SANDESTIN WINE FESTIVAL Reminder!

Dear Readers:

Are you ready to head to the Emerald Coast? Let me remind you that the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort will hold the 25th annual Sandestin Wine Festival at Baytowne Wharf on April 28 - May 1, 2011 in Destin, Florida.

It’s the best way to enjoy good wine, gourmet food, live music, while mingling with leading industry experts. This year, they are also having a Culinary Pavilion which will feature lots of Spanish delicacies.

If you want to read more on the festival, check out www.sandestinwinefestival.com for a complete list of events, and call the hotel for special rates. www.sandestin.com

See you there!

TANNAT, A HIDDEN TREASURE FROM URUGUAY

When I was growing up in Argentina, I used to spend my summers in Punta del Este, Uruguay. In case you have not heard much about Uruguay, this country is located in South America between Brazil and Argentina, and though its wine production is not as big as other South American producers, their Tannat is one of the best in the world.

Tannat is a red wine grape, originating from the South of France in the Madiran Region. This grape was exported to Uruguay by a French Basque immigrant in 1874, and since then Uruguay has been producing this varietal on a large scale.

Tannat grapes

This wine offers raspberry aromas, deep dark color, and ages well. It is considered a robust wine with a nose of smoke and tobacco which perfectly matches with roasted meats, strong aged cheeses and sausages. Today, you could find great Tannats in Uruguay blended with Merlot and Pinot Noir which are more fruity and softer than the original ones from France.

If you enjoy adding new grapes and regions to your list of wines, then try this wonderful option from South America.

Cheers!

WINE INTERMISSION

Dear Readers,


I will publish my new post next week. I appreciate your patience.

In the meantime, relax and enjoy the view of Bella Winery at Sonoma, California.

Have a great week!

MOURVEDRE, A MEDITERRANEAN WINE

Salerno - Mediterranean Sea

I love the Mediterranean Sea, and when I found out that the Mourvedre grape grows in the region, I couldn’t help but fall in love with it. Mourvedre, originated in the town of Murviedro, near Valencia, Spain.

The varietal is commonly used to make strong dark red wines or dry roses, and is considered an international grape, growing well in different countries surrounded by the sea.

Valencia,  Spain

Mourvedre is known in Portugal as “Mataro” and in Spain as “Montrell”. This grape is high in alcohol, and is often blended with Grenache or Syrah. Today, American producers have started bottling this wine alone, making it a single varietal.

Mourvedre is a late ripening varietal, developing in hot temperatures during summer, and does not need a lot of extra care. The vines usually grow high vertically, making it perfect for sun exposure. It is colored and rich with velvet and truffles flavors, and pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, duck, and mushrooms.

It is a perfect choice for spring time.

Cheers!