Category: Wine 101
How to Store Wine at Home: A Guide to Keeping Your Favorite Wilson Creek Wines Fresh and Flavorful!
Posted on March 30, 2023 in Wine 101
Wine is a delicate beverage that requires proper storage to preserve its quality, taste, and aroma. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you know how important it is to store your wine correctly. We will discuss everything you need to know to properly store your favorite wines at home.
Is It Necessary to Have a Wine Refrigerator?
A wine refrigerator is not a necessity, but it can significantly improve the quality of your wine. A wine refrigerator allows you to store your wine at a consistent temperature and humidity level, which is crucial for preserving its flavor and aroma. It also protects the wine from light and vibrations, which can alter its taste and aroma. However, if you do not have a wine refrigerator, you can still store your wine in a cool, dark, and stable environment.
What is The perfect temperature to store white wine?
The perfect temperature to store white wine is between 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C). This temperature range is ideal for preserving the delicate flavors and aromas of white wine. If you store white wine at a higher temperature, it may lose its acidity and freshness. On the other hand, if you store it at a lower temperature, it may lose its aroma and flavor. Therefore, it’s essential to keep white wine at the right temperature to ensure it stays fresh and delicious.
What is The perfect temperature to store red wine?
The perfect temperature to store red wine is between 55°F to 65°F (12°C to 18°C). This temperature range allows red wine to age properly, developing more complex flavors and aromas over time. If you store red wine in a place that is too cold, the flavors and aromas will be muted, and the wine may taste flat. On the other hand, if you store it at a higher temperature, it may age too quickly, leading to a loss of flavor and aroma.
Do the Bottles Have to be Stored in a Certain Position?
Yes, the position of the wine bottles can affect the quality of the wine. Wine bottles should be stored horizontally, so the wine is in contact with the cork. Storing wine horizontally helps keep the cork moist, which prevents it from drying out and allowing air to enter the bottle. If air enters the bottle, it can cause the wine to oxidize and spoil, leading to a sour or vinegar-like taste.
How Long Can You Store Wine?
The length of time you can store wine depends on the type of wine and how it is stored. Generally, most red wines can be stored for up to five years, while white wines should be consumed within two to three years. However, some wines can be stored for much longer, such as high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux blends, which can age for up to 20 years or more. It is important to note that not all wines are meant to be aged, and some are best consumed young.
Can wine expire?
Yes, wine can expire. The expiration of wine is determined by its age and storage conditions. If you store wine in a warm or humid environment, it may expire more quickly than if you store it in a cool, dark, and dry place. Once wine expires, it may have an off-taste and smell, making it undrinkable. When wine is exposed to oxygen, it can start to oxidize, leading to a loss of flavor and aroma. Additionally, if wine is stored in a warm or humid environment, it can spoil quickly. To prevent wine from going bad, store it in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Can wine freeze?
Yes, wine can freeze. When wine freezes, the water in the wine expands, which can cause the bottle to break. Additionally, freezing wine can alter its flavor and aroma. Therefore, it’s essential to keep wine at a consistent temperature above freezing to ensure it stays in its best condition.
How are European Wines Different from United States Wines When It Comes to Aging?
European wines and United States wines have different styles and characteristics when it comes to aging. In general, European wines are known for their ability to age well, while United States wines are typically meant to be consumed young. This is due to several factors, including the differences in climate, soil, and winemaking techniques.
European wines, particularly those from France and Italy, are typically made from grapes grown in cooler climates, resulting in higher acidity and tannin levels. These higher levels of acidity and tannins help the wine to age well, developing complex flavors and aromas over time. In addition, many European wines are aged in oak barrels, which can add further complexity to the wine.
In contrast, United States wines are often made from grapes grown in warmer climates, resulting in lower acidity and tannin levels. These wines are typically more fruit-forward and are meant to be consumed young, without the need for aging. However, there are exceptions, particularly with high-quality California Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux-style blends, which can age well for several years.
In conclusion, properly storing wine at home is crucial for preserving its quality and flavor. By storing wine at the perfect temperature and in the correct position, you can help to ensure that it remains enjoyable for years to come. Additionally, understanding the different characteristics of European and United States wines can help you to determine how long to age your wine and when it is best to consume it.
Enhance your wine collection with the exquisite taste of Wilson Creek wines!
Most Romantic Wines for Valentine’s Day!
Posted on February 2, 2023 in Wine 101A day for celebrating love is St. Valentine’s Day. Here in the U.S. St. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th, and is often marked by flowers, chocolate, and little candy hearts. I say forget it, celebrate St. Vincent’s Day January 22 instead. I think it’s a better holiday for celebration. St. Vincent is the patron saint of wine and winemakers, just think of the celebratory possibilities.
