount of air means that the air will not warm the wine. The smaller bowl of the glass also means that there is less contact by the heat of the hand, which can also warm the wine.
Chardonnay glasses feature a narrow rim of glass that helps to direct the wine to the middle of the palate. This applies the fruit flavors and acidity. The longer bowl of the glass keeps the wine chilled and captures the aromas of the wine. This type of glass works well for Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, White Bordeaux and Burgundies, White Pinots and Viognier.
Sangiovese and Riesling glass feature a smaller bowl and even narrower rim. The smaller bowl is due to the fact that these wines are usually consumed in smaller quantities as dessert wines. The smaller and elongated bowl also allows the wine to stay chilled while you are enjoying your dessert. These glasses are also great for wines that are sweet and may be drunk in smaller amounts. This type of glass is also appropriate for Bardolino, Chianti, Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano and Zinfandel. If you frequently enjoy white wines, you may enjoy an all-purpose glass that is designed for different white wines.
Red wine glasses are usually noted as having a large bowl and wide mouth. These glasses are similar to the Bordeaux and Burgundy wine glass. The Bordeaux wine glass is designed specifically for these red wines. They have a large and round bowl, which allows the wine to breathe, which brings out the different aromas that the wine has to offer. Allowing the red wine to sit in the glass will have a similar effect that decanting has on a wine. These glasses are tall and shoot the wine straight to the back of your mouth where most red wines will react with the back of the palate.
The Burgundy glass is also a good wine glass that is appropriate for reds and full-bodied wines. They have an even larger bowl than the Bordeaux glass and focuses the wine to be absorbed at the tip of your tongue. This allows the drinker to enjoy the sweetness of this wine. This glass is also appropriate for your Pinot Noir wines and is best for gathering the delicate bouquet of your red wine.
Red wine glasses also allow you to drink your red wines at room temperature. The larger bowl is designed to allow the wine to cool after it is exposed to the heat of your hand. If you enjoy red wine on a regular basis, you may be interested in buying a set of these glasses.
When purchasing wine glasses, you will want to look for clean and clear glasses. This will allow you to examine the wine and check its clarity and color. A clean glass is absolutely necessary for enjoying wines and after washing you will want to remove any soap residue that is left on the glass. Thin glasses are also the best, as a rolled rim will cause the wine to dribble into your mouth while a thin glass presents less obstruction between you and the wine. Stems are also necessary, as you do not want to hold the bowl of the glass. The glass should also have a tapered rim, which will keep the wine from spilling when you swirl. It will also help to capture the aroma of the wine.
David Beart is the owner of http://www.professorshouse.com This site covers a wide selection of topics including relationships, family, wine and other household issues.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Beart
The type of wine glass that you serve your wine in can have a dramatic impact on the flavor and quality of the wine. There are many factors associated with wine glasses that may add or subtract from the wine's flavor, appearance and quality. There are also some glassware basics that should be considered when choosing glasses.
For a home wine-connoisseur, you may need to take your wine glass selection very seriously. For those individuals that enjoy a variety of different types of wine, you may opt for an all-purpose wine glass. These are tulip shaped and hold approximately 8 to 12 ounces and are appropriate for most types of wine. There are, however, specific types of glasses that you may be interested in purchasing if you enjoy a particular type of wine on a regular basis. You do not necessarily need a special glass for each type of wine, but if you routinely enjoy a particular wine and you have the storage and budget, then you may be interested.
So what are the differences in white and red wine glasses? There are several differences and each affect the bouquet of the wine as well as help to maintain the appropriate temperature of the wine. And of course, white wines are best served out of glasses designed for white wines and red wines are best served out of glasses designed for red wines.
The white wine glass has a narrow mouth, which allows the wine to maintain its chilled temperature. The reduced surface area of the glass does not allow air to permeate the wine as much as it does in a wide mouthed red wine glass. The reduced amount of air means that the air will not warm the wine. The smaller bowl of the glass also means that there is less contact by the heat of the hand, which can also warm the wine.
Chardonnay glasses feature a narrow rim of glass that helps to direct the wine to the middle of the palate. This applies the fruit flavors and acidity. The longer bowl of the glass keeps the wine chilled and captures the aromas of the wine. This type of glass works well for Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, White Bordeaux and Burgundies, White Pinots and Viognier.
