Join Wine Spectator as we talk with winemakers, tromp through vineyards and, of course, taste some wine. We hope you'll enjoy each sip. Cheers!
Dinner with Suckling: Tuscany '04 vs. '05
Learn about Tuscany's 2005 and 2004 vintages with James Suckling, who hosted this tasting dinner at his home in Tuscany. Joining him were winemakers from Testamatta, Le Pupille, Badia a Coltibuono and Felsina.
Gigondas
Enjoy a tasting of two gorgeous Grenache blends from Gigondas with senior editor James Molesworth. Gigondas is only ten miles northeast of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and well worth a trip to the wine store if you like rich, perfumy reds.
Top '96 Shiraz
Does Australian Shiraz mature gracefully? When the conditions are right, some most certainly do. Join Harvey Steiman and learn about mature Shiraz wines as he describes his favorites from 1996.
Vosne-Romanée
Burgundy's village of Vosne-Romanée is home to six Grand Cru vineyards. Although these neighboring vineyards use Pinot Noir to make delicious wines, each makes distinct wines. Take a tour and learn why with Bruce Sanderson.
Pinot Paradise
The Russian River Valley is probably the best place to grow Pinot in California. What makes this Sonoma region so perfect for Pinot and what should you look for in the wines? Get the expert answers from Jim Laube, Dan Kosta and Michael Browne.
Cheese+Red Wine
Wine and cheese can make for happy pairings if you follow some basic guidelines for choosing the wine and the cheese. Join Harvey Steiman as he picks a Cabernet Sauvignon and then matches it with a couple cheeses.
Understanding Cheese: From Purchase to Plate
Learn how to buy, serve and store cheese as Wine Spectator features editor Owen Dugan takes you on a shopping expedition to Murray's, where he meets up with cheese guru and owner Rob Kaufelt.
Summer Pinks
What's the perfect wine for a hot summer afternoon? Pink, of course! They're crisp with berry fruit and spicy finishes. Kim Marcus describes a few of his favorites; two that are easy on the wallet and a surprising rose that will set you back $100.
Martini's Monte Rosso: Gnarly Zin Tour and Tasting
Buckle your seatbelts for a dusty drive around the Monte Rosso Vineyard with Mike Martini and Wine Spectator's Tim Fish. This is the vineyard where Martini grows grapes for his Gnarly Vine Zinfandel, which he and Tim taste after the tour.
CA Sauvignon Blanc: Young vs. Mature
What can you expect from a young Sauvignon Blanc from California? And how can a Sauvie change with time in the bottle? Join Wine Spectator's MaryAnn Worobiec to learn more about one of her favorite varietals.
Suckling Cooks: Pairing Pinot Grigio in the Garden
What's more fun than a leisurely lunch in the garden? When it is prepared by James Suckling and matched with one of his favorite Pinot Grigios from Alto Adige. (And, yes, that is James in the kitchen, along with his sidekick, Archie the Westie.)
The Keys to Great Wine Service
In any restaurant, wine service can make or break the dining experience. Whether you're a guest, a waiter or a sommelier, you'll get the inside scoop on the key aspects of wine service from wine directors at Wine Spectator award-winning restaurants.
Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon: A Winemaker's Perspective
Taste Ridge Monte Bello, and you’ll begin to understand why it’s one of California’s most collectible Cabernet Sauvignons. To more fully appreciate it, join Paul Draper as he describes the key aspects of making this wine.
Video Contest Trailer
If you love wine and are creative with a video camera, we invite you to submit your wine videos to Wine Spectator's second annual video contest. Submission Deadline: August 18, 2008
http://www.winespectator.com/Wine/Features/0,1197,4339,00.html
How To: Pull a Cork
Don't let a piece of tree bark get between you and your wine. Watch this video to learn how to pull a cork--elegantly. Recommended for waiters, winelovers, would-be winelovers and people who want to impress their dates.
Summer Idyll: Crisp Italian Whites
On a hot summer afternoon, there's nothing like sitting in the garden and sipping a crisp, refreshing wine. And that's exactly where you'll find James Suckling. Join James in his garden in Tuscany as he describes some of his favorite Italian whites.
Cornas, The Rhone's Country Cousin
What makes Cornas different from it's Northern Rhône neighbors, Hermitage and Côte Rôtie? Get a handle on the appellation history and wines with James Molesworth.
Zin-Licious: Tasting Biale Old Vine Zin
What should you look for in wines made from America's own grape? And what are the different styles of Zinfanel? Join Wine Spectator's Tim Fish and Al Perry, winemaker at Robert Biale, as they taste an old vine Zin from Monte Rosso vineyard in Sonoma.
Sangiovese Love in Montalcino
Ask Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini about Sangiovese and you’ll get an impassioned reply. She fell in love with Sangiovese and now owns two wineries in Montalcino, Altesino and Caparzo. Spend a few minutes with Elisabetta and you’ll love Sangiovese, too.
