The wines produced in the different regions of the world have some of unique tastes and flavors. Wine experts and those that have just started understanding wines and their USP will definitely be in position that they can differentiate the wines that are produced in the different regions. They can develop their skills further by having a deep insight of judging the wines based on the different regions in which they have been produced. However it is important to cater to the people based on the individual tastes and budgets, making a selection based on the different countries, regional origin can have provide you better scope to serve your customers. There are many factors that have a bearing on the wine selection. It is important to note that the wine that you serve must go along with the food that we serve whether it is an appetizer, meal or a dessert dish. Individual preferences also have big effect along with the different price factors. There are many people for whom the background of the wine is as important as the other elements in consideration. The difference in the regional tastes can bring in forth different tales of taste in the case wherein you are dealing with quality wines.There is a French term called as the “Terroir” that is used to refer the entire growing environment right from the soil variety to the temperature. However it is not restricted that the term is used to describe the French wine growing regions but it is used to connote the wine growing regions throughout the world whether it is an Italian wine region or the wine growing regions of Sonoma in California. This word is also used by the French as a protective word as they are also responsible for initiating laws for guarding the origin and the names of the particular wines. For example when you consider the fact of the sparkling wine was considered as champagne when it originated from the champagne region. However currently there are not any laws that have been passed with respect to the usage of the name Terroir. Different wine regions:Understanding the different type of grape production based on the different regions in which it excels describes the insight of taste. There are few tips for judging the wines based on the different regional specialties: Australia: Australia is globally known for the authentic red wines it offers, because of the dry, hot climate in some growing regions. Incase you are intending to find out the different wine specialties then you can just do an internet search and know the authentic wines of your country. California: California is the largest producer of wine in U.S. The wine growing regions of Sonoma produces a wide variety of high quality grapes. One of the respected and quite prestigious wine region to the east of San Francisco called as the Napa valley is well known and do not forget to shop for the famous Zinfandel, it should be a natural choice for wine shopping when you are in California.

Even teetotalers have to admit, there is something luxurious and intriguing about the idea of visiting California Wine Country. This is a place where generations of growers have toiled away to perfect the art of bringing fine wine to the world’s tables. Pleasing the palate is the number one priority, and the air is rich with tradition, complexity, and romance. Come for the wine or for the atmosphere, but visit Wine Country some time soon.

The area just north of San Francisco provides the traditional scenes sought after by wine connoisseurs; ancient vineyards, winery tours, and plenty of tastings, all surrounded by beautiful countryside. Napa Valley is perhaps the most famous of California’s regions, and contains about 45,000 acres of grapes and several hundred different wineries. This isn’t large by world standards, but that doesn’t stop it from being a well-visited and internationally respected wine-producing region. Within the valley you’ll find Calistoga, St. Helena, Oakville, Rutherford, and Yountville. Each of these has tours to offer as well as restaurants, prime picnic spots, and plenty of chances to taste the fragrant fruits of the earth.

Sonoma County, birthplace of California wine making, will certainly impress you as well. From family-run operations to large businesses, each stop on your tour will be different than the last. Just as no two wines are alike, you’ll never find two wineries that use the same methods, grapes, or label art. Treasure this notion as you wander the picturesque vistas and keep your senses alert, as you’ll likely discover a wine with a blend of elements perfectly suited to your taste buds. Hopefully you have some room to bring a few bottles home with you.

Follow the Russian River to the north for a visit to historic Healdsburg and experience stunning natural beauty along with even more wineries. Spanish-style architecture, small-town friendliness, and lots of vacation rentals will make this seem like the ideal place to hide away for a while. The redwoods that surround the town and the welcoming atmosphere that pervades it will make you feel instantly at home. If the mood strikes you, settle in for a while and let the culture, music, and sweet aroma of wine take you far away from the hubbub that you’re used to.

If you’d like to see what else California Wine Country has to offer, make space in your day for some antique shopping, golfing, or a hot air balloon ride. You or your traveling companions may need a break from the Merlots and Chardonnays, so be sure to open your eyes to the big picture and all the opportunities that surround you. The wine is sublime on its own, but when mixed with a full day of varied activities, all the flavors will mingle with extra passion.

