The Somm just recommended Blaufränkisch. Now what?

4 Questions to ask the next time you want to move beyond your favorite Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay.

Question 1: What is the geographical provenance of that fermented elixir that has captivated your esteemed palate for so long?

Sometimes it feels like we speak about our favorite wine like we’re from some bygone Victorian era. However, wine does have its own language and dialect.

These days, if you said your favorite wine is simply “Napa Cab” or “Russian River Chardonnay,” that’s not specific enough or perhaps, not Victorian enough. A Napa Cabernet from the valley floor is not Napa Cabernet from Howell Mountain. Neither is a Russian River Chardonnay near Healdsburg versus near Occidental. How much new oak? Is the oak American or French? How long in barrel? Full malo Chardonnay or only partial? The more specificity in your preferences, the more likely you’ll be able to find an acceptable or even better substitute to your “default” Cab or Chard.

If you’d like to read more, please head to my Substack Page, Case to Case with David Mastro Scheidt. Like. Subscribe. Comment.