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Demystifying Wine: Sherry
The Forgotten Gem: Understanding the Seven Types of Sherry Wine. Sherry wine, one of the world’s oldest and most storied styles, hails from the Jerez region in southern Spain. Known for its diversity and complex flavor profiles, Sherry has a bit of a reputation problem—often relegated to dusty shelves or seen as “grandma’s wine.” But…
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Raise a Glass and Lower the Volume
A Sommelier’s Take on Finding Common Ground. Election Day. For many, it’s a spirited occasion where, beyond casting a ballot, we’re practically swimming in strong opinions. But today, I propose we table those heated discussions about who’s right, who’s wrong, and who should be running the show. Instead, let’s toast to something undeniably delightful: wine—and…
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A Sommelier’s Guide to Date Night Wine Pairings
From First Dates to Friday Night Takeout. Date night is sacred—a chance to connect, escape the routine, and indulge a little. Whether it’s a first date or a long-standing weekly tradition, a thoughtful wine choice can elevate the experience, even if the “cuisine” comes with a drive-thru option. Here’s a guide for various types of…
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Guest Etiquette at Private Wine and Dining Events
Navigating the Unexpected with Grace and Respect. Prologue – In recent months, I’ve had the pleasure of attending several beautifully orchestrated private events that left lasting memories—yet each one also included moments where a few guests struggled with appropriate etiquette during minor delays or unexpected changes. These situations highlighted how crucial guest conduct is, not…
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Celebrating 36 Years of Love & Legacy: A Mondavi Affair
In the world of wine, few stories intertwine celebration and life as deeply as that of Robert Mondavi. Reflecting this spirit, Scott and Alison White meticulously prepared every dish for their 36th anniversary celebration, a night that was as much about love and legacy as it was about Mondavi’s finest wines. It wasn’t just an…
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A Lobster Boil Extravaganza
Night Two of Scott and Alison White’s 36th Anniversary Celebration. Following the sparkling excitement of the previous evening, Scott and Alison White hosted a classic lobster boil, a feast fit for both food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. Paired with the refined and storied Chardonnays of Chateau Montelena, this second night celebrated the richness of…
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Domaine Carneros Sparkling Party
A Toast to Tradition and Togetherness. As a grand kickoff to Scott and Alison White’s week-long 36th-anniversary festivities, this year’s Sparkling Party brought together family and friends at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort for an evening overflowing with camaraderie, exquisite food, and the celebrated Domaine Carneros sparkling wines. This year’s feature: three impressive six-liter bottles of the…
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The Art and Ritual of Sabering Sparkling Wine: A Master Class
The act of sabering—a tradition often accompanied by awe and anticipation—stems from a blend of history, skill, and sheer drama. When Scott White sabered his first bottle of Domaine Carneros Blanc de Blancs at the celebratory evening of his anniversary week, he carried on a tradition that dates back centuries. As Scott expertly removed the…
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Pairing the Perfect Wine with Mediterranean-Inspired Mahi Mahi
As a sommelier and wine educator, one of the greatest joys is the process of finding that perfect wine pairing—a marriage of flavors that elevates both the dish and the wine to new heights. Recently, I found myself in the SOMM&SOMM kitchen creating a Mediterranean-inspired Mahi Mahi dish, a vibrant, refreshing plate that marries the…
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The Wine Lover’s Foggy Memory
St-Émilion and the Grande Classe ‘A’ Quandary. Ah, the joys of being a sommelier. You walk into a tasting event, confident in your knowledge, fully armed with years of wine education. You’ve mastered the intricacies of the Médoc’s growths, can identify a Bordeaux blend just by its nose, and could recite, in order, the prestigious…
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