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Author: grapelady


Dear Wine Enthusiasts,

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure of attending the esteemed Academy du Rhone, a wine boot camp (minus the push-ups!) for sommeliers, organized by Inter-Rhone, an association of Rhone Valley wine producers. It was a day filled with delightful sips and fascinating insights as we explored sixteen wines from the 31 appellations, starting bright and early at 10 am. Throughout the day, I eagerly took over twenty-five pages of notes, soaking up all the knowledge the seminar had to offer. Armed with my newfound wisdom, I geared up for the afternoon exam, ready to put my learning to the test and emerged triumphantly as a Certified Rhone Specialist!

Now, you don’t have to enroll in a class, no test required! Allow me to share some of the fantastic insights I gained and introduce you to some truly exceptional wines from the Rhone Valley.

Firstly, did you know that the Rhone Valley is the second most exported wine region of France, even though it occupies just 9% of French vineyards? With an impressive 418 communes, 31 legally defined appellations, and 17 crus, there is an array of wines here to suit every palate. (Crus are appellations with the most prestige.)

No Seriously – Hidden Treasures Abound!

Despite being the number one market for Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the Rhone Valley remains largely underappreciated in the United States. However, there’s good news for wine enthusiasts looking to explore new and approachable options. The Rhone Valley offers 30 other regions crafting exceptional wines at easily attainable prices. While Chateauneuf-du-Pape deserves all the love, this lesser-explored territory presents a treasure trove of affordable and delightful wines just waiting to be discovered.

Fun Fact: 76% of the wines made in the Rhone Valley are red. Think of the grape varietals like the perfect seasoning, making your wine experience truly savory, like MSG. But the traditional way to shorten the ‘Rhone Ranger’ grapes is GSM.

Grenache – The Versatile Companion

Known as Garnacha in Spain, Grenache shines in the southern Rhone. Low in tannins and light in color, this grape thrives when blended with others to elevate the blend’s character. Prepare to savor delightful flavors of spiced red berries, herbs, baking spices, musk, dried red flowers, and sometimes even mushrooms.

Syrah – The Northern Star

In the Northern Rhone, Syrah takes the spotlight, often blended with small amounts of white grapes. Down south, it partners with Grenache to provide color and tannins to blends. Its captivating bouquet includes black fruit, violets, roses, herbs, olives, smoke, peppercorns, and sometimes even bacon. A fun tip: Sniff black pepper before your wine to recognize that smell better – it’s a trick that works like magic! I call it ‘comparative sniffing’ and it changed my world. 

Mourvedre – The Bold and Intense One

Also known as Monastrell in other countries, Mourvedre is a dark-skinned variety that loves the heat. It adds depth with its rich color, alcohol, and tannins to blends. Get ready to savor the aromas of ripe blackberries with this enticing grape.

Syrah and Viognier – An Unexpected Union

Ever wondered why Syrah is often blended with Viognier, a white grape? Well, back in the day, the wine’s color was considered of utmost importance. Syrah faced a challenge as its color fades within about five years. An ingenious winemaker (whose name remains lost in history) discovered that a touch of Viognier would “fix” the color issue, resulting in the deeply colored Syrahs we adore today.

It’s Not Just Red Wine…

While only 11% of Rhone Valley wines are white, they are an absolute delight! Meet the primary grapes that shine in the whites:

Here’s an easy way to remember them – Mr. V likes the ladies, as the white grapes have a feminine touch. These wines are a wonderful alternative to Chardonnay, boasting notes of apple, pears, honey, and white flowers.

And wait, there’s more!

Tavel, the only wine region in France entirely dedicated to rosé, comes from the Rhone Valley. Move over Provence, because Tavel has been making wine longer and has nearly twenty legally authorized grapes, making it an adventure to explore. Choose from light, Provence-style rosés, or opt for the darker, more savory offerings. Personally, I lean towards the latter.

Now that your curiosity is piqued, and your thirst is stirred, let me share some hidden gems I discovered during my journey. Embrace the wines of the Rhone Valley and dazzle your friends with your newfound knowledge.

Give me the Rhone Wines

With a Certified Rhone Specialist’s Cheers,

Hey there wine enthusiast!

In the realm of wine, there are names that shine like stars, just like Tom Brady in football or the Williams sisters in tennis. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to one such titan of terroir: Philippe Melka.

‘Melka-like’ has become shorthand for bold, rich, and powerful reds. His style leans toward intense flavors and velvety tannins. Any sommelier worth their salt can pick you a wine you will love if you can tell them what you like- and if you like Melka wines- you can simply tell them that. 

Try this trio of wines by Melka, spanning from California to Washington.

