Club Month Wine

Wine Makers Go Green

2009-02-10T15:35:00.000-08:00

By Semie Lee Consumers have gone green - from the type of food they buy to the kinds of cleaning products they use to clean their homes. So it's no surprise that wine manufacturers are following suit with green wine packaging -- environmentally-friendly, recyclable products made of cardboard, plastic and other sustainable derivatives -- to store and transport wine. Are wine bottles out? No, but more wine makers are developing eco-friendly wine packaging alternatives such as paper wine boxes to mesh with customers' green lifestyles. The Eco-Friendly Shift Eco-friendly wine packaging isn't new; lower-end wines have been sold in wine cardboard boxes in France for decades. But upscale wine makers -- who in the past have scoffed at storing or shipping containers in anything other than glass bottles and traditional packaging materials -- are now embracing the trend of green wine packaging What's changed? Tastes have shifted, at least a bit. Wine lovers are more open to buying wine in containers other than glass, such as paper-based and plastic cartons. In fact, experts predict that even more wine makers will go lighter in terms of storage -- lighter glass bottles and lighter plastic bottles made from recyclable materials -- in the future. And, wineries are increasingly shipping wine in carriers and shipping trays made of sustainable items such as recycled newspaper, compostable pulp and corrugated materials. How popular is the green wine packaging trend? It's so popular that Italy's Ministry of Agriculture, which regulates the country's wine and grape industry, now allows its top wine producers to sell wine in upscale bags-in-box - wine boxes built with plastic pockets inside of them that first emerged in France in the 1980s. And Almaden and Inglenook wines announced plans to shift from traditional 3 and 4-liter glass jugs to bags-in-box containers. These two brands alone account for more than 10 million cases, according to industry figures. Green Wine Packaging Has Its Benefits Supporters of environmentally-friendly wine packaging tout its benefits. Glass can be recycled, but it is heavier, takes more energy, and is more expensive to transport than eco-friendly alternatives. And storing and transporting wine in more environmentally-friendly wine packaging puts less stress on the environment. The newer, improved packaging allows winemakers to reduce their carbon footprint by as much as 55 percent, according to California-based Wine Group, which produces wine in a box. Consider the possible effects on the United States: If wineries packaged all bottled wines sold in the United States in boxes, it would save about 941 million tons of glass, according to figures from the Wine Group. Carbon emissions would decrease by 1.5 million tons a year -- the equivalent of taking 250,000 cars off the road. This article is written by Semie Lee and brought to you by Unisource Wine, your one source for sustainable wine packaging solutions. Unisource Wine is a manufacturer of wine carriers and wine shippers. Visit us online at http://www.unisourcewine.com/ for more information on wine packaging and shipping supplies. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Semie_Lee

Understanding Basics to the Best Red Wine

2008-08-05T17:09:00.000-07:00

By Stuart Jay Wine's color is the direct result of the grape skins in contact with the grape's juice during the fermentation process, creating red wine's distinct color spectrum. A particular red hue depends on which of approximately 50 key red grape varietals are used and the length of time the skin's pigmentation is in contact with juice. Descriptions of red wine aroma vary as much as the number of different varietals. The varied descriptions of red wine include blackberry, boysenberry, cherry, coffee, cinnamon, clove, cocoa, currant, fig, leather, licorice, mocha, pepper (white/black), plum, strawberry, raisin, raspberry, smoke, toast, tobacco, violet. The Importance of the Glass Red wines are best appreciated and enjoyed when sipped out of a wine glass able to accommodate 10-20 ounces, allowing adequate room to swirl the wine and area for the wine to breathe. A glass that is wider at the bottom with a narrower opening at the top is preferred; a tulip shaped glass that is wider at the top is the least preferable. Best Temperatures Wines are at their best when served at proper temperatures. Serve them too warm and the taste of alcohol is overly evident; serve them too cold and they will quickly veer towards bitter and more astringent on the palate. Beaujolais is one of the youngest wines and should be served chilled at 50F-54F so the fruity, refreshing flavor will come through. Lighter-bodied reds like Chianti and some Pinot Noirs are best when slightly chilled at 55F-60F. The full-bodied wines, such as Syrah and Cabernets, are best enjoyed a touch warmer than a wine cellar at 59F-64F. Sweet Madeira and vintage Port are best at 64-68F. Red wines are often classified by body-type A red wine referred to as light-bodied is making a reference to the mouth-feel and tannin structure, having fewer tannins present and less presence on the palate. These wines are often less demanding in terms of the intensity of the food flavors they are paired with. The Gamay grape varietal which produces Beaujolais wine is typically light-bodied and fruity and meant for immediate consumption, having tropical flavors and aromas - reminiscent of bananas. There are wines made from Gamay produced in the designated Cru areas of northern Beaujolais with more body and tannin meant to be consumed after some modest aging; these wines typically have the flavor of sour cherries, black pepper, dried berry and blackcurrant. Gamay Beaujolais is considered to be an early ripening Californian clone of Pinot Noir. Gamay has also been introduced recently into Oregon's Willamette Valley wine region, known for its wines made from Pinot Noir, another Burgundian grape. A medium-bodied red wine will contain more tannins than the Beaujolais but will not have the puckery mouth feel of an intense California Cabernet Sauvignon or an Italian Super Tuscan. Typical examples of medium-bodied red wines are Merlot, Shiraz and some Chianti. Full-bodied red wines have the highest amount of tannin and often alcohol content. Examples of full-bodied reds are France's Bordeaux wines. California's Cabernet Sauvignon ranges from medium-bodied to full-bodied with rich, ripe berry, tobacco and sometimes green pepper flavor. Italy's Super Tuscans can not be easily pinned to one style, comprised mostly of Sangiovese, blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot or Syrah. We created http://www.YourLoveOfWine.com because we passionately want to share with those with an interest the art, science, and physical and psychological aspects of the wine tasting experience. An experience without pretension which both the novice and seasoned wine lover can enjoy and appreciate. Some of the most exquisite wine experiences are made by passionate vintners creating wines with more styles and tastes than ever could be imagined and http://www.YourLoveOfWine.com can take you on a wondrous journey, tracking down some truly exciting wines to bring to your door when you need them. Our mission is to deliver a greater online wine buying value than you will find anywhere through the combination of our outstanding customer service, depth of product offerings, value pricing and commitment to online wine buyers' satisfaction. Including 8 DIFFERENT WINE CLUBS (one for EVERY TASTE and BUDGET), the best of the elite Red and White Wines, Gift Baskets, WINE RACKS, Glassware, Wine Openers and Charms. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Jay

