This week we deviate substantially from what we normally do. We simply look at a name. The late-Shirley Ellis, a singer who had more than a few hit songs a number of decades ago, including “The Name Game,” would probably agree with the following: naming can be a serious game. Presumably, she made a pretty … Continue reading The Name Game
A rose is a rose, is a rose, is a rose…No, that’s not right! A rosé is a rosé, is a rosé, is a…. No, that’s not right, either! There can be significant differences among rosés. Some of the variables that may account for these differences are terroir, grape variety, and decisions made by the … Continue reading Of Roses, Rosés, and Bellwood Vineyard’s 2023 Assemblage Rosé
There are several definitions for the term white heat. Two are relevant here. white heat The state or temperature at which matter emits white light. A state of intensive activity. [Wiktionary] Heated sake is a pleasure to consume, all year round, of course, but especially on those stygian winter nights. To some people, preparing this drink is simple. Pour some sake into a cup; put it … Continue reading White Heat Night at JSS Information Center, Tokyo: Hot-Sake Science
By the sea, by the sea, by the beautiful seaYou and I, you and I, oh! how happy we'll be,When each wave comes a rolling inWe will duck or swim,And we’ll float and fool around the water,…. This lyrical excerpt from the 1914 hit song is the perfect way to kick off our entry on … Continue reading “By the Beautiful Sea”: A Coral Wine
Portugal is a country dear to our hearts. The people are hospitable without being ingratiating; the food—codfish, sardines, lots of pork, and chicken—is exactly what we like to see on our plates; the number of indigenous grape varieties is high, which enlivens and enriches the wine-drinking experience; and the country is the cleanest one we … Continue reading The Portugal Wine Grand Tasting: Madeira
A little while ago, one of us here at drinkingjapan.org had the good fortune of visiting Schloss Johannisberg, which is indisputably Germany’s most famous winery. Before we get into the sensory evaluation of the wonderful Riesling purchased therefrom, we would like to consider stumbling. That’s right, stumbling. Generally, this is a negative occurrence, especially when … Continue reading Germany’s Finest: Schloss Johannisberg
It is always a pleasure to cover the annual Sakura JWWA Grand Tasting. The 2025 event was held at Tokyo’s Gajoen Hotel, one of the most attractive hotels in the city. This year there were approximately 700 people in attendance. We encountered a couple of wineries whose output we have extolled in years past and … Continue reading A Rascal and a Villain at the Sakura Grand Tasting
Drinking Japan 