Winemasters Founder, Allen Balik, contributes his thoughts in
The Wine Exchange for the Napa Valley Register
Who in the U.S. ever heard of Prosecco or Pinot Grigio just 25 or 30 years ago? Or who would have imagined the exploding trajectory of dry rosé over the last decade? And Cabernet Sauvignon was just a relative “blip” on the radar in Napa Valley until the 1950s when French Colombard and other varieties flourished.
Read MoreStructure is the roadmap to longevity and also a key in appreciating classic wines from the freshness of youth to their distinctive charm as they evolve with age.
Read MoreThe world of wine is an ever expanding space where the myriad of choice and availability has never been greater.
Read MoreThe effects of the pandemic on wine sales (and to some extent other alcoholic beverages) were staggering.
Read MoreDuring those early Cheers times, culinary pioneers Celestino Drago and Piero Selvaggio, had emerged onto the greater LA dining scene with authentic Italian cuisine and wines.
Read MoreWhile the gatherings may be smaller than in years past, hopefully, the food, fun and wines we enjoy are among the best ever.
Read MoreIf there ever was a “one size fits all” in wine, sparklers may be the answer.
Read MoreWines of greatness exhibit enticing aromatics, layered flavors, attractive mouthfeel, pristine balance and a well-defined structure to deliver a vinous character worthy of its place at the table.
Read MoreThe 2021 vintage is wrapping up in the widely diversified growing areas of the Northern Hemisphere. And while each grower, vintner and winemaker may have their own story, it generally seems quality is high and yields are low across the board.
Read MoreRed wines are fermented on their skins to extract color, aromatics, flavors and tannins. As fermentation begins, alcohol and CO2 are produced while the skins and seeds form a deep rigid “cap.”
Read MoreThe eastern portions of Quintessa were formed eons ago by immense mega slides off the then unstable Vaca Range, while the western side of the vineyard is influenced by proximity to the Napa River.
Read MoreThe last several years have proven disastrous for winegrowing regions both here and abroad.
Read MoreIn 1989, my wife Barbara and I launched, “A Culinary Evening with the California Winemasters” – a charity walk-around wine auction and dinner in Los Angeles to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s research and care programs.
Read MoreAs we enter fall, just ignore the familiar adage that rosés are only meant for summertime enjoyment.
Read MoreI have often used the term elegant in describing wines both in their youth and after spending significant time in the bottle.
Read MoreWhen looking at the scientific side of wine we must consider the entire scope of the grape’s journey from vine to bottle.
Read More“Tasting is both simple and highly complex. A child could do it [naturally, not with wine] and yet it’s a vast subject whose intricacies could fill many books. So how do you go about getting the most out of your wine glass?”
Read MoreFor some diners, the presentation of the wine list still brings a sense of intimidation often exacerbated by a “looming” presence of the sommelier and a feeling of trepidation for looking foolish by seeking assistance in making a selection.
Read MoreWhen conducting a formal tasting or merely enjoying a glass of wine with friends, I often hear a common question: “What is that I’m tasting?”
Read MoreThe 18th Amendment formally established the prohibition of production, sale and transport of “intoxicating liquors” in 1916 after Congress compromised on a six-year ratification deadline. This deadline was thought impossible to achieve by the anti-prohibition forces who were surprised and dismayed to see it completed in January 1919 and take effect in January 1920.
Read More
