December 3, 2021

MARKHAM “The Altruist” 2017

(Napa Valley, California) $31

Markham has been quietly at work making some of Napa Valley’s most deliciously plush Merlots for many decades. The Altruist has a spicy, rich core and great structure.

92 points KM

Available at Wine.com

What are cardoons?

A. A vegetable related to artichokes

B. A type of sweet onion similar in shape to leeks

C. Traditional Moroccan candies made from raw sugar, almonds, and spices

D. A fennel-like herb historically used to make curative teas

Cardoons are close relatives of globe artichokes. However, only the ribs of the leaves are edible. Cardoons, like artichokes, are members of the thistle family and are similar in taste to artichoke hearts. Cardoons are among many forgotten vegetables that were very popular in America during colonial times. Many of these vegetables (which still grow in the Colonial Garden and Nursery at Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia) are undergoing a resurgence thanks to farm stands and chef markets across the country.

17.6

The maximum temperature, in Fahrenheit, at which Canadians can legally pick grapes for icewine.

MARKHAM “The Altruist” 2017

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