From the French AOP of Languedoc, here is a blend of Carignan, Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Cinsault. Full bodied red, deep garnet colors, with aromas of dark fruit, blackberry, raspberry and spices, and some barnyard, dry on the tongue with medium plus tannins, more spice hints and a decent finish. SRP $10 and 12% alcohol. MORE >>

Clos de la Siete 2009 (Michael Roland). This is a luscious, full-bodied wine (50% Malbec, 30% Merlot, 10/10 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah) from Mendoza with a rich, ripe, perfumed nose of deep luscious black fruit, a very intense palate of dark fruit, very balanced tannin and acidity, and long finish with more dark rich ripe fruit. Great with steak. MORE >>

Much has been written and many debates take place about how to rate wine. It seems now that the 100 point scale is seen as "old guard," that it has not been effective at communicating a wine's quality. There are of course other rating systems, and their effectiveness is also debatable. But I do have some thoughts that I want to share. MORE >>

Is food-wine pairing dead? Never! And the same is true of our “impossible” pairings. So by request , we kick off 2012 with an easy one for you: grilled cheese. Yes, it’s comfort food. And, no, it’s not impossible as the bread-cheese duo is the basis of so many delicious staples from pizza to ravioli. How would you spin it? MORE >>

Merlot is another one of many wines that I can 'take it' or 'leave it.' Not very high on my list of favorites. So, I very seldom have any on hand and very seldom search this wine out when wine shopping. This past year, I have tried a few from Long Island, where Merlot seems to be king, but was not impressed. MORE >>