Author Archives: Ryan

Northwest Bubbles and a Lesson on Safety

People always tend to think of sparkling wine this time of year. I’d love to dispel the idea that bubbles are only for holidays and special occasions, and should be enjoyed any time. Champagne, Sekt, Cava, and Prosecco are all excellent choices and can be found in all price ranges. There are however a number of good sparkling wine producers in the Pacific Northwest as well! Continue reading

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Revisiting the White Wines of 2010

As the end of 201o is nearing, I’ve been reading through many of my tasting notes from this year. My first full year in Oregon I realize that I’ve tasted a lot of wines, and had the opportunity to meet lots of wonderful people around Portland, the Willamette Valley, the Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, and Bainbridge Island. Hopefully in the coming year I will have ample opportunity to visit even more of the tasting rooms in these regions and visit some new ones as well (I’m determined to get to both Idaho and BC this year!). Continue reading

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Müller-Thurgau: Nothing if Not Reliable

I’ve recently been fixated with seeking out local producers who make Müller-Thurgau. Some have told me that the wines made from this cross (genetically speaking, not in a crotchety way) is “too insipid” to drink, and best avoided. I’m of the opinion though that most wine will find some kind of market—look at the success of White Zinfandel in California. Continue reading

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Ubiquitous Piece on Thanksgiving Wine Picks

As expected, everyone is bustling to get their articles about the best wines for Thanksgiving written. I maintain my philosophy that having multiple bottles of wine available for all your guests is the best (and sometimes easiest!) policy. Why take on the stress that is finding the Holy Grail of turkey day wines? Continue reading

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Pairing NW Whites with Coastal Cuisine at Cabezon

Last week I was invited to attend a press dinner being hosted at Cabezon in NE Portland to celebrate their one year anniversary. Dinner was superb and meeting some other local writers who were interested in local food and wine was a nice way to spend the evening. Continue reading

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