Club Month Wine Lable 4

2008-08-05T15:47:00.000-07:00

Club Month Wine Lable 3

2008-08-05T15:46:00.002-07:00

Club Month Wine Lable 2

2008-08-05T15:46:00.001-07:00

Lable Club Month Wine

2008-08-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

Most Popular Red Wine Types for Your Rack

2008-08-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

By Stuart Jay

Wine is produced all over the world from single varietal grape selections to popular varietal blends to please almost every palate, from the novice to the seasoned wine taster. Red wine happens to be the most popular choice the world over.

Barolo and Barbaresco

Derived from the Nebbiolo grape, Barolo wines are typically deep red with a thick and complex flavor that is sometimes flowery, reminiscent of violets and roses. Other flavors are fruit, licorice or oak. Barolo should be enjoyed at 60F and can age for 5-10 years. Barbaresco is a red wine that is more elegant and aromatic, though still powerful. In a way, Barbaresco is the younger brother of Barolo. Both of these red wines are made in the Piedmont region of Italy and pair well with grilled meats.

Beaujolais Nouveau

A very young, light, fruity wine meant to be served chilled, around 55F, with dominant flavors of strawberry and raspberry along with a grapey appeal that is virtually free of tannins. It is grown from the Gamay grape in the Beaujolais region (part of Burgundy) of France. Beaujolais Nouveau is released annually on the third Thursday of November. In food pairing, it goes well with grilled or roasted meats both light and dark, a variety of pastas, salads and cheeses.

Cabernet Franc

Originally from the Bourdeaux and Loire Valley region, Cabernet Franc enjoys the growing climates of California, Washington State, Australia, Chile, Canada, and South Africa. It is a wonderfully fruity wine, having lower tannin levels and a more distinct flavor reminiscent of berry; mainly blueberry, raspberry and at times plum. Cabernet Franc is more subdued and softer than its cousin Cabernet Sauvignon and is sold as a single varietal. However, it is ideal for blending with its cousin Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Cabernet Franc is best served at 59-64F and pairs well with Mediterranean Greek and Middle Eastern dishes as well as poultry and pasta.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Originally from Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon has a tremendous presence in the California wineries where the grape favors the warmer climate, and enjoys the popularity as the most sought after red wine. Cabernets are medium-bodied to full-bodied and characterized by a high tannin content which provides structure and intrigue to the wine and supporting flavors reminiscent of a rich, ripe berry, tobacco and sometimes green pepper. Cabernet Sauvignon is an ideal wine for aging, with 5-10 years being optimal for peak maturation. The longer maturation process allows the wine's flavors to mellow, and makes the Cabernets ideal for blending with other grapes, primarily Merlot to add appealing fruit tones, without sacrificing character. Cabernet Sauvignon is best served at 59-64F, and pairs wonderfully with red meats, lamb, cheeses of strong flavor and dark chocolates.

Cotes du Rhone

Southeastern France's Rhone Valley produces some of that country's best bargain red wines offering good flavor, generally full-bodied with rich but smooth tanins, with plenty of food pairing options. Grenache, Syrah and Viognier are the primary varietals grown in the region. Red and rosé wines are made from Grenache Noir, Syrah, Cinsault, Carignane, Counoise and Mourvèdre grape varieties. With the exception of Northern wines using a majority of Syrah, product must contain a minimum of 40% Grenache to be blended into the Côtes du Rhône. Best served at 59-64F and pairs well with game and other rich meat dishes.

Malbec

Originating from Bordeaux France, Malbec is generally a grape used for blending. In the sun-drenched climate of Argentina, Malbec has found renewed appreciation and acclaim and has become Argentina's signature grape producing a medium to full-bodied red wine. Malbec wine is reminiscent of ripe fruit flavors of plums and blackberry jam. The tannins are typically a bit tight with an earthy, wood appeal making for a fairly rustic wine that is quickly making a new name for itself with red wine lovers. Malbec is best served at 59-64F and pairs well with tomato-based sauces, Italian fare, red meat, Mexican, Cajun, and Indian dishes.

Merlot

A soft, medium-bodied red wine with juicy fruit flavors reminiscent of plums, cherries, blueberries and blackberries mixed with black pepper tones. Tannin levels are fairly low. Merlot is a prime wine for consumers just getting into red wines. Merlot originated from the Bordeaux region of France and is often blended with other varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Blending Merlot with these wines mellows and softens the Cabernets. Merlot wines are very versatile with food pairings and are best served at 55- 60F degrees and enjoyed with poultry, red meat, pork, pastas, and salads.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a lighter flavored and colored red wine with flavors reminiscent of plums, tomatoes, cherries and red berries and, depending on the varietal's growing conditions, an earthy or wood flavor. Pinot Noir is planted in California, Oregon, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, and other regions around the world. You are likely to pay a little more for Pinot Noir because it is produced in smaller quantities than most of the other popular red wine types. Pinot Noir is a versatile food wine best served at 55-60F, pairing well with spicy seasonings, creamy sauces, beef, ham, lamb, pork, poultry and fish.

