German wine labels can be challenging to navigate, especially if you don't speak the language. However, by understanding key terms such as the producer's name, the wine's origin, its quality classification, and dryness indicators, you'll be better equipped to choose the right bottle. Here’s a more in-depth look at how to interpret these elements
As the weather cools and the time for campfires and backyard grilling returns, choosing the right wine to pair with your outdoor feasts becomes essential. Consider key wine characteristics like acidity, flavor intensity, fruitiness, body weight, and alcohol content when making your selections. High-acid wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can cleanse the palate, while fuller-bodied reds, like Zinfandel or Malbec, stand up to bold grilling rubs and sauces. Because wine can often play the dominant role in pairings, balance its flavors against the richness of grilled dishes. This way, each sip and bite enhances the other, making for a perfect evening around the fire.
In total, Portugal is about 90 miles wide and about 300 miles north to south. Most of the population lives on the coast, either in Lisbon, the capital, or in Porto. Traveling due east of Porto for about 60 miles is where you find the Douro Valley, which then expands into Spain for another 30 miles, and three different wine regions. Going from west to east is Baxio Corgo (lower Corgo), Cima Corgo (upper Corgo), and Douro Superior. The “lower” and “upper” indicate the side of the Corgo River’s confluence into the Douro River, where these wine regions sit. Lower indicating downstream, and in this case, closer to the Atlantic.
Australia’s wine history is only about 200 years old, dating back to its colonial times. Admiral Arthur Phillip departed Portsmouth, England, on May 13, 1787, heading to what became Sydney, to establish a British penal colony. In 1788, the initial settlement was erected. The Admiral took vine cuttings with him in an effort to encourage some high society growth. Wine exported to England could make for a lucrative business. After administrative success, the Admiral was promoted to be the first Governor of New South Wales, but his wine fields failed miserably.
Tonight, City Vino is hosting Always Flavored for a wine pairing dinner. Rita Witte is a talented chef, passionate about flavors and spices. She has a catering background prior to starting Always Flavor, which we will tap into for this dinner. Food to her is more than just sustenance, it is a way to connect with others and build relationships. Birthed out of an overabundance of hot peppers grown in her garden, she started to create flavorful sauces with the mission to elevate every meal. Always Flavored is at 610 Caroline Street where you can pick up a few sandwiches or bottles of her hot sauces. Go to the Rita power of two!