Washington: The View from DeLille
What makes Washington the "Tweener State" for growing grapes? Get some insights from Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars, located in Woodinville. He also talks terroir and describes the factors that makes a single vineyard wine stand out from a blend.
Mondavi: California's Wine Visionary
Robert Mondavi, visionary winemaker and brilliant marketer, helped lead California wine to international prominence. Outspoken, energetic and charismatic, he became one of the most influential and admired winemakers in the world.
Washington Chardonnay: Finding Value
Looking for great value in Chardonnay? Harvey Steiman suggests that you give Washington Chardonnays a try. In this video, he tastes a pair of his favorites; each scored 91 points and costs under $20.
California Chardonnay: To oak, or not to oak?
Califorina Chardonnay with Wine Spectator's Jim Laube. One is fermented in stainless steel and focuses on the "naked fruit." The other is fermented and aged in oak barrels. Learn how the two wines are different.
Antinori: Like Father, Like Daughters
Piero Antinori helped bring Tuscan wines to prominence and built the family wine business into a small empire. But how do you pass it on to your children? Piero's plan is firmly in place -- meet the next generation with James Suckling.
Pizza Pairing
A bottle of red? A bottle of white? To learn which wines pair perfectly with pizza, join Harvey Steiman at Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles.
Pizzeria Mozza: Perfection in the City of Angels
Pizza is obviously one of the good things in life, but what makes a pizza great? Join Harvey Steiman as he ponders the question with Nancy Silverton at Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles.
Old Vine Zin
What makes old vines Zinfandels so special? Find out with Wine Spectator’s Tim Fish as he talks with Biale co-proprieter and winemaker Al Perry in Sonoma’s terrific Monte Rosso vineyard.
Fresh California Whites: Beyond Chardonnay
Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc may be your favorite California whites, but you're missing out on a world of taste if you haven't tried CA's other white wines. Wine Spectator tasting coordinator MaryAnn Worobiec shares a couple of her recent finds.
Israel Shines: Up and Coming Wines
In the area of present-day Israel, vineyards have been cultivated for thousands of years, but it wasn’t until new investments in the 1980s that Israel’s wines began showing their true potential. Join Kim Marcus as he tastes two of his favorites.
2007 Bordeaux Barrels
Bordeaux's '07s are a mixed bag, but you can find outstanding wines if you know where to look. Join James Suckling as he reviews the vintage and points out top performers.
Austria 2006: Great Vintage, Great Values
You want richly flavored wines from a top vintage that can be savored now or cellared? And you want great values? This is what you’ll find among Austria's 2006 Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners. Join Kim Marcus as he tastes a pair of his favorites.
Rich, Ripe Loire Reds
2005 brought a long, warm summer to the Loire and an extra touch of ripeness to the region's red wines. Learn about Cabernet Franc and its key growing areas around the ancient city of Tours with James Molesworth.
Grand Tour 08
Sample a great wine. Meet the winemaker. Discuss the vintage or style or flavors. Repeat. Repeat again, many times. This is what makes Wine Spectator's Grand Tour such a grand tasting. Watch this video to see--or relive--the 2008 NY Grand Tour.
New Zealand Pinot Noir
If you love Pinot Noir, you should know about the Central Otago region in New Zealand. Join Felton Road winemaker Blair Walter as he describes the region and defines pinocity, the essential character that he looks for in Pinot Noir.
Chile's Refreshing Whites
Cabernet Sauvignon has been Chile’s strong suit, but white varietals from new coastal vineyards are coming on strong. Learn about Chile’s white styles with James Molesworth as he tastes a Vina Montes Sauvignon Blanc and a Vina Maycas Chardonnay.
HowTo: Taste Red Wine
How can you taste red wine like a pro? Why should you swirl? What flavors should you look for? To get the answers to these questions --and more-- watch HowTo: Taste Red Wine from Wine Spectator.
Burgundy Values
Bruce Sanderson has called Burgundy’s 2005 vintage the “best in a generation.” Although prices are stratospheric, you can find super values, if you know where to look. Join Bruce as he tastes a pair of Pinots that cost $30 a bottle.
Jurassic Pinot: Sam Neill, Movie Star and Winery Owner
The star of blockbuster movies, including Jurassic Park and The Hunt for Red October, actor Sam Neill is gaining recognition for his role as winery owner and Pinot lover. Meet Sam as he describes his winery, Two Paddocks, located in New Zealand.
California Values: Take a Walk on the Wild Side
You don't need to spend a fortune to get a tasty California wine, especially if you venture off the well-trodden Chardonnay-Cabernet Sauvignon path. Join Jim Laube as he tastes a "kitchen sink" blend of white varietals and a big Petite Sirah.
