Since we’re approaching the holidays, its time to start thinking about spending time with the people you love (and sometimes can’t stand) which usually means drinks are necessary. I was recently introduced to two organic wines by Alyssa Rapp, CEO and Founder of Bottlenotes, which is an online wine community where novice to advanced winos can go to learn, share, explore and buy boutique and estate wines from around the world.
The first wine Bryan and I tried (and yes, I shared some of the bottle with him) was Jas D’ Esclans Cru Classe 2000. For those of who don’t speak French, its a Rose, a very smoky and surprisingly tasty Rose. I think after the first pour it only got better and no, not because we were wasted, but because I think the wine needed some time to breathe.
The second wine we tried (and this was the second night, thank you very much) was an Australian chardonnay, Potrero Gumeracha Chardonnay 2005 from Adelaide Hills. Its a very light, fresh and fruity tasting chardonnay - totally delicious!
Why organic wine? Well, here’s a few reasons:
- Duh, organic grapes: organic wine is made from organically grown grapes meaning that its usually produced by farmers using renewable energy sources (so better for you and the environment!)
- Organic wines are healthier: when you buy organic wine, you are buying wine that has not been sprayed with chemicals and pesticides
- Organic wine is wine without added sulfites (naturally occurring sulfites must be less than 20 parts per million)
But, there are also challenges:
- There are very few winemakers who are eliminating the use of sulfur dioxide, meaning very few organic wines
- Organic wines are typically few in number and unstable in quality which is detrimental to winemakers who want to market a consistently drinkable wine
I’ll be interviewing Alyssa Rapp, CEO and Founder of Bottlenotes for more clarity on organic wines next week just in time to get your holiday drink on. Stay tuned…
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
This is awesome! I love the variety of stuff that you post on here. I don't know much about wines, but I love learning… and tasting! ;-)
I can also vouch that the chardonnay is delightful! It was really yummy with your grown-up mac'n'cheese - you should post about that too!
Ah, I'm so glad you enjoyed the organic wine and grown-up mach and cheese! That recipe will become a post very shortly. Its important for the world to know about it. It was delicious!
Yes, both were delicious! I love dinner parties with yummy food and wine and amazing company (to say the least). I'd recommend the mac and cheese recipe (and the organic wine of course) to anyone hosting a no fuss dinner party - it's quick and easy!