The weather is rapidly changing: one day, fall; the next day, snow! Here are two natural wines from France that have you covered. Arretxea, Irouleguy 2005 about $20. This hearty red pairs well with rich foods and cold weather. Although not big and boozy (only 12.5% Importer: Kermit Lynch. tried a bottle and loved it and went back for more. MORE >>

Made from the Pinot Gris grape in Oregon, pleasing fresh layers of kiwi, lychee, honeysuckle and ginger aromas unfold with tropical fruit flavors and ripe banana, lemon and floral notes. Showing a lively acidity and a very good structure and finish, Erath produced an appealing everyday white at the $14 range. MORE >>

Commonly neglected like the spinach on a child’s plate, Cabernet Franc is often accused of being too green, too herbaceous, or too vegetal—traits that are often the result of underripe grapes.  MORE >>

Last night, someone asked me, “what wine do you pair with fried food since I’m going to be having it for the next eight nights.&#. Let’s shed some light on the wine pairing for…latkes! Seems like a blank slate to me, starchy potato (with some onion, salt and pepper) simmered in olive oil. MORE >>

Always nice to return to the Finger Lakes with Shirley and friends for a day of wine tasting and stocking up the wine fridge for the holidays. This time it was our first visit to the "Deck the Halls" event on Seneca Lake. 30 participating wineries offering a food pairing and an ornament for a Xmas wreath made from grape vines. 14 (the west side). MORE >>