Budding

The act of grafting buds of one vine onto an existing planted vine. When buds from the scion variety are grafted onto the rootstock, the process is known as “field budding.”

Spanish cava must, by law, be made from one or more of seven grape varieties. Pinot noir, subirat, and trepat are the three lesser-known options. Four other grapes are the main ones. Which of the following is not a variety used to make cava?

A. Chardonnay

B. Ull de Llebre

C. Parellada

D. Xarel-lo

While Ull de Llebre (or “eye of the hare” in Catalan) is a Spanish grape grown in the Penedès, it is not a part of the seven grapes legally allowed to make cava. (It is, however, the local name for tempranillo). While chardonnay often adds finesse to cavas, the varieties macabeo, parellada, and xarel-lo are the most important. Macabeo is fruity and aromatic with good acidity. Parellada is the most delicate of these Spanish grapes and are often grown in higher, cooler vineyards. And you can thank xarel-lo for giving cava most of its personality by contributing good acidity and a generous, round body.

Seriously????

To the list of all the things you can (but maybe shouldn’t) do while drinking, add this: ax-throwing. According to Tasting Table, two new ax-throwing places will open this year in Boston and ax-throwing bars… Continue reading

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