From Petaluma to Cazadero, you’re sure to find bike trails, spas, fine dining options, and all varieties of entertainment everywhere you look. So whether you and your traveling companions stick together or take an afternoon apart, no one has an excuse to be bored or dissatisfied with the activities at hand in Wine Country. Even the decision to explore a back country road or wander along the coast could lead to great memories, so let your instincts take over as you delve into the mysterious and sensuous terrain of this most charming of areas.

Just as the wine must be well-paired to your meal, your place of lodging must complement your vacation. You’ve traveled all this way in order to revel in life’s small pleasures and you’ve sharpened your senses in order to distinguish between “full” and “medium” bodied, so don’t settle for anything less than amazing when it comes to where you stay.

Look into a vacation rental for the true Wine Country experience. Properties all throughout the valleys will appeal to your delicate senses and will invite love and friendship to flow along with the wine. No matter what area you’re partial to, you’re sure to find a place nearby. A Monte Rio loft with down comforters and a hot tub would be a fine choice, as would a Guerneville forest lodge. Many are a stone’s throw away from one or more wineries, and most provide other options for keeping busy or letting go of stress.

Look online to find the Wine Country Vacation Rental that will satisfy your discerning taste, and prepare to toast to a very fine trip.

The most popular white wine grape that is found around the world is the Chardonnay grape. It is a green skinned variety of grape that is believed to originate in the Burgundy wine region of France but has since spread throughout the world. It is often seen as a rite of passsage into the international wine market when new and developing wine regions grow Chardonnay. The flavor, as well as the aroma will often depend on where the wine is made as well as the processing methods used. Chardonnay is a versatile grape and remains a major type to this day. Chardonnay grape is used to make white Burgundy along with a lesser known grape known as Aligote. White Burgundy is also another popular wine.
Chardonnay grapes are very neutral. Many of the flavors that are associated with it are influenced by oak, as well as terroir. French and American Chardonnay are among the most preferred white wines as well as the richest and most complex ones. In the United States, some very fine Chardonnay wines come from the Napa Valley in California, and the Columbia Valley in Washington.
The grapes are very malleable, reflecting the terroir, the characteristics of the climate, soil, and other factors that go into growing the grapes. Because of this, a Columbia Valley Chardonnay will be different than one from France. Even within a small viticultural area, the differences between grapes grown in one vineyard and another may be very noticeable.
The grapes ripen early, which can cause some issues. These grapes, since they develop early can be easily damaged by springtime frost. In some regions, the vines are pruned just before they flower, which delays the flowering for up to two weeks. Because of the grapes ripening early, they thrive in regions with a short growing season. Upon ripening, the chardonnay grapes will quickly lose their acidity, making harvesting time crucial.
Chardonnay grapes are a result of the extinct Croatian Blanc and Pinot grape and is aged using oak barrels. These barrels bring out the vanilla flavor that the wine is known for. Bottles can also be used to age and ferment the wine but it will not age as well as red wine under the same circumstance.
Chardonnay is best served chilled and has the potential to be served with a diverse spectrum of verious food types due to it’s wide range of syles. A Chardonnay from Washington state tend to pair well with tomato based dishes as well as dished using sweet onion due to the wine maintaining more acidity in it’s character. Earthy dishes, such as mushroom soup or aged cheese, pair very well with an older and a more mellow Chardonnay. Chardonnay is most commonly paired with chicken, turkey and other white meats.
Other than making white Burgandy, Chardonnay grapes are also used for making Champagne as well as other types of sparkling wines. Remaining as one of the most widely-planted grape varieties, Chardonnay has over 400,000 acres worldwide. Chardonnay can also be found in any wine or alcohol store and can make a great addition to any meal.

If you’re an avid traveller, you’re likely to have taken all the ‘usual’ vacations – from beach breaks and mountain retreats to spa getaways. And if you don’t get the opportunity to travel much, you’ll undoubtedly want your trips to be extraordinary and well-worth your time. The reality is that while there are countless types of fulfilling recreational pursuits out there, travellers are always looking for new and interesting ways to spend their vacations. After all, everyone wants to come away with a holiday experience that’s not only unique, but unforgettable.