Chile & Argentina: Traveling with James Molesworth
Follow James Molesworth on his trip to South America where he visited the top winemakers of Chile and Argentina. He focused on the vineyards, old and new, and keeping his camera steady.
Pair Chardonnay at CRU Restaurant
Looking for a great Chardonnay pairing? Go to a Grand Award-winning restaurant and work with the sommelier and the chef. Watch the talented team at CRU restaurant in New York pair a complex white Burgundy with a flavorful fish.
Chardonnay Comparison: Burgundy vs. Russian River Valley
Chardonnay is America's favorite grape, but that doesn't mean all Chardonnays are the same. Wine Spectator's Bruce Sanderson tastes two top Chardonnays --one from Burgundy and one from Sonoma-- to show how climate and soils influence the varietal.
Paul Draper: Shaping California Cabernet
What makes California Cabernet great? And when are these wines less than great? Get answers from one of California’s trailblazing winemakers, Paul Draper of Ridge Vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains high above Silicon Valley.
Smith Haut-Lafitte: At Home with the Cathiards
Catch up with the dynamic owners of Smith Haut-Lafitte, Florence and Daniel Cathiard. Whether bicycling through the vineyards or talking in the kitchen, all their energies go into making their flagship red and one of Bordeaux's best whites.
Vision Cellars, Pinot Dreams
Bitten by the Burgundy bug at an early age, Mac McDonald dreamed of making complex Pinots. He is now living his dream as the proud owner and winemaker of Vision Cellars in Sonoma County. Meet Mac.
Mouton-Rothschild: Blending Greatness
Mouton's technical director Philippe Dhalluin takes you into the winery where he addresses questions such as: How does a top chateau translate quality from the vineyard into its wine? And how are the blends chosen?
Bedell Cellars: Long Island Idyll
How do you go about starting a winery? And what are some of the factors to consider? These are some of the questions answered by Michael Lynne, owner of Bedell Cellars on Long Island – and executive producer of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Pontet-Canet: Golf-Cart Tour, Serious Wine
A golf-cart tour of a Bordeax château?! It's obvious that Pontet-Canet proprieter Alfred Tesseron enjoys life -- even as he works tirelessly to make his fifth-growth Pauillac estate equal in quality to its first-growth neighbors.
Tuscany's 100-Point Merlot: Le Macchiole Messorio
What makes a wine perfect? Join Wine Spectator's James Suckling as he talks with Cinzia Merli at Le Macchiole, her winery in Bolgheri. They taste and describe Le Macchiole's 2004 Messorio, a 100% Merlot that James rated a perfect 100.
Two Tuscans: Altesino and Caparzo
If you ask Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, owner of Altesino in Montalcino, Sangiovese grown in Tuscany is the best wine in the world. She makes a traditional style where oak is used carefully to help support the wine's main character, the fruit.
Pairing South Africa at Xai Xai Winebar
Get a taste of South Africa's new wave wines as James Molesworth sits down with Brett Curtin, the owner of Xai Xai Winebar, a South African restaurant in New York City, to taste and pair a couple wines with traditional dishes.
Antinori and Suckling On Tignanello
Tignanello is one of Tuscany's most important wines. With this blend of Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon, Piero Antinori reached a new level of quality. Join James Suckling and Piero as they discuss Tignanello and taste the stunning 2004.
Syrah Goes Global: Identify Regional Styles
Syrah is an up-and-coming varietal in California, but the wine styles have been defined by the Northern Rhone and Australia. Learn about the key styles as Jim Laube talks with Napa winemakers Steve Lagier and Carole Meredith of Lagier Meredith.
Cornas: New Takes on Traditional and Modern Styles
For years, Cornas played the country cousin among the Northern Rhône's stars. But the wines of Cornas are ready to shine. To learn about Cornas and its new takes on traditional and modern styles, join James Molesworth as he tastes a pair of wines.
Bordeaux 2005, part 4: A True Classic?
James Suckling poses the question, 'Is Bordeaux's 2005 vintage a true classic?' Two top winemakers, John Kolasa of Rauzan-Segla and Paul Pontallier of Margaux, provide their own personal answers.
Bordeaux 2005, part 3: Vintage Character
What is the typical 2005 Bordeaux character? And when will the wines be drinkable? These are some of the issues addressed as Wine Spectator's James Suckling interviews Paul Pontallier, the director of Château Margaux.
Bordeaux 2005, part 2: Man and Nature
Of course the vineyard is key to wine quality and character, but what is the role of the winemaker and the winery? Join James Suckling as he continues his report on 2005 with Bordeaux luminaries John Kolasa and Alexandre Thienpont. Part 2 of 4
Bordeaux 2005, part 1: A Perfect Season
Why did the 2005 vintage in Bordeaux yield such amazingly concentrated and complex wines? Find out as James Suckling interviews Alexandre Thienpont of Vieux Château Certan in this first video of a four-part series.