1)Melka ‘CJ,’ Napa Valley:

Named after Philippe Melka’s two children, Chloe and Jeremy, CJ is a wine crafted with love for his family. With under 1,500 cases produced annually, this blend consists of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot sourced from hillside vineyards in Southern Napa Valley.

2) AdamVS ‘Terres,’ Howell Mountain:

As a consulting client, AdamVS is an exquisite jewel of a vineyard nestled on Howell Mountain. If you appreciate wines from Dunn and La Jota, this one’s for you. True to Melka’s signature style, the tannins are velvety, while the intense flavors of blackberries sourced from the mountain make their presence known.

3)Long Shadows Vintners, Pirouette, Columbia Valley:

Long Shadows takes a unique approach to winemaking by collaborating with experts in particular styles. In the case of Pirouette, Melka makes his contribution to this Washington winery. A beautiful blend akin to CJ, but sourced from fruit in the Columbia Valley, it offers an earthier profile with a lighter touch on the palate compared to AdamVS or CJ.

Pour Into my Cart

Melka’s Story

Hailing from Bordeaux, France, Philippe’s journey into winemaking started with a degree in geology. His passion for wine led him to pursue a master’s degree in winemaking, and destiny brought him to the prestigious Château Haut Brion for an internship during his university days. The prestige in this internship would be like a finance internship at Goldman Sachs or an aspiring fashion writer getting a job at Vogue. 

In 1991, Philippe joined the iconic Dominus Estate in California, where he showcased his winemaking prowess. Later, he took on the role of winemaker at Ridge in the early 1990s, perfecting his craft and honing his skills. During this time, he also embarked on a beautiful journey of love, learning English with the help of a talented lab technician named Cherie, who would later become his wife.

The dynamic duo established their own venture, Atelier Melka, allowing them to work together and combine their expertise. Cherie’s specialization in microbiology and Philippe’s winemaking create the perfect team. In 1996, Lail Vineyards and Seavey Vineyard became their first clients. Twenty-seven years later, they remain clients. Robert Parker named him in the top ten winemakers in the world in 2015 and this holds true today.

The Melkas are truly a power couple in the wine world, leaving a trail of excellence wherever they go. Philippe’s incredible talent has earned him numerous 100-point scores, beginning with Dana Estates in 2007 and continuing to this day.

Cheers to the legends of the wine world, and here’s to raising a glass filled with Philippe Melka’s extraordinary creations!

Your wine-loving friend,

Hey there, wine aficionados!

I’ve got a story for you that involves dirt, unexpected guests, and a memorable tasting experience with Chateau d’Aquaria Tavel Rosé. Buckle up for a wild ride!

Picture this: I had the incredible opportunity to meet Ralf Garcin, the winemaker behind Chateau d’Aquaria. I’m excited- I’ve sold the man’s wines for over a decade. Now, let me preface this tale by saying that I run a small business, and our meeting was scheduled to take place at my house instead of my usual warehouse. Little did I know, this decision would make it a truly unforgettable encounter.

In the days leading up to the tasting, I found myself knee-deep in a gardening project. My husband and I were up to our elbows in dirt, transplanting boxwood shrubs. And of course, Murphy’s Law came into play—yes, I forgot to put the tasting appointment on my calendar.

Fast forward to the appointed time, and the doorbell rings. I opened it, expecting a food delivery, but instead, I was greeted by a wine rep and the impeccably clean Ralf Garcin. Meanwhile, I stood there covered in dirt, a true sight to behold. Talk about an embarrassing moment!

After a hasty sink-scrubbing session, we sat down to taste the wines. They, looked sharp in their crisp, white shirts, and I, a complete mess. But you know what? Sometimes the most unconventional moments make for the most memorable experiences.

Amidst my dirty appearance, I sipped through a vertical tasting of Rolf’s masterpieces, ranging from 2022 to 2017 vintages. Ralf shared fascinating stories about Chateau d’Aquaria’s four-hundred-year history, their dedication to biodiversity, and achieving organic certification. I even learned about the sheep they let roam among the vines to keep things in check and provide natural fertilizer. Ralph was too much of a gentleman to allude to the fertilizer that clung to my shoes at the time. 

Now, let’s talk about the wine itself. Chateau d’Aquaria Tavel Rosé is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Clairette. It boasts an alluring bouquet of rose petals, ripe strawberries, and a subtle hint of spice. It’s a wine that surprises and delights with every sip, whether you’re sipping it on a sunny patio or indulging in a delicious meal.

