{"title":"Popping Bottles: How to Navigate a Wine List","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"zolo-malbec-2019","title":"Zolo Malbec 2023","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCritical acclaim:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"92 points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Berries, ash and violets on the nose, following through to a medium body with creamy tannins and a juicy finish. So much fruit and fine tannins. Really delicious. Drink now.\" - James Suckling\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AVA","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46217573171433,"sku":"4209","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/products\/image_22900847-60a1-49e9-b288-fd74a4a8858b.png?v=1632856387"},{"product_id":"octavian-cellars-columbia-valley-cabernet-2021","title":"Octavian Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2023","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"2536\" data-end=\"2625\"\u003e\"96 points. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"59\" data-end=\"482\"\u003e\"A warm, wind-swept vintage translated into clarity rather than excess. The 2023 Octavian opens with lifted aromatics—blackcurrant, blackberry skin, and dark cherry—layered with violet, crushed sage, and a trace of graphite that feels distinctly Horse Heaven Hills. There’s a savory edge beneath the fruit: cocoa nib, toasted cedar, and a hint of espresso bean, all framed by the region’s signature basalt-driven minerality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"931\"\u003e\"On the palate, it’s medium-plus in body with polished but present tannins—fine-grained, slightly dusty—carrying flavors of ripe plum, cassis, and black raspberry. Subtle notes of bay leaf, tobacco, and dark chocolate unfold through the mid-palate, while measured oak lends structure without sweetness. Acidity is well-judged, keeping the wine energetic and focused, and the finish lingers with a mix of dried herbs, char, and firm red-black fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"933\" data-end=\"1092\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\"A composed, classic expression of Horse Heaven Hills Cabernet—balanced, structured, and built more on tension than sheer power. Drink over the next 8–12 years.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Select Sellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45921889419497,"sku":"103001","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/image_f5e1c62d-236c-48ad-8166-ef728b9d0fc5.png?v=1698951714"},{"product_id":"castellani-chianti-classico-riserva","title":"Castellani Chianti Classico Riserva 2019","description":"","brand":"AVA","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46863466070249,"sku":"6073","price":29.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-8250.png?v=1711991703"},{"product_id":"domaine-de-la-galopiere-hautes-cote-de-beaune-2018","title":"Domaine de la Galopiere Hautes Cote de Beaune Blanc 2018","description":"","brand":"Syriana","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47886261256425,"sku":"","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-9743.png?v=1730496944"},{"product_id":"giovanna-tantini-rose-copy","title":"Giovanna La Rocca Bardolino","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen I’m offered a glass from an expert wine grower like Giovanna Tantini, I’ve learned to just say “thank you.” The award-winning winemaker seems to never disappoint. This clean, unoaked red from Valpolicella positively sings with soil-driven slate, bright pomegranate, and potpourri. Old vines and low-yield picking give it purpose, even at an affordable price. With its light body, it is outstanding with meats like salami and prosciutto and continually leaves us wanting just a bit more!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYou may not know this grape, Corvina, but I betcha you know its \"big brother\" - Amarone. Amarone is almost always a blend of grapes, but usually Corvina is the dominant partner grape in those blends. Amarones are beautiful, but they are also huge! Here is your chance to check out the fresh Amarone flavors without the big, rich level of alcohol. We just love those wines but they also tend to obscure something magical - the grape varieties underneath the \u003cem\u003eappesamento\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor anyone visiting Giovanna Tantini’s winery, it’s impossible not to appreciate the charm, constant hospitality, and incredible drive of its eponymous owner and winemaker. Giovanna spent over 30 years championing the grape variety Corvina for exactly what it is - fresh, delicious, complex, full of depth and charming red wine - no raisination needed. Sure, the place, Bardolino, and the grape variety may not roll off the American tongue (except once you have a glass, nee a bottle). So maybe put inside your head the idea of an Italian American making Pinot Noir in the Russian River, someone say, like Roccioli. And you have it:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHer 2020 is at once elegant and intense: aromatics of wild raspberry, black cherry, plum and floral notes yield to minerals, spice and toasty oak. It has a juicy, coating entry, followed by more layers of raspberry and cherry fruit, and rich, integrated tannins. The wine is deftly shaped with a subtle combination of new and once-used French oak barrels. Being from the powerhouse ’20 vintage, and at five years old, it drinks incredibly well right now.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn almost every way, Giovanna Tantini has set herself apart. Unlike the large co-ops which dominate the Veneto region, this wine represents the true artisanal minority. La Rocca is the synthesis of Giovanna’s decades-long journey. She believed in the denomination since its inception, and this wine is Giovanna’s expression of it. To the point of putting her face on the label! Don’t miss this sweetheart of a deal.