California Syrah with Lagier Meredith
What do you get when a plant geneticist hooks up with a winemaker and they buy land to plant Syrah? You get some serious expertise and some great wines. Join James Laube as he discusses CA Syrah styles with Carole Meredith and Steve Lagier.
Dal Forno's Rich Amarone
Amarone is a rich, luscious wine with a tremendous capacity for aging. Join Wine Spectator tasting coordinator Jo Cooke as he compares Dal Forno Amarones from 2002 and 1997. But be forewarned: these wines don't come cheap.
Angelo Gaja in Tuscany
Angelo Gaja is best-known for his wines from Piedmont and, more recently, Montalcino. But he's also been making outstanding wines in Bolgheri since 2000. James Suckling sits down with Gaja to talk Tuscany and to find out why Angelo loves the region.
Meet Rollin Soles, Oregon Winemaker
Rollin helped start Argyle Winery back in 1987, when Oregon was getting serious about wine. Since then, his wines have been on Wine Spectator's Top 100 list seven times. Meet Rollin, one of the most successful -and interesting- winemakers in Oregon.
Inside Wine Spectator's Tasting Department
Wine Spectator reviews more than 15,000 wines each year, thanks to the efforts of the 15 people in our tasting department. See how the process works, in this behind the scenes tour with tasting director Bruce Sanderson.
Viva Vietti: Generations in Barolo
Piedmont wines for two centuries. How does a winery change over time? And what remains the same? Get the answers from Luca Currado, Vietti's charming and talented owner-winemaker.
Tasting Chapoutier, part II: Hermitage Reds
Michel Chapoutier and James Molesworth continue their discussion of Chapoutier's great Hermitage wines. The focus is now on the single-vineyard reds, L'Ermite and Le Pavillon, as well as food pairing.
Tasting Chapoutier, part I: Hermitage Whites
Michel Chapoutier is one of the Rhone's most dynamic winemakers. Meet Michel and find out what makes his Hermitage whites so distinctive at this tasting with Wine Spectator senior editor James Molesworth during the 2007 Wine Experience.
In the Vineyard at Mouton-Rothschild
Château Mouton-Rothschild is one of the top wineries in Bordeaux. What factors set Mouton's vineyards apart from its neighbors? To find out, join Philippe Dhalluin, Mouton's technical director, in the vineyard.
Felsina: Harvesting Chianti Classico
Giuseppe Mazzocolin of Felsina runs the family estate in Chianti Classico -- and he produces some of the region's top wines. Surrounded by the Sangiovese harvest, Giuseppe shares the rich heritage of Felsina, its vineyards and its people.
The Baroness and Château Mouton-Rothschild
Meet Philippine de Rothschild, and you'll understand why Château Mouton-Rothschild produces one of the most collectible and recognizable wines in the world. The Baroness --and her wines-- are iconic and exceptional.
Sparkling Pairings
Most people associate sparkling wine with celebratory toasts. Wine Spectator senior editor Bruce Sanderson loves sparkling wine with food. Bruce shares pairing pointers for each course so you can transform any meal into a celebration.
Grand Tasting '07
What do you call a tasting with more than 250 top winemakers pouring their wines for 2,500 winelovers? We call it the Grand Tasting. Check out Wine Spectator's 2007 Grand Tasting, which kicked off the New York Wine Experience.
Four Star Chefs, Eight Great Pairings
Four of our favorite chefs--Charlie Trotter, Emeril Lagasse, Wolfgang Puck and Mario Batali--cooked up a treat at the New York Wine Experience in 2007. Each created a unique dish and paired it with two wines, one white and one red.
Oregon’s New AVAs: Mapping Pinot Noir
What is an American Viticultural Area? And why are AVAs important? These are a couple of the questions answered by Wine Spectator editor at large Harvey Steiman and Ken Wright of Ken Wright Cellars in Oregon.
Great Brunello: Altesino
What should you expect from a great Brunello di Montalcino? How does Brunello mature? Learn the answers to these questions--and more--as James Suckling tastes a pair of Altesino Brunellos, one from 1997 and the other from 2001.
Blind Tasting Fun
Marvin R. Shanken and Wine Spectator's senior editors held a blind tasting seminar for 1,200 people at the 2007 Wine Experience. Here are some of the fun outtakes.
Argentina: Malbec Country
Mendoza is Argentina's best-known region and it makes textbook Malbec, which is Argentina's top varietal. Explore Argentina's Malbecs with Wine Spectator senior editor James Molesworth as he takes you to Mendoza -- and beyond.
Spain Excites
Spain is the most exciting country for winelovers says Tom Matthews, executive editor of Wine Spectator. Learn more about Spanish wines with Tom and Miguel Torres, Jr. as they describe a pair of reds from two regions, Ribera del Duero and Priorat.
