Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Imported Rosé Continues its Roll ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/14/imported-rose-continues-its-roll/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/14/imported-rose-continues-its-roll/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/14/imported-rose-continues-its-roll/#commentsFiled under:

photo of rose wine

I've always liked rosé, but up until a few years ago, its resemblance to wine coolers made people who weren't wine-confident feel uncertain about whether ordering it would make quite the right impression.

No more. Rosé seemed to be everywhere this past summer, and now The CIVP/Provence Wine Council has released statistics that adds weight to that perception. From mid September 2008 to mid September 2009, U.S. retail sales of imported rosé wines priced $12 and above grew 11 times faster by volume than total table wine sales.

The CIVP/Provence Wine Council is extra happy about this, first, because France accounts for more than a quarter of worldwide rosé wine by volume, and Provence is the leading rosé producing region in that country, and second, because consumers appear to be buying more expensive bottles. Sales of imported rosé wines at the $12 level and above grew by 28.4%, seven times faster than the 3.7% increase for total table wine dollar sales in the past year.

(Oh and in case you're wondering, CIVP stands for the Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins de Provence, which is loosely French for "Provence Wine Council".)

LuxistImported Rosé Continues its Roll originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rosewineSat, 14 Nov 2009 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten Champagne and Cigar Pairings for the Holiday Season]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/13/ten-champagne-and-cigar-pairings-for-the-holiday-season/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/13/ten-champagne-and-cigar-pairings-for-the-holiday-season/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/13/ten-champagne-and-cigar-pairings-for-the-holiday-season/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nothing compares to the perfect pairing of champagne and a cigar. Too often, cigars wind up with dark liquors, their natural partners. Rum, port, scotch and cognac are the norm for an after-dinner smoke -- not champagne. With the holiday season coming, of course, the preferred beverage will likely bubble, so finding the right cigars for the top libation will be crucial.

Fortunately, Vin Lee, CEO of the Beverly Hills Cigar Club, has agreed to help us out. As you prepare for the new year, take a look at the cigar and champagne pairings that he recommends, with both ubiquitous and rare products on the list. Lee says, "In this day and age, not everyone can afford a $50 cigar and a $300 bottle of champagne," said Lee. "Complementing a wonderful glass of champagne with a great cigar for the holidays is something everyone should be able to enjoy."

BHCC's 2010 Top 10 Champagne and Cigar Pairings are:

Continue reading Ten Champagne and Cigar Pairings for the Holiday Season

LuxistTen Champagne and Cigar Pairings for the Holiday Season originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beverly hillsBeverlyHillsbollingerchampagnechandoncigarcigar aficionadoCigarAficionadocigarscigarshopcristaldavidoffdeutzdomaine carneros brut rosedomaine chandonDomaineCarnerosBrutRoseDomaineChandonfuentefuentesmoetmoet and chandonmoet et chandonMoetAndChandonMoetEtChandonmontecristoperrier jouetPerrierJouetrocky patelRockyPatelveuve clicquotVeuveClicquotwine enthusiastwine spectatorWineEnthusiastWineSpectatorzino davidoffZinoDavidoffFri, 13 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Around the World in 80 Sips]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/around-the-world-in-80-sips/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/around-the-world-in-80-sips/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/around-the-world-in-80-sips/#commentsFiled under: ,

wine bottlesWine lovers rejoice. This Friday, Around the World in 80 Sips returns to New York, showcasing the finest offerings from top local wine shops. Brought to you by Bottlenotes, the Palo Alto based company bringing the best of wine to e-commerce, the online wine community unites enthusiasts with customized wine recommendations and exclusive information. (You must sign up on the site if simply to receive their daily e-mail wine tips.)

If you often find yourself wandering around the wine store, not sure of whether to pair that Spanish red or new Portugal white with your penne rigate, then this is the event for you. Sample your favorites and try new countries, as Around the World in 80 Sips presents the best flavors from both new and old world: Argentina, Chile, China, France, Italy, Lebanon, New Zealand, Spain, South Africa, and the U.S. It's a fun, informal setting where you can ask every question you ever wanted to know about wine, while enjoying the Friday night fare. Drink without a conscience, because a portion of ticket sales benefit Robin Hood, a New York non-profit which fights poverty daily.