Sangiovese

Italy's most commonly planted red grape varietal predominantly producing the popular wines Chianti and Chianti Classico, wines of medium- to full-body with a tannin structure range from medium-soft to firm, and a medium to high acidity content. Flavors associated with Sangiovese wines are reminiscent of cherry, plum, strawberry, cinnamon and vanilla with a finish that can range from elegant to bitter. Best served at 59-64F, Sangiovese varietal wine pairs well with chicken, red meat, fish, lamb, pork, pastas, stews or well-aged cheeses

Shiraz/Syrah

Australia and South Africa call it Shiraz. In France, it is known and grown as Syrah, but it happens to be the same grape varietal that produces a deep-purple color and bold, spicy, red, medium- to full-bodied wines with firm tannins with rich flavors reminiscent of black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate and smoked meat. Best served at 59-64F, Shiraz/Syrah pairs wonderfully with spicy Mexican, Cajun and barbeque dishes, grilled fare, beef stews, red meats, even pizza and meat lasagna.

Zinfandel

California's #2 most widely planted red wine grape. Originating in Croatia, not southern Italy as previously thought, where it is a kin to the Primitivo grape . DNA "fingerprinting" recently proved that both Zinfandel and Primitivo are clones of the same grape. California is the largest grower of Zinfandel and produces various styles, ranging from a blackberry and black pepper, to light and juicy-fruity, to rich, elegant, oaked red with medium to high tannin levels and higher alcohol content. "Zin" is frequently blended with other grapes. Best served at 59F, Zinfandel pairs well with grilled red or white meat, fish, lamb, gorgonzola cheese and dark chocolate. Lighter Zinfandels can also pair well with rich, creamy pastas, rotisserie chicken, duck, baked Italian dishes like lasagna, cannelloni and Cajun to Asian fare.

We created http://www.yourloveofwine.com/ because we passionately want to share with those with an interest the art, science, and physical and psychological aspects of the wine tasting experience. An experience without pretension which both the novice and seasoned wine lover can enjoy and appreciate.

Some of the most exquisite wine experiences are made by passionate vintners creating wines with more styles and tastes than ever could be imagined and YourLoveOfWine can take you on a wondrous journey, tracking down some truly exciting wines to bring to your door when you need them. Our mission is to deliver a greater online wine buying value than you will find anywhere through the combination of our outstanding customer service, depth of product offerings, value pricing and commitment to online wine buyers' satisfaction.

Including 8 DIFFERENT WINE CLUBS (one for EVERY TASTE and BUDGET), the best of the elite Red and White Wines, Gift Baskets, Glassware, Wine Openers and Charms. See our selection of Quality Wine Racks at http://www.YourLoveOfWine.com/wineracks.php

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Jay

Most Popular Fruit Wines

2008-08-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

By Lindsay Alston

Fruit wines are unique wines since they are not made from grapes. They have adopted the nickname 'something' wines, since the word wine is legally defined as a drink made only from grapes. The definition of fruit wines is "fermented alcoholic beverages made from a variety of ingredients other than grapes and having a variety of flavors." Fruit wines can be made from any adequately sweet fruit. It can also be made by the addition of sugar or honey from other and many plant supplies, which are not fruits. In Great Britain, the phrase 'country wine' is the common name for fruit wines.

There are a couple of foods, besides grapes, that have a balance quantity of sugar, acid, tannin, nutritive salts for yeast and water to produce "a stable, drinkable wine." There must be enough natural sugar to support a "satisfactory fermentation and provide bacteriological stability through sufficient ethanol content," then the winemaker adds regular sugar, honey, or sweet sap that has been taken from trees. If the food is too acidic then sugar and water maybe added to water-down the acidity. You may also have to add more tannin or acid to balance out the taste. It may be added as chemicals, or by adding a balance fruit such as crabapples, raisins, or dates to the unbalanced base.

Plum wine is one example of a fruit wine. It is a popular wine drunk in Japan and Korea. It is also produced in Japan. Another example of fruit wines are pineapple wines. Pineapple wine is made of pineapple juice. The fermentation of the pineapple juice takes place in temperature controlled containers and is stopped when it is almost dry. The end result is a soft, dry and fruity wine with an obvious pineapple bouquet. "It is made in Hawaii by the Tedeschi Vineyards called 'Maui Blanc' located in Ulupalakua, Maui-Hawaii, on the slopes of Haleakala." Its alcohol content is 11.5% by volume. The next example of a fruit wine is pomace wine. It is made from grape pomace. Because of its generally low quality and alcohol content, it can not be stored for long, and generally distilled into pomace brandy.

There are many ways to produce fruit wines. All of which do not have anything to do with grapes. There are many different types of fruit wines, with different flavors that would appeal to your liking.

Lindsay Alston is a contributing editor for Classic Wines, specializing in fruit wines

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lindsay_Alston

Wine - A Comprehensive Study

2008-08-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

By Martin Rusett

To the purist, wine is an alcoholic drink made from the fermentation of grapes. Grapes have a property of fermentation without the addition of any enzymes, sugars, acids or other elements. Wine is produced after the fermentation of crushed grapes using different types of yeasts that consumes sugar found in grapes and converts that sugar into alcohol. Wine can be made using almost any fruit and a number of vegetables too. The resultant wine is usually named according to its principle ingredient.

Types of Wines

According to number of grapes species used in wine making, there are two types of wine:

1. Varietal Wines - The wine, which is made primarily from fermentation of a single grape variety, is known as Varietal Wine. You can identify the type of grapes used in making of a particular varietal wine from printed label. One fine example of a varietal wine is Red Burgundy, made after fermentation of the single variety of 'Pinot Noir' grapes.

2. Blended Wines - Blended Wines are made from fermentation of two or more varieties of grapes. Example of blended wine is Red Bordeaux, known in the UK as 'Claret', which is blended from of up to five varieties of grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot.

Blended wines are in no way inferior to varietal wines. Some of the world's most valued and expensive wines, like those of Bordeaux depend on the blend to ensure their outstanding qualities.

Vintage Wine

Vintage wines are made from grapes grown in a single year, which will be specified on the label. The percentage of grapes used in making vintage wine can vary according to the country of origin. In US, it's mandatory for a vintage wine to contain at least 95% of wine volume from grape varieties harvested in that single year, if it's labeled with country of origin. Whereas if it is not labeled with country of origin then the limit is reduced to 85% of wine made of grapes grown in a single year. These wines are generally bottled in a single batch to maintain similar taste in each bottle. The price of vintage wines is generally higher than that of non-vintage wines but price should not be relied on as an indication of quality.

