Mike Steinberger posted a synopsis earlier today of the recent policy transgressions , changes and general tone deafness at Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate. Check it out. And also be sure to check out, if you haven’t already, the lively discussions by the “purged and the disaffected&# over on Wine Berserkers ! MORE >>

I bought a lot of Oregon Pinot when I rediscovered wine about 6 years ago. My red wine palate has changed since then, moved away from overt fruit and concentration and towards transparency and intensity. still love Pinot, but moreso the wines of Burgundy, Cheverny in the Loire Valley, or the Jura. Are there Oregon Pinots that I enjoy today? 2002 St. MORE >>

This Merlot from Washington's Columbia Valley is made from grapes sourced from Cold Creek, Canoe Ridge and Wahluke Slope, and aged 15 months in American and French oak. Complex and fruit forward, this workhorse of a Merlot exhibits a bouquet of cola, plums and ripe blueberries along with plump flavors of black cherries, spices and leather. MORE >>

Yesterday, Leslie and I experienced a life-altering transformation at 20 Rockefeller Plaza, while imbibing at The Institute of Masters of Wine Annual Champagne Tasting, held at Christie’s. MORE >>

About half of the wines entered into at least three wine competitions bring home a gold medal. But of those winning a gold, 84 percent win no further medal at another competition. Thus, “winning gold medals may be more a matter of chance than a predictor of quality.&#. Links to abstract and full paper in pdf. MORE >>