Zinfandel is a fascinating grape with a long history, but origins that were only recently unraveled.
Zinfandel grapes [source: intovino.com]
Made in the right hands it produces big wines with fruity and spicy characteristics that can be drunk young and that won’t break the bank.
For a long time, Zinfandel was thought of as America’s grape. It is the fifth most planted grape in the USA and loves the hot climates of Sonoma and Napa. However, the myth that Zinfandel has its origins in American soils was dispelled in the 1990s.
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Finding the balance…
As Canadian wine lovers, we take great pride in supporting our homegrown industry. From the Okanagan Valley to Prince Edward County, our vintners continue to craft world-class wines, and there’s a deep sense of national pride in choosing a bottle from a local winery.
But wine appreciation doesn’t end at the border. Many of us have also built deep connections with U.S. winemakers, particularly in regions like California, Washington, and Oregon, where we regularly visit, taste, and invest in their wines. With Canada being one of the largest export markets for American wine, the recent threats of increased tariffs on Canadian goods by the U.S. government feel like an alarming disruption that will reverberate on both sides of the border.
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The coolest of the Napa Valley AVAs.
The Carneros American Viticultural Area (AVA) holds a unique place in California’s winemaking landscape. Straddling both Napa and Sonoma counties, Carneros is distinguished by its cooler climate, which is heavily influenced by its proximity to the San Pablo Bay. This climate makes it ideal for growing cool-climate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and the AVA has earned a global reputation for producing excellent sparkling wines as well.
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Chateau St. Jean’s story began in 1973, when its three founders set out to create a winery that would capture the unique qualities of Sonoma’s vineyards.
The estate vineyard in Kenwood.
The name, inspired by Jean Sheffield, reflects her role as the heart of their circle—wife, sister, and sister-in-law to the three founders—and the only person who could keep them united with her “saintly” patience. Over the years, Chateau St. Jean has remained rooted in the spirit of community, warmth, and hospitality. Here, wine is more than a product; it’s a celebration of the good things in life, a testament to Sonoma’s character, and an invitation to gather and enjoy.
With the recent announcement of a new winemaker, this iconic winery is set to embark on a dynamic new era, building on its tradition of producing wines that capture the true spirit of Sonoma’s varied terroir.
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Visiting the Douro Valley in Portugal.
It’s hard to believe that 2024 marked ten years since we started AdVINEtures. What began as a simple blog born out of a shared passion project has blossomed into a decade-long journey that has brought us experiences and knowledge we could never have anticipated. This milestone feels surreal. Ten years ago, we simply wanted a place to share our itineraries and recommendations, a resource for friends constantly asking us where to go and what to do when visiting wine country. What we didn’t know then was how our pursuit of stories behind the glass would transform our own lives and take us far beyond simply sharing “tips” on wine destinations.
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