Winelines was founded by Martin de Rusett, an established Wine Merchant and lecturer in London. The Company aims to expose the mystery that surrounds wine tasting as well as wine making, storing and serving, in order to educate and entertain. For more information visit: Winelines

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Rusett

Understanding the Differences With Red Wines

2008-08-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

By Mike Selvon While the average person may assume that all red wines are the same, the differences actually extend far beyond the label on the bottle. With over 50 main varieties of reds available, the colors can range from light red and ruby red to deep purple. There are even some varieties that are almost black in color. Of course, the flavors are as varied as the hues and can include fruity flavors or flavors that have a hint of tobacco. For the non-expert, the best way to develop an appreciation for red wine is to learn more about it. The color and flavor of red wines is a combination of the wine making process and the variety of grapes used. Grapes used to make reds range from deep red to purple to blue and the skins are left on during fermentation. The skins contribute to the varieties of color and, along with the grape seed, determine the amount of tannins in the finished product. The longer the skins are left in contact with the fermenting grapes, the deeper the color and the higher the tannin content. Reds with the highest tannin content are considered full-bodied, like Cabernet, while lower tannin content gives medium-bodied Merlot or light-bodied Beaujolais. The fruity reds, which are named because of their flavor not because there is any sweetness, have the lowest tannin content of all the reds. Simply creating color. The grape skin contains flavenoids, which are well-known for their antioxidant properties, and it is passed on from skins to liquid during fermentation. As a result, the fuller the body of the wine, the amount of flavenoids will be much higher. Four ounces of a full-bodied red each day helps lower bad cholesterol, raise good cholesterol and reduce clotting. The flavenoids are also thought to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells, as well as helping nerve cell formation, which can help prevent the onset of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Some people seem to have the mistaken belief that the only difference between the red wines and the whites is the color, or that the difference between types of reds is merely what is on the label of the bottle. Such beliefs fail to recognize the subtle variations of color, flavor and aroma that have been perfected by wine makers. In reality, the differences in the wines begin with the grapes and continue through the wine making process. Knowing the subtleties of the variations leads to a much a greater appreciation of them. Visit Mike Selvon portal for more information on red wines, and leave a comment at our wine tours blog. Don't forget to claim your FREE gift. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Selvon

Selecting the Right Wine For That Special Occasion

2008-08-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

By Mary Swanson Choosing the perfect wine really depends upon personal tastes. You can do research on the various vineyards, what was a good year for a particular wine, etc. but the bottom line is what do you like. We have listed a few things to look for in a really great wine below to try to make your next purchase a successful one. 1. White Wines: A white wine is a great choice to serve with hors d'oeuvres as your guests are arriving. A white wine has a light, fresh flavor that won't interfere with the main dish. The Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, and a good Chablis are all good choices. Ask your local wine merchant what he or should would suggest. They will let you sample some upon request. A sparkling white wine such as the Rolls Royce of wines the champagne are reserved for those very special occasions such as a wedding, anniversary or engagement party. Again, you may want to ask the local wine connoiseuer what would be just perfect for the event. 2. Red Wines: A good red wine is great anytime, but when considering which wine to serve with a particular meal, a red is normal chosen for the heartier meals of beef, pork or lamb. A good Merlot, Burgundy, or Cabernet would all be perfect choices. A really nice red wine produced mostly in Oregon is the Pinot Noir. With its blend of plum, vanilla and blackberry flavors it would be a nice addition to any meal. The peppery flavor of the Shiraz would be a great accompaniment to spicy Mexican or Italian meal. This is another wine that would also go well with a meal of beef or pork. A Chianti is a perfect choice for a hearty lasagna or spaghetti dinner. You do not have to spend a lot to get a good Chianti. Who can resist those cute little bottles wrapped in the basket weave? If you are serving a tender rib roast, tenderloin steak, Chateaubriand, filet mignon, or tournedos of beef, a robust Burgundy would be just the ticket. The main thing when hosting a dinner party is to have several choices in wines. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to wines. We have offered a few guidelines of which wines would compliment a particular meal. It is also fun to introduce your friends to a new and unusual wine they may not have tasted before. You may enjoy making your own wine. You could start with one of the fruit wines. They are relatively easy to make and go great with desserts. Wouldn't your guests be impressed. Visit a fruit wine making website for some recipes. Get the the latest information on wine visit Fruit Wine Making as well as Selecting The Right Wine. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Swanson

Some Simple Tips About How to Make Homemade Wine

2008-08-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

By Drew Brown In our quick evolving world where information and technology have made an enormous progress the old processes often are lost, we know how to produce in the quickest way and with the least amount of money and traditional production manners are treated as meaningless. Luckily there is a growing group of people who like to do things the old fashion way. They are learning how to make homemade wine, brew their own beer and make their own beverages. If you want to be part of this growing group of enthusiastic people and instead of buying at stores make homemade wine your self you have stumbled upon the right article. It has become easier the last few years, there are different kits available to make homemade wine which you can buy online and often also in your local department store. These kits guide you through the steps of making wine yourself. They do vary in complexity so you better ask some advise before you buy one of them. Its is best to start simple and when you have more experience use the more complex kits. What do you need to make homemade wine? Most of the required equipment will already be available in your kitchen, but there are some thing that you will probably need to buy like preservative (sulfur dioxide), a water seal, a fermentation container, siphon and yeast. You can buy these things new at a home brew store, your local department store or online. They are usually part of a wine making kit. But when you do not know if you are going to like it to make homemade wine it is also an option to buy used equipment online. A very basic description of a wine making process It all depends on the recipe you are going to follow, when you buy a wine making kit we advise you to use the recipe that comes in the box. If you are going to do without a kit, we advise you to look online for a good recipe. In general the process of how to make homemade wine goes as follows: - make sure you have all the ingredients like wine grapes, yeast, wheat, eggs and sugar. (follow your recipe) - crush the washed grapes in an earthen jar with lid. - the egg whites need to be whipped - add all the ingredients, the sugar and the egg whites to the grapes, stir and close the lid tightly. - stir the contents daily for three weeks and make sure you close the lid every day. - then let the mixture stand for three weeks without stirring. - strain the clear wine with a nylon cloth Very important tip: sanitation Every website you will read, every book you buy, every recipe that will come with a kit to make homemade wine, will stress the importance of sanitation because a single bacteria can ruin your whole batch of wine. And you will have done all this hard work for nothing. Not only the ingredients should be treated as clean as you can but also the utensils and the work space where you make homemade wine. Drew Brown has one hobby, home made beer brewing and he loves to share it with the world. He just loves to brew his own beverages. On his website he tells you all about wine kits or home made beer Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Drew_Brown

