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Continue reading →: Mexico – Red Blend WineCooper’s Hawk’s CHMX wine from Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico, is a blend of various grapes, noted for its medium-light body and unique flavors. Initially characterized by tart pomegranate and dark chocolate bitterness, it improved with breathing, revealing bright red berries and subtle leather notes. The reviewer scored it 7.6 and…
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Continue reading →: Oregon – Pinot Gris/GrigioIllahe Vineyards’ 2025 Pinot Gris from Willamette Valley, Oregon, surprised the reviewer with its high acidity and tart flavor profile, featuring lemon zest and green apple. After some air exposure, it softened to reveal a hint of sweetness. Ultimately, it scored lower due to the initial discomfort.
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Continue reading →: Essay: A Pinot Noir made in the chill that killed Annabel LeeThe essay, submitted for the 2026 Wine Writing Competition, explores the pairing of a Chilean coast pinot noir with Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “Annabel Lee.” It reflects on how the wine’s taste evokes emotions tied to Poe’s grief, connecting the flavorful wine to themes of love and loss against the…
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Continue reading →: Kentucky – Chardonnay WineTalon Winery’s non-vintage Chardonnay from Lexington, KY, features aromas of sweet pears and vanilla. While it pairs well with fried fish, it has a potent tang when tasted alone, which some may find unappealing. Overall, the reviewer indicated mixed feelings.
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Continue reading →: California – Sparkling Riesling WineThe 2020 Rainfall, a natural sparkling Riesling from Charlie & Echo in San Diego, offers a unique tasting experience with its cloudy amber appearance and bottle cap closure. It features flavors of fresh pineapple, corn chips, and overripe apples. The reviewer enjoyed the wine’s distinct profile and plans to visit…
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Continue reading →: A Farewell to a Man: Sam NeillSam Neill, renowned actor and winemaker, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy in both cinema and wine. Best known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in “Jurassic Park,” Neill also founded Two Paddocks winery in New Zealand. A tasting of his 2023 Pinot Noir showcased his unmatched talent…
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Continue reading →: North Carolina – Cabernet SauvignonBiltmore Estate’s 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from West Coast grapes. The wine features a fruit-forward profile, showcasing flavors of pomegranate, vanilla, and raspberries, though a lingering sourness is noted. It rates a 7.5, deemed better than North Carolina Duplin Winery options.
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Continue reading →: Washington State – ChardonnayTwo Mountain Winery’s 2024 Chardonnay from Copeland Vineyard in Zillah, WA, features a light gold hue and aromas of oak, crisp apple, and vanilla. The wine offers a refreshing crisp acidity, reminiscent of apple cider with hints of metallic notes. It’s recommended for those averse to buttery Chardonnays.