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCritical acclaim:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“95 points. The wines that Giovanna Tantini produces today are in fact declarations of love for Corvina, the native red Veronese grape par excellence; a delicate grape, capable of yielding elegant wines with an unsurprising ability to mature over time. More or less sparse clusters, with pruinose berries and a charge of anthocyanins that turn to ruby red and orange. Ideal for producing light pink wines, as well as elegant and vibrant red wines. In winemaking these grapes give off spicy notes, hints reminiscent of the crispness of red and yellow fruits, as well as taut savory sensations. As the wines mature, the spiciness becomes more intense but sharp, and the fruity sensations are often reminiscent of more or less sweet citrus fruits. The fate of maturation goes toward balsamic notes, more or less mentholated and fresh to remind also of licorice.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“All these things we kind of knew already, Giovanna has accustomed us over the years to this philosophy of hers. What is surprising instead is La Rocca 2020. This year's big surprise. Burgundy bottle, label that reads La Rocca and portrays Giovanna's face. For 20 percent this wine rests in wood and is complex, mouthwatering and inviting. I enjoyed it in the presence of the producer, reconfirmed it blind in the Consortium in battery with the others. It must be said that in recent years in general the products of the appellation have undergone a positive momentum towards cleanliness, frankness and pleasantness in drinking. Chapeau!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“Corvina 95%, Rondinella 5%. Matura per il 20% in botti di legno. Rubino con qualche riflesso granato. Naso con note di incenso, vaniglia e tostatura. Albicocca leggermente appassita, poi china, bergamotto, tamarindo. Molto lungo, teso, intenso. Dalla sapidità persistente.” - Daniele Cernilli, WineDoctor.com\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Johnson\/Phillips","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47941584126185,"sku":"1991704","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-0336.png?v=1735238742"},{"product_id":"sabina","title":"Sabina Dundee Hills Pinot Noir 2023","description":"","brand":"Select Sellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47978778820841,"sku":"103002","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-0177.png?v=1733780540"},{"product_id":"cascina-19-boschetti-barolo-docg","title":"Cascina Boschetti Barolo 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e93 Points, James Suckling, James Suckling.com: \"Attractive aromas of cocoa-dusted cherries and dried strawberries with dark licorice and an earthy undertone. Full and compact with velvety tannins, deep fruit character and a lengthy and tense finish. Balanced and focused…” 07\/23\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Capitol\/Allstate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48013379436777,"sku":"58188","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-0342.png?v=1735239015"},{"product_id":"glaser-glaser-retzer-liebling-gruner-veltliner","title":"Glaser \u0026 Glaser Retzer Liebling Gruner Veltliner 2023","description":"","brand":"Select Sellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48105394438377,"sku":"640010","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-0891.png?v=1739211898"},{"product_id":"de-la-vieille-julienne-vin-de-france","title":"La Vieille Julienne \"Ceci est un flacon de vin de France\" 2022","description":"","brand":"Misa","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48355616588009,"sku":"13760169471342","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/IMG-1555.png?v=1746647447"},{"product_id":"popping-bottles-how-to-navigate-a-wine-list-private-event-for-madison-wine-enthusiasts","title":"Popping Bottles: How To Navigate a Wine List Private Event for Madison Wine Enthusiasts","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"rnc2Gd\"\u003eWhether you're on a date, at a business dinner, or just out with friends, taking control of the wine list is an impressive move - and it ensures that you get to drink what you want. This seminar will empower you with knowledge and confidence to navigate any restaurant wine list like a pro!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"rnc2Gd\"\u003eWe'll explore common list structures, such as regional listings, varietal groupings, and stylistic categories to help you get your bearings when  you settle in. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"rnc2Gd\"\u003eWe'll also delve into the tips and tricks for identifying hidden gems and good deals. We’ll discuss how to assess pricing, compare selections, and avoid overpaying for familiar wines. We’ll also touch on how to look for up-and-coming producers or lesser-known regions that can offer excellent quality at more affordable prices.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"rnc2Gd\"\u003eAnd, we will walk through the entire process of ordering wine at a restaurant. From asking the right questions to the sommelier or server to tasting the wine upon arrival, we'll cover each step to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. We’ll also discuss proper etiquette, how to handle issues, and how to pair wines with your meal effectively.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"rnc2Gd\"\u003eWhether you're a wine enthusiast or a novice, you'll walk away better equipped to make your next meal out exceptional. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gWqWw rnc2Gd\"\u003eWines to be tasted: TBA\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Waterford Wine \u0026 Spirits","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48523814732009,"sku":null,"price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0579\/2805\/7022\/files\/WineList.jpg?v=1747924675"}],"url":"https:\/\/waterfordwine.com\/collections\/navigating-a-wine-list.oembed?page=2","provider":"Waterford Wine and Spirits","version":"1.0","type":"link"}