Click here to purchase tickets for this not-to-be-missed wine gala. And now till Friday, just for our readers enter the code LUXIST to save $10 off tickets.

Friday, November 13 6:30-8:30 PM
583 Park Avenue
New York, NY

LuxistAround the World in 80 Sips originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>around the world in 80 sipsAroundTheWorldIn80Sipsbottlenotesnew york cityNewYorkCitywinewine tastingWineTastingTue, 10 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Clinton Vineyards Cassis]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/luxist-gift-guide-09-clinton-vineyards-cassis/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/luxist-gift-guide-09-clinton-vineyards-cassis/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/luxist-gift-guide-09-clinton-vineyards-cassis/#commentsFiled under: ,

clinton vineyards cassisThis weekend I journeyed along the Dutchess Wine Trail, a popular travel destination for wine lovers out East, which tours local vineyards along the gorgeous Hudson River Valley, just 90 miles north of New York City. To reach the most popular destination, Millbrook Vineyards, you must drive down a dusty road surrounded by fields overlooking the Hudson Valley. The standard wine tasting includes a tour of the grounds, and taste of olive oil imported from the owner's Italian estate Villa Pillo estate.

The highlight of the trail was the smaller Clinton Vineyard, housed in an historic green barn. Specializing in one grape, the seyval blanc, the vineyard offers one particular bottle which makes the perfect present this holiday season: Cassis Wine. Paying ode to the Brits, who put cassis syrup in anything from Guinness to fruit pies, to draw out natural flavors, the cassis wine is a lighter alternative with exponential flavor. The Clinton bottle, which has won Gold Medals and Best in Class at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition, might just be the best cassis liquor available in the States. Add a splash to champagne for a Kir Royal, the perfect end to any meal, or even to a glass of chardonnay, to add a special tartness to your daily glass of wine.

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Clinton Vineyards Cassis originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cassisclinton vineyardsClintonVineyardsholiday giftsHolidayGiftswineTue, 10 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Merlove DVD Released, Celebrated With Merlot Tasting]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/merlove-dvd-released-celebrated-with-merlot-tasting/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/merlove-dvd-released-celebrated-with-merlot-tasting/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/merlove-dvd-released-celebrated-with-merlot-tasting/#commentsFiled under:


When Miles screamed about not drinking any "#$%@ing Merlot" in the movie Sideways, it started a push toward Pinot Noir and the beginning of California Merlot's fight for its reputation. The battle still continues and Producer/Director Rudolf N. McClain has just released the DVD of his film Merlove. On the cover is a quote from Wine Spectator that says simply: "Take this, Miles."

"Merlove is a documentary I wanted to make in response to the movie Sideways," explains McClain. The movie was filmed in the Napa Valley, Washington State and Bordeaux and combines documentary style filmmaking with an animation subplot centered on a bottle of Merlot wine named "Merlove" which must find a way to fill itself with love when aimlessly tossed into the ocean of mediocre Merlot wine. The DVD contains new animated sequences, music, digital mastering and a director's commentary. The movie Merlove premiered on June 27, 2008 and has been screened at film festivals around the world.

McClain will be on hand to sign copies in the tasting room at V. Sattui Winery on November 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.. The winery is located at 1111 White Lane off Highway 29 just south of St. Helena. The DVD sells for $24.99. At the event you can show your support for Merlot by indulging in a free tasting of the winery's two Merlots, the 2006 Henry Ranch (Carneros appellation) and 2006 Napa Valley.

LuxistMerlove DVD Released, Celebrated With Merlot Tasting originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>merlotmerlovesidewaysv sattuiVSattuiSat, 07 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[What to Do with Leftover Wine ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/what-to-do-with-leftover-wine-cadillac-ipedia/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/what-to-do-with-leftover-wine-cadillac-ipedia/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/what-to-do-with-leftover-wine-cadillac-ipedia/#commentsFiled under:

pouring wineWhether you live alone and have trouble going through an entire bottle fast enough or find yourself with half bottles left behind after dinner parties or holiday gatherings, every wine drinker has been faced with the conundrum at one time or another of what to do with leftover, no-longer-drinkable wine.