How Are Sparkling Wines Made?

2008-08-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

The world of sparkling wines, or champagne, as it is also incorrectly called, is pretty exciting. Most events that sparkling wine is used for are those of celebration. Celebrations such as parties, promotions and fancy dates many times will use it to mark the event. For this reason, champagne is seen as the party wine. The origin of sparkling wine is almost as fun and interesting as drinking it itself and the process of making this type of wine is exciting as well. It is a common wine legend that sparkling wines were created by accident. Supposedly, some monks from Champagne, France discovered the method because they incorrectly fermented some wine. When they uncorked it, it had that bubbly appearance and they thought it was spoiled. It actually took years for champagne making to be recognized as a intentional process, rather than a mistake. The old way of making sparkling wine was through temperature changes. The wine was cooled below fermenting temperature before all the sugar turned into alcohol. It was then reheated later on to the fermenting temperature, which created the carbon dioxide reaction that forms the sparkling bubbles. Real champagne one only comes from Champagne, France and a group of localized wineries there. Any other winery that claims to make champagne is faulty unless they actually use grapes that are specifically from Champagne. The process of making sparkling wine has stayed pretty much the same throughout the years. The process has become modernized, but for the most part retains the spirit of the old ways. The first step in making champagne and sparkling wines is to pick the grapes over a period of time so that every grape is at its ripest. Sometimes, different grapes from different vineyards are used to retain the best qualities of each variety. The grapes are then pressed and stored, usually in stainless steel barrels to ferment. This is done over a period of at least three weeks, until all the sugar is turned into alcohol. It is then separated from the bits that sunk to the bottom of the barrels and is transferred to other barrels, sometimes wood, to ferment longer or is mixed in with older wines to retain a particular flavor. For the second fermentation, extra sugar and yeast is put in with the wine to make the bubbly texture. And that is how it is made! There are many different kinds of sparking wines and they are all made a little differently, but the basic process is the same. So that is a brief overview of how sparkling wines were created and how they are made. There are so many different kinds of sparkling wine, that it would be impossible to name them all in one article. Visit a wine club or indulge in some books for more information. Just remember, a sparkling wine is not true champagne unless it comes from Champagne, France. Visit Mike Selvon portal for more information on sparkling wines, and leave a comment at our wine tours blog. Don't forget to claim your FREE gift. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Selvon

GEMSTONE GLOBE WINE BOTTLE STOPPERS-SET OF 3

2007-05-24T16:02:00.001-07:00

GEMSTONE GLOBE WINE BOTTLE STOPPERS-SET OF 3 Do you never know what to get people for birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions or holidays? If you answered ‘yes’ then maybe you should consider buying a wine gift online. Giving wine as a gift to someone can be just the pick me up that they needed or just a thoughtful gift in their minds. Here are some things to know when buying a wine gift online: Anytime you buy a wine gift online, make sure you know what category the wine is placed in. •Table wine – table wine has less then fourteen percent alcohol in it and come in two forms: white and red, depending on what color they are. Table wine is also the least expensive wine you could buy, and thus will not come with a label that tells you what region the wine was from. •Sparkling Wine – A sparkling wine is one that has had carbon dioxide added to it through fermentation. In a way, sparkling wines are fermented twice: once when the bottle is closed and the second time when it’s closed. Champagne is the most common example of a sparkling wine. •Dessert Wines – a dessert wine is a very sweet wine that comes with 50-400 grams of sugar, taken from grapes that have reached their optimal ripeness. •Fortifies Wines – this type of wine is sweeter and has a stronger alcohol content than regular wines because they are mixed with spirits to enhance the taste. •Cooking wine – this is by far the worst wine to drink sitting at a wedding or to relax. Cooking wine is packed with salt and is such a bad quality that it’s only reasonable use is to cook with it. This should only be given as a gift for someone who is interested in cooking; otherwise you may be looked at as a penny packer who doesn’t buy good things for people that you care about. As you can plainly see, buying a wine gift online doesn’t have to be hard as long as you know what kind of wine you need to buy. Once you pick out one of the wines in the above list, choosing the perfect wine for that special someone will be very easy. Not only can wine shopping be easy, it can also be fun! See what wines from foreign countries you can find that are considered obscure. Who knows? Maybe your favorite wine will come from New Zealand! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mikee_Dunn

Metrokane Rabbit Wine Opener Gift Set, Silver

2007-05-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

A great gift for a wine lover, this powerful, award-winning tool effortlessly extracts the cork from any wine bottle in 3 seconds with simple lever action. Handles with comfortable rubberized padding easily clamp onto a bottle's neck; the lever drives the tough worm into the cork with a push and then pulls the cork out cleanly with a simple pull. Releasing the cork involves the same action, only with the handles clamped onto the cork. Ruggedly constructed of polycarbonate and reinforced nylon, the cork puller has the heft of a fine, precise high-tech tool and comes by its name, Rabbit, because it resembles a bunny's head. Metrokane corkscrews are independently tested for 20,000 cork pulls; tests assume replacement of the spiral after 1,000 pulls. This model of the Rabbit has a velvety, silver finish, as do the four tools accompanying it. The tools include a squeeze-and-twist foil cutter to strip away the foil covering a cork, a drip-stop ring that fits onto any size wine bottle to prevent stains on table linen, a sealer that twists so tightly into any size bottle's neck it preserves even Champagne bubbles, and a "wax whacker" that flips the wax tablet off a wine cork. Also included is a replacement worm--the installed worm wears out after 20,000 or so corks. The Rabbit and tools all fit snugly into a padded storage case with a hinged lid. The cork puller carries a 10-year warranty against failure. --Fred Brack