A gem in the realm of vacations has long been the culinary tour. Yet this type of getaway has kept a perpetual sense of novelty, quite simply because there are so many ways to relish it. When you go to a beach, you can expect sun, sand and waves; but when you take a tour reflecting all the cultural and culinary influences upon the cuisine of a region, you might come away with much more than you bargained for. Simply put, if you love travelling, enjoy trying new things and can’t get your fill of good food, a culinary tour is the perfect type of vacation for you.

No matter where you go these days, there’s something delicious to eat. But there are certainly parts of the US which boast a rich culinary history. One of these is undoubtedly New Orleans, Louisiana. Sure, New Orleans is famous for its Mardi Gras celebration and Jazz Fest; but the city, known as “The Big Easy,” is also world-renowned for its culinary customs. New Orleans is noted for its mix of cultures, each of which has held on to its past traditions in some way – and food, like music, just happens to be one of the most prominent of these traditions.

Tour the city’s most famous kitchens and dining rooms – particularly in the French quarter and along Bourbon Street – and learn about the many ethnic influences that have helped shape its history and unique cuisine. Pick up on the culinary contributions of historic restaurants in the area, dating from 1840 to present, and learn the distinctions between Creole and Cajun foods! No matter how you go about it, you can’t go wrong with a culinary tour in New Orleans.

Alternatively, why not combine a culinary tour with a wine-tasting excursion? Napa Valley, California is undoubtedly the ideal destination if this idea strikes your fancy. Napa Valley is the American capital of food and wine, and a region which attracts countless visitors from around the world each year. By touring a winery, you can come to appreciate the various processes involved in producing an exquisite wine – from harvesting and fermentation to ageing. And aside from all the fantastic culinary treasures and premium wines, you can expect stunning, picturesque scenery. Whether you’re a novice or an accomplished wine connoisseur, a wine and culinary tour in Napa Valley is guaranteed to delight you. Moreover, Napa Valley is just 30 miles north of San Francisco, so you could easily make your way down to try the culinary treats of the “Golden Gate City” – which includes those in America’s largest Chinatown.

If you’re considering a culinary tour, rest assured that you’ll find a number of fantastic options for accommodation – regardless of whether you’re off to the east coast, west coast or deep south. A culinary tour is truly one of the best ways to become acquainted with a city’s culture and unique character – so why not book a culinary tour today and prepare to have your taste buds dazzled!

Proper wine etiquette is essential to make your wine tasting experience very contented and pleasurable. There is a set of code of behavior that a good number wine lovers stick on to especially while they are on wine tours. Napa Tours educate and polish wine lover’s sense of taste. Napa valley boasts for the various wineries that it has to offer. Good taste demands certain rules and regulations. Let us see;Tasting area protocol  You are expected to taste white wines first when you are at a winery’s tasting room. Then red wines can be tasted. Desert wines are reserved for the last. While tasting any of these wines, you ought to taste light bodied wines first. You can then taste fuller bodied wines. Water and crackers are the two most common palate cleansers. They can be taken after sipping each wine.It is not a wine etiquette that you ought to finish the glass of fine offered to you. The left over wine can be disposed at the jars provided in the winery tasting room. If you visit a winery with a prior appointment then it is good manners that you make a purchase. Common Restaurant Wine decorumWhen you decide to enjoy wine at a restaurant then make sure you follow these tips to make the difficult job easy. Choose a wine that goes well with the entrees that you have ordered. Order by glass when you have ordered is too different.To attend to your queries Sommeliers are present in the restaurant. It is etiquette to avail yourself services that they have to offer.Ask for suggestions rather than technical questions. The waiter will be pleased to serve you and make your experience a wonderful one.Avoid touching or smelling the cork when the waiter places it on your table. Swirl the wine which is in your glass, smell it and then taste it. Corkage manners Many restaurants do provide corkage services to all; customers. This includes those who bring their wine with them. But in few places it is not appreciated to abruptly bring a wine bottle with you to the table. Make a call to the restaurant and confirm if they allow corkage.Request for the fee that should be paidProper etiquette demands that you offer the waiter to taste the wine when he serves.The obligation of the Host at PartiesMake sure your guests are at ease when wine is being served.Allow the wine to come to room temperature. Serve wine in clean glasses that are specifically made for wine drinking.

