Wine Varietals

Muscadet: White Wine from France’s Loire Valley is Perhaps the World's Greatest Wine Value

The Loire River is one of the most important rivers in France.  Over the course of its 650 miles, the Loire River Valley is the longest winegrowing region in the world.  The river begins in the mountains of the Ardeche in south-central France, before flowing gently north and then west, flowing out to the Atlantic Ocean on the western coast of France.  Many of France’s Kings had built chateaux’s along the river earning it the nickname of the Royal valley.  In fact, at one point, the Loire Valley was the seat of Royal power in France. 

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Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé: Wonderful Summer Sauvignon Blancs

On the eastern end of the Loire Valley in France sit the two communes of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé where arguably the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world is produced.  For many, this is the true home for this grape.  While new world producers in California, New Zealand and elsewhere are creating excellent fruit laden Sauvignon Blanc’s, the producers in the Loire Valley excel in complex mineral driven versions of Sauvignon Blanc.  Among all of the regions of the Loire utilizing this grape, the reputations of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé are the best. 

Best Oregon Pinot Noir: What Is One Oregon Pinot Noir Worth Seeking Out?

IntoWine recently asked its panel of wine experts to recommend one Oregon pinot noir worth seeking out:  

One of my favorite Pinot Noirs from Oregon that I make a point of seeking out every year is WillaKenzie Estates Pierre Leon cuvee. This structured and ageworthy wine is named after the father of WillaKenzie’s owner Bernard Lacroute. It looks like the 2006 Pierre Leon has been released, which I definitely need to get my hands on. However, if you can locate a bottle or case of the Buy WillaKenzie Pierre Leon Pinot Noir2005 WillaKenzie Pierre Leon Pinot Noir, I highly recommend it. The 2005 is intense and structured, with more blackcurrant vs. red fruit notes. Subtle nuances of damp earth and smoky tea also provide extra dimension. Although this wine can be enjoyed now with duck, pork or beef, I recommend hanging on to a bottle or two for a few years and revisiting this wonderful wine. It is a beautiful example of New World pinot noir. - Mulan Chan, Rhône and French Regional Buyer, K&L Wine Merchants

Morellino di Scansano: Maremma Wine's History, Varietals, Producers, & Recommendations

The region of Tuscany makes many outstanding and well knows wines.  Intowine.com has already explored Super Tuscans,


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