So, my fellow adventurers, I invite you to enjoy a sample of different styles of rose. This three bottle selection includes the unique Chateau d’Aquaria Tavel Rosé, as well as two other French sippers. Rosés from Provence are fresh, fruity, crisp and dry. Tavel rosés showcase red berries, almonds and floral notes. Rhône Valley Rosés show the the red fruit notes of Tavel with the citrus notes of Provence. Explore a few new bottlings and see what suits you best. 

If nothing else I hope you got a laugh out of my misadventure. Let’s raise our glasses and celebrate the unexpected moments that make life so much more interesting. 

Cheers to dirt-covered tales and unforgettable wine experiences!

Yours in wine,

Michelle Rossotti

The Grape Lady

Add Rose to my cellar

Similar Sips: Caymus Killers

 Exceptional Alternatives for Napa Cab Lovers

Hey there, wine enthusiasts!

Let’s talk about the reigning king of Napa Cabernet: Caymus. As of 2022, Caymus Cabernet held the crown as the most consumed Napa Cabernet, according to Cellar Tracker data. Founded by Chuck Wagner and his family in 1972, Caymus Vineyards has become synonymous with affordable, accessible luxury. Producing a staggering 200,000 cases of wine annually, they stand out from many other Napa luxury wineries that produce a fraction of that amount.

Caymus is renowned for its rich, round, and dark-fruited character with a hint of sweetness. As a sommelier, I can’t deny its appeal, but here’s the thing—it can sometimes be a bit frustrating. Many wine drinkers get caught in the Caymus bubble, reluctant to explore beyond their comfort zone, and discover new wines. Life is simply too short to limit ourselves to just one wine, wouldn’t you agree?

That’s where I come in. I have a curated selection of wines I like to call “Caymus Killers.” If you like Caymus- you will love these wines. Try this three pack!

Add to Cellar

So, my Caymus-loving friend, I invite you to step outside your comfort zone and explore. These three wines are from California, but from outside of Napa Valley. Embrace the adventure, savor new flavors, and discover the hidden gems that await your palate. Remember, there’s a whole universe of exceptional wines just waiting to be explored.

Cheers to expanding horizons and discovering new favorites!

Your wine-loving guide,

Are you ready to become the ultimate host or hostess with minimal effort?

I’ve got you covered!

Allow me to introduce you to the concept of a “house wine” – that reliable, go-to bottle you always have on hand for those unexpected moments when friends drop by or impromptu parties magically happen.

Need a house wine?

I believe that your house wine doesn’t need to be pretentious or expensive, but it should be something your friends are always excited to drink at your place. That’s where I come in! Let me help you find that perfect house wine that fits your taste and budget, ensuring you’re always prepared to raise a glass and create memorable moments.

And here’s a little secret to take your hosting game to the next level. Imagine effortless gatherings where the fridge is never empty. I’ve crafted the ultimate solution – an Instacart order for a fabulous spread that will make you feel like a host or hostess extraordinaire. It’s easy, repeatable, and with just a few taps on your cell, you’ll have an impressive spread ready to wow your guests.

Go to Instacart shopping cart

This charcuterie board is the ideal pairing for Cabernet Sauvignons, complementing their rich flavors and making you look like a genius.

Let’s make entertaining a breeze and elevate your gatherings to a whole new level. 

Cheers,

The List

  • Aged White Cheddar
  • Asiago
  • Manchego
  • Smoked Ham
  • Summer Sausage
  • Strawberries (add more berries to dress up the tray)
  • Dried Cherries
  • Toasted Almonds
  • Chocolate Almond Bar
  • Black Pepper Water Crackers
  • Another Cracker Type

Discover the July Juice Box:

Unveiling Wines That Truly Rock!

Take a deep breath and leave the wine aisle behind,

Because I’ve got something special for your peace of mind.


No more indecision, no more standing in the store,

Just sit back, relax, and let me handle it all and more.


Each month, a carefully curated box of six wines will arrive at your door,

Hand-selected with passion, I guarantee you’ll adore.

From everyday sips to moments worth celebrating,

I’ve got you covered with wines that are captivating.


But here’s the best part, my friend, it’s not set in stone,

If these boxes don’t match your taste, just let me know on your phone.

I’ll find the perfect wine, tailored just for you,

Because life’s too short for anything less than what you love to pursue.


Mark your calendar for the week of July 17th, that’s the date,

When your wines will be delivered, sealing your fate.

Straight to your home or office, with a personal touch,

I’ll ensure your wine journey is nothing short of clutch.


So let’s raise a glass and toast to this incredible find,

A wine experience that leaves no room for a bind.

Sit back, relax, and let me be your wine guide,

Because at The Grape Lady, your satisfaction is my pride.

