As spring peeks out from behind the clouds at us, I dream of summer and my mind and palate go to lighter fare. I say goodbye to stew and chili, malbec and syrah, porter and dubbel in exchange for salad and gazpacho, sauvignon blanc and Falanghina, and… wait, what beers …
FACT SHEET Wine Institute is the association of 1,000 California wineries. In recent days, unfounded litigation has raised questions about the safety of California wine. We want to assure you that the health and safety of consumers is of the greatest importance to our wineries and that the wine …
March 18, 2015 WINE INSTITUTE STATEMENT ON POSSIBLE ARSENIC LITIGATION As the association of 1,000 California wineries, Wine Institute is concerned with the health and safety of consumers who enjoy wine. We have learned of possible litigation alleging that certain wines pose a risk to consumers because they …
The Tom Collins is a classic Gin-based cocktail with a rich history. This classic was originally named the John Collins after its creator at a popular London Hotel in 1860. The John Collins gained popularity in 1869 after being published in the Steward and Barkeeper’s Manual. Old Tom Gin was …
Believe it or not, one thing I often crave on a winter cocktail menu is a bright, refreshing drink. I do enjoy winter cocktails that are strong and heavy with winter spices. However, I feel strongly that a successful cocktail menu should have a drink for everyone. That includes all …
The original theme of this month’s edition was going to be the second half of our “Top 10” list. Trust us when we tell you that it’s not easy to write a short list of things that inspired us over the past year and ideas that keep us so passionate …
To start the New Year off right I’m featuring the Rusty Nail as my classic cocktail. According to cocktail historian David Wondrich, this concoction dates back to 1937 and is credited to one F. Benniman. Wondrich also states that it’s supposedly named after the British Industries Fair. Nonetheless, the Rusty …
In the world of hot craft cocktails we often see tea, coffee, cider, etc. However, my favorite this time of year is cranberry. This months featured craft cocktail is a hot cranberry drink called the Winter Warmer. I created this cocktail about 10 years ago while bartending in Portland, Oregon …
January 21, 2005 was the U.S. theatrical release of the iconic film Sideways. Recently, Geek has seen numerous articles noting this pending 10 year anniversary, and the effect the movie had on Pinot Noir sales, Merlot sales and wine tourism. Of course, Wine Geek has his own opinions. In case …
It’s that time of the year when we make a couple of lists and check them twice. This won’t be like David Letterman’s Top 10, more like Five & Five. Five things that inspired us about this past year and five trends we hope either continue into 2015 or simply …