So, who wants to trade in the small sugar-heart-shaped Valentine candy with “Be Mine” stamped on one side for a bottle of wine? Whether you’re toasting your ride-or-die Galentine, gathering your family around a cheese board, or cozying up for a date night with your sweetheart, we’ve got you covered.
Check out these perfect romantic wines and their pairings
Sparkling Wine
Instead of the normal boring Valentine’s lunch, choose a you get a four course-wine-paired meal. This meal can start with a tasty appetizer paired with a sparkling wine. Sparkling Rose is the quintessential Valentines’ Day wine. From its romantic color to crisp and festival flavors, it sets the mood. Crisp, elegant, and flavorful Wilson Creek sparkling Rose is refreshing and bursting with aromas and flavors reminiscent of strawberries and melons. Pair this wine with a variety of cheeses or spicy Asian dishes. Chocolate-covered strawberries are an obvious choice with the sparkling Rose but if you have a yearning for a rich, and decadent dessert, share a molten chocolate cake with raspberry sauce.
Chardonnay
Keep the day light but still indulgent with a creamy, lightly sweet depth, Chardonnay. Chardonnays are a great choice for drinking alongside smooth or rich dishes. They often pair naturally with a variety of shellfish because of their soft oak and creamy profile. Our Yes Dear Chardonnay is buttery with aromas of vanilla and sweet French oak, making it a great complement to the sweet flavors and firm texture of shrimp, lobster, and scallops. Craving striped bass, crab, raw oysters? These along with broth-based soup create a perfect pairing for Chardonnay. As the name states, remember to always say “Yes Dear”.
Red Wine
Red wine is perfect for setting a romantic mood for the perfect date night. Forget the chocolates instead receive a beautiful dessert sauterne. Who wants long stemmed red roses when you can celebrate with a long finished Petite Sirah? Loved for its deep color and full-bodied flavors of blueberry, chocolate, plum and black pepper. Petite Sirah has high tannins which means you’ll want to match it up with a richer, more fatty food to create a balance. Try big and bold foods such as roasted pork, beef, aged Gouda or stuffed peppers.
Dessert Wine
This week is the perfect excuse for eating sugary goodies and drinking wine! Choosing a special wine and perfectly paired treat can make your day truly unforgettable. Have a romantic night sitting next to the fireplace and sip slowly while nibbling on dark chocolate truffles – a winning combination! Wilson Creek Decadencia is a fortified dessert wine make from century-old Zinfandel with a touch of natural chocolate added. Serve in a chocolate cup for extra decadence!
Wine Cocktails
What about the perfect Valentine’s Day cocktail? Try a light white wine spritzer. Not only is this valentine’s drink easy to make but, with the addition of raspberries, it turns pink to match the holiday. Simply combine Riesling wine, sparkling water and Cointreau. Don’t forget to drop in some raspberries or strawberries. Looking for more unique ways to enjoy your wine, try one of our many wine cocktail recipes.
Romantic Custom Wine Labels
Consider adding a personalized touch by opting for a bottle of wine with a custom label. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can create a truly memorable and unforgettable gift by downloading your favorite photo and adding meaningful words to it. This thoughtful gesture is sure to be treasured for a long time.
Start Designing Your Own Label
Enjoy a Romantic Date
Why not plan a romantic day out and treat your special sweetheart to an unforgettable experience of wine tasting? Not only is it a great way to spend time together, but it also offers the opportunity to discover new wines. Plus, it makes for the perfect setting to relax, unwind, and create lasting memories together.
Whatever you decide to drink and eat on this special day, remember that the purpose is to experience new things with the ones you love. Experimenting with different wines is a great way to dive into a newfound hobby or a tradition between you and your partner. No matter how you are choosing to celebrate, wine and love go together, just like you and your sweetheart. Have a warm, happy Valentine’s Day!
Wilson Creek Winery’s Top 5 Must-Try Wines
Posted on April 27, 2022 in Wine 101Spring has Sprung!
William Carlos Williams coined the phrase “In the summer, the song sings itself”. We couldn’t have said it better. Spring may be in full bloom, but the Summertime is a season full of picnic barbecues, vacations, and beach days. Typically, the summertime gears up for a flavorful abundance of fresh vegetables, cold salads, seafood, poultry, and barbecue worthy meat cuts.
Spring is officially in full swing, and we couldn’t be more excited. Springtime in Southern California is a wonderful time of year, the weather is warmer, the air is fresh, the birds are chirping, and the sun stays out to play for a little while longer. For us, that means it’s the perfect time to soak in the gorgeous weather and enjoy some delicious, light, and refreshing spring wines. If you love springtime just like us, then you’ll love what we have in store for you today!
