“Handcrafted” has become such a buzzword in the wine industry that it’s almost meaningless, superfluous. But not at BoaVentura de Caires, the Livermore Valley winery owned by Brett Caires. His operation is truly handcrafted. Brett planted the vineyards and renovated the horse corral that’s now his winery and tasting room almost wood plank by wood plank. He salvaged redwood, a couple of stained glass windows and a door from buildings on the nearby Concannon Vineyard property that were being demolished. And, oh yeah, Brett farms the vineyards and makes the wine. His hands are on every grape cluster, every vat of fermenting grape juice, every barrel of aging wine, every bottle filled and dipped in wax. BoaVentura is not your typical winery, and that’s what makes it such a wonderful place to visit. When you pull up the steep driveway, you see a sign that says “No limos past this…
10 Things You Don’t Know About Portuguese Wines
I have always loved Port. Especially 20 year old Tawny Ports. Sweet and bold, complex and delicious. But now I’ve discovered dry wines being produced in Portugal, thanks to a recent trade tasting put on by ViniPortugal. The wines are diverse and interesting, and considering the quality, a good deal. Here’s 10 things you don’t, but should know, about Portuguese wine.
1. There is more to Portuguese wine than just Port. Read more
What to Drink While You Watch the Royal Wedding
If you’re like me, you’re rising tomorrow at an insanely early hour to watch the royal wedding of Will and Kate. That means being up by 4 a.m. Pacific time for me. At that hour I want something interesting to sip on while watching the spectacle, um I mean spectacular event, on TV.
When nothing but bubbles will do
There’s been much speculation over what the royal couple will drink as they toast their marriage. Read more