Tasting & Confidence
Not sure how to describe what you’re tasting—or even what you like yet? You’re not alone. This is where we explore how wine actually tastes, compare it to what you already know (hello, French wine!), and build that quiet confidence. No pressure. Just curiosity and a bit of fun.
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Blaufränkisch, Two Soils: Tasting Terroir with Heinrich
Same Grape. Same Winemaker. Two Soils. Two Stories. What happens when you take Blaufränkisch — Austria’s bold, spicy red — and grow it on completely different soils? I tasted two wines from Heinrich, one of the country’s leading biodynamic producers, to find out. From the cool, stony slopes of Leithaberg to the warmer, sandy-loam plains around Gols, the contrast in…
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What are some good Japanese wines?
I just got back from the Salon des Vins Japonais in Beaune, and let me tell you — Japanese wine is having a moment. If you’ve been curious but don’t know where to start, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. Instead of overwhelming you with wine theory, I’m sharing the standout producers, who make some of the best Japanese…
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The Salon des Vins Japonais in Beaune
Curious about Japanese wine? The Salon des Vins Japonais is your chance to explore over 130 wines from 45 wineries, meet 14 winemakers, and dive into a unique fusion of Japanese and French wine cultures. Mark your calendar for Sunday, February 9, 2025, at La Chapelle de l’Oratoire in Beaune, from 11 am to 7 pm. Tickets are just 9€,…
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Discover Unique Japanese Wine Grape Varieties
7 minutes read Did you know Japan isn’t just about sake? When you think of Japan, wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Japanese wines are worth knowing about if you enjoy discovering new and unique flavors. Japan is part of the ‘New World,’ but its grape varieties uniquely adapt to challenging climates. These grapes…
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The Impact Of Terroir On Grüner Veltliner Production
13 minutes read Ever wonder what makes Grüner Veltliner so darn special? It’s not just about sunshine and happy vines (though that definitely helps!). The real secret? Terroir — that fancy French word for everything that influences how a grape grows and how the wine tastes We all agree that soil is important, right? matters, right? If you didn’t know…
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Understanding Blaufränkisch Labels From Burgenland
Today’s your turn to pick out the wine. And here comes the stress… How will you ever choose? Okey you already know you’re going for a Blaufränkisch wine from Burgenland but now, which wine to choose? Indeed, Blaufränkisch is very terroir driven so depending on where it comes from in Burgenland and which producer it comes from, it can different…
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Sustainable And Organic Blaufränkisch Producers In Burgenland
Throughout history, farmers have used whatever technology was available to them to get the most out of their land. For centuries, progress was slow, with only gradual discoveries in irrigation, fertilization, and crop rotation. But the invention of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in the 19th and 20th centuries, respectively, revolutionized agriculture. These chemicals, along with mechanized farming equipment, allowed farmers…
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The Impact Of Climate On Blaufränkisch In Burgenland
19 minutes read If you’ve ever tried a Blaufränkisch from Austria and then another one — same grape, same country — and felt like they tasted completely different… you’re not imagining it. Blaufränkisch is one of the most expressive red grapes out there. It doesn’t just reflect the soil it grows in — it reacts strongly to climate. In a…
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Unique Characteristics Of Blaufränkisch From Burgenland
Blaufränkisch from Burgenland is a distinctive and unique varietal that has captivated wine enthusiasts around the world… well at least it has me captivated! If you’re completely new to Blaufränkisch, I suggest you check out my beginner’s guide. Otherwise, let me tell you all I know about Blaufränkisch so when you leave this post, you’ll be an expert too! It…
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Blaufränkisch Aging Potential: What To Expect
as Jancis Robinson states in her article on the future of Blaufränkisch. However, other producers decide to exploit the full aging potential of Blaufränkisch, such as Ernst Triebaumer with his 1986 Blaufränkisch, still in good shape in 2023. Another example is Roland Velich, who decided to devote his new Moric label to varietal, terroir-driven Blaufränkisch, launching it with the 2001…