Wilson Creek Winery’s Top 5 Must-Enjoy While Spring is in Bloom into Summer with these popular wines.
First up on our list is a true “white” wine, our variant series white cabernet sauvignon. Yes, you heard that right! A white cabernet sauvignon. While you may be surprised that white wine can be made from a red grape, you’ll be even more surprised at its taste. Packed with aromas of strawberry, melon, and peach this deliciously light and refreshing wine is soft, subtle, and sweet making it the perfect companion to any springtime picnic in the park or summer backyard barbecue dinner with your friends and family, our white cabernet sauvignon is sure to take your festivity to the next level of enjoyment. Pair with spicy Thai dishes or a fruit vinaigrette salad with goat cheese.
Next up on our list is a favorite, not only in the taste but in the name itself. Yes, Dear! A phrase all women like to hear. Not only does the name itself elicit pleasantry, but your taste buds will also be in for a pleasant surprise when you take your first sip of this silky, buttery wine. Packed with flavors of honey crisp apples, hints of warm vanilla, and spice, this fantastic cocktail wine is a perfect wine to enjoy now throughout the summer months with a wide variety of cocktail foods including shrimp, cheeses, and vegetables with dip, or pair with classic roasted chicken.
What’s a top spring wine list without a Wilson Creek favorite?! If you haven’t yet tried our almond sparkling wine, you’ll want to this spring. This gold-medal winning wine is our most popular varietal, and after one sip, you’ll understand why. It’s hard to imagine a sparkling wine being packed with almond notes, but we’ve found the perfect combination of sweet almond marzipan, aromatic bouquets, and notes of caramelized sugar. This sparkling wine is not only popular for weddings, but you will find it pairs well with a perfect picnic spread of brie cheese and petite desserts. You’ll want to bring a bottle of this to your next spring picnic to dazzle your friends. Just be prepared that everyone will love it so much that it’ll quickly become a spring staple
Once spring weather arrives, many wine enthusiasts immediately swap out their reds for lighter Rosés. Unlike other Rosés you may be used to, this sparkling Rosé surprises your taste buds with bursts of strawberry and melon notes. But just like with the other rose wine you know and love, our varietal is refreshing and clean, while only being semi-sweet. While some may say a Rosé compliment any spring or summer meal, try pairing it with a spicy Asian dish or fresh strawberry poundcake to bring out the flavors even more
6.Syrah
Just because the warmer weather is slowly arriving, doesn’t mean you can only drink white wines or Rosé. Even in the warmer months, Syrah wines are still able to keep their flavors and pair well with all your staple barbecue foods to enhance the flavors of your food. If you prefer a fruit-forward, earthy red varietal, you’ll love our last pick for a spring and summer wine. Wilson Creek’s Syrah has the attributes of a classic Syrah. You’ll uncover aromas of tobacco, leather, and blackberry and a touch of oak spice flavors with your first sip. Some of us may not be a sommelier or world-renowned chef but have been around long enough to know that certain wine varietals like our Syrah can enhance your foodie experience better than others. Try this wine with charred Tri-tip steak, roasted chicken, tomato-based pasta dishes, and smoked gouda cheese.
Spring is officially in full swing and it’s a wonderful time to start planning into the summer for life’s occasions. The next time you’re charged with grabbing a bottle for your next gathering, try one of these five to wow your friends and family. Each of our wines are packed with unique flavors, so you can’t ever choose a wrong one! We are true believers, the best wine to savor your favorite appetizer, main dish or dessert is the one YOU like.
Shop our wine selection today and grab a bottle or two to enjoy while spring lasts and throughout the summer!
Benefits of a Sit-Down Wine Tasting Experience
Posted on March 1, 2022 in Wine 101
Did you know that there are over 4,700 wineries in California and over 11,000 in the United States? One of the best parts is within every region at every winery, you can have a different wine tasting experience. Your mood, your attitude about what you are looking for and the people you are with can all change that experience.
Visitors often ask: what is better, a sit-down tasting or a stand at the bar type of tasting? We asked our resident Sommelier and Owner, Mick Wilson to give us some insight.
I enjoy vineyard wine tasting. No that is an understatement; I absolutely love vineyard wine tasting. I enjoy it all: bellying up to a wine bar, sitting on a couch outside the winery, or enjoying a tour. The experience I love the most is the sit-down wine tasting experience, where I can taste high level wines with a trained server while I interact with my friends.
