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Degrees in Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) at which physiological processes begin to take place in a grapevine. Below this temperature, a grapevine is dormant. Drastically below this temperature—below 32 degrees F for example—a grapevine might suffer considerable damage or even die. When the average daily temperatures reach 63 to 68 degrees F, vines will begin to flower. And when those average temperatures reach 80 degrees F, (as is the case now in the northern hemisphere) the grapevine is in full stride, and grape clusters can begin ripening.

Egg whites have long been used in winemaking as a fining agent. In many parts of Europe, the yolks left behind would then be:

A. Given to a local convent

B. Scattered in the vineyard as fertilizer

C. Given to local schools to be used for egg dishes for children

D. Used by the winery for lubricating winemaking equipment

Historically, convents located in wine regions often developed signature desserts and breads based on egg yolks. The nuns would then sell these food items as a source of income for the convent.

I’ll Take the Second Sip, Thanks

During the French Renaissance, a sommelier (so-mel-YAY) bought the title and paid to become part of the retinue of the king or a nobleman. The sommelier, responsible for stocking food and wine for journeys, kept… Continue reading

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