Classic Juice Box For July
Curated Juice Box for July
Connoisseur’s Juice box for July

Picture this: a carefully curated selection of hand-selected wines, delivered right to your doorstep every month. It’s the ultimate wine lover’s paradise!

What inspired this extraordinary wine club, you ask? Well, it all started with a simple question: What if I could share my passion for exceptional wines with a community of like-minded individuals? And after months of planning and preparation, the Grape Lady Juice Box Club was born.

My mission is simple: to bring you excellent wines, without the hassle of searching high and low for them. This is your opportunity to savor the flavors, explore new regions, and indulge in the artistry of winemaking, all from the comfort of your own home. I seek out smaller producers that you will not find at big box retailers. Winemakers craft beautiful wines but can’t supply the TotalWines and Spec’s of the world.

With three tiers to choose from, there’s a perfect fit for every wine enthusiast.

Let’s take a closer look:

  1. The Classic Box: This tier is designed for those seeking exceptional quality at an accessible price point. Expect a collection of hand-picked wines ranging from $25 to $40 per bottle. It’s the ideal choice for everyday enjoyment and discovering hidden gems. If you drink J. Lohr Cabernets and Meiomi Pinot Noir at home- this is your tier.
  2. The Curated Box: Elevate your wine experience with our Curated Box, carefully curated to deliver a touch of luxury to your palate. This tier features a selection of Bordeaux wines and hand-picked gems from the Connoisseur’s Box. With bottles ranging from $40 to $75 each, you’ll indulge in wines that showcase elegance and sophistication. If you have an open bottle of Rombauer Chardonnay in your fridge- this is your box.
  3. The Connoisseur’s Box: For the true wine connoisseur, our Connoisseur’s Box is a haven of exceptional, limited-production wines. Immerse yourself in the world of premium vintages, carefully selected from renowned vineyards. With bottles ranging from $75 to $100 each, this tier promises an extraordinary tasting experience that will leave a lasting impression. For my lovers of Caymus and Opus- Let me show you a few new things.

But it doesn’t end there. My commitment to excellence extends beyond the wines themselves. Each box is meticulously hand-delivered to your home or office, ensuring a personal touch and a seamless experience from start to finish.

So, whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, the Grape Lady Juice Box Club invites you to join our wine-loving community. It’s time to raise a glass to the extraordinary, celebrate the joys of life, and unlock a world of wine possibilities.

Not Ready to Commit? No Problem!

I understand that commitment can be a daunting word. But fear not, fellow wine lover! The Grape Lady Juice Box Club has an option for you too. Try the Single Month Boxes, because sometimes you just need to dip your toes in before diving in headfirst.

Cheers to a life well-tasted!

Party

a social gathering of invited guests, typically involving eating, drinking and entertainment

Some parties are planned in advance, other times they just happen. Last minute parties are the ones that cement friendships and create memories that last a lifetime. They also tend to be the roughest on the host. The host must summon up sustenance, while wondering how clean the bathroom is. Having a wine pairing with takeout makes your event seem pulled together.

Fried Chicken & Champagne

You arrive at the restaurant with your group for brunch. When the overworked hostess tells you it will be two hours for a table you must scramble for a plan. So you offer up your house for brunch. Dividing and conquering you send one person off to pick up the best fried chicken in town to-go. Sending another to the grocery store to buy a few bottles champagne, you return home. A quick tidy of the living room and the bell rings. Voila- instant party. 

Fried Chicken and Champagne are the best. The crispy, crunchy batter and the bright bubbles are perfection. You saved the day! Make it fancy by snagging two or three different brands of champagne and blind taste the group. See which one folks like best. You can even make this a pot-luck- everyone brings their favorite fried chicken and a bottle to share. 

Pizza & Chianti

Your son invited his new best friend home from school and their parents are coming to pick him up. He is begging for a few more hours with his friend. You want to get to know the parents but, you haven’t been grocery shopping in a week… Delivery pizza is the answer. 

I always keep a bottle of Chianti Riserva in the house. It makes pizza night seem less thrown together. It gives the impression that I planned to have pizza night. If you ask my empty fridge, it would tell you that I didn’t plan. Eating off paper plates in the backyard, with a glass of Sangiovese is casually elegant, not a planning failure. Chianti is the perfect pairing for pizza- but spend the extra $10 bucks and get the nice stuff. I promise you it is worth the money. 

Take Out Chinese & Riesling

In college there were so many study sessions that turned into parties. Start with a group of friends, add food- once someone opens a bottle it is a party! An order of Spicy Orange Chicken and a glass of Ku Fu Girl Riesling made the nights into memories. Also the acid and hint of sweetness in the dry Riesling kept me from crying due to the spicy. This pairing tends to please even those who aren’t into wine. If you want to take it up a notch, buy a dry German Riesling that is a few years old. 

We all know one. Elegantly swirling their glass and ostentatiously serving a wine they ‘picked up last time they were in the valley,’ while shoving your contribution of vodka to the back of the cabinet never to be mentioned again. When out to dinner they harass the wait staff about years, ask for a special deal on  a bottle or simply turn their nose at the list since they simply don’t recognize anything! Drinking anything below 90 points is below them. Amazingly this person annoys you constantly.

Amazingly they drive me bonkers too. And I’m a sommelier.

My husband’s favorite beverage is Bud Light. My mother loves Bota-Box Pinot Grigio. My dad is a Shiner Bock fanatic. Family reunions involve a lot of Jack Daniels, Crown and  whatever wine was on super sale (read as under $6).

Wine is supposed to be enjoyable. It is alcohol which generally accompanies a good time. Good times are for everyone. I am here to make wine accessible and an enjoyable experience.

Frankly it is easier to enjoy some things with a bit of knowledge.

Bring on the questions!

How much did you buy?

No judgement here but the amount you purchase absolutely determines how the wine should be transported. Frankly if you are under four bottles I think you can slip it into your checked baggage without major issue. Wine Skins – are awesome, reusable and easy to use and reasonably priced. Keep in mind every bottle of wine weights about three pounds and that it adds up fast. Weight limits tend to be 50 pounds per bag- going over will result in a fine. If you are heading out on a domestic wine trip- carry a collapsible duffle  in your check bag so you can check either check it  with clothing as padding, or take out some things to carry on to keep your weight down. Due to some of the new crazy rules for carry on bags it may be less expensive or the same price to check multiple bags for your vino.

Once you go over six it tends to make more sense to with a Styrofoam mailer– the expense is present but they are extremely sturdy and tend to be reusable. They can be difficult to find at post offices unless you are in a tourist driven wine region. Amazon does have them for sale if you are looking for them domestically. It will be about a hundred dollars total (box, tax and shipping fees) to get your wine from vacation spot to home. You can also take a foam box as a checked item on your plane. If you do this often- there are bags made especially for the Styrofoam mailers. Personally I find them extremely expensive when you can simply tape the box closed and call it a day.

The wine is subject to TSA check as is all luggage. The airline will not take any responsibility for the wine breakage or leakage. Some airlines have limits of how much per customer domestically, so check with your airline so that you don’t get blind sided by airline regulations.

Always remember check to see if you need to bring wines home. I’m not telling you that the Chardonnay you are having in Sonoma isn’t worth brining home, but I am going to gently remind you that lots of wine are sold in your local market. You can always ask at the winery if they sell them in your state, some things are smaller production and are ‘winery only,’ these wines are what you should buy when you are there. Don’t be tempted by the discount offered to buy things you can get at home- the cost of shipping this wine home will negate that discount.  Pleasedevelop a relationship with your local wine shop, most owners are delighted to order you whatever you desire so that you can purchase it at home. It is not a bother- these folks got into the industry because they enjoy wine- your excitement about a new favorite may lead to it being sold at your favorite shop.  Know the details of the wine- take a picture of the label so you don’t forget any details- vintage or single vineyard can make a huge difference as your new shop owning friend orders it for you. Most wineries will also ship your wine home for you, if you are buying more than three bottles from one property I highly recommend this option- the prices tend to be very far and so simple! Also who doesn’t love having wine show up on their doorstep?

Where are you shipping it to? Please check your state laws for the legality of shipping wine. Don’t lie about what is in your package-  lying to the Postal Service can get you into major trouble.

For International Travelers: Per TSA regulations, if you purchase liquor from a duty-free shop and it’s able to be screened (i.e., not in an opaque, metallic, or ceramic bottle) and is in a secure, tamper-evident bag (called an STEB), you can transport it in your carry-on. I haven’t yet (fingers crossed) had issues with wines not purchased at a duty free shop- but the sealed bag is important- it helps keep the liquid out of your things if the worst happens.

If you bring back more than one liter, customs regulations require you to pay duty tax based on the percent of alcohol (generally $1–2 per liter for wine). So if you and one other person are traveling you can generally get away with three standard size bottles without issue. Because you are sitting at 2 ¼ liters you technically have nothing to declare because you are under the limits. Don’t lie to customs agents if you have more. Sometimes they won’t even make you pay the tax if you are polite and the wine is for personal use. Always be nice to these folks- they can simplify your life so much!

Happy Traveling!