Author Archives: Lateesha
Top-Rated Old-Vine Zinfandel 2025: A Vintage of Concentration and Character As the 2025 vintage begins to reach its prime release window, the category of old-vine Zinfandel is once again proving why it remains one of California’s most treasured and distinctive contributions to the world of wine
Defined by vines typically over 50 years of age—with many exceeding 80 or even 100 years—these gnarled survivors produce wines of remarkable depth, complexity, and a profound sense of place. The 2025 vintage, shaped by a long, steady growing season,
Malbec for Barbecue: A Match Made in Grilling Heaven As the scent of sizzling meat fills the air and friends gather around the grill, one question often arises: what wine truly stands up to the bold, smoky flavors of barbecue?
Enter Malbec—a robust, versatile red that has earned its place as a quintessential pairing for grilled feasts. Originally from France but now famously associated with Argentina, Malbec offers a perfect balance of fruit, structure, and spice that can elevate everything
Best Merlot for Casual Drinking: Approachable Reds for Everyday Enjoyment Merlot, once maligned by a famous movie line, has triumphantly reclaimed its place as one of the world’s most beloved and approachable red wines
Known for its plush texture, ripe fruit flavors, and gentle tannins, it’s the quintessential red for casual, no-fuss enjoyment. You don’t need a special occasion or a complex tasting ritual—just a glass and a desire for something delicious. Here’s a
Light-bodied vs Medium-bodied Pinot Noir: Understanding the Nuances Pinot Noir, often called the “heartbreak grape” for its challenging cultivation, rewards patience with some of the world’s most elegant and expressive wines
A key distinction within this beloved varietal lies in its body—the weight and texture of the wine on the palate. Understanding the difference between light-bodied and medium-bodied Pinot Noir can significantly enhance your appreciation and selection. What Defines “Body” in
Cabernet Sauvignon: Reaching New Heights in High-Altitude Vineyards For centuries, Cabernet Sauvignon has reigned as the “king of red grapes,” celebrated for its power, structure, and aging potential
Traditionally associated with famed regions like Bordeaux and Napa Valley, a viticultural revolution is pushing this noble variety to literal new heights. From the Andes to the Alps, winemakers are discovering that altitude offers a unique key to unlocking a
Best Wine Books for Advanced Learners For wine enthusiasts who have moved beyond the basics of grape varieties and regional maps, the journey into the world of wine deepens into a fascinating exploration of history, geology, chemistry, philosophy, and culture
The right books can transform a knowledgeable hobbyist into a true connoisseur, offering nuanced perspectives and challenging insights. This curated list is designed for the advanced learner—the individual ready to grapple with complexity, question established norms, and develop a more
Small Producers Making Bold Zinfandel: The Artisans Redefining an American Classic In the vast landscape of American wine, Zinfandel has long held a place of honor and controversy
Often associated with high-alcohol, jammy fruit bombs from large-scale California producers, the grape has been both celebrated and maligned. Yet, beneath this mainstream reputation, a quiet revolution is brewing. A new generation of small, dedicated producers is reclaiming Zinfandel, crafting
Small Producers Making Exceptional Malbec While the global reputation of Malbec is often dominated by the large-scale, export-driven wineries of Argentina, a quiet revolution is unfolding in the vineyards
A growing cadre of small, passionate producers is redefining what Malbec can be, crafting wines of remarkable depth, character, and place. These artisans are moving beyond the powerful, fruit-forward stereotype to explore the grape’s elegant, nuanced, and terroir-expressive potential. The