Very interesting tasting of Australian wines Susan Barros organized today for the first Wine Australia Tasting of 2011 -- Unusual Varietals and Classic Blends. have to say that after tasting these wines, I rushed to the office to break out my James Halliday "Wine Atlas of Australia!" How do the wines taste? Shiraz Blend. MORE >>

The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Peite Verdot and Malbec was again delightful. Felt real smooth in the mouth with taste of dark plums, cherry, some anise and spice. game I have not missed in 38 years. This one was another blend called Mercury Rising. Great way to end the night. MORE >>

We like to end the class in style: a giant edition of show and tell and taste. Each participant brings in a wine to present to the class, which means we get to taste about 25 wines that evening. The most recent session of my six-week introductory wine class at NYU wrapped up last week. It is an assignment! Good times! MORE >>

Conceived as a marriage between the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes, this Italian "SuperTuscan" has evolved over the years from a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon to more Merlot, which yields more plush, supple, luxurious wines. Isn't this art incredibly gorgeous? MORE >>

When I was thinking about writing this post I asked Bert of Wine Terroirs for his thoughts about Pineau des Charentes, and this is what he said: I'm not speaking for the whole of France but I think it's quite objective to say that Pineau des Charentes is quite out of fashion. These are the ones to taste, if you are curious. MORE >>