There’s a chill in the air these days. Yes, even here in California. This time of year certain flavors and foods seem to be more appealing than at other times. Pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel, ginger, cardamom, anise, clove, sage…all are popular seasonal flavors. Just as certain flavors and foods have a special appeal in the waning months of the year, this is also true of wines
When you're wine tasting, you undoubtedly hear the terms aroma and bouquet tossed around. You've perhaps even considered them to be one in the same, as they are used so interchangeably. And, while they are indeed related, there is a distinct difference between the two.
Imagine a Chardonnay with no butter, no vanilla and no cream. Forget lattes, cappuccinos and all the creamy business… we just want black coffee. For those who’ve elevated their wine tasting chops to something beyond milk fat, unoaked Chardonnay sounds pretty compelling. 
"This is a Rhône-style wine." You've heard the line before, but the definition of a Rhône-style wine can vary and calls for some discussion. As always, we're here to bolster your vino knowledge. So grab your corkscrews and let's go Rhône!
Chardonnay…What are your first thoughts when you hear the varietal's name? White, golden, buttery, creamy, oaky, tropical fruit flavors - all easily come to mind. The varietal is an intriguing subject as it is grown and produced by wine rookies and veterans alike around the globe. Chardonnay produces menial, mass-produced wines and highly specialized wines alike. Everyone has heard of Chardonnay, but where did it originate?
Cima Collina roughly translates as “hill top,” and there’s really no better way to describe the quality Cima Collina winery produces. Here at A Taste of Monterey, we are excited to have Cima Collina represented as one of Monterey County’s top wineries. A quote from winemaker, Annette Hoff, truly reflects the character and approach of the winery.
The long days of the harvest are over. Primary fermentation of the year’s
Petite Sirah is an intriguing varietal, beginning with its name. To start with, it’s not small or Syrah, as the name would suggest. If anyone ever tells you that Petite Sirah is a toned-down version of a Syrah wine, they are wrong on so many levels...
It’s Thanksgiving time again and this day of the year dedicated to food and family is a great time to open some Monterey County wines. But which ones?