We've reached about 50% veraison in our small plot of Merlot at Jaeger Vineyard just west of Big Ranch Road in Oak Knoll District. Overall the vineyard looks similar to last year, with a small crop of slowly ripening fruit very indicative of our Mount Veeder terroir. Our clone 181 is catching up slowly on last year. MORE >>

The landscape in this remote part of Uruguay is somewhat luner, yet it's the special terroir that makes the wines of Alto de la Ballena so good. You will find Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Vigonier here along with Tannat. Have you ever considered moving to what some people think is the 'end of the world?" 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? Yet before the art there is the wine. MORE >>

stopped by his tasting on Tuesday at Terroir Tribeca where the handful of new wines he’s importing were on display. Above – Patricia and Pierre Bernault from Chateau Beauséjour whose wines are now available in the US market for the first time as of five days ago. On the left, Pascal Collotte of Chateau Jean Faux. 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. What on earth are you thinking, pal?!? Try and see what you think MORE >>