Sangiovese and Riesling glass feature a smaller bowl and even narrower rim. The smaller bowl is due to the fact that these wines are usually consumed in smaller quantities as dessert wines. The smaller and elongated bowl also allows the wine to stay chilled while you are enjoying your dessert. These glasses are also great for wines that are sweet and may be drunk in smaller amounts. This type of glass is also appropriate for Bardolino, Chianti, Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano and Zinfandel. If you frequently enjoy white wines, you may enjoy an all-purpose glass that is designed for different white wines.
Red wine glasses are usually noted as having a large bowl and wide mouth. These glasses are similar to the Bordeaux and Burgundy wine glass. The Bordeaux wine glass is designed specifically for these red wines. They have a large and round bowl, which allows the wine to breathe, which brings out the different aromas that the wine has to offer. Allowing the red wine to sit in the glass will have a similar effect that decanting has on a wine. These glasses are tall and shoot the wine straight to the back of your mouth where most red wines will react with the back of the palate.
The Burgundy glass is also a good wine glass that is appropriate for reds and full-bodied wines. They have an even larger bowl than the Bordeaux glass and focuses the wine to be absorbed at the tip of your tongue. This allows the drinker to enjoy the sweetness of this wine. This glass is also appropriate for your Pinot Noir wines and is best for gathering the delicate bouquet of your red wine.
Red wine glasses also allow you to drink your red wines at room temperature. The larger bowl is designed to allow the wine to cool after it is exposed to the heat of your hand. If you enjoy red wine on a regular basis, you may be interested in buying a set of these glasses.
When purchasing wine glasses, you will want to look for clean and clear glasses. This will allow you to examine the wine and check its clarity and color. A clean glass is absolutely necessary for enjoying wines and after washing you will want to remove any soap residue that is left on the glass. Thin glasses are also the best, as a rolled rim will cause the wine to dribble into your mouth while a thin glass presents less obstruction between you and the wine. Stems are also necessary, as you do not want to hold the bowl of the glass. The glass should also have a tapered rim, which will keep the wine from spilling when you swirl. It will also help to capture the aroma of the wine.
David Beart is the owner of http://www.professorshouse.com This site covers a wide selection of topics including relationships, family, wine and other household issues.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Beart
The Wine Boom!
By Sarah Martin
Winemaking in California has never been an unsupervised industry. The first vines were brought to the Pacific shores by Cortez. When the ruthless conqueror of Mexico failed to find gold he decided to develop the country as an enormous vineyard. He commanded every landowner to plant, every year for five years, 1,000 vines for every 100 Indians living on his land. Years later Spain sent her high priests of civilization into the barren wilderness of Baja, California, with the understood provision that wines would be made for sacramental purposes at their mission outposts.
In 1769 Padre Junipero Serra, the beloved Franciscan, established his first mission in Alta California-Mission San Diego de Alcala. He brought vine cuttings with him, vines which originally came from Spain. They were set out around the new mission and as they flourished, more cuttings were planted in San Gabriel where sun and soil proved even more fruitful for the vines. The gnarled, twisted trunk of the first vine planted at San Gabriel still bears its annual harvest of Mission grapes. This single species planted along El Camino Real by the Franciscan priests, by its abundant yield, established California as a vine land.
The first commercial vineyard was established in Los Angeles in 1824 by one John Chapman who set out 4,000 vines. He was followed seven years later by an even more enterprising pioneer from France, Louis Vignes. His vineyard, on the site of the present Union Station in Los Angeles, was a profitable venture, providing wines and brandies not only for the young City of Angels but for the northern ports of Santa Barbara, Monterey, and San Francisco.
The big excitement, one hundred years ago when gold was discovered in California, created such a fantastic period of American history that the grape rush never received much publicity. It followed the gold rush, and quite logically. Every boom town was a market for wine and grapes. Prices were fabulous. If, many thought, good grapes could be grown in Southern California where the wines were coming from; they would probably do as well elsewhere in the State. New species, such as Chenin Blanc, were imported and they flourished equally well.
Like a thunderbolt sensational news arrived from Europe. The vineyards of France were dying of an unknown disease. California would become the vineyard of the world. Every ship sailing into the Golden Gate confirmed the tragic and wonderful news. By 1855 the boom was on. Landowners all over the State caught the wine fever. By planting a few thousand vines they could become rich, with a world market waiting. Vineyards sprang up all over California. In 1858, bearing vineyards in Los Angeles were selling for $1,000 per acre.