Italy's Great '97s: Le Pupille
Continuing the 10th anniversary retrospective of Italy's great 1997 vintage, Elisabetta Gepetti joins James Suckling to taste and describe her Fatoria Le Pupille Saffredi from Tuscany's seaside Maremma area.
Italy's Great '97s: Allegrini
The final wine of the retrospective tasting may be the biggest. It's the luscious La Poja Amarone from Marilisa Allegrini. She describes the wine with James Suckling, who also concludes the tasting by revealing what he loves about Italian wines.
Italy's Great '97s: Foradori
This may be the most unusual wine in the tasting. It is made from the Teroldego grape, which has been saved from obscurity by Elisabetta Foradori. She poured her rich 1997 Teroldego Rotaliano Granato from Trentino for the Wine Experience seminar.
Italy's Great '97s: Altesino
The second great Brunello di Montalcino in the 10th anniversary tasting at the Wine Experience is Altesino's Montosoli. Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini joined Wine Spectator's James Suckling on stage to describe her wine.
Italy's Great '97s: Antinori
At the 2007 Wine Experience, Abiera Antinori poured her family's 1997 Marchesi Antinori Solaia for more than 1,000 appreciative winelovers. This wine, a Cabernet blend from Tuscany, was Wine of the Year in 2000.
Italy's Great '97s: Frescobaldi
Americans love Brunello and the Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Ripe al Convento Riserva 1997 is a great example. Wine Spectator's James Suckling and Lamberto Frescobaldi tasted the wine at the 2007 Wine Experience.
Italy's Great '97s: Gaja
Gaja Langhe Sori San Lorenzo 1997, which scored 98 points, is the second of eight wines tasted at the 2007 Wine Experience. Gaia Gaja (Angelo's daughter) joins James Suckling to comment on the wine.
Italy's Great '97s: Giacosa
James Suckling kicks off the blockbuster 10th anniversary retrospective tasting at the 2007 Wine Experience with Bruna Giacosa, tasting the 1997 Bruno Giacosa Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto.
Italy's Great '97s: Intro
1997 was a benchmark vintage in Italy. Join Wine Spectator senior editor as he tastes some of his favorite wines (including Gaja and Antinori) with winemakers and winery owners at the Wine Experience in 2007.
Favorite '03 Barolos
Barolo is one of the most sought-after wines in the world. Learn about the Nebbiolo grape and these delicious wines with James Suckling as he tastes a pair of his favorite Barolos from '03.
WIne of the Year 2007
Which wine wowed Wine Spectator's senior editors? It scored 98 points and 7,500 cases were made. It's the...
2007 Top 10: #2 Revealed
This wine is not like the others in the Top 10, but it is the second wine introduced by Jim Laube, who reviews wines from California.
2007 Top 10: #5 Revealed
And here's #5, introduced by Harvey Steiman. So, that means Australia, New Zealand, or the Pacific Northwest...
2007 Top 10: #4 Revealed
So far in the countdown, we've seen wines from Champagne, Napa Valley, Australia, Bordeaux and Tuscany. What's next? Hint: #4 is presented by James Suckling.
2007 Top 10: #3 Revealed
Finally! James Molesworth is here to present a Top 10 wine. Hint: James' tasting beat covers wines from the Loire, the Rhône, Chile and Argentina.
2007 Top 10: #6 Revealed
Wine #6 is introduced by James Suckling, who reviews wines from Bordeaux, Italy and Port wines. Hint: The intro is in French.
2007 Top 10: #7 Revealed
And here's wine no. 7. Hint: it's introduced by James Suckling, who reviews the wines of Italy, Bordeaux and Port.
2007 Top 10: #8 Revealed
Wine no. 8 is introduced by Wine Spectator editor at large Harvey Steiman. Hint: Harvey reviews wines from the Pacific Northwest, Australia and New Zealand.
2007 Top 10: #9 Revealed
And here's #9 of the 2007 Top 10. It is presented by Wine Spectator senior editor James Laube (hint: he reviews wines from California).
2007 Top 10: #10 Revealed
Wine Spectator senior editor Bruce Sanderson introduces wine #10 (hint: he reviews Germany, Alsace and Champagne).
