Blaufränkisch is a dark skinned, late ripening grape produced all around eastern Europe and carries many different names. It is sometimes called the Pinot Noir of the east, though it is far more tannic and spicy than most Pinot Noir, and really shows little similarity at all. It is produced in Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, and Croatia, and the wines are sturdy and rich. The grapes can sustain a hardy climate, and domestically we see it planted (generally called Lemberg

I love autumn weather, and I want to take the opportunity to see a couple more vineyards before the season ends. I am pretty busy in my home town, and I can squeeze a couple road trips to spots in the Minnesota market. So, I am seeking guests who would enjoy taking a day trip to the St Croix Valley and check out a few of the local vineyards. I am curious how the vintage went, and also to discuss with the staff what changes have occurred in recent years to ease the challenges

Rkatsiteli is a grape varietal that I have only recently researched myself. I have been exploring wines that challenge me to think outside the traditional varieties and the regions of origin that I have been sourcing for years. The Rkatsiteli grape varietal is from Georgia, but is grown all over eastern Europe, Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine and I am showing a domestic Rkatsiteli from the Finger Lakes region of New York. The grape has a a pale rusty skin, not unlike Pinot Gri

This photo is a representation of what 2022 has in store for me. I shot this in the Willamette Valley in Oregon. It is Pinot Noir vines in early bud break stage. Just beginning to gather the energy necessary to create a new, and unique vintage. We are just beginning our journey with the Wine Time project as well. We are excited to offer opportunities to learn about different grapes, regions of origin, and styles of wine. We are happy to offer these experiences to guests in th

I am really excited to be showing these wines. I have always been aware that New York is among the top four wine producing states in the United States, but shame on me, I am only now beginning to teach myself about the wines produced here. I have, of late, taken on a new approach to wine study, and want to learn something new each week. The wines I have selected are unique in one specific way. I had never tried them! If you know me, you know that there are not very many wines