The important thing to note is that although wine that's been opened for too long might not taste good for drinking anymore but that doesn't mean it's unsafe to ingest. You can certainly pour it out (many people do) but why not do some experimenting with it in the kitchen and try using it in some recipes or try your hand at making your own vinegar?

Ideas for using leftover wine:
- Add flavor and body to tomato-based sauces
- Deglaze pans after roasting meat
- Braise vegetables in it
- Cook it down for use as a sauce and glaze base
- Use it in fondue
- Use it as a marinade for beef, chicken, and fish
- Make your own vinegar by simply letting it sit or by following this recipe

Some argue that you should only cook with wine you would also be willing to drink, but much of what makes wine taste good originally gets lost in the cooking process anyway. It's really just about personal preference.

LuxistWhat to Do with Leftover Wine originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>main-pediawinewine-pediaSat, 31 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[HALL Wines for the Holidays from Napa Valley]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/hall-wines-for-the-holidays-from-napa-valley/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/hall-wines-for-the-holidays-from-napa-valley/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/hall-wines-for-the-holidays-from-napa-valley/#commentsFiled under:


As we noted in our recent report about the just-unveiled 2009 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book, one of the most exclusive gifts on offer this year is a HALL Artisan Wine and Art Experience for $20,000, including a bespoke bottling from the renowned artisanal Napa Valley winemaker. If that's out of your range you can still enjoy the HALL experience this holiday season with wines from their Napa Valley Collection. The collection includes HALL's signature Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from select fruit from their five estate vineyards encompassing more than 500 acres. The flagship is the Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, a "sumptuous wine that is the amalgam of the finest wines of the vintage." The 2006 Kathryn Hall vintage was sourced predominately from the estate's Sacrashe Vineyard and captures the "deep, dusty essence" of its hilltop site, helping to earn a 95 point rating from Wine Enthusiast.

The Kathryn Hall Cabernet has a nose of effusive, high-toned exotic fruits, truffle, blackberry jam and crushed stone minerality, with a lasting richness and dense sweet texture on the palate. The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc is notable for balanced acidity, ripe, vivid citrus flavor and a clean lingering finish, with aromas of pink grapefruit, lemon-lime, gooseberry, orange blossom and guava. The 2005 Napa Valley Merlot features Intense aromatics of cedar oak accented by scents of roasted coffee beans and a hint of violets and roses. An open, textured palate of ripe briar fruit, dusty mocha and black pepper finishes with a surge of plum and soft tannin. The 2005 HALL Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon shows rich, concentrated aromatics of currant, blackberry, and ripe cherry complemented by hints of toasty oak. Flavors of leather and nutmeg coalesce with plum and vanilla in the concentrated mid-palate and settle into a seductive, chewy finish.

LuxistHALL Wines for the Holidays from Napa Valley originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CaliforniaHALL wineHall wineryHallWineHallWineryNapa ValleyNapaValleyVineyardSat, 31 Oct 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[How Long Does Wine Keep After It's Been Opened? ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/30/how-long-does-wine-keep-after-its-been-opened/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/30/how-long-does-wine-keep-after-its-been-opened/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/30/how-long-does-wine-keep-after-its-been-opened/#commentsFiled under:

wine bottlesIt's a question that's been tossed around for centuries, since the first cork was popped: How long does wine keep once it's been opened?

As with all things wine, it depends on many factors. Red wine, white wine, young wine, old wine, the list goes on. Oxidation is both a friend and an enemy. A freshly opened bottle often benefits from sitting open for a few minutes before serving in order to allow the oxygen to seep in and bring out the flavors and aromas in their full-bodied glory, but too much time exposed to the air and all those wonderful characteristics start to slowly turn unpleasant and eventually the wine will be dull, sour, and not nearly as fragrant. It's a slow process and it really comes down to personal taste, because no matter how long an opened bottle sits it won't become unsafe to drink -- just unpleasant.

