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Hatzidakis Skitali Assyrtiko 2019
This Assyrtiko represents a significant moment of transition for a legendary Santorini producer. Named "Skitali," meaning "baton," it symbolizes the transfer of stewardship from founder Haridimos Hatzidakis to the next generation. Grown on volcanic soils, this wine offers intense minerality, saline complexity, and the structural depth to age gracefully for years.
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La Bottega del 30 – Villa A Sesta, Chianti
In the heart of Chianti, La Bottega del 30 delivers Italian cooking with French precision under chef-owner Hélène Stoquelet. Seasonal ingredients, a disciplined kitchen, and deliberate pacing define the dining experience in a rustic yet refined setting.
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2021 Bellante Viognier ‘Happy Canyon/Jack Mcginley Vineyard” – Santa Barbara, CA
Happy Canyon fruit gives this 2023 Viognier from Jack McGinley Vineyard a tropical leaning profile with mango, mandarin and stone fruit over gentle oak. It is generous in weight, lifted by bright acidity, and shows enough structure to drink well now and comfortably through 2030 for attentive white wine drinkers.
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January 19, 2025 – Napa County Approves Vineyard Tastings Outside Traditional Wineries
Chateau Ste. Michelle was a jewel of the wine industry a decade ago, but it was just dumped like a cubic zirconia... The Manhattan-based private equity firm that bought CSM in 2021 handed it off to a family of Washington grapegrowers....
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January 19, 2025 – Napa County Approves Vineyard Tastings Outside Traditional Wineries
Chateau Ste. Michelle was a jewel of the wine industry a decade ago, but it was just dumped like a cubic zirconia... The Manhattan-based private equity firm that bought CSM in 2021 handed it off to a family of Washington grapegrowers....
January 12, 2025 – American Wine Industry Is Dying, Will the Government Step In?
This week’s round-up explores surging fine wine demand in Latin America and the resilience of the global bulk wine market amidst a broader industry downturn. We also examine the debate over government bailouts for U.S. growers and look back at the lasting impacts of Prohibition....
Corkage
Wine
Hatzidakis Skitali Assyrtiko 2019
This Assyrtiko represents a significant moment of transition for a legendary Santorini producer. Named "Skitali," meaning "baton," it symbolizes the transfer of stewardship from founder Haridimos Hatzidakis to the next generation. Grown on volcanic soils, this wine offers intense minerality, saline complexity, and the structural depth to age gracefully for years.
...
2021 Bellante Viognier ‘Happy Canyon/Jack Mcginley Vineyard” – Santa Barbara, CA
Happy Canyon fruit gives this 2023 Viognier from Jack McGinley Vineyard a tropical leaning profile with mango, mandarin and stone fruit over gentle oak. It is generous in weight, lifted by bright acidity, and shows enough structure to drink well now and comfortably through 2030 for attentive white wine drinkers.
...
Clos Saint-Jean Châteauneuf-du-Pape Deus Ex Machina 2021
Clos Saint-Jean’s 2021 Deus Ex Machina is a concentrated, full-bodied Châteauneuf-du-Pape built on ripe red and black berries, licorice, roasted nuts and cedar over polished tannins. Elevated but well-handled alcohol and vibrant acidity frame a long, persistent finish. Serious cellar potential, with drinking now through 2040 in good cellars.
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Wineries
Bellante Family Winery
Bellante Family Winery is a relaxed tasting room in Mission Viejo pouring Santa Barbara County Viognier, Pinot Noir and Rhone style reds. Our team has visited dozens of times and recommends it for focused flights, friendly hospitality and a simple way to explore local Central Coast vineyards close to home.
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Truffle Pig Winery
A fresh collaboration between two historic winemaking families, this Temecula estate brings a modern touch to the former Avensole property. With a focus on Italian varietals and a sophisticated hospitality program, the site combines casual approachability with serious viticultural pedigree....
Restaurants
La Bottega del 30 – Villa A Sesta, Chianti
In the heart of Chianti, La Bottega del 30 delivers Italian cooking with French precision under chef-owner Hélène Stoquelet. Seasonal ingredients, a disciplined kitchen, and deliberate pacing define the dining experience in a rustic yet refined setting.
...
Guides
The Ultimate Guide to Valle de Guadalupe Restaurants, Wineries, and Wines for the Perfect Long Weekend Escape
Discover the beauty and flavors of Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's premier wine country. From boutique wineries to exquisite dining, luxurious stays, and stunning scenery, this guide explores the best that the region has to offer. This guide is being constantly updated. Originally Posted On February 21, 2024...