Throughout the years, my wife, Deanna, and I traveled a lot with Rosie and Gerry. Every time we visited another winery, we did a sit-down experience. I learned a lot about each region by asking questions. I grew closer to the wines simply by relaxing, tasting and learning about their philosophies and history. Conversely, we have had some fun experiences standing at the bar as well. We have had some darn good wines doing both!
I’ve noticed these differences between the sit-down experience and the stand-up one:
- You feel less rushed with a sit-down tasting: Usually you have around 75-90 minutes to take your time and enjoy the process. I like a timeframe, but a big one, where I don’t feel hurried.
- Interaction: Enjoying wine is all about community. I love the interaction and discussion in a wine tasting. You can get the synergy with both options, but I find it is so much easier than in a sit-down setting.
- Less people with the sit-down experience: I like tasting with up to six people in a small group (two or four is the best). This intimate environment is difficult standing at a bar. If you are feeling a more energetic vibe, I like tasting at a bar. I tend to prefer the smaller amount of people in a quitter setting.
- Engagement with the server: Every time I visit a winery, I want to learn something new. I love it when there is an knowledgeable server who can share with our group the backstory of the winery, the vineyard practices, how the wine is made, what restaurants to go to, and so on. A good server engages and answers questions, but they don’t hover. A good server discerns when to engage and when to let you enjoy your group alone. At a sit-down tasting, the server has more room to move about and visit another table, letting you enjoy your company whereas at the bar you may feel the need to constantly engage with the server and not so much with the person next to you.
- Experiencing the good stuff: Sit-down tastings showcase a winery’s best wines in their best stemware. There often are food pairings or a charcuterie board to use as a wine pairing experience. The server can answer any pairing questions you may have. For the most part, food is not an option at a stand-up bar.
- Reservations: Reservations are only accepted for the sit-down tastings. They work the same way as in a restaurant. I like knowing that there is a table or couch arrangement ready for my group at a particular time. When I arrive my spot is reserved, the glasses are buffed, the wine is ready, and the server is scheduled. Sweet. With a stand-up tasting, you do not have to arrive at a particular time, but you may have a wait.
- Value: I have learned that there is not a big difference from a sit-down tasting versus a stand-up but I do feel you get so much more for your money. You get the crystal stemware to taste out of, the reserve wines, the interaction with a trained server, a quieter room with a view, a place to unwind, and intimate time with your company.
Book Your Wine Tasting Experience
Wilson Creek is excited to be adding another tasting opportunity at our vineyard! Our new sit-down wine tasting experience in our Library Room takes place in an exclusive location on the second floor above the tasting room, tucked away behind our Wine Club Lounge. The view is beautiful! The balcony overlooks the Cabernet Vineyards and you truly feel like you are in a secluded location.
You can enjoy our high-end library wines, and our aged reserve wines that are only available in The Library. Come learn about what makes Temecula wines unique. Our winemaker (Gus), our Vineyard Manager (Greg), as well as myself (Mick), along with other owners and family members will even stop by and make some surprise visits.
To make your vineyard wine tasting reservations for the Library, visit: https://www.wilsoncreekwinery.com/winery/visit-us/
Provence Style Rose in Temecula Wineries
Posted on June 25, 2021 in Wine & Food, Wine 101, Wine Musings
Why Temecula Wineries Like Wilson Creek Are Good For Creating Rose
Grenache Grapes Grown in Temecula
There are two main families of Grenache. There is the French-style Grenache and then the Tinto Grenache out of Spain. Both really like the heat, which makes them great for growing in Temecula. Currently, we have about 3-4 acres of the more traditional Grenache out of France and we just planted 5 acres of Tinto Grenache, which will provide a bit more color and richness and ultimately allow us to create a true varietal Grenache. Grenache is a very versatile grape that can be used as a great blending grape or varietal; it adds a nice essence to each wine it is blended with. It is also a very plentiful grape where we get a lot of yield and that makes it great for creating a lot of exciting wines.
One of the unique aspects of Grenache is that it can be grown in all sorts of climates, but it only truly ripens and gets mature in warmer climates. So, when you see an expression of Grenache in Temecula it is outside of the usual expectation of places where Grenache is harvested. Much of the Grenache we know is from places like Provence where it is harvested when it is younger because many of the wine-growing regions in the world are much further North and it doesn’t have the climate to reach full maturity. This has a lot to do with old world and modern day refrigeration. Old world there were only so many places where you could actually store the wine by digging into the side of a hill and then storing your barrels essentially underground to keep them under the 62-degree threshold necessary to store wine. With modern refrigeration you are now able to grow and preserve wines in varying climates, which allow them to fully mature in growing regions like Temecula.