Boom-and then bust!
A poor crop in 1859 was followed by an equally poor harvest in 1860. The State Agricultural Society, formed in 1854, recognized that something must be done to save the young industry. Each year the Society had sent several of its members, by stagecoach and horseback, to widespread areas of vine plantings to report back on economic and agricultural conditions. The most successful vintner was a Sonoma vineyardist, Colonel Agoston Haraszthy. His success with foreign grape varieties, such as Carignane, had sent land values in the vicinity of his Buena Vista vineyard from $6 to $135 per acre.
Col. Haraszthy's achievement was by no means accidental; his entire lifetime had been spent in seeking the right place in America to make fine wines. In 1847 he planted his first vineyard in Wisconsin shortly after he arrived in this country from Hungary. Undaunted by failure there he moved to San Diego, primarily for his health. He imported more than a hundred and sixty-five different species of grapes from Europe, including Zinfandel which has now become the most widely planted grape in California.
Dissatisfied with the quality of the wine he could make there he moved north to the present site of Crystal Springs Reservoir, just south of San Francisco. Here he discovered he was too near the sea; his vines suffered from strong winds, fog, and lack of sunshine.
He made a fourth attempt, in Sonoma, after seeing the flourishing vineyards of General Vallejo in that county. With renewed inspiration he transplanted his imported cuttings and set out the Buena Vista Vineyards in Sonoma in 1856.
Sarah Martin is a freelance marketing writer based out of San Diego, CA. She specializes in the history of wine, winetasting, and fine wine varietals. For an amazing selection of wines, please visit http://www.wineaccess.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Martin
Winemaking in California has never been an unsupervised industry. The first vines were brought to the Pacific shores by Cortez. When the ruthless conqueror of Mexico failed to find gold he decided to develop the country as an enormous vineyard. He commanded every landowner to plant, every year for five years, 1,000 vines for every 100 Indians living on his land. Years later Spain sent her high priests of civilization into the barren wilderness of Baja, California, with the understood provision that wines would be made for sacramental purposes at their mission outposts.
In 1769 Padre Junipero Serra, the beloved Franciscan, established his first mission in Alta California-Mission San Diego de Alcala. He brought vine cuttings with him, vines which originally came from Spain. They were set out around the new mission and as they flourished, more cuttings were planted in San Gabriel where sun and soil proved even more fruitful for the vines. The gnarled, twisted trunk of the first vine planted at San Gabriel still bears its annual harvest of Mission grapes. This single species planted along El Camino Real by the Franciscan priests, by its abundant yield, established California as a vine land.
The first commercial vineyard was established in Los Angeles in 1824 by one John Chapman who set out 4,000 vines. He was followed seven years later by an even more enterprising pioneer from France, Louis Vignes. His vineyard, on the site of the present Union Station in Los Angeles, was a profitable venture, providing wines and brandies not only for the young City of Angels but for the northern ports of Santa Barbara, Monterey, and San Francisco.
The big excitement, one hundred years ago when gold was discovered in California, created such a fantastic period of American history that the grape rush never received much publicity. It followed the gold rush, and quite logically. Every boom town was a market for wine and grapes. Prices were fabulous. If, many thought, good grapes could be grown in Southern California where the wines were coming from; they would probably do as well elsewhere in the State. New species, such as Chenin Blanc, were imported and they flourished equally well.
Like a thunderbolt sensational news arrived from Europe. The vineyards of France were dying of an unknown disease. California would become the vineyard of the world. Every ship sailing into the Golden Gate confirmed the tragic and wonderful news. By 1855 the boom was on. Landowners all over the State caught the wine fever. By planting a few thousand vines they could become rich, with a world market waiting. Vineyards sprang up all over California. In 1858, bearing vineyards in Los Angeles were selling for $1,000 per acre.
Boom-and then bust!
A poor crop in 1859 was followed by an equally poor harvest in 1860. The State Agricultural Society, formed in 1854, recognized that something must be done to save the young industry. Each year the Society had sent several of its members, by stagecoach and horseback, to widespread areas of vine plantings to report back on economic and agricultural conditions. The most successful vintner was a Sonoma vineyardist, Colonel Agoston Haraszthy. His success with foreign grape varieties, such as Carignane, had sent land values in the vicinity of his Buena Vista vineyard from $6 to $135 per acre.