The quick, very general answer on how long an opened bottle of wine keeps is 3 days. All wines will keep at least one day without changing for the worst, and many aged reds can last up to a week. Factors to keep in mind:
  • The age of the wine The longer the wine was aged the longer it will retain its desirable characteristics after being opened. Young wine is more susceptible to the effects of oxidation.
  • How much is left The fuller the bottle the longer the wine will last, due to less room for oxygen. Consider transferring leftovers into a smaller bottle
  • Sugar and alcohol content Sugar and alcohol act as preservatives so dessert wines, ports, and sherries can keep much longer (up to a year in some cases).
When it doubt smell it and taste it. If you like it drink it! If you don't, either discard it or find another use for it. There are no hard and fast rules so make your own.

LuxistHow Long Does Wine Keep After It's Been Opened? originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>main-pediawinewine bottleswine storagewine tastingwine-pediaWineBottlesWineStorageWineTastingFri, 30 Oct 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Le Bernardin Launches Wine Club]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/le-bernardin-launches-wine-club/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/le-bernardin-launches-wine-club/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/le-bernardin-launches-wine-club/#commentsFiled under: ,

Eric Ripert, the chef/owner of the New York restaurant Le Bernardin, along with his wine director Aldo Sohm, has introduced the Avec Eric Perfect Pairings wine club.

Ripert is the host of a new show for PBS, Avec Eric, in which he explores his own vision of why we cook and where he finds his inspiration. Sohm, who oversees Le Bernardin's wine collection of over 15,000 bottles, recently received the 2009 James Beard Award for "Outstanding Wine Service" and was named "Best Sommelier in the World" in 2008 by the Worldwide Sommelier Association. Sohm is the first representative from America to win this title. Le Bernardin holds three stars from the Michelin Guide ,and has maintained its four-star rating from The New York Times for over 20 years.

In an interesting twist, the wines were picked with specific recipes from the chef in mind. Each month, Ripert and Sohm choose two bottles of wine for their members with the intention of pairing them with recipes inspired by his new series. The members will receive the recipes, as well as the wines, in addition to detailed tasting notes written by Sohm. Members also gain access to monthly online videos of the duo explaining each pairing. The wines are a mixed selection of reds, whites and sparkling chosen to complement the proposed dishes.

Ripert feels strongly that great food does not need to be complicated or intimidating for the home chef. Each show starts out with a trip to a vineyard, farm or four-star kitchen but finishes with the chef in his home kitchen demonstrating recipes for the home cook and enjoying the perfect glass of wine to accompany his meal. A Votre Sante!

LuxistLe Bernardin Launches Wine Club originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eric RipertEricRipertfine diningFineDiningfood-awardsle bernardinLeBernardinMichelin GuidesMichelinGuidespbswineTue, 27 Oct 2009 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Contemporary Art in Champagne Country]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/26/contemporary-art-in-champagne-country/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/26/contemporary-art-in-champagne-country/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/26/contemporary-art-in-champagne-country/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Photo of Domaine Pommery estate
You can argue that a perfect glass of champagne is an artistic experience in its own right, but if you're the sort who likes to mix the bubbly with art, head to Reims, France, and the estate of Domaine Pommery. There, an exhibit by French artist Bertrand Lavier is well underway.

Don't expect paintings, or sculptures, or anything like a traditional art show -- instead, Lavier placed objects throughout the estate's underground cellars, and paired each with a lighting scheme designed by theater lighting designer Gèrald Karlikow, as well as music selected by Peter Szendy. Among the objects on display: palm trees, a replica of the French flag that waves under the Arc de Triomphe (bathed in pink light and is set to music by Philip Glass), a red Ferrari. This is Domaine Pommery's sixth annual contemporary art exhibit, and it runs through March 30th.