Winsome Wood 24-Bottle

2007-05-24T15:48:00.000-07:00

Winsome Wood 24-Bottle Beechwood Wine Rack/Glass Holder Price:$84.99 Calling all oenophiles (if you know this word, you're truly a wine lover)! Is your collection of Italian varietals and Chilean reds growing but your storage space isn't? Winsome Wood's 24-bottle wine rack/glass holder offers compact and economical (read: save your pennies for a new Chardonnay) housing for your favorite vintages and their stemware. Stacked four rows high and six holders across with the glass-hanging rack above, this solid beechwood stand capitalizes on its vertical design that also makes it the perfect height for the serving countertop. Light and airy, this rack doesn't take up much visual space either--so it's more about adding ambiance than heavy bulk. The rack measures approximately 36 wide by 16 inches deep by 32 inches high; easy assembly is required. --Kara Karll

HVT12ABS 12-Bottle

2007-05-20T03:25:00.000-07:00

Haier HVT12ABS 12-Bottle-Capacity Table-Top Wine Cellar, Black with Silver Trim Price: $99.99 HVT12ABS 12-Bottle Description This ultra-quiet wine cellar from Haier America is the ideal way to keep your favorite wines chilled. Store up to 12 bottles of red wines and white wines at the perfect temperature. Features a silver-trimmed, double pane insulated door with a recessed handle. The elegant black interior houses 3 full chrome wire storage racks. Product Description Up to 12 Bottle Capacity / Double Pane Insulated Glass Door with Silver Trim / Adjustable Thermostat Control / Ultra Quiet Thermo Electric Cooling

Fruit and Wine - Delicious and Elegant Gift Baskets

2007-03-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

By Anne Clarke Sometimes deciding what to bring to an event or what kind of gift to give someone for a present is absolutely stumping. However, it is often really simple to satisfy virtually anyone with a gift basket. Because so many people love wines, and because certain fruits seem to go perfectly with certain wines – a fruit and wine basket is definitely an idea to consider. People also love wine and cheese baskets, as well as wine baskets with pastries etc. You could even create a unique combination of the above for the perfect gift basket to best suit your needs for the occasion, event or individual. For example: have a nice array of fruit pastries with a few types of cheese and a bottle of wonderfully aged white chardonnay or perhaps a merlot with several cheeses and cheese pastries. You could even include a little of everything – as well as fresh fruits such as a bunch of grapes and a few strawberries that make a delicious treat, as well as a colorful garnish for your basket. As you may have gathered, often you can custom design your gift baskets especially to fit virtually any circumstances. A birthday for a loved one, an anniversary present, an anniversary party, a corporate party, or even an intervention . . . ok, just kidding, but a fresh fruit and wine gift basket may be perfect for even a pot—luck event. Many wine enthusiasts love fresh fruits to savor along with the flavor of high quality wines. And there are delicious fresh fruits, pastries, cheeses and candies of virtually all kinds that will go perfect in a gift basket for your friends and family members, or for anyone else, for that matter. A fresh fruit gift basket would be a great idea for a bigger event as well, and there are many kinds of fruit and wine gift baskets that may be a great answer to your problem. When you know what will surprise them, what their particular tastes are, or even a little less you can still find the perfect gift basket. When you purchase or custom design a fresh fruit and wine gift as a present you can (for lack of a better phrase) put all your ideas in one basket. The cost of your gift basket will vary, obviously, depending on the situation. If you know that a wine gift basket will work perfectly for any specific event but you are unfamiliar with wines in general, do not worry. There are, of course, pre-designed wine and fresh fruit gift baskets that are available by professional wine enthusiasts (and experts in the art of wine tasting) for your convenience. Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching, gardening, and fashion. For more of her articles on fruit and wine gifts, please visit freshfruitbaskets.net, supplier of high quality Thank You Fruit Baskets and Holiday Fruit Baskets. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

