While the wine regions of Bordeaux, Napa Valley and Tuscany may dominate the world of red wine, there exist lesser-known wine regions that are hidden gems for those looking to maintain quality at approachable prices. For me and the SAVI Somm team, we explore a number of regions, but Chile’s Central Valley, Spain’s Priorat and Italy’s Puglia are my top three for obtaining … [Read more...]

Wine enthusiasts in the U.S. have long shown a fondness for red blends and the popularity of this wine style continues to grow. Characterized by their unique blend of multiple grape varieties, red blends offer a diverse array of flavors, which is why this wine style has become a staple on many lists, wine cellars and social gatherings. One of the primary reasons for the … [Read more...]

Rosé season is here! It’s time to explore Certified Sommelier SAVI Somm’s favorite styles from Italy, France and Spain. Wine drinkers in the U.S. have finally come to truly appreciate rosé wine, which is one of the most popular types of wine, especially during the summer months. Not only is it a light and refreshing wine that is perfect for sipping on hot days, but it is a … [Read more...]

Bordeaux is synonymous with exquisite balance. With a fresh to ripe red and black fruit profile, framed out with a medium to medium-plus body, it’s the perfect wine for many occasions. There are very little secrets left to uncover in Bordeaux, France. These tried-and-true wines are routinely at the high end of the market price spectrum, but with a little homework, one can still … [Read more...]

We begin this year’s SAVI Somm column by looking at how regional similarities in climate and cuisine take precedence over man-made borders when it comes to grape varieties and the styles they produce. Not far from where evidence suggests the first “wine vine” of Vitis Vinifera was cultivated by humans, is the region that encapsulates the coastline of Spain, France and Italy, as … [Read more...]

As the end of the year approaches, we often have the opportunity to reflect on accomplishments or celebrate new beginnings. It can also just .feel like the right time to open up a bottle of something special to share with loved ones. This season I hope you have an amazing celebration, and if you are looking for that special bottle, peek at my top bubble, top white and top red … [Read more...]

F. Scott Fitzgerald is quoted saying, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall,” and I believe that is as true for wine as it may be for us. Fall is a time when family, friends, football and feasts become part of our everyday lives. Cooler weather has our wine palates migrating from refreshing and crisp white and rose wines to easy-drinking red wines with … [Read more...]

As we enter a new year in 2022, many of us are recognizing how important having meaningful relationships and pausing to celebrate life are to long-term happiness. That said, I’ve committed to contributing a sommelier column, which may help in reducing the stress of selecting remarkably tasty bottles. These wines achieve a high quality to price ratio, which I look to achieve in … [Read more...]