Gallery: Domaine Pommery's 2009 Exhibit

Pommery Estate Traditional Setting for Contemporary Art Dramatic spaces at Domaine PommeryInside Domaine PommeryFrench Flag Exhibit

LuxistContemporary Art in Champagne Country originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artchampagnedomaine pommeryDomainePommeryfrancetravelMon, 26 Oct 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon Wine Deal Kaput]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/23/amazon-wine-deal-kaput/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/23/amazon-wine-deal-kaput/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/23/amazon-wine-deal-kaput/#commentsFiled under:


I've been following Amazon.com's battle to get into the wine business for the last year or two. Now it seems the story may have reached the end of the road. WineBusiness.com has learned that Amazon.com, may pull the plug on the project before it ever really got started. An email sent to wineries today said that the company has decided"not to resume shipping." As of this summer Amazon was attempting to work with New Vine Logistics, a Napa, California wine-shipping service. The plan was to create a consignment system through a specialized website, where wineries earned 47 percent of the retail price for wine when sold. But the logistics of the program and the fact that wine regulations vary widely from state to state may have doomed the program. The invite-only Amazon wine site remains up.

LuxistAmazon Wine Deal Kaput originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon wineAmazonWinewinewine shipmentWineShipmentFri, 23 Oct 2009 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Champagne on the House for Mr Chow's 30th]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/20/champagne-on-the-house-for-mr-chows-30th/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/20/champagne-on-the-house-for-mr-chows-30th/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/20/champagne-on-the-house-for-mr-chows-30th/#commentsFiled under: , ,


For 30 years Mr Chow (above) on East 57th Street in New York has been one of the city's most enduring hotspots, frequented over the decades by the likes of Andy Warhol, Jean Michel Basquiat, Calvin Klein, Madonna, Robert DeNiro, Tom Cruise, Uma Thurman and many others. To celebrate the anniversary and show their appreciation to its devoted clientele, the restaurant will present a complimentary bottle of Laurent Perrier Rosé champagne to each table from November 4th - December 15th. The 30th anniversary comes on the heels of the opening of Mr Chow's fifth location in Miami at the W South Beach. The New York branch opened in 1979 following the success of Michael Chow's restaurants in London and Beverly Hills.

[via JustLuxe]

LuxistChampagne on the House for Mr Chow's 30th originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andy WarholAndyWarholchampagneLaurent PerrierLaurentPerrierMichael ChowMichaelChowMr ChowMr. ChowMr.ChowMrChowNew YorkNewYorkTue, 20 Oct 2009 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Aubrey McClendon Puts His Big Bottles On The Block]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/19/mcclendon-puts-his-big-bottles-on-the-block/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/19/mcclendon-puts-his-big-bottles-on-the-block/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/19/mcclendon-puts-his-big-bottles-on-the-block/#commentsFiled under: ,

spectrum wine auctionChesapeake Energy CEO Aubrey McClendon may have sold off wine at an auction earlier this year but he still has cases and cases to go. The Wealth Report draws our attention to the "The Aubrey McClendon Collection" sale scheduled for November 21 at The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, California. Spectrum Wine Auctions will be simulcasting the sale in Hong Kong, which appears to be where the big spenders on vintage wine are these days. The sale will feature more than 3,000 bottles and may bring in as much as $3 million.

The auction website includes a video interview of McClendon conducted by Mario Sculatti, director of sales and consignments for Spectrum Wine Auctions. McClendon has signed an Imperial of 1990 Lafite Rothschild that will be offered during the auction with commissions earned to be donated to charity on behalf of McClendon and Spectrum Wine Auctions.

McClendon's collection spans a range of the most collectible wines. Particularly prized are two bottles of 1945 Chateau Latour. McClendon also collected large format bottles. The auction offers several six-liter Imperials (the equivalent of eight standard bottles) including a 1982 Cheval Blanc in the original wood case, a 1989 Haut Brion and several vintages from Chateau Mouton Rothschild. McClendon's wine philosophy is simple: "Like anything in life, if you're going to enjoy something you really ought to try to enjoy, I think, the best of the particular pleasure that you're seeking, and so I would encourage people to go after the best wines."