Bottle Shock is a temporary condition of wine characterized by muted or disjointed fruit flavors usually caused by wines that have been shaken in travel. 

Bottle Shock the movie is an entertaining, albeit not completely factual look at the events leading up to the famous 1976 “Judgment in Paris”, where California wines beat out their French counterparts in a blind tasting putting California wines firmly on the wine map. It is a good romp in the vineyard and shows us what the Napa of old was like and how things have changed since.

As a young college student traveling through Napa in 1976 I found it hard to understand how this event transformed the California wine industry. The grand estates of Inglenook, Beringer, and Krug shared the stage with newer names of Grgich, Stags Leap, Mondavi and Sterling and were producing world class wines. Didn’t the Europeans know that? Well a trip to Europe in the late 70’s showed that the wines that made it across the “pond” were not the names mentioned above but were the jug wines from the vineyards of Modesto, Bakersfield and Fresno. Good marketing had trumped good wine.

Back to the movie…The story is told alternating between Napa Valley and Paris as it follows Jim Barrett (played a bit stiffly by Bill Pullman) a lawyer who followed his dream by ditching the suits, purchasing a winery (Chateau Montelena) and striving to make the world’s greatest Chardonnay. Like many a winemaker then, as now, his business is struggling and is applying for his third bank loan.

In Paris Steven Spurrier (played wonderfully by Alan Rickman) is a priggish British wine merchant with a struggling wine shop who has the idea of a staging a blind tasting between French and California wines. Rickman is some 28 years older than Spurrier was at the time and plays the Brit as a classic wine snob. Once Spurrier arrrives in Napa the juxstoposition of him against the backdrop of rural Napa is often hilarious.

Spurrier has denounced the film for many mistruths and embellishments throughout and endorses a different version written by George Taber who witnessed the actual tasting.  The new film “Judgment in Paris” is due out later this year. Others have questioned why Mike Grgich, who actully made the winning wine for Chataeu Montelena, did not get a mention in the film.

Both Bo and Jim Barrett, and plenty of other old hands in the valley helped out with the story which was written by Jody Savin, Ross Schwartz and Director Randy Miller. Hollywood writers can sometimes improve a story or ruin it depending on your taste and proximently to the actual events. This movie is certainly entertaining and is worth seeing. For a more factual account check out George Taber’s book, Judgment of Paris: California vs. France and the Historic 1976 Paris Tasting that Revolutionized Wine, or wait for the new movie.

Bo (Chris Pine) the hippie son of the winery owner only has ambitions for a good time. Gustavo Brambia (Freddy Rodriguez)  the more earnest and skilled “cellar rat” has visions of becoming a great winemaker. Sam (Rachael Taylor) the love interest is fictional but opens a window into Bo’s development from loser party animal to winery promoter. The film follows alternately and a bit clumsily, Spurrier as he makes his way through Napa Valley tasting, swirling, spitting and recognizing the quality of California wine and Jim and Bo Barrett sparing (literally) as the father and son with different work ethics and goals.

The movie is shot with sweeping vistas of the wine country and certainly reminds us of how beautiful Napa Valley is. Many scenes are shot in the vineyard with the actors poking about the vines very gingerly. (The fruit hanging from the vines looks like it was close to harvest time and no doubt the vineyard owner had instructed the crew not to touch anything!) 

The winery scenes are a bit staged but the film works and the story is true enough to be important and pleasant enough to be entertaining. The story finishes as the wine finds its way to the Paris tasting– and the rest as they say is history.  The film has a great 70’s era sound track dominated with lots of Doobie Brothers setting the tone. Also stars Dennis Farina and Elia Dishku.

As a ironic footnote in late July of this year Bo and Jim Barrett announced that Chateau Montelena will be sold, pending government approval, to Michel Reybier, owner of Bordeaux chateau Cos d’Estournel, a famed French winery.

Everybody loves that Eureka moment when they happen upon a special getaway – a “find” that they hadn’t totally expected. With all the hype you read in travel brochures and all the creative writing that finds its way to the internet, it’s satisfying when you come across someplace that is actually as good as – or better than – advertised.Such is the case with these two accommodations in California Wine Country.

