In wine there are three types of people. Those who drink it. The enthusiasts who drink it and know a bit about it. And those who have an unquenchable thirst for knowing or understanding more. If you find yourself in the second or third category, then this is for you.
My journey into wine began when I was eight years old. My parents would trot me out to read the label of a French wine bottle. To them it was entertainment, but it was also the door that opened my interest in France and wine.
My eighteenth birthday would culminate into yet another adventure in French wine. The sole exception being that this time I could actually imbibe it. My father purchased a case of 1960 Chateau Margaux, first Grand Cru or “1er” as it is also known. We would sip it together for an entire month. The fascination would be lifelong.
When I moved to the mainland US four years ago and great wines became more accessible. I envied those who had access to all these exceptional global wines for so long. But there was something missing. I couldn’t engage in complete confidence in discussing wine because there was so much that I was unfamiliar with.
I bought books. Starting with Karen MacNeil’s The Wine Bible. A great start but so many unanswered questions. Then I thought I’d likely need Wine For Dummies, so I got that too. And then I began collecting wine books and still had so many missing parts my knowledge was like swiss cheese. A bit here, a bit there and some pieces missing entirely.
I went on a whirlwind trip throughout France’s major wine regions. It was there I recognized I had to get a handle on my wine education. What took me to the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and creating The Five Reasons, was that there was enough education on ALL parts of the wine to satisfy my interest. From wine tasting to understanding, to where those brilliant tastes come from. I’m such a fan that I am on WSET Level 3 Award in Wines course, prepping to take the exam. Who knows where the road will lead you!
Whatever your level of interest in wine… WSET has a course for you!
FIVE REASONS
1) Wine is not your life. But you want to engage intelligently when your friends or business associates discuss wine. Take WSET Level 1 Award in Wines
2) You love wine and everything about it and are so curious about learning more. You want to know where those magical flavors come from and be able to taste with flair and confidence. Take WSET Level s1 & 2 Award in Wines
3) You have passion for wine and want to see where it leads. Where the road turns either in careers or a tasting room. Take WSET Levels 1 & 2 Award in Wines
4) You consider yourself a pro at all you do. And you want to be the good at everything. You want to be able to discuss wine with other wine pros and articulate with clarity, what is in the glass. Take WSET Levels1, 2 and 3 Award in Wines
5) Wine is life. It is your chosen path. You’re dedicated to it like some are to religion. There is an unquenchable thirst for knowledge in wine, the regions, the process and so much more. Then WSET is for you! Take WSET Levels 1,2 3, and 4 Award in Wines (Level 4 is Diploma level – if you pass you can add DipWSET after your name).
To find out more about WSET courses and where to study visit WSET Global.
Alice Tetienne of Champagne Henriot Organic is important, but not necessarily the best. It is but one part of the equation. We have to be
Barodlino has a rich history in both wine and culture. There is no better Rosé that takes the beauty of the region and expresses it than Chiaretto Rosé.
Could it be that this region, today known as the Fastest Growing Wine Region in the United States is the world’s next Napa Valley? This is Idaho Wine Country.
All I want to do... is have some fun @tressabores #NapaValley check them out. Absolutely outstanding down to earth vibe and wine that`s better for you and planet earth. Sustainable, organic & truly killer wine! #certifiedsustainable #certifiedorganic
I know no joy as great as a moment of rushing into a new love, no ecstasy like that of a new love.
~ Anais Nin
The words say it all. Magnificent drink. If you can get it. @turleywine 2015 Napa Valley Library Block Petite Syrah
Dark, brooding with a side of magnificent freshness.
And now back to Paris for a formidably fabulous Friday! Michelin-star restaurant- check! Fabulous dark and exquisite library for enjoying cocktails, a breathtaking entrance of a French hideaway from years ago...
Stunning Michelin star restaurant and beautiful bibliothèque with Parisian friends.
Bookmark this spot! I don’t often share where I dine unless I am out of the country, but because so many people ask 💋🍷💋#TheWineSiren I am going to change that. Take my favorite brunch and Fried Chicken spot! @southsidenapa offers not only some of the freshest most inviting dishes in Napa, they also have a wide array of coffee, tea, wine and bubbles to pair your dishes with.
Its one of the few #petfriendly places with great food and an inviting team. Lots of talent here in the food arena and the outdoor seating area is equipped with swinging chairs, a fire pit and comfortable seating inside and out.
Fried Chicken you ask? Yes! Pairs perfectly with your Napa Valley Sparkling and #Champagne.The best in Napa Valley. Make sure and call ahead, they often sell out.
Hours are 8am-2pm
Breakfast served all day and an expanded lunch menu.
With over 30 years of sustainability under their belt, Domaine Carneros has a big headstart in the way of sustainability. They built the first significant solar installation, recognized as the largest in the world at the time. Far beyond complacent, Domaine Carneros continues to push the limits and try new techniques and strategies to improve their abilities.
Domaine Carneros
An incredible indulgence and the ultimate experience.
It’s in my neighborhood. Two miles away door to door. Why do I find myself returning again and again? Because this is one of the most stunning destinations in Carneros and Napa Valley. Stunning in both taste and views.
The skies, the ultimate blue, the vineyard hills throughout the landscape. It’s a breathtaking pinch yourself situation no matter how often you visit.
The team is so welcoming and the sparkling wine is world class and made sustainably. If you’re ready to step up your sparkling wine game this is where you need to be.
The wines tasted:
2016 Estate Brut Cuvée (late disgorge) ripe pear, white flowers, creamy, beautiful structure.
2019 Brut Rosé Pinot Noir & Chardonnay, incredible well poised, citrus, red berries, almonds and floral notes
2015 Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs Tête de Cuvée The dream. A signature must taste from the most prized blocks of Chardonnay. Evocative of citrus curd, pie crust, a nuance of ginger and tart lemon. I could drink this all day every day!
2017 Ultra Brut Tropical fruit, lime, lemon zest, crisp, lovely palate and exquisite finish.
The ultimate indulgence, featuring three of Tsar Nicoulai’s finest caviars:
Classic, Select, and Golden Reserve
Served with potato chips, toast points, and Cowgirl Creamery crème fraîche.
Make your reservation today!
Domainecarneros.com and ask for the caviar experience!
#TheWineSiren #DomaineCarneros #CertifiedSustainable #NapaValley #WinePairing #SparklingWine
Incredible experience and it keeps on getting better every time I visit. Have you been to @goosecrosscellars ?
Fantastic red white and Rosé wine. There is absolutely something for everyone. Including clothes for the shoppers amongst us.
#rosé #roséallday #napavalley #winetasting #winelife #summervibes #bestday #goosecrosscellars #visitnapavalley
Learn about new products, wine travel tips and the latest on wine, food and fab.
Learn about new products, wine travel tips and the latest on wine, food and fab.
