The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.&nbsp;

By the way, we love champagne with all kinds of food (seafood, fried chicken, spicy food, etc) and is more than just for a quick toast at midnight.&nbsp;

High-End Champagnes:&nbsp;

When it comes to high-end champagnes, names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug often come to mind. These prestigious champagnes are typically reserved for special occasions and are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> is produced by Moet &amp; Chandon and is named after the Benedictine monk who is often credited with discovering the champagne-making process. Krug, on the other hand, is known for its rich and complex flavors, thanks to its unique production methods, including fermentation in small oak barrels. These won&#39;t disappoint! Yum!!&nbsp;

More Approachable Options:&nbsp;

If you&#39;re looking for a more approachable champagne that still offers great quality, there are plenty of options to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> are two examples of champagnes that are well-regarded but are often more affordable than their high-end counterparts. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> is known for its delicate, fruity flavors, while <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> is a type of champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, resulting in a crisp and elegant taste. Solid choices!&nbsp;

Blanc de Blanc:

Blanc de Blanc is a term used to describe champagnes that are made exclusively from white grapes, typically Chardonnay. This style of champagne is known for its light and crisp flavors, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more delicate taste. Blanc de Blanc champagnes are often a great option for pairing with seafood or light appetizers.&nbsp;

Lower-End Examples and Spanish Cava:

If you&#39;re looking for lower-end champagne options, there are plenty of choices to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Piper-Heidsieck-Brut-Cuvee-w504046291">Piper-Heidsieck&#39;s Brut Non-Vintage</a> is a great affordable option that still offers great quality and flavor. This champagne is known for its fresh and lively taste, making it a great choice for casual gatherings. In addition to champagne, <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a> is another great option to consider for all budgets. Cava is a sparkling wine that is produced in Spain using the traditional champagne method, and it offers great quality at a more affordable price point.&nbsp;

Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider. From prestigious names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug to more affordable options like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a>, there&#39;s a champagne out there for every taste and budget.&nbsp;

Cheers to the holiday season! #drinkwhatyoulove #bubbles

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you're looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.

Bubbles for the Holidays!!

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

California Chardonnay: it's a name synonymous with sunshine, buttery richness, and maybe even a splash of white wine envy (looking at you, Bridget Jones). But how did this grape, originally hailing from France, become a Californian icon? Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard, from its unexpected origins to the reasons it continues to reign supreme on wine lists.

Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard!

Forget everything you think you know about sweet, syrupy wines. Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region that’s as light and bubbly as a summer day.

Lambrusco: The Party in a Bottle You Need to Try under $25

As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to trade in your full-bodied reds and crisp whites for a glass of refreshing rosé. This versatile wine is not only perfect for spring but also pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods all year round.



Rosé originates from France, specifically Provence - the world’s leading rosé region. It has been produced there since 600 BC when Greeks brought vines to southern France. Unlike its red and white counterparts, rosés are made using an array of grape varietals including Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault among others.

Spring into Rosé: The Perfect Wine for Warmer Weather

We are interested in understanding your dining and wine consumption habits to gain valuable insights into the wine and restaurant industry.

State of Wine and Restaurant Survey 2024

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

For Chardonnay lovers seeking a refreshing, value-driven alternative, Aligoté, Burgundy's "other" white grape, beckons with its crisp acidity, subtle minerality, and undeniable charm. Often overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbor, Aligoté is finally gaining recognition for its unique qualities and exceptional quality-to-price ratio.

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

A Hungarian Legacy: Imagine yourself in Tokaj, Hungary, a region steeped in winemaking tradition. For centuries, Furmint has thrived in its volcanic soil, basking in the warm sunshine. These grapes, loved for their thick skin and high acidity, became the cornerstone of Hungary's most famous wine: Tokaji. These sweet, honeyed treasures were once enjoyed by royalty and popes!

Furmint: Hungary's Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

Check out these four whites wines under $24, from some great producers across various terroirs – France, Italy, Spain. Spring is in the air.

Four must try white wines for under $24 from France, Spain, and Italy

Eric Asimov's recent article isn't just about the "luxury" of sommeliers vanishing from restaurants. It's a stark warning about the potential collapse of a vibrant corner of our social and cultural ecosystem: the world of wine.

Why the Decline of Sommeliers Is a Crisis for All of Us

Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Red Fox, a restaurant renowned for locally sourced, four-course dining with local wine pairings. 

Wine List Review of The Red Fox, Virginia

Michaela Quinlan

The Red Fox

Red Fox Inn

<a href="https://www.redfox.com/menus/WineList-1-19.pdf">https://www.redfox.com/menus/WineList-1-19.pdf</a>

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode,&nbsp;we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants.

I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules our mobile app and our podcast&rsquo;s to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that&nbsp; list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about the Red Fox Inn and Tavern, part of Virginia&rsquo;s Hunt Country, in Middleburg, VA. Located one hour West of Washington DC, the historic Red Fox Inn and Tavern has been operating since 1728, and is truly a must visit.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what you think of their wine list.

