With this we drank two different Inflorescence Brut Blanc de Noirs , the 2008 and 2009. Jaime then served a squash risotto which which we paired with the 2004 Inflorescence Brut Blanc de Noirs La Parcelle. But this is the Aube, after all, and the warmer climate in this excellent vintage brings unusual nuance to Pinot wines. MORE >>

Red wine varietals that tend to benefit from a good bit of oak include: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinotage, Chianti, Zinfandel, Nebbiolo, Tempranillo and Syrah. White wine varietals that are receptive to oak’s influence include: Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and of course Chardonnay. MORE >>

In general, Gewurztraminer and Muscat make aromatic wines, whereas Riesling and Sylvaner are more mineral, and Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc are more about fresh fruit. I'm one of those weirdos who likes Gewurztraminer. It's true, so many of the wines are very bad - sweet and unbalanced, too viscous, devoid of subtlety, crude. MORE >>

thought about an Alsace Pinot Blanc, but that made me want to add eggs and cheese to the tart and eat it in January. In the oppressive heat and humidity of August in New York City, it is the simplest food that I crave. can't do the amazing things that my friend Peter , for example, does in the kitchen. have to keep things simple. MORE >>

This Crémant is mostly Riesling at about 70%, with some Auxerrois and Pinot Blanc in the blend too. 2004 Audrey et Christian Binner Crémant d'Alsace Extra Brut , $28, Jenny & François Selections. I'm a big fan of the wines from this Alsace estate. They are pure expressions of Alsace grape varieties and Alsace terroir. MORE >>