Fermentation & Grapes
There are many kinds of wine out there. In addition to the different varietals, some are fermented in barrels. Some are fermented in stainless steel tanks. Some are oaked, some are unoaked. A wine fermented in a steel tank can also be oaked by the addition of oak in the tank.
Grapes can be sourced from other countries and made in the United States. We also grow our own grapes and sell them to wineries. Less expensive wines tend to source inorganic grapes from many different growers and combine with additional flavors to make a wine that tastes decent.
I prefer sourced organic grapes from here and abroad and wine that is handcrafted vs. mass produced. Why? Because you can definitely taste the difference and there are less sulfates added. Sulfates are required for fermentation, however, handcrafted wines do not include additional sulfates after the wine is fermented.
For some people, sulfates can cause headaches/migraines or skin to take on a reddish tone. This is a type of allergy and depending on how sensitive you are, you may be able to avoid these negative side-effects by drinking handcrafted wines.
There is a great company called WineShop At Home that provides handcrafted, artisan wines. The winery is located in Napa and the wine maker is from France. If you are in Napa, you may visit the winery by appointment only. There are easier ways to check out these wines.
One way, is to contact a local consultant and set up a private, in-home wine tasting for you and your wine-loving friends. The consultant will bring 6 bottles of different wines. You can choose from a few different packages: All reds, all whites, 3 reds/3 whites and sweeter wines. I recommend the mixed package. You may only like red wines, but that's only because you haven't found a white wine you like... yet. Keep trying!
Another way is to go onto the consultants website and order wines you would like to try. They will ship them to your door. You must be present, over 21 and sober (I know, ironic) to receive the wines. You can mix your half case or case with wines of your choice.
So, if you are up for something different this holiday season, schedule a private wine tasting or have some handcrafted wine delivered to you for your holiday feasts. You won't be disappointed.