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #2 from Quilceda Creek
Harvey Steiman called Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon "one of the really great wines of the Pacific Northwest." Winery owner Alex Golitzin describes how he--and his Washington State vineyards--make his Cabs.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #3 from Léoville Barton
In addition to making great wines such as the Leoville Barton 2003, Anthony Barton is a world-class raconteur. Join Anthony as he shares his winemaking--and drinking--philosophy.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #1 from Casanova di Neri
And the top wine of 2006 is the 2001 Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino. Meet winemaker and owner Giacomo Neri as he describes his winning wine at the New York Wine Experience in October of 2007.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #4 from Concha y Toro
#4 is a Bordeaux blend from Concha y Toro in Chile. Winemaster Enrique Tirado describes the Puente Alto vineyard that produced the stellar 2003 Don Melchor.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #5 from Domaine du Pegau
The #5 wine is from Domaine du Pégaü in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Meet winemaker Laurence Feraud as she describes her personal approach to winemaking.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #7 from Kosta Browne
Meet Michael Browne, part of the Kosta Browne team. He describes the characteristics of the four vineyards used to make the Kosta Browne Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2004, which is wine #7 of the 2006 Top 10.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #6 from Lafaurie-Peyraguey
The #6 wine comes from Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey in Sauternes. The château's director, Eric Larramona, explains why the 2003 vintage was so amazing.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #9 from Brancaia
What set the 2004 vintage apart for the #9 wine? Owner and winemaker Barbara Kronengerg-Widmer describes her Brancaia Toscana Il Blu 2004, which is a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 25% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #8 from Kongsgaard
Chardonnay 2003. The winery staff: John Kongsgaard, along with his wife and son. The vineyard: a 10-acre family vineyard with a great history. In this video, meet John, who talks about the vineyard and the wine.
Top 10 of 2006: Tasting #10
Meet Michael Twelftree of Two Hands in South Australia's Barossa Valley. Along with his partner, Richard Mintz, Michael made Wine Spectator's #10 wine of 2006, Bella's Garden Shiraz 2004. Wine Spectator's Harvey Steiman provides commentary.
Top 10 of 2006, Tasting Intro
One of the most exciting seminars at the Wine Experience is the Top 10 Tasting. Here's your chance to meet the winemakers for the Top 10 of 2006. This is the intro to the tasting held at the Wine Experience in October, 2007.
Rhone & Ribs Pairing
How do our two Rhône reds (one mature and one young) go with beef short ribs? To find out, join Wine Spectator senior editor James Molesworth and Dave Gordon, the wine director at Tribeca Grill.
Red, Red Rhone: Young vs. Mature
How do Rhône's mature? Find out as Wine Spectator senior editor James Molesworth and Tribeca Grill's David Gordon taste the 2005 Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape and the 1998 Rostaing Côte-Rôtie.
Collecting Wine: Insider Advice
A high-powered group of collectors and wine directors joined Wine Spectator auction correspondent Peter Meltzer to discuss the collecting and the auction market. Join them to get insider advice.
Tour Leoville Barton with Anthony Barton
Take a tour of the illustrious Bordeaux château with none other than Anthony Barton. The owner is as charming as his St.-Julien wines, which are perfumed and powerful -- as well as great values.
Napa Valley, Mountain Cabernets
Cabs from mountain vineyards are different from valley wines. Learn why winemaker Karen Culler likes her mountain fruit as she gives Wine Spectator associate editor Dan Sogg a tour of Ladera Vineyards up on Howell Mountain in Napa Valley.
Tuscan Harvest: Waiting (and Hoping) for 2007
Harvest is make-or-break time for the vintage and the weeks leading up to it are crucial. This is when Wine Spectator senior editor James Suckling caught up with winemakers around Tuscany to see how 2007 looks in Montalcino, Bolgheri and Chianti.
Jean-Michel Cazes: The Heart of Lynch-Bages
Come visit Château Lynch-Bages with Jean-Michel Cazes, the heart of this esteemed Bordeaux château. You might also glimpse why he's a recipient of Wine Spectator's Distinguished Service Award.
Pairing Oysters with Harvey Steiman
Which wines go best with oysters? To find out, join Wine Spectator editor at large Harvey Steiman as he samples a trio of whites along with some succulent oysters at Hog Island Oyster Company in San Francisco.
Giacomo Neri: Harvesting 2007 in Tuscany
Join Giacomo Neri in his vineyard and in his winery as he harvests grapes for his Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino. The 2001 bottling from this vineyard was named Wine Spectator Wine of the Year in 2006.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the Rhone's Southern Star
Châteauneuf is the star of the Southern Rhône Valley. Learn about the region, it's grapes and its wines with some of the appellation's top producers: Daniel Brunier of Vieux Telegraphe, Laurence Feraud of Pegau and Marc Perrin of Beaucastel.
WINNER: A Toast to the Little Guys
In California's Central Coast, there's a tiny winery called Hocus Pocus where the winemaking is truly a labor of love. Submitted by Amy Christine. Winner of the 2007 Video Contest.
For A Glass of Wine
How do grapes turn into wine? Get the answer by watching fast-paced video from Australia's Barossa Valley, where, apparently, wine is made to a techno beat. Submitted by Tyson Bitter.
