The Story Behind a Wine

I’ve always said there is a story in every bottle of wine. Some more than others! Since wine is a product of nature, technology, creativity, and often family, every single one weaves a narrative about its existence. Perhaps it’s in the wine’s name or the reason or circumstances surrounding its birth? Occasionally, a short synopsis of a wine’s story appears on a back label or on the winery website, but the real odyssey can be relayed by the producer or creator themselves. That’s why I love talking to producers and winemakers about their wines’ origin and listen to their passion about it. It gives a wine soul and an interesting tale about a wine’s history, creation and evolution can definitely help sell and market it? 

“Pinot Envy” is Here!

Looking for a light, comic, wine mystery novel for your summer reading? Look no further…”Pinot Envy” is here. My new book just came out July 16 to rave reviews (http://www.winedoctor.ca/mybook.html). Follow quirky, lovable wine guru, Woody Robins, as he tries to recover a stolen, rare, expensive, red Burgundy that once belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte, for a wealthy, Napa Valley grape grower. “Like” it on my Facebook Author page at

www.facebook.com/EdwardDocFinstein?fref=ts. Available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, bookstores everywhere or through my office, “Pinot Envy” is the first in a series, starring Woody, so pick up a copy and enjoy with a glass of fine Pinot. 

Al Fresco Wining

There’s nothing quite like dining outside in the warm weather. Here’s what you should know wine-wise. First of all, choose wines that are fruity, robust, hearty and crisp, with little, if any, oak. The smell of lawn mowers, gas fumes, charcoal, grass, and other outside aromatics will only rob these of their finesse, so save the complex, oaky or delicate numbers for indoor or cooler weather enjoyment.  Secondly, chill all whites more than usual to combat the heat. An ice bucket, half filled with water and ice should suffice. You can even put reds in the bucket for a short while just to cool them down. There’s nothing worse than a soupy red wine. Finally, sip responsibly, as you’ll feel the alcohol more in the heat.

Wine Infused Snacks

Today the nectar of the grape seems to be everywhere, like in chocolates. Well, a New York-based, artisan popcorn manufacturer teamed up with a New Zealand winemaker to create two new wine-soaked popcorn flavors; Pinot Noir Drizzle and Sauvignon Blanc Kettle. Interesting concept to be sure! Could be expanded to include Cabernet Sauvignon Cheezies, Shiraz Peanuts, Pinotaged Potato Chips, and even Icewined Pretzels. I wonder if they’re restricted to those over drinking age and if one can get a buzz from them. Must you let them “breathe” to bring out the complexity before indulging? One thing we know for sure though…for the perfect liquid match to wash them down, you have to swill the wine they’re made with. 

Growing/Fermenting Wine to Music

A German winemaker has started playing classical music to his fermenting wine claiming that the wine is better because of it. If sound wave frequencies can impact on humans’ health, then why not wine? An interesting concept, but he doesn’t state which variety is the benefactor. Got to wonder if matching up a specific type of music to a specific varietal might make a difference. How about blues with Pinot Noir, pop with Chardonnay, folk with Riesling, jazz with Sauvignon Blanc, rap with Shiraz, rock with Cabernet, opera with Sangiovese, and funk with Merlot? What about a little show music for Gewurzt or big band for Viognier? It would sure be fascinating to find out how the type of music impacts on wines’ character.