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It’s almost impossible to discuss Barbera without also considering Nebbiolo. Despite increasing recognition, it remains one of the least respected red grape varieties in the world, an image problem related largely to the relationship it has with its nobler cousin in their Piemontese homeland.  There is no question that Nebbiolo... Read More

ANCIENT WISDOM teaches us that stressed vines make good wine.  Our focus today, Abbazia di Novacella, carries this advice about as far as anyone can, short of committing viticide, thereby achieving laudable elegance and longevity in its wines.  In fact, vines here live no more than 25 years, so stressful... Read More

CRAFT BEER IT IS DIFFICULT if not impossible for people new to craft beer to remember a time, seemingly ages ago, when flavorful beers were a scarce commodity.  Back then, the occasional pint of Sierra Nevada Pale Ale or bottle of Samuel Adams Boston Lager, now derided by some hardened... Read More

WHEN WE LUPEC LADIES first started contributing to this fine publication the classic cocktail revival was just taking root here in Boston.  Now we feel it safe to say that classic drinks have moved beyond the realm of fascination with even major chains highlighting once-forgotten beverages on their drink lists.... Read More

IT IS NO LEAP of my imagination to assume that anyone reading this is interested in the latest medical science on wine’s influences upon health.  Let us, therefore, review some of the high points presented by some of the world’s leaders in alcohol research at Wine Health 2O13, the Seventh... Read More

ALTHOUGH THE ECONOMY is not exactly in partying mode like it’s 2OO7, you’d never know it by the recent fortunes of Champagne in the US.  Demand for the finest prestige cuvées is high and prices are through the roof.  Despite gloomy economic forecasts and a slight decline in overall volume,... Read More

THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US, and for the ladies of LUPEC, you know what that means: pop open the bubbly – we’re making Champagne cocktails!  The Champagne Cocktail, The Seelbach and the French 75 have already been discussed in previous festive editions.  This season, we’re looking to a modern classic... Read More

PROFILE: CYNTHIA HURLEY FRENCH WINES BOB 65 + MARGOT 29 HURLEYCo-ownersCynthia Hurley French Wines • MA and NJ Independent boutique importers have been few in Massachusetts, but their ranks are gradually growing.  One such established team is the Hurley family running Cynthia Hurley French Wines since 1984.  Cynthia and Bob... Read More

KNEŽEVI VINOGRADI, Croatia I try never to waste an opportunity to experience unfamiliar wine, especially in a municipality called “prince’s vineyard”.  I found there’s more to drinking in southeastern Europe than Slivovitz, plum’s leap to immortality. Croatia (Republika Hrvatska to the 4.5 million inhabitants), an area about twice that of... Read More