thegrape.com

This is wine made easy!

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Can you tell the difference between the #Syrah and #Shiraz grapes? If you'd like to learn more we've got answers. 

http://www.thegrape.com/patio/blogs/6/146/syrah-vs-shiraz-what-are-the-di

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Have you ever been curious what types of wines improve with age? thegrape.com offers a fresh take on the topic of "laying down" wines.

http://www.thegrape.com/patio/blogs/6/145/what-wines-improve-with-age

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We know, we’ve been there; your standing in the wine isle and you want to try something inexpensive and worthwhile, how do you know? Well you simply refer to this reference guide provided to you by The Grape! We’ve gone ahead and simplified things and created a quick resource of noteworthy and respectable white, rose and red wine varieties under $50. We’ve tried to mention wines that would be readily available and easily accessible by shopping either online or at a local wine store. Here are our selections for you to enjoy!

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Understanding Wine Ratings & Grape Certification

Do you really understand wine ratings? There's a better way! Learn more... 

http://www.thegrape.com/patio/blogs/6/141/understanding-wine-ratings

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The Best Expensive White Wines

Have you ever wondered which expensive white wines have the best wine ratings? Sometimes we want to step out of line and experience a taste of the “good life,” whether you’re celebrating a momentous occasion or just wanting to try something different, something other than #cheapwine.

For this reason we’ve put together the following list of white wine varietals, priced from $50 - $250, that serves as a great reference for tasting something different or more expensive, starting your very own #wine collection or for celebrating that special moment!

Visit thegrape.com to find a list of the best reviewed white wines... http://www.thegrape.com/patio/blogs/6/143/the-best-expensive-white-wines

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The Best Expensive Red Wines

Have you ever wondered which expensive red wines have the best reviews? Sometimes we want to venture outside of our comfort zone and experience a taste of the “high life,” whether we’re celebrating a milestone or just wanting to try something new, something other than cheap wine.

Because of this, we’ve put together a list of red wine varietals below priced from $50 - $250 that are a great starting point for tasting something different (more expensive), starting a wine collection or for celebrating that special moment!

Visit thegrape.com to find a list of the best reviewed red wines... http://www.thegrape.com/patio/blogs/6/142/the-best-expensive-red-wines

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Jordan Chardonnay 2010 From The Russian River Valley

From The Russian River Valley #JordanChardonnay 2010

California is known for plentiful #wineregions and #wineries. This #winewednesday we travel to The #RussianRiver Valley, where Jordan Vineyards & Winery is no exception. Enthusiasts describe #JordanVineyards 2010 Chardonnay as: Fresh. Juicy. Tangy. And it delivers on all of those descriptors and more. Jordan #Chardonnay 2010 Price & Store: $25 - Total Wine, Wine.com & Select Wine Shops Wine Rating: #GrapeCertified Gold If you enjoy oranges, apricots and green apples with hints of spice, zest and a touch of minerality, then you’ll enjoy Jordan’s 2010 Chardonnay. Pair this #winewithfoods (or ingredients) that have a natural spice to them like Roasted Vegetable Stir-Fry or Herb Roasted Cornish Game Hens. For more #grapecertified #winereviews visit www.thegrape.com. Cheers!

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What is the sediment at the bottom of my wine glass?

The sediment, known as tannins, are complex compounds that come from plants. In wine, tannins come from grape seeds, grape skins, grape stems, and from the (oak) barrels they age in.

Because tannins are attracted to protein, which is found in human saliva, they are the reason your mouth may feel grainy, dry or puckered after a sip or glass of red wine.

a) Shining a light on the underside of the wine bottle when pouring yourself a glass of wine will help you see the tannins and avoid pouring sediment into your glass.

b) Using an aerator with a sediment filter can also prevent the tannins from ending up in your glass.

The presence of tannins is directly related to the winemaking process and is an important part of the wine ageing or cellaring process. So, even though you don’t necessarily want to consume them, be thankful for them as they play a role in the deliciousness of your wine.

For more helpful #grapetips be sure to visit www.thegrape.com. Cheers!

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The Decanter: Wines Most Underrated Tool

Although a nice #decanter can be a conversational piece and win compliments at a dinner party, there’s no need to break the bank for one. If your only intention is to use it as a means to release your #wines full potential, believe it or not, an inexpensive, plastic pitcher will do. If you’d like something nicer, try crystal, which can be surprisingly inexpensive.

Let’s get back to releasing your wines full potential! Young #varietals, blends and vintages are the most common wines we buy so making the best of them should be important, right? Of course! This means “swirling” is your young wines best friend. Exposure to oxygen intensifies the aromas of young, tannic #redwines and softens their textures. So let your bottle “glug” into the decanter. Along with some swirling, allowing your wine to breathe for 30 - 60 minutes will make a dramatic and hopefully enjoyable difference.

On the other hand we have older, vintage wines. You’ll want to be gentle with these wines, treating them as if they are in fact, old timers. Wines that have spent years in a cellar may have a funky smell but don’t worry. Give it room to breath and it’ll shed that aroma in 30 - 60 minutes. Rule #1: When decanting aged, vintage red wines, pour the wine slowly along the inside of the decanter, filtering out any sediment that may have accumulated at the bottom of the bottle.  Use these quick tips to get more enjoyment from each and every bottle of wine you encounter! At #TheGrape we hope these tips are helpful and would love to hear your feedback. Please feel free to comment below or write us at www.thegrape.com. Cheers to the full potential of all your future wines!

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What Are The Health Benefits Of Red Wine?

Based on recent wine studies, we'd like to share why you should consider drinking a glass or two of wine a day, all in the name of improved health!

Of course all of these heart healthy tips are only part of a larger, comprehensive health plan that includes a balanced diet, exercise and the proper amounts of rest.

For more helpful tips like this, along with grape certified wine ratings, red and white wine reviews, and food and wine pairings visit the grape. Thanks for watching and we look forward to seeing you at www.thegrape.com. Cheers!