The NYT summarizes the effect of the recession on the California wine industry: “Brutal.&# Michael Broadbent, founder of the wine department at Christie’s, has sued Random House publisher of The Billionaire’s Vinegar ( buy on amazon ). Random House will defend the lawsuit. Image: The Daily Mail). SPIT: sales. LoHud ]. MORE >>

Summer fruits, like ripe peaches, juicy pineapple and honeysuckle all contribute to the nose on this white wine made with the delicate Viognier grape. Floral notes dominate the palate and finish with a refreshing kind of ginger ale sparkle. can recommend pairing this with a spicy Thai dish, shrimp or even lobster, and a bottle retails for about $1 MORE >>

The first meetup of The Wine Society of Queens was held this weekend at The Wine Room of Forest Hills , where we sampled over a dozen new wines from California, France, Argentina, Italy, Spain and even Georgia (Russia). At the tail end hints of tea leaves, bits of cedar, milk chocolate and roasted marshmallow finish of nicely. MORE >>

Well, I really didn't want to like this wine, simply because it was in a box (actually it's in a bag, in a box). But, the truth is. It has a freshness that is not easy to find these days in an everyday wine. It's touted to stay fresh for four weeks. Aromas of blackberries, raspberries, cedar, violets with hints of fresh baked pastries. alcohol MORE >>

Bottled by Crystal Valley Cellars in Yountville and blended from several different Syrahs from the area, this deep red gives up aromas of cassis, black currant, and dark berries. Flavors are full and complex, with exotic fruits like figs which make a great first impression on the palate. This is a winner in my book. MORE >>