Author Archives

William S. Shepard, Wine Editor


What Are The Best Thanksgiving Wines? We’ve Got Answers

Struggling to find the perfect wines to pair with your Thanksgiving feast? Discover how to select bottles that complement every dish and please every palate around your holiday table. What Are The Best Thanksgiving Wines? The traditional Thanksgiving turkey is not an easy fit with wine. The upside of that dilemma is that there are ...

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Easy Crème de Cassis Cocktails

Here is an easy Crème de Cassis cocktail, inspired by Casablanca, plus a few more to add interest to the popular cocktail: Kir Kir Royale Kir Berrichon You’ve seen the movie often. It’s 1942, and “Casablanca” is playing. Humphrey Bogart is opening Ric’s Café for an evening’s entertainment. Ingrid Bergman has entered the room, on […]

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French Wine Treasures: The Rhone Valley

Did you know the Rhône Valley produces some of France’s most overlooked wine treasures? Discover the hidden gems of this remarkable region that even seasoned wine enthusiasts might be missing out on! Sunshine, great food, and a palate of fine wines are your pleasure as you visit the Rhône Valley. This may be France’s oldest […]

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Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Charm of St. Julien Wines

Did you know that St. Julien wines, often overshadowed by their famous neighbors, hold a secret blend of elegance and power that sets them apart? Discover what makes this hidden gem of Bordeaux so captivating! St. Julien Wines- Why you should know them You might be tempted, while exploring Bordeaux wines, to skip St. Julien. […]

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Burgundy Wines: The Côte de Beaune – White Wine Paradise

Did you know one of the world’s finest white wine regions is tucked away in Burgundy? Discover why the Côte de Beaune is a paradise for white wine lovers and what makes its wines so extraordinary! Last month, we explored Burgundy wines and the first half of the Côte d’Or, called the Côte de Nuits, […]

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French Champagne: How to Make Your Party Pop!

Want to turn your next celebration into something unforgettable? Discover how the right French Champagne can make your party pop with style, sparkle, and a touch of luxury! We all associate French champagne with pleasant occasions. I’d like to highlight five champagnes from three different French champagne producers, each of high ...

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French Wines for Weddings Part Two: Upgrading the Menu and Wines

Think French wines are only for toasting? What if the right wine pairing could transform your wedding menu into an unforgettable culinary experience? Discover how to elevate every course with the perfect French wines! In our last article, we spoke of the events featured at a wedding weekend (Click here for our first article on […]

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Buying Bordeaux Futures

Frustrated by the uncertainty of buying Bordeaux futures? Wondering how to avoid the pitfalls of overpaying or getting the wrong vintage? Learn how to confidently navigate the process and secure the perfect investment in your cellar! Late March/early April is a busy time in the Bordeaux wine region. This period each year marks the ...

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Burgundy Wines of the Cote de Beaune: Rare & Compelling

Curious about the wines that captivate collectors and sommeliers alike? Uncover the rare and compelling Burgundy wines of the Côte de Beaune that could transform your wine collection! The Cote de Beaune, the southern half of the storied Cote d’Or of Burgundy, swings in a southwesterly arc from Aloxe-Corton four miles north of Beaune, ...

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The Rare Burgundy White Wine That’s On the Market Again!

Did you know one of Burgundy’s rarest white wines is making a comeback? Explore the elusive charm of Chambolle-Musigny white wine and why collectors are buzzing about its return to the market! Chambolle-Musigny: The Rare Burgundy White Wine That’s On the Market Again Chambolle-Musigny, the smallest area of storied grand cru ...

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Mulled Wine Magic: How to Create the Perfect Recipe for Your Holidays

Why not make this the year to host a festive Christmas holiday reception? Instead of spending the evening managing cocktails, serve a delightful warm Mulled Wine Wassail Punch that will keep your guests happy and give you the chance to mingle and enjoy the celebration. It’s a simple way to ensure everyone has a great […]

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The Insiders Guide to French Wine Gifts for the Holidays

Looking to impress the wine lovers in your life this holiday season? What if the perfect French wine gift could elevate their celebrations in ways they never expected? Uncover the insider tips for choosing unforgettable wine gifts! Offering French wine gifts (besides a wine tour!) during the Holiday season is an idea whose time has ...

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10 French Holiday Wines That Are Sure To Please

Looking for the perfect wine to impress your guests this holiday season? Discover 10 French holiday wines that are guaranteed to delight—even if you’re not a wine expert! 10 French Holiday Wines That Are Sure To Please Beginning with Thanksgiving, the holiday season is perfect for enjoying fine French holiday wines with ...

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Chablis Wine and the Chablis Wine Region: Authenticity and Value

What makes Chablis wine a standout among the world’s finest, and why is it often underestimated in terms of value? Dive into the unique characteristics of this region and discover the authentic treasures waiting to be uncorked! Chablis Wine and the Chablis Wine Region: Authenticity and Value A recent Washington tasting of the ...

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New Year’s Brunch Pairings: The Best Food & Wine Menu

Ever wonder which wine can elevate your New Year’s brunch from ordinary to unforgettable? Discover the surprising pairings that will make your celebration sparkle with the perfect food and wine menu! Note: This article on New Year’s Brunch pairings is the 100th blog post written by our Wine Editor, William Shepard. ...

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Rhône Valley Wines: Sunshine For Your Wine Cellar

Want to add a burst of sunshine to your wine cellar? Discover how Rhône Valley wines can bring warmth, richness, and depth to your collection with every bottle! Perhaps you have enjoyed one of the delicious Rhône Valley wines, say a Châteauneuf du Pape. Or, you may have memories of a trip to the region, and […]

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