How To Taste Wine

2007-03-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

By Bob Enslein Often times, I will be at a wine tasting, or even out with friends, and they say “How am I supposed to taste the wine?” I suppress the urge to say something silly, and tell them to do the “Five S’s” to taste the wine. The “ Five S’s” are relatively simple: Swirl, Sniff, Sip, Swish and Spit (or Swallow). By thinking about these five steps, the tasting of wine can become a vastly different experience. The first “S” is Swirl. Doing this adeptly and not spilling wine everywhere takes some practice. The first few times you try, most likely you will feel a bit awkward, and hope not to toss some wine on whomever you are tasting with (and yes, pretty much everyone has done this, so don’t feel too badly. Just try not to aim for the person wearing white). The proper way to hold a white wine glass is by the stem, as not to heat the wine with your 98.6 degree paws, and red can be held by the bulb of the glass, but again, Red is better at a cooler temperature than what your body emits. The idea of swirling the wine is to move your glass in small clockwise or counter-clockwise circles, so that the wine moves around in the glass. The reason for doing this is to let the wine come in more contact with the air. By swirling, you initiate more quickly the oxidation process of the wine. Tilt the glass towards you and also away from you and look at the color of the wine. What do you see (and no, this is not the time to comment on the “Legs” of the wine. Legs gives you more of an indication of the alcohol content of the wine.)? Make note in your mind about what you see in the color of the wine. After swirling the wine around the glass for a few seconds, lift the glass to your nose and smell the wine. This is giving another one of your senses a chance to get in touch with the wine. Think about what you smell when you “sniff” the wine. Do you smell Plums? Flowers? Wet dog? All of these things are important. And most likely, the wine that smells like wet dog is bad (skunked, TCA, cooked or just plain terrible), and you won’t want to drink it. Now comes the next “S”: Sipping the wine. Take a little wine in your mouth, and head right into “S” number four: Swish. Let the wine hit all parts of your mouth. What do you taste? Where on your palette do you taste what attributes of the wine? Also, try to let a little air into your mouth while you have the wine on your palette. Allowing the oxidation process to occur in your mouth can give you a very different perspective on the wine. You will likely make some slurping noises the first time you try this, and possible dribble some on your chin, but after a little practice, you will get the hang of it. Think about how the wine feels in your mouth, what you taste, and any other senses, feelings or emotions you come up with while you are swishing around. Now comes the deciding moment? Do I Spit or Swallow? If you are tasting a lot of wines, spitting may be the route to go, especially if you are driving. The drunker you are, the harder it is to make a good assessment, or comprehensible one for that matter. Michael Affatato, ebullient winemaker of the beautiful Right Bank Bordeaux (wine and property) Chateau La Gatte says: “I spit, I just spit in my stomach.” To each their own, but after spitting or swallowing, think about how long you taste the wine in your mouth. Count how many seconds you still feel the wine, and that is the finish. If you count 10-15 seconds, that is a long finish. If you don’t taste it right after you swallow it, then that wine has a short finish or no finish. Try to be as descriptive as possible each step of the way while tasting a wine. In doing so, you will start to learn what you like and don’t like in wines, giving you a better chance of getting what you want the next time you are in a store or restaurant. Tasting wine is not complex, and can be more fun when you understand what turns you on about each wine. Happy tasting! Robert E. Enslein, Jr., is Managing Member of Brix Wine Vault, LLC, a wine storage company based in New York City. Brix is a professional quality wine storage facility that serves individuals, retailers, restaurants as well as wholesale customers. Learn more at http://www.brixwinevault.com/

Serving Wine? Temperature Does Matter

2007-03-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

If wine is not served at the right temperature it could severely hinder the taste and experience of the drink. When wine however is served at the right temperature the wine gains a balance and a taste that is unmatched. Perfect is the way that wine should be and most often times our wine is not perfect. In fact to often its far from it and many people really never know the difference.Red wine are best served just slightly below room temperature or around 67-68 degrees. When red wine is served too warm it develops a strong alcohol taste and the real taste of the wine has all but vanquished. White wine are served best just slightly below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and when cooled properly it has a fresh clean fruit flavor that seems to be full of life. If white wine is chilled incorrectly it will taste weak and lifeless and as though the flavor has faded and dulled.The easiest and fastest way to serve wine at the right temperature isn't putting it in the freezer for 10 minutes as some would have you believe. Please do not kill your wine by freezing it unless you really want to see all the flavor wave on its way out the door. What you should do is fill an ice bucket equal parts full of water and ice. Then simply submerge the bottle of wine into the bucket just to the base of the neck. If you do not have an ice bucket I really suggest getting one they are very inexpensive and well worth it. If you are having dinner with guests this weekend and don't have one then just grab a large bowl and use the steps above to chill the wine to the right temperature. White wines need to be chilled in the ice bucket between 20-25 minutes and should be served immediately after opening. Red wine should be chilled for about 15-16 minutes and they to should be served immediately upon opening. Another easy and helpful way to chill wine to the right temperature is to have a wine cellar. You can get a wine cellar for a few hundred dollars that can hold about 24 bottle of wine or spend a lot more and get one that can hold an entire collection. This option is not for everyone but something to consider. On a wine cellar you set the temperature of the wine to the exact temperature you wish to store it at and when you are ready to drink simply uncork, decant and enjoy.A very important tool to have especially when you are entertaining guests is a long probe wine thermometer. When you un-cork the bottle of wine you can insert the thermometer to see how close to being ready to serve it is. Once its ready you can either serve the wine in a decanter or pour for your guests. Once you have plenty of practice you will no longer need a thermometer as you'll be able to tell when your wine is cool enough by the feel of the bottle. I like to compare this to learning how to grill a steak. When you grill a steak for the first time its never right and the way you want it. After you've grilled steak for a few years you'll be able to serve it to that perfect shade of pink you like time after time. Cooling wine is the same way(minus the fire and charcoal) tools will help but eventually you won't need them anymore and will serve the perfect bottle of wine every time. By: Michael S Brown Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Chooseing wine

2007-03-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

Simone Koger Have you ever decided to buy a bottle of wine, only to find yourself in the wine section later on, with either a panic beginning to grip you (if you’re prone to panic) or a catatonic state descending upon you (if you’re prone to catatonia)? I have. The word “wine” is cruelly deceiving, as those four letters must suffice to describe every single beverage made from fermented grapes. The key is to take a deep breath and learn how the world of wine is divided into fairly neat categories. Whether you’re looking for a new bottle to try in a style you already like or exploring new territory, it’s very helpful to have a basic framework in which to categorize your wine knowledge. Luckily for us, in recent years, a group of MW’s (Masters of Wine) has been working with scientists at the University of California at Davis to make wine easier to understand. In numerous tastings, they found that people often use the words “mild” to “strong” to categorize a wine. From this point of departure, we can begin to organize everything we learn into neat groups called Anchor Wines. Mild sweet (light body) Example: White Zinfandel Mild white (light body) Example: Sauvignon Blanc Strong white (full body) Example: Chardonnay Mild Red (light body) Example: Pinot Noir Strong Red (full body) Example: Cabernet Sauvignon If you’ve never chosen wines before, your first choices will be shots in the dark, but you’ll soon find out what suits your palate, and you’ll be on your way to exploring. Each new wine will reveal characteristics and you’ll be able to place it within one of the anchor wine categories. This will help tremendously when you begin to pair foods with wines and organize wine tastings. In closing, remember that the wine experience is very personal. It is a combination of genetics, culture and experience. For example, about 25% of the population is highly sensitive to bitter compounds (66% of that 25% are women) while 25% can’t sense the same compounds. Some wines may be more special to you if you drink them in ideal settings, such as with a lover on the coast of Provence! The more you drink a particular wine, such as Tawny Port, you may grow fond of it. So, if a wine doesn’t taste good to you, don’t drink it. If it does, by all means, drink it! VinoWineOnline.com is dedicated to providing the finest wines and up-to-date information on wine and food. http://www.VinoWineOnline.com http://ezinearticles.com/?Choosing-Wine&id=475928

