Wine 101
White Wine Varieties
WHITE WINE VARIETIES FROM THE McLAREN VALE WINE REGION
So, I see you have made it to the summer happy hour hm?
Welcome, all! Mclaren Vale Cellars would love to walk you through our selection of premium McLaren Vale wines, nickel knowledge, and how to best impress your friends with your illuminated wine knowledge.
Red Wine Varieties
RED WINE VARIETIES FROM THE McLAREN VALE WINE REGION
SYRAH / SHIRAZ
Have you tried a McLaren Vale Shiraz yet? Just checking. She has two names. Syrah, and Shiraz, depending on your topical location in the globe. Our Shiraz is fruit-forward, fatty, and is balanced with savory undertones. Darker than a C...
How To Make Wine
How to Make Commercial Level McLaren Vale Wine
Your taste is global, your interests wide, and culturally rich. You are ready to adventure out and expand your palette and talents.
W...
A Guide to Sparkling Wines
A Guide to Sparkling Wines: Bubbles Beyond Champagne
When it comes to celebrating life's special moments or simply elevating an ordinary day, nothing quite does the trick like a glass of sparkling wine. While Champagne might be the first thing that comes to mind, the world of sparkling wines is as diverse and delightful as the bubbles that dance in your flute. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the sparkling wine universe, from the iconic regions to the lesser-known gems.
Champagne: The Elegance of Tradition
Let's start with the king of sparkling wines, Champagne. Hailing from the Champagne region in France, t...
How to make Sparkling Wine
Exploring the Craft of Making Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine, despite its ease of consumption, is one of the most technically demanding types of wine. The complexity lies in the necessity for two fermentations: one to create the wine and another to infuse it with bubbles. Since its inception in the mid-1500s, several methods of production have been developed, each resulting in a unique style of sparkling wine. This guide delves into the major sparkling wine production methods and the wines created through each technique.
The Six Major Sparkling Wine Production Methods
- Traditional Method
Wine and Cheese Pairings
Discover the Perfect Wine and Cheese Pairings
Creating exquisite wine and cheese pairings can be an enjoyable endeavor with a little knowledge. Let's explore some classic combinations and understand why they work. Armed with this wisdom, you'll never doubt your choices when embarking on your next wine and cheese adventure.
Tip #1: Match Intensity
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Pairing Wine with Steak
The Art of Pairing Wine with Steak: A Handy Guide
Pairing wine with steak is a delightful pursuit in the world of wine appreciation. Whether you have a favorite cut or are an adventurous steak connoisseur, finding the perfect wine to complement your meal can elevate your dining experience. Let's dive into this art of wine and steak pairing.
Rule of Thumb: Red Wine for Steak
In the world of steak, a rule of thumb reigns supreme: red wines are your best co...
Wine Pairing with Pasta
Pasta is a versatile dish, and the best wine pairings can vary depending on the sauce and ingredients used. Here are some classic pasta dishes and their ideal wine pairings:
1. Spaghetti Carbonara:
- Wine Pairing: Italian Chardonnay or a crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio. The wine's acidity complements the creamy sauce, while its moderate body complements the richness of the egg and cheese.
2. Fettuccine Alfredo:
- Wine Pairing: Chardonnay or a buttery, oaked white wine. The wine's buttery notes complement the creamy Alfredo sauce.
3. Tomato-Based Pasta (e.g., S...
Chocolate & Wine Pairings
Pairing wine with chocolate can be a delightful experience, and there are various options to explore.
Here's a guide on wine and chocolate pairings:
Milk Chocolate: A good milk chocolate is creamy and not too intense. Consider pairing it with:
- Brachetto d’Acqui: A sweet sparkling red wine from Piedmont, Italy.
- Late-Harvest Red Wines: Such as late-harvest Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Petite Sirah.
- Recioto della Valpolicella: A sweet red wine from Italy.