Paso Robles

Perched on a hill near Highway 101, La Bellasera Hotel and Suites might look from the freeway like it’s just a nice, modern hotel at an easy exit point – a place on the way to someplace else. But get a little closer and you realize somebody has spent a lot of money creating a true luxury hotel. Using a blend of Mediterranean and Italian architecture, this hotel truly stands out.

It’s one of those hotels that almost overwhelms the senses as you enter the lobby with its rich marble floors and Roman columns supporting a pseudo balcony with ornate iron railings against a backdrop of ultra high ceilings. The feeling is classic, yet contemporary with special attention given to spot lighting and the hotel’s stylish but comfortable couches. Along one side of the room, wrought iron doors open to the elaborate wine Wine Cellar while nearby is the entrance to the hotel’s locally acclaimed Enoteca Restaurant & Bar which, in just a short time, has become known as the place for a gourmet dining experience in the immediate area.

Our two-room suite expanded on the theme of local luxury by including in one room a three-person Jacuzzi tub that had been built into a foundation of bricks and set in a corner where colorful wall paintings added the illusion that our tub was looking out on a Mediterranean coastal village. Again, Roman pillars were used to complete the illusion. Across the room was a cabinet-style wet bar and glass-doored refrigerator and, on the wall, a full-sized high-definition plasma television. There was also a smaller flat-screen television in the bedroom, as well as two king beds, a desk and a desk-top computer.

We could go on and on about things like the signature bedding, high thread count linens, the luxury bath products, the availability of spa services either in-room or in their special treatment room – but we think you get the idea. The quiet town of Paso Robles now has a luxury option for even the most pampered of guests.

For more information on La Bellasera Hotel and Suites, please phone 866-STAY-NOW.

Napa Valley

A visit to Napa is not just a chance to see where wine is made, or to explore the upscale shops and stores that now have found their way into the tiniest of Napa Valley communities. Rather, a trip to the valley is an almost spiritual journey that presents you at once with the beauty of 63,000 acres of vineyards and the industry that has brought a European elegance to the Valley lifestyle.

With 75,000 residents, the town of Napa has become a small city in its own right and a name synonymous with California wineries. If you want to be based in Napa during your stay, there are many options for an unforgettable experience. The most recent we sampled – and a place we would consider a “find” because of its incredible restaurant – is the Westin Verasa Napa. The resort hugs the banks of the Napa River, and is within three blocks of the plentiful shopping, arts activities, music, wine bars and other attractions located in downtown Napa. The location is also prime because of the river walk that runs along the Napa River shores and, in this case, right by our first floor suite.

As the name Westin implies, the Westin Versa Napa is all about a high-quality experience. Our suite was like a small condo unit with a complete kitchen – with all the latest colorful stylings, by the way – as well as an open room with contemporary dining and living room furniture, and a bedroom with a king-size bed. Plasma wall-mounted TV’s were in both the “great room” and the bedroom. The bathroom with its generous use of marble was small but elegant.While the river beckoned just outside our suite – and we really enjoyed lounging on the private deck, staring at the calm waters and watching runners and walkers as they used the trail – the highlight of our stay had to be the dinner we had at La Toque, the renowned French restaurant right on property. It’s been named one of the best restaurants in America and has won numerous culinary awards, and we were certainly curious to see what all the fuss was about.

It didn’t take long to figure it out. We were seated at a table that felt private, yet had a good view of the restaurant’s “show kitchen” where cooks and waiters were scurrying about doing all the things you see in those cooking shows that are so popular these days. The maitre d’ explained how this restaurant is a little different – you can choose two, three or four courses and they’ll give you portions to match. So if you choose two, you get big portions; choose four and each one is smaller.

The menu is subdivided into four sections and many diners choose one from each – but it’s not mandatory. You can choose all meat dishes if that’s what you want. The choices were amazing and included such items as Seared Artisan Foie Gras with Bacon-Wrapped Medjool Dates and Toasted Brioche (the best foie gras we’ve ever had) or West Texas “Nilgai” Antelope with Leek and Black Trumpet Potato Terrine and Roasted Root Vegetable Red Wine Reduction, or Florida Frog Legs with Sweet Garlic Puree, Sauce Verte and Tomato Confit.

