Category: Wine

James Laube, the respected Napa bureau chief of Wine Spectator and a prominent wine critic, passed away at the age of 73 following a brief illness. Laube dedicated 40 years to the magazine and was known for his impeccable palate and candid reviews. Joining Wine Spectator in 1983, Laube became…

A Tri-State wine bar has officially closed its doors after nearly a decade of service. Somm Wine Bar + Kitchen, situated on Price Avenue in East Price Hill, announced its permanent closure via social media on Friday. The establishment held its last service on Saturday night. In a heartfelt message…

Maui Kuʻia Estate Chocolate is set to host a “Wine & Weave” event on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Lahaina. This event will support Hawaiian Civic Clubs from Lahaina, Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, focusing on fire recovery efforts. Participants will learn to…

Tawny Port, a unique style of fortified wine from Portugal’s Douro Valley, is becoming increasingly popular. Known for its nutty, caramelized flavors that develop through extensive barrel aging, Tawny Port is distinguished from other port styles by its oxidative aging process. Typically labeled with age designations of 10, 20, 30,…

Sauvignon Blanc has firmly established itself as New Zealand’s signature grape variety, renowned for its vibrant and refreshing qualities. Originating from France’s Bordeaux region, this green-skinned grape is now cultivated worldwide, showcasing unique expressions depending on its terroir. Typically consumed young, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is characterized by robust aromas…

James Laube, the longtime senior editor and Napa bureau chief for Wine Spectator, has passed away at the age of 73 following a brief illness. Over his nearly four-decade career with the magazine, Laube played a pivotal role in elevating both Wine Spectator and the California wine industry to international…

A potential 200% tariff on European Union wines is set to take effect on April 2, putting U.S. wine shops and restaurants that depend on EU imports at risk of significant price hikes and supply disruptions. President Trump’s proposed tariff comes in retaliation for the EU’s tariffs on American steel…

Opus One, one of California’s most esteemed wineries renowned for its pioneering role in the Napa Valley wine scene, has introduced Meghan Zobeck as its new director of winemaking. Zobeck, who previously held the position of winemaker at Burgess Cellars, is stepping into this significant role at the 170-acre Oakville…

A Kansas bishop has raised concerns about a Satanic group allegedly stealing sacred wine and wafers intended for a "Black Mass" planned for the state capitol. Kansas City Catholic Archbishop Joseph Naumann filed a lawsuit against Satanic Grotto leaders Travis Roberts and Michael Stewart in Leavenworth District Court. The archbishop’s…

California’s wine industry is navigating a challenging landscape filled with rising costs, shifting consumption patterns, and environmental stressors, including wildfire smoke and drought conditions. Indigenous to this struggle is the looming prospect of increased tariffs amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Europe. With the recent call for tariffs,…