LuxistAubrey McClendon Puts His Big Bottles On The Block originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aubrey mcclendonAubreyMcclendonchateau latourchateau mouton rothschildChateauLatourChateauMoutonRothschildimperial wine bottleImperialWineBottlespectrum wine auctionSpectrumWineAuctionwinewine auctionWineAuctionMon, 19 Oct 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[La Tour D'Argent Wines Up For Sale]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/17/la-tour-dargent-wines-up-for-sale/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/17/la-tour-dargent-wines-up-for-sale/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/17/la-tour-dargent-wines-up-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: ,


An AP story doesn't make it sound too appetizing (old wine bottles covered in black fungus anyone?) but the upcoming auction of wine bottles from the Tour d'Argent restaurant in Paris, France has oenophiles very excited. The restaurant, a landmark that traces its history all the way back to 1582, has a 450,000-bottle cellar and is selling 18,000 bottles at an auction in December. The auction through French auctioneer Piasa will include everything from modest 10-euro bottles of wine to those fungus-covered bottles of 1875 Armagnac Vieux (estimated at 400-500 euros) and other notable oldies.

The restaurant is paring down on its bottles and wants to modernize. Some of the usual suspects at fine wine auctions including vintages from Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Cheval Blanc and Chateau Margaux will also be up for sale and the grand total is expected to be over one million euros. The provenance of the bottles may also be a selling factor not just because the integrity of the bottles, which were bought directly from vinters, can be assured but also because the bottles bear the restaurant's insignia, the famous tower.

LuxistLa Tour D'Argent Wines Up For Sale originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheval blancChevalBlancfine wineFineWinetour dargentTourDargentwinewine auctionWineAuctionSat, 17 Oct 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Twitter Plans Wine For A Good Cause ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/16/twitter-plans-wine-for-a-good-cause/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/16/twitter-plans-wine-for-a-good-cause/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/16/twitter-plans-wine-for-a-good-cause/#commentsFiled under: ,


Twitter is partnering with custom wine producer Crushpad on a new charity-driven project, Fledgling Wine. The Twitter staff will work with Crushpad to make a Pinot Noir and a Chardonnay. The fundraiser, the Fledgling Initiative, will benefit Room to Read , a San Francisco non-profit organization that establishes schools and libraries for children in developing countries. Founded by former Microsoft employee John Wood, Room to Read has established 765 schools and filled over 7,000 libraries with more than 5.7 million books. The company says that $5 from every $20 bottle sold will go to Room to Read. Twitter users can follow the progress of the wines through @fledgling. The release date is planned for Fall 2010.

[via SF Gate]

LuxistTwitter Plans Wine For A Good Cause originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chardonnayfledglingfledgling winefledglingwinepinot noirPinotNoirtwitterwineFri, 16 Oct 2009 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Spottswoode: Making Wine In Harmony With The Planet]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/15/spottswoode-making-wine-in-harmony-with-the-planet/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/15/spottswoode-making-wine-in-harmony-with-the-planet/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/15/spottswoode-making-wine-in-harmony-with-the-planet/#commentsFiled under: ,

Organic wine has become more popular in recent years but for some wineries working in harmony with the environment is nothing new. Spottswoode in Napa Valley has been farming organically since 1985, and have been certified by the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) since 1990. The winery also makes use of cover crops, beneficial planting and many other organic farming methods.

Beth Novak Milliken of Spottswoode says that they have done many things to be the "best possible stewards of our 45-acre estate property." In addition to organic farming they have also installed solar panels at the winery and vineyard. They also actively conserve and recycle and use have bees and bird boxes on the property. The 25th anniversary 2006 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet Sauvignon sells for $130 a bottle and the 2008 Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc is $36 per bottle. The winery is also a member of 1% For the Planet, a group that has pledged to contribute one percent of sales to environmental groups around the world.

LuxistSpottswoode: Making Wine In Harmony With The Planet originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogactiondaygreenorganic wineOrganicWinespottswoode wineSpottswoodeWinewineThu, 15 Oct 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Broadbent Settles in Billionaire's Vinegar Lawsuit]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/14/broadbent-settles-in-billionaires-vinegar-lawsuit/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/14/broadbent-settles-in-billionaires-vinegar-lawsuit/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/14/broadbent-settles-in-billionaires-vinegar-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under:

billionaire's vinegarBartholomew Broadbent let me know that his father Michael Broadbent has settled his lawsuit against Random House for defamation of character for his potrayal in the book The Billionaire's Vinegar by Benjamin Wallace. The book centered on the infamous Jefferson wine bottles and in Broadbent's view suggested that Michael Broadbent, an esteemed wine writer and auctioneer and head of Christie's wine department from 1966 to 1992 had behaved in an unprofessional manner. Broadbent's relationship with Hardy Rodenstock, the discoverer of the bottles was called into account.