Because this is California Wine Country, there is something else to think about – what wine you will drink with these delectable entrées. This is where the experience totally transcended any we’ve had before – if you want something extra special, ask for wine pairings for each of your courses.With wine pairings they don’t just bring you a different wine for each course – you also get an education. The sommelier at La Toque is quite knowledgeable about wines from all regions, not just Napa. With each pouring you get a detailed explanation of where the wine came from and why it is being paired with the entrée you have chosen.

For more information on the Westin Verasa Napa, phone (707) 257-1800.

Napa wine tasting tours are one of the most prestigious yet simple delights you can experience while visiting California. Napa valley is known for its luscious and fresh stretch of grapevine farms, which produce among the most exquisite wines in the market. To help market these products, wine tasting tours are being offered in Napa Valley wherein guests and tourists are given the chance to know more about the farms and get some first-hand experience with tasting freshly fermented wines.

There are actually two different ways of experiencing these authentic Napa wine tasting tours. Although you can always go with a group for the wine tasting treat, you can also plan on your own wine tasting tour right in Napa valley with the right procedures to guide you.

Planning Your Own Napa Valley Wine Tasting Tour

1. Research about the possible lodging accommodations in Napa Valley.

You can either go online or visit your local travel agent to give you useful advice on this. There are some lodging sites in Napa Valley which are wine farms themselves, so from there you can already experience an authentic wine tasting treat. By visiting your travel agent, not only do you get the chance to know of must-see places in Napa Valley but you might also avail of discounted travel packages specially if you travel off-season.

2. Car Rental

Think about the fact that you are taking in alcohol throughout your wine tasting tour. This being said, it is always better to rent a car throughout your stay there or at least a car driver who can accompany you during the trip. If you wanted to save up on this, you and your companion/s can designate a car driver as you cruise along the Napa Valley farms. One thing is for sure though, there are not too many public rides in Napa Valley so do not forget making transportation arrangements.

3. Go Off Season

If you wanted to have the best experience in Napa Wine tasting tours, you better do it off season. If you go there otherwise, you may find yourself crowding it with other tourists who come in groups. Off season often happens from September until November.

Joining Napa Wine Tasting Tours

Of course if you wanted to save yourself the effort of planning your own trip, you can always avail of travel packages. Discounted fees may be available in group trips which would already include everything you need: tickets, lodging, and transportation while in Napa Valley. The best thing about going on group tours is that you can get exposed to a wide variety of activities. More than just visiting places such as Kenwood and Glen Ellen, you can also get access to wine bazaars and food & wine pairing events.

However, be mindful of schedules if you come to Napa wine tasting tours through a travel package. You cannot be late and you do not really hold your own time. You may also spend just a limited amount of time in one place so make the most out of it.

We were lucky to find some of the best gourmet olive oils right here in sunny California. Located in the prime grape growing area of Rutherford in Napa Valley, Round Pond produces more than elegant and opulent wines. The Round Pond produces four superb gourmet olive oils that are considered a treasure in our house.

The first variety of gourmet olive oil is an Italian olive oil that has a beautiful balance of spice, rich butter, green tomatoes, cut grass, black pepper, and fresh thyme. This olive oil is perfect for dipping breads and makes a delicious salad dressing.

The second gourmet olive oil is a Spanish variety that is grown from special hand selected and imported olive tress that lead to this olive oil’s heady aroma. The Spanish olive oil is an excellent cooking olive oil for those very special occasions.

The third olive oil offered by Round Pond is the Blood Orange gourmet olive oil. Using the finest ripe blood oranges, the orange rinds are pressed with a hand selection of the estates finest olives. This olive oil is perfect for various sauces, marinades, and works very well with all types of foods.

Finally, the Meyer Lemon gourmet olive oil is one of the best olive oils for summer meals. Using a Meyer Lemon, which is thought to be a cross between a mandarin orange and a typical lemon, this olive oil has a very citrus aroma and taste, with very smooth overtones of oranges. The Meyer Lemon gourmet olive oil stands as on of the best from the Round Pound estate.