by Alvin Starkman
Alvin Starkman, M.A., J.D. At minimum three times a month, in the course of leading a mezcal educational tour I’m asked by clients why, right now, is there a mezcal boom, and how and when did the public’s fascination with the agave spirit begin. Now my answers to the questions will certainly raise eyebrows from those with a different take on the matter, but that being stated, here goes, from someone who has been trying to figure it all out over the past 20 years or so. Back in Oaxaca’s early era of modern mezcal bars some two decades ago, there was only one mezcalería, In Situ, owned by mezcal experts Ulises Torrentera and Sandra Ortiz Brena. It was so new and unheard of, and with a shoestring budget, that it had to open in a little corner of another bar. Of course, there exist...
by Kristina Tomlin
Grenache: A Deep Dive into a Beloved Grape Varietal Grenache, a grape celebrated for its vibrant flavors and remarkable versatility, captivates wine enthusiasts around the world. Whether it’s gracing the sun-drenched vineyards of France or thriving in the rolling hills of Spain, Grenache offers a rich tapestry of tastes and textures that appeal to wine lovers and sommeliers alike. **Grenache Taste Profile: What to Expect** Grenache wines are celebrated for their medium to full body, moderate acidity, and soft tannins, making them approachable for both new and experienced wine drinkers. Here’s what you can expect from a typical Grenache wine: - Fruits: Bright red fruits dominate the palate, with flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. In warmer climates, expect riche...
by Kristina Tomlin
Planning an event involves countless details, but one of the biggest decisions is how to handle alcohol service. Whether you’re organizing a wedding, corporate gathering, or private party, deciding between a venue’s bar package or supplying your own wine can significantly impact your budget, guest experience, and overall event quality. If you have the option to supply your own wine, you can control costs, curate a unique selection, and elevate the overall experience. Let’s break down the pros of supplying your own wine and how to plan effectively. Why Supplying Your Own Wine Is a Smart Choice 1. Cost Savings Without Sacrificing Quality Many venues charge high markups on wine. By sourcing your own, you can save 30-50% compared to venue pricing. 2. A Curated Wine Selection...
by Lee Romano Sequeira
Ever wondered why wine often gets kudos for being “good for you”? Here’s what the research politely suggests—always in moderation, always as a complement to your meal, and never an invitation to overdo it. What the Science Says: Cardiovascular Support Moderate wine consumption—typically defined as up to one 5 oz glass per day for women and up to two for men—has been linked to lower rates of heart disease and improved "good" HDL cholesterol, thanks to alcohol and antioxidants like polyphenols and resveratrol. Polyphenols & Antioxidants These plant-based compounds, especially abundant in red wine, may help protect blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and improve lipid (fat) metabolism. Recent Evidence Using Objective Measures A 2024 Spanish study found that li...
by Arthur C. Fleming
If you find yourself hungry for “good pie” in Alba and are a fan of expertly crafted pizza made with locally sourced ingredients, go get a table or sit at the bar, both are likely to be buzzing with activity on any given evening. The ovens are cranking out the pizzas, made of dough composed of the artisanal flours of chef/baker and miller, Fulvio Marino. Over the winter, a friend from Milan and I stopped in on a Saturday night, and the place was hopping, due in no small part to the pizzas, which seemed to have a light, airy quality that was a perfect vehicle for the fresh toppings. We devoured two pies: a CAPRICCIOSA (tomato, fiordilatte, artichokes, ham, Taggiasca olives and mushrooms) and a DOPPIA MORTADELLA E STRACCIATELLA (stuffed pizza with mortadella and stracciatella with salsa ...
by Kristina Tomlin
When it comes to wine, few grape varieties evoke the reverence and intrigue that Pinot Noir commands. Often referred to as the "heartbreak grape" due to its finicky nature and the challenges it presents to winemakers, Pinot Noir is a varietal that fascinates wine drinkers and provides a formidable challenge to winemakers. Why is it so sought after and coveted by winos - from those new to wine to sommeliers and wine professionals all over? What exactly makes Pinot Noir so special? The Allure of Pinot Noir: What Makes It So Special? Pinot Noir is celebrated for its light to medium body, silky texture, and complex flavor profile, often featuring red fruit notes like cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, along with earthy, floral, and sometimes spicy undertones. But beyond its flavors, wha...
by Kristina Tomlin
If you’ve ever had a white wine that made you feel like you were sipping seaside with a bowl of oysters and a salty breeze in your hair — chances are it was Albariño. Bright, briny, and bursting with citrus, this Spanish gem is one of our favorite white wines to enjoy in the sunshine, and especially on Albariño Day (August 1). I’ll never forget the first time I had ever had an Albariño…it was the first white wine that made me think twice about white wines. My experience with white wines was primarily limited to banquet Chardonnay, La Crema Chardonnay, and a college student’s budget pinot grigio. A friend and I went to a newly opened wine shop and tasting room, and on their wine tasting menu they were pouring a domestic Albariño. I tried to beg off, saying that I wasn’t r...
by Kristina Tomlin
Bastille Day & Wine: A Toast to Liberty Every July 14th, the streets of France fill with fireworks, laughter, accordion music, and—naturally—glasses of French wine raised high. Bastille Day is more than just France’s version of the Fourth of July. It’s a celebration of revolution, resilience, and radical change. But behind the sparkling Crémant and Provençal rosé lies a complex and fascinating truth: Wine played a surprisingly central—and symbolic—role in the French Revolution. Yes, there were barricades, guillotines, and political manifestos. But there were also barrels, vineyard seizures, and revolutionary toasts. Wine wasn’t just a backdrop to the revolution; it was a catalyst, a cultural weapon, and ultimately, a liberated luxury. Bastille Day 101: Why J...
by Marla Durben Hirsch
Paso Robles’ wine region, between Los Angeles and San Francisco on California’s central coast, is a world-class wine destination. Originally known for Zinfandel, over the years the area has branched out into Rhone varietals and Bordeaux styles. While the climate lends itself to big, bold reds, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, a number of wineries also produce outstanding white and rosé wine, and a few, such as PasoSecco, specialize in sparkling wine. Many of the wineries are into sustainable farming. With at least 200 wineries (some locals said it was closer to 300) and more than 60 kinds of varietals grown here due to the region’s many microclimates, it's truly an incredible place for a wine drinker to visit. It’s also one of the more friendly and mellow wine regions we...
by Kristina Tomlin
Fire up the grill, break out the sparklers, and fill your glass with something delicious—because July 4th is basically the Olympics of backyard gatherings. Whether you're hosting a poolside hang, lighting up the grill, or saving room for that one friend’s “famous” berry dessert, we've got the wine pairings to match every vibe. Here’s your red, white, and rosé guide to good times—featuring wines you’ll find right here at Sippin Somm Wines. Light Bites & Chill Sips: Whites & Rosés That Work Overtime Pebble Cove Sauvignon Blanc 2022 (New Zealand) Pairs with: Shrimp cocktail, ceviche, crab cakes, guacamole Bursts of passionfruit, grapefruit pith, and mouthwatering acidity make this a go-to for fresh seafood and summer dips. Bonus points for pairing perfectly with ...
