Illustration by Christina Mattison, www.cmattisonillustration.com
The options are as endless as the days are long
With summer’s arrival, it’s time to trade the dark, hardy wines for lighter, crisper ones. [Read more…]
Summer wines
Under the Spanish influence
Sangria can be refreshing on hot summer days
Summer living is easy on the Texas Coast. But the heat can be parching. There’s nothing better than homemade Sangria to refresh you and your friends. Although you could buy ready-made sangria from your local liquor and wine store, you also could make your own perfect version. [Read more…]
Fire up the grill
There’s a way to pair Texas barbecue, wine
My bride and I recently returned to Texas after a couple of years of sun and fun in northern California. One of the things we missed dearly while away was the Texas tradition of barbecue. Because my experience is with Texas barbecue, I’ll write to that style of cuisine. [Read more…]
Take it outside
Spring is prime time for al fresco wine tastings
As we move into spring and early summer, it’s time to take our parties and wine outdoors. This is usually the time for planning picnics and barbecues. But around the Cork Guy’s house, we look forward to our spring and summer wine tastings with friends and family. [Read more…]
Basics of brandy
A guide to the popular after-dinner drink
Today, we’re going to delve into the world of brandy and distillation. You say, “Why brandy? I thought this was a column about wine.” Well, what most people don’t know is that brandies are mostly derived from wine. [Read more…]
Cork in the road
Long practice of sealing wine has tainted past
Inevitably, I would write an article about wine corks. Hey, I am “The Cork Guy” after all.
A few years ago, one of my associates provided me a copy of George Taber’s book “To Cork or Not To Cork.” When presented with the book, I thought to myself: Is there enough about corks to produce a 276-page book? Turns out, there’s a lot to know about corks. [Read more…]
It’s cork popping time
But all that sparkles isn’t necessarily Champagne
As we reach the end of the year and the leaves begin to change and the days become shorter and cooler, it’s time to pause and reflect on how fast time does fly.
This is the time of year for resolutions and celebrations. And, this is the time of year when what was once only set aside for the royals is now available to the masses. Yes, Champagne and all of its cousins. [Read more…]
Give thanks for options
Wine pairings from appetizer to dessert at the holiday table
It’s that wonderful time of year that begins the season of gastronomical delights. This is the time that the bride and I start planning our menu, and, of course what wines we will pair with the meal. Thanksgiving is quickly approaching and there’s no better time to start selecting wines to complement your feast. Historically, the week before Thanksgiving is a great time to buy wine as many merchants will run specials on preferred wines.
Cheers To That
Holiday wine shopping made easy
As we approach the holiday season, it’s time to consider what wines to buy and why. There are many considerations and many wines to choose from today as wine continues to be more and more popular as a beverage to celebrate all special occasions. [Read more…]