Romance of The Vineyard
There are two alternate realities: the "happy couple" photo with wine glasses in hand, and what REALLY happens in a small vineyard and winery. Submitted by Nancy Bentley of Kinkead Ridge Winery in Ohio.
Wine Geek, Gear Head
Take an educational trip with the motorcycle-riding Wine Geek as he offers some down-to-earth tips for tasting, describing and buying wine. Submitted by Heath Callaway.
Gorat: Wine Trick
Gorat (apparently, Borat's wine-loving brother) demonstrates how to remove the cork from a bottle. This feat is followed by much celebration and some crazy dance moves. Submitted by TJ Campi.
Pure Values: SW France
Southwestern France is known for value wines, but their distinctive grapes are less well-known. Join Wine Spectator managing editor Kim Marcus as he tastes a trio of wines that offer great value as well as the pure flavors of their grapes.
Henschke Shiraz
Meet Prue and Stephen Henschke at their famous Hill of Grace vineyard in Australia's Eden Valley. Behind the camera is Wine Spectator senior editor Harvey Steiman.
New Gehry Winery in Napa
Hall Winery in Napa Valley is known for its complex Cabernet Sauvignons. Soon it will also be known for its unique Frank Gehry-designed buildings. Join Wine Spectator associate editor Dan Sogg for a sneak peek at the groundbreaking ceremonies.
Pairing with Eric Ripert at Le Bernardin
What's great food without great wine? Join Eric Ripert and sommelier Janine Lettieri as they evaluate a pairing of Ripert's Sautéed Cod with a white Burgundy from Bruno Colin.
Le Bernardin's Eric Ripert Sautes Cod
New York's Le Bernardin is one of the top restaurants in the United States. Meet chef-owner Eric Ripert and learn to make his exquisite sautéed cod with pea shoots and ginger-lemon-scallion broth.
Oregon Pinot Noir - With a French Accent
Veronique Drouhin grew up in one of Burgundy's older wine-making families. Now, she runs Domaine Drouhin, her family's winery in Oregon. She reflects on the differences between Pinot in Oregon and in Burgundy.
Siduri's Adam Lee on California Pinot
Siduri makes some great Pinots. Winemaker Adam Lee sat down with Wine Spectator senior editor James Laube to talk about his wines, how he sources his grapes and the most difficult aspects of running a winery.
Mario Matches!
Mario Batali talks wine pairing with his business partner, Joe Bastianich. The dish is Mario's Ragu Bolognese, which matches beautifully --and rhymes-- with Sangiovese. But what kind of Sangiovese do Mario and Joe pick?
Mario Cooks!
Mario Batali is a star chef with a TV show and restaurants in New York and Las Vegas. What's his recipe for success--and satisfying food? Mario sticks close to his Italian roots. Here, he prepares his own spin on ragu bolognese. Enjoy!
Pinot People at Emeritus
Is it the soil or the people that make a wine? Brice Jones, formerly of Sonoma-Cutrer, weighs in. Hint: His new winery is called Emeritus -- and he's brought his old team. You can't argue with success; their Pinot Noirs are garnering rave reviews.
Cork vs. Screwcap with Michel Laroche
The debate continues, but some winemakers have already made the switch to screwcap. Michel Laroche joined Wine Spectator senior editor Bruce Sanderson to taste the difference between cork and screwcap in his delicate Chablis.
Pairing Wine with a Pair of Daniels
What makes a wine and food pairing work? A pair of Daniels --Chef Boulud and Wine Director Johnnes-- discuss the best wine to go with Chef's rich, creamy Braised Veal Shoulder.
Braising at Home with Daniel Boulud
At Daniel, Chef Boulud's food is delectable. But, of course, he has a huge, fully-staffed kitchen. Chef proved that you can get the same results in your own kitchen when he invited us into his home and braised a veal shoulder. (It was delicious.)
Touring the City of Bordeaux
When visiting Bordeaux, you may be tempted to spend all your time at the top châteaus. But don't miss the city of Bordeaux, with its beautiful riverfront, 18th century architecture and lively restaurants.
Great Values: Southern France
Wine Spectator senior editor Kim Marcus brings you three wines from the Languedoc. Besides great fruit and structure, each costs under $23 and scored 90+ points. They define great value.
Bordeaux's First Growths
Why are Bordeaux's top wines called First Growths? And what makes them unique? Learn about this elite group as you meet some of the impressive people behind these blue-chip châteaus.
Prime Choice: Pairing Wine with Steak
Picking wine to pair with great steaks is a tough job, but Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator editor at large, stepped up to the plate at Craftsteak in New York City. Join him as he rates and explains a few pairings with a Washington Cabernet Sauvignon.
Ultra-Premium Beef: Raising the Steaks
Tom Colicchio, chef-owner of Craftsteak, is fanatical about the ingredients he uses in his restaurants. Colicchio joined Wine Spectator senior editor Harvey Steiman to taste--and describe--three types of gourmet beef: grass-fed, corn-fed and wagyu.
