Wine May Prevent Gallstones

Most people don't think twice about their gallbladders until they experience painful gallstones. However, a new study claims that a glass or two of wine each day may help prevent gallstone formation. Doctors and scientists found that drinking up to two units of alcohol per day reduces the risk of developing gallstones by one-third when compared to nondrinkers. The major ingredient in gallstones is cholesterol and wine generally lowers levels in our bodies, so drinking about 6 ounces of wine per day could offer a 32 percent lower risk of them forming. Although the more wine consumed, the lower the risk, researchers noted that the dangers of excessive alcohol outweighed the benefits.

Cryoextraction

Ah Icewine! That unctuous nectar of the Gods produced in cool climates from grapes that have been naturally frozen on the vine. However, there are some countries today producing this style that lack cold winters so natural freezing can’t happen. Instead, ripe or late harvest grapes are picked and artificially frozen until they’re solid. Known as “cryoextraction” the frozen grapes are then crushed and fermented. Much cheaper to produce than the “real thing”, this freezer wine in California, is called “vin de glace”. Although similar in character, purists would argue that true Icewine is strictly a product that Mother Nature creates and any other form is a lackluster imitation.

Picking a Wine Critic to Follow

Following a wine writer’s advise on what to buy and sip can be tedious, and frankly, a gamble. Just because a critic gave a wine 90/100, doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll like it. It’s not a “one size fits all” concept. Although objectivity about quality in wine is important, subjectivity is more so. As we all differ with respect to our likes, dislikes and palates, the key is to find and follow someone who mirrors your palate and likes the most. No one will be exactly like you, but by simply buying and trying different writers’ suggestions on what they think is good, you’ll quickly discover who’s palate and tastes are closest to yours and would make the best one to take advice from. Good luck!

Bubbly Prevents Hangovers

If you occasionally find yourself waking up with a hangover the next morning, there is hope. Scientists have found that a few glasses of bubbly might prevent this. Research at a university in Korea found that infusing alcohol with oxygen allowed drinkers to sober up quicker. By boosting the oxygen levels in drinks actually cut the time it took to clear the alcohol from subjects’ systems by 10% – 20%. The oxygen-enriched versions reduced plasma alcohol concentrations faster, thus speeding up the trip back to normality with less side effects. It’s not yet certain how exactly this added oxygen would affect the taste of typical drinks but they figure it can easily be done. Alright!

Superiore/Superieur

Ever notice the term “superiore” on some Italian wines or “superieur” on occasional French bottlings and wondered what it meant? Here’s the scoop. Technically, in both countries, this means the wine carrying this term contains 1% more alcohol than the basic, required minimum as allowed by a particular appellation of a certain region. It has also come to symbolize the use of slightly better fruit, perhaps from older vines or a wine that has been aged a little longer. Overall, it means the wine in question is slightly higher in quality and a bit more meticulous in its production. Not a huge difference, but enough to render the wine’s selling price a few cents more.

Chenin Blanc

Chenin Blanc is one of the most versatile, white wine grapes in the world. Honeyed, full of fruit, with good balancing acidity and great aging potential, it doesn’t get its just support. In France’s Loire Valley where you see it the most, especially in Vouray, it wears many hats. From bone dry to medium in sweetness, it’s great with fish, seafood, poultry and white meat. Late harvest and sweeter versions are delightful with fruit, desserts and strong cheeses. It is very susceptible to Noble Rot and makes a yummy Icewine. It even renders itself to some decent bubbly. So if you’re looking for a change of pace from the regular, why not give Chenin Blanc a go. You won’t be disappointed.

What Grape Variety are You?

It recently occurred to me that people are a lot like grape varieties with respect to their personalities. Are you popular, easy-going and reliable like a Chardonnay or versatile and outgoing like a Riesling? Maybe you’re perky and lively…a Sauvignon Blanc or flamboyant, sexy and the life of the party…definitely Gewurztraminer. Perhaps you’re hard to get to know and don’t open up easily like Cab or an all out party animal with a fiery temprament…Shiraz. Feel more like Merlot because you’re misunderstood and soft-spoken or rather a Pinot Noir cause you’re finicky and moody? As for me, I’m a cuvee blend. I like to think I’ve got the characteristics of several varieties all rolled into one.