Category: Wine & Spirits

Bierzo DO is a mountainous region in Spain known for its Mencia wines. The region has a cool continental climate and mineral-rich soils that are ideal for viticulture. Mencia is the main grape variety grown in Bierzo and produces fresh, structured wines with red fruit and earthy flavors. These wines pair well with Chinese dishes, including pan-fried dumplings. While Mencia wines from Bierzo are gaining popularity, they are still relatively limited in availability in China. Recommended producers include Cuatro Pasos, Alvaro Palacios, Raul Perez, Godelia, and Pittacum. Mencia wines are best served slightly chilled and can be aged for a decade or longer. Some recommended vintages include 2018, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, and 2010. In Shanghai, these wines can be purchased from Everwines and Links Concept.

Chinese pork belly dishes have become important culinary ambassadors to the world, with each region having its own interpretation. These dishes are rich and savory, requiring a fresh ingredient or beverage to offset the greasiness. While traditionally yellow rice wine or baijiu were preferred, an underappreciated red wine from southern France, specifically Ventoux AOC, is recommended. Ventoux wines offer rustic elegance and are made from grapes such as Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Carignan, and Cinsault. The Delas Ventoux AOC is a recommended wine to pair with Chinese pork belly dishes. Other recommended Ventoux producers include Chateau Pesquie, Vieille Ferme, Famille Perrin, and Paul Jaboulet Aine. Most Ventoux wines are best enjoyed relatively young.

This article discusses the history and cultivation of corn and the best white wine to pair with corn dishes. It highlights Riesling as a great choice and provides information on its origins and popularity. The article then focuses on Washington State as a top producer of Riesling wines, with ideal climate and growing conditions. It recommends several Washington State Riesling producers and provides information on where to buy these wines in Shanghai.

The New Zealand wine industry has persevered through the challenges of COVID-19 and is now operating at level 2, with proper health and safety precautions in place. Hawke’s Bay, the country’s second largest wine region, has a long history and is known for producing high-quality red wines. The region has a diverse climate and soil types, allowing for a wide range of wine styles and varieties. Mission Estate, Te Mata Estate, and Sileni Estates are three important wineries in the region. Shanghai residents can purchase Hawke’s Bay wines from everwines.com and rubyred.com.cn.

This article discusses the importance of proper aging and storage for wines, particularly the Aglianico variety from southern Italy. Aglianico is considered one of Italy’s three paramount red varieties and thrives in the volcanic soils of the Monte Vulture region. The article provides information on the history and characteristics of Aglianico wines, as well as recommendations for vintages and food pairings. It also mentions two producers in Shanghai where Aglianico wines can be purchased.

Alto Adige is a picturesque wine region in Italy known for its wines of moderation and restraint. The region has a long history of winemaking, dating back to ancient times. The wines from Alto Adige are made from fruit sourced from steep hillside vineyards, resulting in fresh and fragrant white wines. The region also produces red wines, including the native variety Schiava and the rising star Lagrein. Some reputable producers from Alto Adige have wines available in Shanghai. The vintages from Alto Adige have been quite good in recent years, with the whites being age-worthy. Interested buyers can find these wines at specific online retailers in Shanghai.

This article discusses the world of Chinese fermented glutinous rice treats and the importance of finding the right wine pairing for these dishes. It highlights the Tokaj region in Hungary as a producer of excellent noble rot sweet wines, which are comparable to the famous Sauternes from Bordeaux. The article also provides information on the history and production of Tokaji wines, including the use of the Furmint grape and the unique aging process in the region’s cellars. It recommends some Tokaji producers and vintages to look for, and provides links to where these wines can be purchased in Shanghai.

This article discusses the popularity and versatility of scallions in Chinese cuisine, as well as their use in other culinary cultures. The author believes that scallions pair well with a versatile wine, such as sparkling wine, particularly Cava from Catalonia, Spain. The article provides information about the history and production of Cava, as well as its different styles. It also mentions the missed opportunities for Cava in the Chinese market, which is dominated by Prosecco. The article concludes with recommendations for Cava producers and where to buy Cava in Shanghai.

This article discusses the history and culinary applications of eggplant, as well as the characteristics of Chianti wine. It highlights four favorite eggplant dishes from different regions, including baingan bharta from India and ratatouille from France. The article suggests pairing these dishes with dry white wines or some reds. It also provides information about the Sangiovese grape and the evolution of Chianti wine, recommending basic Chianti or Chianti Classico wines to accompany eggplant dishes. The article concludes by providing a list of recommended Chianti producers in Shanghai.

This article discusses the history and significance of Chinese yellow wine, specifically Shaoxing rice wine. It highlights the various styles and flavors of Shaoxing wine and recommends China Tavern 1945 as a great place to taste and learn about these wines. The article also mentions several signature cocktails made with Shaoxing wine and provides recommendations for reputable producers of Shaoxing wine. Finally, it suggests serving Shaoxing wine slightly chilled and provides information on where to buy it in Shanghai.