Make Your Own Wine
Meet a group of people who take their love of wine to the highest level. They make their own! And some of their wines even get rated by Wine Spectator.
Coming into Wine with Mia Klein
Some people are born into a winemaking family . Others start with a fortune and then build a winery. Meet Mia Klein, owner-winemaker of Selene Wines, who is living proof that "regular folks" can make extraordinary wine.
Syrah: Gems from Washington's Columbia Valley
Wine Spectator editor at large Harvey Steiman loves Syrah, especially those from Washington State. In this video, he reviews a trio of Syrahs from Columbia Valley.
California Chardonnay: The British Invasion
Way back in 1982, the very British Sir Peter Michael bought a square mile of rocky volcanic ridges on Mount St. Helena in Sonoma County and started a winery. What possessed him to leave the Old World behind for a start-up in the colonies?
VinExpo: The Biggest Wine Show
Every two years, the world's wine trade gathers in Bordeaux to explore new markets and network. What's the big news for consumers? Shifting demand may make it harder to find some wines in the U.S. and other traditional markets.
Beringer's Hook on Chardonnay
Wine Spectator senior editor James Laube sits down in his Napa office with Laurie Hook, the winemaker at Beringer Vineyards. The subject of their discussion: Chardonnay from Napa and Carneros.
Alto Adige's Unsung Red
Most people associate Alto Adige with crisp white wines. But there's a traditional red grape from this northeastern region of Italy that makes winelovers sit up and say
'Wow!" Alois Lageder fills you in on this noteworthy varietal.
Alois Lageder's Peak Performance
Inspired by Robert Mondavi, a winemaker in the mountainous region of Alto Adige has become one of Italy's top winemakers. Alois Lageder combines tradition and innovation to make outstanding wines on the slopes of the Dolomites.
A Perfect Ruby: Masi Amarone
What makes Amarone distinctive and delicious are the topics discussed by Wine Spectator senior editor Bruce Sanderson and Sandro Boscainin of Masi, the winery in Veneto, Italy that is known for its Amarone.
Kent Rosenblum: Zin Master
When Kent Rosenblum moved to California, he didn't start out wanting to make wine, let alone Zinfandel. Now a top Zin producer, Kent looks back at how he -- and old vine Zinfandel -- got their start.
Red, White and Zin
What makes Zinfandel "America's Grape"? Wine Spectator senior editor James Laube sat down in his Napa office with Scott McLeod, winemaker at Rubicon Estate. Scott makes Rubicon's famous Cabernet Sauvignon as well as its Edizione Pennino Zinfandel.
Sustainability
Organic practices are important, but they're just one small part of sustainable practices. Learn more about sustainability with Michael Honig, the passionate president of Honig Vineyard and Winery in Napa Valley.
Going Global
Do organic wines taste better? Get the answer from John Buechenstein. Hint: At Sauvignon Republic, he supports growers who embrace sustainability in key wine areas around the world.
Giant Eggs in the Winery
A biodynamic philosophy goes beyond the vineyard to inform decisions in the winery. Get some insights with Delia Viader at her eponymous winery in Napa Valley's Howell Mountain area.
Message in the Bottle: Climate Change
Some winemakers are experiencing shifts in their wine styles and even in the grape varietals they can grow; others aren't yet convinced that climate change is the cause. See what's cooking in Chablis, Burgundy and Italy's Alto Adige.
The Biodynamic Man
In this first video of the Green Revolution series, Wine Spectator senior editor Dana Nigro talks with Paul Dolan about the use of biodyanmics at Parducci Wine Cellars in California's Mendocino County.
Wachau Styles
Wachau, Austria is making crisp Gruners and Rieslings that are delicious on their own and are naturals with food. They're all dry, but knowing three simple terms will clue you into each wine's weight and style.
Freie Weingärtner Makes Wachau Bright
Wachau is one of Austria's top regions for bright, crisp Grüner Veltliners and Rieslings, many notable for their quality and value. Learn about Wachau with Kerstin Klamm of Freie Weingärtner Wachau, one of the region's top wineries.
Kracher: Yquem of Austria
One of the world's greatest sweet wines is made in eastern Austria. Learn about the wines and the region of Burgenland from Gerhard Kracher, the youngest of three generations of grapegrowers and winemakers.
Iron Horse: Pioneering Sonoma
In the 1970's, few aspiring winemakers headed for Sonoma. Audrey and Barry Sterling were the exception, founding Iron Horse in Green Valley's fog-shrouded hills. Their daughter, Joy, reminisces about the challenges they faced.
Gina Gallo: A Passion for Pinot
Gina Gallo was born into a legendary wine family. Like her late grandfather, Julio Gallo, Gina is a winemaker