Champagne almost always comes from Chardonnay and/or Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier grapes. Dear Dr. Vino, I just discovered that champagne grapes are really tasty. bet they would pair well with champagne… Do they make Champagne or is that a marketing thing? It’s a marketing thing. MORE >>

As we tasterd his elegant Chardonnay (very lean and mineral) and Pinot Noir (extreme finesse and balance) with the different oyster preparations, he told me a bit about the quality decisions with regard to winemaking, such as low yields, green harvesting (trimming the unripe fruit so the plant can focus its energy on fewer grape clusters). MORE >>

Pablo Morande first planted vines in Casablanca Chile in 1982 where he introduced Chardonnay, Riesling and in 1986 the first Sauvignon Blanc. Emiliana Gran Reserva Novas Pinot Noir 2010 The first Vineyard to go organic, sustainable and biodynamic, Emiliana produces this expressive Pinot Noir. The rest is history. MORE >>

When RN74 opened a couple of years ago, Parr drew attention by saying that he wouldn’t carry pinot noirs or chardonnays over 14% alcohol. The NYT details that at a recent panel discussion and tasting about balance in pinot noir, Lee presented a 13% and a 15% pinot noir of his to the audience. MORE >>

The champagne in your glass likely is made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and/or Pinot Meunier grapes. For an artisanal Champagne, try the Camille Saves, Carte Blanche ($45), a blend of mostly pinot noir that makes for a delicious aperitif. Does champagne go to your head faster because of the bubbles? how to MORE >>