The book tells the story of German collector, Rodenstock who had allegedly found rare bottles of Chateau Lafite walled up in a basement in Paris. An 1787 Lafite engraved Th:J sparked worldwide interest because it was thought that Jefferson had bought the bottles when he was in Paris serving as ambassador. Three of the bottles were sold at Christie's, where Broadbent worked, between 1985 and 1987 including the the 1787 Lafite which was bought by Malcolm Forbes for $156,450 fin a 1985 auction.

The billionaire in the title is William Koch who sued Rodenstock claiming that he was the source for four Jefferson bottles that Koch bought in 1988. Those bottles are now believed to be fake. Rodenstock has said that the bottles were genuine but has not submitted them for testing. The book sold well and a Will Smith-produced film of the story is in development. Broadbent told Decanter that the sum he settled for was ''not excessive, but enough to buy a good few cases of wine, and to give something to the wine trade benevolent fund." He also said he was celebrating with a magnum of Mouton 1990 at a dinner he and his wife Daphne held for his legal team at his club, Brooks's in Mayfair. He is considering whether or not to take out an injunction on the film.

Author Benjamin Wallace has defended his book. His statement, published on Dr. Vino, says that Broadbent has "chosen to blame the messenger, and doubly so that he is blaming the messenger for something the messenger is not actually saying." Wallace says that his book never portrayed Broadbent as acting in bad faith. Random House has agreed not to distribute the book in the U.K. but it remains available in the United States and elsewhere.

LuxistBroadbent Settles in Billionaire's Vinegar Lawsuit originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billionaires vinegarBillionairesVinegarlawsuitmichael broadbentMichaelBroadbentWed, 14 Oct 2009 00:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Insuring Your Wine Collection]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/10/insuring-your-wine-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/10/insuring-your-wine-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/10/insuring-your-wine-collection/#commentsFiled under:

wine collectionAs wine collections increase in value, collectors should consider insuring a valuable collection. According to the experts at Fireman's Fund Insurance Company's Wine Collector Management Services, here are a few things to keep in mind before buying a policy (or renewing or amending one you already have).

Insure your collection separately if it is valuable
As a consumable that appreciates in value as it ages, wine is a unique asset. If your collection has great value, it should probably be insured separately from your general homeowners' insurance policy. If not, you may run the risk that it is under-insured. The average bottle cost in a wine cellar is often $100 or more; individual bottles can easily reach $700 to $1,000 for top wines. A cellar that contains, say, 500 to 1,000 bottles, can be worth between $50,000 and $100,000. Values can easily climb into the millions for larger collections.

Choose blanket coverage or itemized coverage, or a combination of the two
With blanket coverage, your entire collection is covered under one limit, with a single bottle limit of up to $50,000 (with a Fireman's Fund policy). Itemized coverage is recommended for wines valued at $10,000 or more and can be combined with blanket coverage to provide the best protection for your collection. There should be no deductibles on standard policies.

If you buy insurance, be sure it covers all risks
Buy coverage that spans a wide spectrum of causes of loss including fire and theft breakage, flood, and a range of others. You will also need coverage for loss due to power outage or mechanical breakdown of heating, cooling and humidity control equipment, all of which are critical coverages for oenophiles.

Don't transport your wine without checking with your insurer first
Before you transport your wine, ask your agent or insurer if this is a covered risk by your insurance policy. Be certain your wine is protected worldwide and while in transit.

LuxistInsuring Your Wine Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homeowners insuranceHomeownersInsuranceinsuranceinsuring wineInsuringWineluxist-awardsmain-pediawinewine-pediawinesSat, 10 Oct 2009 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Care for Your Fine Wine Collection]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/09/how-to-care-for-your-fine-wine-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/09/how-to-care-for-your-fine-wine-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/09/how-to-care-for-your-fine-wine-collection/#commentsFiled under:

chateau petrusWine collections are growing, and so are their value, in many cases. Indeed, based on the results of a recent Sotheby's wine auction, held in Hong Kong in early October, the prices of collectible wines are breaking records.