Wine Tasting Party

2007-03-20T06:08:00.000-07:00

By Indra Books Do you have to be a sommelier to know something about wine? Well, if you want to tout yourself as an expert, perhaps but if you just want to enjoy a good glass of wine, go with your gut - or rather your mouth - and enjoy what tastes good to you. So, why not host a wine tasting party? Now before you hit the panic button, get uptight and claim to know nothing about wine, stop! We aren't proposing you sit around discussing bouquet and barrel fermenting. We want you to have a little fun. You can buy wine tasting party kits from various sources on the internet and local shops. Don't want a kit? Here's what you need: Guests - think about whom you know that likes and drinks wine and keep the numbers small A few bottles of wine that you think you might like - both red and white. Depending on the size of the crowd plan on 2 bottles of each type. Or for an added twist, ask your guests to each bring 2 bottles of their favorite wine. If you do this you will need them to email or phone you with the wine information ahead of time. Printed wine tasting cards that list the wines you purchased with some information from the bottle Pencils in case guests want to make notes about their favorites Wine glasses. We recommend 2 per person. One for tasting and one for later Plain saltine or oyster crackers for guests to cleanse their palates Still (plain) water for rinsing Some good music, good conversationalists and a sense of fun! If you want to add an extra flare to the party, why not serve a variety of champagnes instead. Have friends bring cava, prosecco, sparkling wine and champagne instead of a red or white wine. At the end of the event, serve some crackers/bread, cheese and fruit or some other small/light appetizers and offer each guest a glass of his/her favorite wine. Wine charms are a fun thing to introduce at this point. Each person can pick her/her own and attach to the glass. Put on some music and enjoy the company. However, above all things, drink and serve responsibly! Indra A Books, author of this and many other lifestyle articles is the owner and founder of ON THE GO 4 U, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The company’s creed is to provide its clients with the ultimate life management experience. In addition to its shopping and concierge services, ON THE GO 4 U also publishes a monthly e-zine and conducts workshops on wardrobe, entertaining and decorating. For more information about the author and ON THE GO 4 U, please visit http://www.onthego4u.net http://ezinearticles.com/?Wine-Tasting-Party&id=34953

Your Wine Collection is Who You Are

2007-03-20T05:41:00.000-07:00

by michael brown What is in your wine cabinet or wine cellar? What do you collect and how many bottles of wine do you collect? Wine collecting and drinking can be a form of art that many people take seriously as well they should. Think about how many hobbies exist in the world is wine drinking any different? Yes and no would probably be the most appropriate way to answer that. Wine collecting is a hobby but it also represents a life style and that life style is what you make it. Your wine collection defines who you are by what you make it out to be. If you are a serious collector and panic if someone even touches your collection or if you break a bottle by accident and don't care that is still who you are. You could collect every bottle of wine from an individual winery or the top 100 wine list for any given. Although I still hope that you are drinking some of your collection and not just hording it so that one day it will be useless. What good is a bottle of wine if you cannot enjoy it at one point. There is however a sweet reward in drinking a wine that has aged longer than some of our children because its been groomed and nurtured for its life and is ready. Now I'm not saying you should kill your wine collection every week either by drinking 80% of your stash but to drink it in moderation or if an event calls for such a bottle opening. There is also no wrong way to collect wine again stating that your wine is yours and it is who you are. Make the most of your collection and do what you love to do with it. I myself love to come home at the end of the day or if I'd been gone all day and enjoy a fine wine and typically most of the bottle as I hate storing wine after its been opened because it damages the quality the longer it sits after being exposed to air. I know some people are fine with it but I am picky when it comes to that. However I will allow dust to gather on collected bottles of wine and that annoys some people. Basically as you probably have drawn a conclusion now of who you are with your wine collection you will see its perfectly fine to be the way you are with your wine। Be yourself and never adhere to someone else's rules because they say thats the right way to do things। However do listen when it make sense to. For instance never leave a bottle sitting without a stopper in the top of it or into a vacuum storage decanter. Now thats just sound advice and not a preference unless you love stale wine then by all means enjoy that. Make the most of what you love and what you prefer in your collection and enjoy what you are doing. If my hobbies ever became stressful I'd stop altogether. Just love what you are doing and be who you are with your wine collection. http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=433269

The secret of professional wine tasters.

2006-11-13T15:26:00.000-08:00

By: Bernard Bubman Wine S.O.S: the secret professional wine tasters don’t want you to have is yours for the taking! That’s right, cutting edge science has created an all natural answer to wine’s harmful side affects allowing you to taste the wine, swallow the wine and repeat without worrying about a hangover! Wine S.O.S helps balance the body’s internal chemistry to allow you to drink the wine at a wine tasting without waking the next day with a splitting headache. Wine contains non-alcoholic ingredients known as congeners which give each wine its unique and tasty characteristics. These congeners have been found to cause allergic reactions in some people and amplified the hangover affects in others and made every wine taster worry about swallowing the wine. Wine S.O.S has been specifically designed using all natural herbs in FDA approved laboratories to make it possible for you to taste your wine, swallow your wine and repeat without suffering the negative affects of the congeners in wine—GUARANTEED. That’s right, guaranteed. Wine S.O.S guarantees you will not feel a hangover the morning after a wine tasting or you will receive a full refund. So go out and do what your doctor recommends—enjoy a great glass of wine and let Wine S.O.S take care of you the next morning. http://www.articlepile.com/article11981.html