MQ: The Red Fox features locally sourced, four-course dining with local wine pairings, along with Pub fare and their exceptional wine list. Today we will be featuring a number of local wines, along with Old and new World favorites.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great. As you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: We must begin with a local white wine. Consider the 2020 Pollak Vineyards Viognier from Greenwood, VA. With origins in Southern France, Viognier thrives in Virginia. This aromatic white wine features ripe green apple, dried apricot, ripe peach, with bright acidity and a creamy finish, as a&nbsp; small portion of the wine ferments in barrel. This Viognier is a perfect companion to herb-roasted chicken and salmon.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Another local consideration would be the 2021 Early Mountain Vineyards, Shenandoah Valley Cabernet Franc from Madison, VA. Aromatic as well, this Cabernet Franc is well-balanced featuring notes of ripe blackberries, and black cherries, with black pepper, earth, mushrooms, ripe tannins, and a long finish. Cabernet Franc is an excellent pairing with herbed and savory dishes.

RT: So Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: A classic producer to consider would be the JJ Prum, Graacher Himmelreich, Spatlese Riesling from Mosel, Germany. Spatlese means &lsquo;late harvest&rsquo;, which indicates this Riesling is on the sweeter end of the spectrum. Keep in mind Kabinet is less sweet, and Trocken indicates a drier Riesling. This Spatlese balances sweetness with tropical fruit, ripe peach, and cantaloupe. Fresh acidity with white flowers and a saline note on the finish add to the pleasure of this wine. Pair this Riesling with charcuterie and spicy dishes.

RT: These are some great calls.

So you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: Another classic producer to consider to pair with dinner is the 95-point rated Ridge Vineyards, Lytton Springs, from Healdsburg, CA. This remarkable blend of Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, and Carignane is rich and full-bodied with notes of ripe red cherries, ripe raspberries, plumb, black pepper, and lavender, with round tannins and a mineral finish. Pair this rich red with proteins such as beef and lamb.

RT: Ooh, Terrific.

Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; Any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ:&nbsp; If you are seeking a quality/value white wine to pair with seafood, cheese, or as a refreshing aperitif, consider the 2021 Argiolas, Costamolino Vermentino from Southern Italy. This light, fresh white wine is a beautiful alternative for fans of Sauvignon Blanc. With bright acidity, lime zest, ripe peach, Meyer lemon, grapefruit, with a note of saline on the finish. This is truly a crowd-pleasing white wine.

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: For the bold red wine drinkers in search of that hidden quality/value bottle, consider the 2017 Gimenez Mendez, Alta Reserva Tennat from Uruguay. This well-balanced, robust red features firm tannins, ripe red cherries, blackberries, and plumb, along with earth, mushroom, black pepper, clove, and nutmeg on the lingering finish. An excellent companion to all richly sauced proteins and pasta.&nbsp;

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: To add to your dining experience at this beautiful, historic inn, consider the classic 2017 Le Pauillac de Chateau Latour in Bordeaux, France. First crafted in 1989, the Pauillac de Latour ages beautifully, but is also stellar when enjoyed young. This Left Bank blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, showcases your classic Bordeaux characteristics, such as ripe black cherries, currants, cassis, leather, vanilla, and cigar smoke, with ripe, round tannins. This iconic producer never fails to impress. Enjoy this standout bottle during any special occasion, or your next trip to Hunt Country.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Red Fox Inn&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself.&nbsp;

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@CorkRules.Com</a> or visit our web website or app where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our CorkRules app that has all your favorite restaurants wine lists with personalized recommendations and you can connect with your friends.

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

&nbsp;

End

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CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

1540 Room

Gadais Pere & Fils

Peninsula Vieilles Vignes Muscadet-Sevre et Maine 2019

Melon de Bourgogne

Loire Valley, France

Terra de Falanis

Llenca Plana Montsant 2018

Grenache

Catalunya, Spain

The Winery of Good Hope

Bush Vine Pinotage 2020

Pinotage

Stellenbosch, South Africa

The Winery of Good Hope

Mountainside Shiraz 2020

Shiraz/Syrah

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Bodegas Martín Códax

Rias Baixas Albarino 2020

Albarino

Galicia, Spain

Domaine Lafage

Tessellae GSM Old Vines 2018

Carignan

France

Torbreck

Woodcutter's Semillon 2021

Semillon

Barossa, South Australia, Australia

Királyudvar

Tokaji Furmint Sec 2016

Blend

Tokaj, Hungary

Niepoort Rotulo Branco, Dao 2017

Dao, Portugal

Scarpetta

Pinot Grigio, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2021

Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

Long Meadow Ranch

Sauvignon Blanc 2020

Sauvignon Blanc

California, USA

J. Hofstätter

Pinot Grigio Alto Adige 2019

Pinot Grigio

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy

Terre Rouge

Tete-a-Tete 2014

Blend

Sierra Foothills, USA

Scarpetta

Barbera del Monferrato 2019

Barbera

Barbera del Monferrato, Italy

J. Hofstatter Joseph Lagrein Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige 2017

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy