Posts Written OnSeptember 10, 2006

Do I Need a Formal Wine Education?

For the most part, I’ve taught myself about wine. I devour books about wine. I taste taste taste and taste some more. And I interact with winemakers, winery owners and other wine bloggers/lovers/writers. I’ve taken a few local classes, including those at Stony Brook University’s Center for Food, Wine and Culture. And, they’ve been a lot of fun and educational as well. And, some day I hope to take some formal classes towards some sort of "degree." But right now it’s not a priority — though if I had time to take a two-hour train ride into Manhattan every weekend…

The First Batch of North Fork Red Wine Vinegar

My first batch of AVA-designated red wine vinegar has been siphoned off and bottled. I haven’t actually used it in any cooking yet, but I can tell you this — the flavor is so much more intense than anything you’ll buy at any supermarket or even specialty shop. For my next batch, which will be ready in time for holiday gift giving, I’m going to use only merlot from the North Fork of Long Island AVA. I know that I’ve been a bit lax posting lately, but that’s only because real work has gotten in the way. Stay tuned for…