Capsule

The molded plastic, bimetal, or aluminum sheath that fits over the cork and top part of the neck of a wine bottle. Historically, capsules were made of lead to keep animals and bugs away from the cork. Today, lead is banned because of potential health risks.

The following “French” grapes are actually Spanish in origin:

A. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc

B. Carignan, Syrah, Grenache

C. Chenin Blanc, Carignan, Carménère

D. Malbec, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo

That was a tough one! The native Spanish varieties are Garnacha (which the French call Grenache), Monastrell, (known as Mourvèdre in France), and Achéria (better known by its French name: Cabernet Franc). Cabernet Franc is thought to have originated in the Spanish País Vasco (Basque Country).

The Birthday Present You Always Wanted

It is an old tradition among the wealthy British upper classes to give a newborn child a “pipe” (about sixty-one cases!) of Port from the newborn’s birth year. In the past, vintage Port and single… Continue reading

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