IMPORTANT NOTICE

ALL MY BLOGS can now be found on my website at http://winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine/

IMPORTANT NOTICE

ALL MY BLOGS can now be found on my website at http://winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine/

IMPORTANT NOTICE

ALL MY BLOGS can now be found on my website at http://winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine/

IMPORTANT NOTICE

ALL MY BLOGS can now be found on my website at http://winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine/

Presentation of Cork

Did you know that the historical reason the waiter or sommelier in a restaurant gives you the cork when the bottle is opened is to prevent fraud? The presentation of the cork originated to curtail fraudulent dealers from passing off a wine for something it wasn’t. Usually, the cork was stamped with the producer’s name. When it was extracted from the bottle, it was presented to the purchaser to prove it actually was the wine stated on the label that was requested. Today, the presentation of the cork continues that tradition, but goes further. If the cork looks mouldy or defective or smells bad, then the wine might be problematic. If so, address the issue with the sommelier, wait staff or owner.

Climate Change and Natural Disasters

It’s no secret that climate change is affecting our weather, changing what grapes can grow in what places. Weather is also more severe. Stronger storms (rain and snow) are damaging vineyards. This ever-changing climate seems to also be causing more earthquakes. They’re on the rise, especially in parts of the world that are prone to them. Check out the “Ring of Fire”, that part of the Pacific: the east coast of Japan and New Zealand and the west coast of North and South America. Except for North America, all of these countries have recently had earthquakes. It’s only a matter of time until the Pacific coast wine regions of N. America get hit. Even Italy’s wine regions have had several. Scary stuff!

Signature White Grape Varieties

Many countries are also known for particular white grape varieties that they excel with. France has numerous in specific regions. Chardonnay shines in Burgundy with very elegant versions sporting lots of finesse. Chenin Blanc in the Loire Valley is the ultimate incarnation of this grape. Gewurztraminer in Alsace is rich and aromatic and the best this varietal can be. Canada, especially the Niagara region in Ontario, does a phenomenal job with Riesling. The Marlborough region of New Zealand’s south island produces a rich, tropical fruity version of Sauvignon Blanc that is to die for and the north of Italy shines with crisp, fresh, models of Pinot Grigio. Gotta try some of these varietal wines that make these countries/regions famous.