Landscaping the front yard, new addition to rear of garage, new front window, total cleansing of the downstairs family room and about 6 million small task that somehow had to be done in seven days. Chardonnay was disappointing, but a review on the Sauvignon Blanc is coming up next post. This one was a bit different. MORE >>

Because of economic grants and the demands of the international market, many producers are blending with international varietals especially Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and to a lesser extent, Chardonnay. “Is there any Portuguese wine on the menu,&# I often ask when dining in New York City restaurants. About Lisbon. MORE >>

Marlborough, New Zealand's South Island seems to have a handle on Sauvignon Blanc. recently had a chance to sample a few along with a Chardonnay, Reisling and a Pinot Noir. Sarah is one of three winemakers at Cloudy Bay (teamed with Tim Heath and Nick Lane) in Blenheim, Marlborough, New Zealand. especially loved this one. MORE >>

If you live in or near New York City, and you like wine, here are some tastings that should not be missed: Dressner Selections Real Wine Attack 2007, March 22-24, FREE. These are producers who make "real" wine, not using wood chips, for example (a la the manipulation being heatedly discussed on Eric Asimov's blog right now). MORE >>

Brooklyn Uncorked is the annual showcase of Long Island wine and food that you should make a point of attending if you live in or near New York City. The Chardonnays are quite good, but the wines that stopped me in my tracks were the blends. Okay, no stars, unless you count Lenn or the location itself, BAM. Just my.02 MORE >>