One imperial (six litres) of Château Pétrus 1982 realized a world auction record price of $93,077, while a case (12 bottles) of Château Pétrus 2000 sold for $55,846. Three bottles of a 1992 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon, a winery in Oakville, California, sold for $27,923.

If you have a wine collection, or if you are thinking of building one, here's how to care for your collection, according to the experts at Fireman's Fund Insurance Company's Wine Collector Management Services.

Keep an eye on your climate control
A temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit and a relative humidity of 60% to 65% are ideal for long term wine storage. The cool temperature slows the aging process, while the humidity prevents moisture inside the wine bottle from moving into the cork and eventually evaporating into the air. Keep in mind that ideal temperatures do vary somewhat depending on the type of wine you are storing. Attics and garages are not ideal places to store wine, as temperatures can fluctuate greatly in these locations.

Limit your collection's exposure to light sources
A dark room is best for wine storage. Fluorescent light is not believed to be harmful.

Wines should be kept in a stable environment
Vibration is harmful to wine, as it disturbs the sediment. Keep the bottles in a horizontal position.

Back up your power supply
Your wine collection could be at risk during a sustained power outage. A permanent back-up generator will help protect your investment.

Consider renting a storage space
If you lack adequate space to store your collection, professional wine storage facilities are available in most major cities.

LuxistHow to Care for Your Fine Wine Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chateau petrusChateauPetrusluxist-awardsmain-pediascreaming eagleScreamingEaglesothebyswinewine collectionwine-pediaWineCollectionwinesFri, 09 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Small Splurge: Fall Wines Under $25 from Dreyfus Ashby & Co.]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/07/small-splurge-fall-wines-under-25-from-dreyfus-ashby-and-co/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/07/small-splurge-fall-wines-under-25-from-dreyfus-ashby-and-co/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/07/small-splurge-fall-wines-under-25-from-dreyfus-ashby-and-co/#commentsFiled under:


New York-based Dreyfus, Ashby & Co., a national independent importer and marketer of fine wine and spirits, has put together a list of great fall wines from around the globe, ideal for various cuisines and all priced under $25. France's Château de Campuget "1753" stems from an 18th century document mentioning the historic property. The 100% Syrah is aged in stainless steel, seeing no oak. Deep purple in color, it is elegant and herbal with nice tannin and a crisp finish, paring nicely with spicy foods as well as hearty cold weather dishes like beef and pastas in red sauce. SRP: $14.99. Under the discerning eye of consulting winemaker Véronique Drouhin-Boss, the light, fruity quality of Cloudline Pinot Noir (2007) from Oregon never waivers and pairs perfectly with everything from a fatty fish, such as salmon, to lamb. SRP: $19.99. Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon (2007) from South Africa is a full-bodied, mouth-filling and rich wine with ripe fruit, delicate spice, firm tannins and a lasting aftertaste, pairing perfectly with robust winter stews, roasts and mature cheeses. SRP: $11.99.

Italy's Renato Ratti Barbera D'Alba Torriglione (2007) is structured and rich with a pleasing and harmonious bouquet. The result is a full- bodied wine with an excellent balance between acidity and tannin that lends itself particularly well to pastas with lean protein, such as pork or chicken. SRP: $18.99. Tedeschi Valpolicella Capitel Dei Nicalò (2006) is made from local Veronese grape varieties including Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara in the traditional style of the region. It is complex and elegant with lively acidity and an alcohol content that is balanced nicely by its tannins. SRP: $17.99. Argentina's Enrique Foster Reserva Malbec (2006) is made of selected grapes from old vines and production is limited to 5,000 lbs per acre. The wine is then aged in French and American oak for 12 months and in bottles for an additional six months. It's a huge wine with fruity aroma and berry
flavors perfectly suited to richly spiced dishes and roasted or grilled meats. SRP: $24.99.

LuxistSmall Splurge: Fall Wines Under $25 from Dreyfus Ashby & Co. originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Argentinadreyfus ashby co.DreyfusAshbyCo.FranceItalyOregonSouth AfricaSouthAfricaWed, 07 Oct 2009 09:01:00 EST