Melanie Sips the World: The Loire Valley’s Seductive Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is the Loire Valley’s dominant black grape. It makes both an enticing first and lasting impression once you taste it.
Melanie Sips the World: Rhône Valley Whites, Harmony in a Bottle
When many people think of Rhône Valley wines, velvety reds made from Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault come to mind. That’s not surprising since most of the wines produced in…
Melanie Sips the World: In the Midst of Vesuvius – Drinking the Tears of Christ
Many food lovers visit Naples in Italy’s Campania region to try the world-famous pizza. You even see people at the airport eating their first slices from large pizza boxes after…
Melanie Sips the World: Discovering Virginia Wine Country
While many wine lovers are familiar with the lush Zinfandels, peppy Pinot Noirs and splendid Cabernet Sauvignons of California, there is a treasure trove of East Coast wines to discover…
Melanie Sips the World: Italy’s Sweet “Straw” Wines
While each wine has its own distinct flavor profile, they have a lot in common: the process is arduous, and the wines are usually made in small batches since much of the grapes’ juice evaporates in the drying process. That’s why many Italian families bring these wines out for special occasions.
Melanie Sips the World: Exploring Sardegna’s Indigenous Grapes
Sardegna, an island off the coast of Italy, feels a world away. Its unique land grows grapes that make wine like nowhere else.
Melanie Sips the World: Kentucky Bourbon, America’s Native Spirit
Bourbon is our nation’s official native spirit as declared by Congress in 1964, and its birthplace is Kentucky. It’s also incredibly delicious and versatile.
Barolo & Barbaresco: Aristocratic Wines with Distinct Personalities
Barolo and Barbaresco are the aristocratic siblings of Piemonte: powerful wines that age with grace. Like all siblings, they have distinct personalities.
Warm Salmon Salad with Asparagus, Farm Eggs and Fingerling Potatoes
Photo by © Sara Remington A meaty fish like salmon or tuna pairs nicely with a sparkling rosé. The wine’s deeper fruit notes and acidity complement the fattiness of the…