Col. Haraszthy's achievement was by no means accidental; his entire lifetime had been spent in seeking the right place in America to make fine wines. In 1847 he planted his first vineyard in Wisconsin shortly after he arrived in this country from Hungary. Undaunted by failure there he moved to San Diego, primarily for his health. He imported more than a hundred and sixty-five different species of grapes from Europe, including Zinfandel which has now become the most widely planted grape in California.
Dissatisfied with the quality of the wine he could make there he moved north to the present site of Crystal Springs Reservoir, just south of San Francisco. Here he discovered he was too near the sea; his vines suffered from strong winds, fog, and lack of sunshine.
He made a fourth attempt, in Sonoma, after seeing the flourishing vineyards of General Vallejo in that county. With renewed inspiration he transplanted his imported cuttings and set out the Buena Vista Vineyards in Sonoma in 1856.
Sarah Martin is a freelance marketing writer based out of San Diego, CA. She specializes in the history of wine, winetasting, and fine wine varietals. For an amazing selection of wines, please visit http://www.wineaccess.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Martin
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Wine For The Beginner - Red Wine Selection Tips For Beginners
Zinfandel, Shiraz, Merlot, oh my. Understanding the complexities and variety of red wine can be daunting, especially when it comes to choosing the correct wine for a dinner. Here are some wine selection tips for five of the most popular red wines for the beginner.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Considered the "King of Red Wine Grapes", Cabernet Sauvignon originated in the Bordeaux region of France and established itself in the California wine markets to become one of the world's most popular red wines. Cabernet Sauvignon is usually matured for 5-10 years to create a mellow-flavored wine. It is often blended with other grapes, most notably Merlot, to create a soft wine with lively fruit tones. Cabernets are medium to full-bodied wines high in tannins which carry rich berry, tobacco and sometimes even green pepper flavors. Cabernet pairs well with lamb, red meats, hearty red pasta dishes, strong cheese and dark chocolate.
Pinot Noir
The Pinot Noir grape is very difficult to grow demanding climates with consistently warm days and cool nights. Nonetheless, it is grown in regions including Oregon, California, New Zealand, Australia, Germany and Italy. Due it's strict growing requirements, Pinot Noir is produced in lesser quantities than many other popular red wines and tends to be a little pricier. It is a lighter colored and flavored red wine with sweet undertones of berries, tomatoes, cherries, plums and earthy or woody flavors depending upon where it is grown. Pinot Noir is one of the most versatile red wines and pairs nicely with poultry, fish, lamb, pork, ham, spicy seasonings and cream sauces.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel has been a mainstay of the Californian wine market since the mid-1800s. Originally from Italy, this robust grape has found a good home in the Americas. The Zinfandel grape produces two varietals: the red Zinfandel, and the White Zinfandel (also called White Zin) which has become a popular wine for the beginner. The basic Zinfandel is a rich, dark red wine with flavors of sweet berries, plums and black pepper and undertones of oak. White Zinfandel is made by removing the grape skins shortly after the grapes are crushed. The result is a rose to pink colored wine with a lighter flavor. Red Zinfandel pairs nicely with red or white meat, hearty fish, burgers and spicy dishes. White Zinfandel is suited to a large rage of foods including Cajun and Asian flavors, BBQ chicken and heavy seafood dishes.
Merlot
Merlot originates from the Bordeaux region of France and is a soft and lush, medium-bodied wine. Its juicy fruit flavors and low tannin content makes Merlot a popular wine for the beginner. Merlot has a wide range of tones including plums, cherries, blueberries, blackberries and black pepper. Merlot is often blended with other wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc to soften their flavors and gain more structure and definition. Merlot is a versatile red which pairs well with pork, red meats, pastas and salads.
Shiraz
Known as Syrah in France, Shiraz is a bold, spicy wine which has become very popular in Australia where it gained its alternative name. It is a medium to full-bodied wine with firm tannins that give it a fuller body than most younger reds. Shiraz has an impressive range of flavors including black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, licorice and even dark chocolate and smoked meat. Shiraz stands up well to hearty foods including grilled meats and vegetables, wild game, seasoned red meats, beef stew and meaty pizzas.
| You can learn about white wine for the beginner and get more wine selection tips for finding $50 quality wines for $10 or less at http://wineforthebeginner.blogspot.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Fenwick |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
