Cork Rules
Robert Tas
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Cork Rules is a podcast designed to help you navigate and demystify your favorite wine lists.
Available episodes
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1 day ago
Episode 443. Lafayette, New York City
Robert Tas and Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, review the wine list at Lafayette. This grand café and bakery feature modern interpretations of classic French bistro favorites and an amazing wine list. Michaela spots a delicious crémant and shares a little background information on why crémant is a delicious choice, a crisp dry white that pairs wonderfully with seafood, and a robust red that pairs well with duck and smoke dishes.
Wines reviewed include:
* Toques et Clochers Crémant de Limoux NV
* Domaine Gauthier “Jour de Soif” Cabernet Franc
* Daniel Crochet Sancerre
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5 days ago
Episode 442. Ai Fiori, New York City
In today’s episode of CorkRules, Alexis Rogers, certified sommelier, offers her expert advice on the extensive wine list of Ai Fiori, a Michelin Star, Italian restaurant, NYC. Ai Fiori has earned a stellar reputation for its wine list and is the 2020 winner of the Grand Award from Wine Spectator. Alexis talks about a few exceptional Chardonnays from lesser-known regions, wines not to be missed on the over 1000-bottle list, and she identifies one of the best producers on the list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Arbois Chardonnay Vieilles Vignes, Vin Sans Nom
* 2011 Karthauserhof GG Riesling
* 2015 Domaine Faiveley Chambolle-Musigny
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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6 days ago
Episode 441. Momofuku Ko, New York City
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Momofuku Ko, a traditional Japanese restuarant offering two spaces, the barako offering an a la carte menu and the main dining room offering a full tasting menu, and to help you choose wine to pair with the menu, Michaela peruses the 84-page list to point out a few spectacular fine wines, including skin contact wine, wines to pair with tempura, and more.
Wines reviewed include:
* Vadin-Plateau "Renaissance," Blanc de Noirs, Champagne, France
* 2018 Amorotti Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, Italy
* 2015 Cortese from Stefano Bellotti Cascina Degli Ulivi, "IVAG"
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 29, 2023
Episode 440. Le Coucou, New York City
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at the French Bistro, Le CouCouc, where the French vibe is full on joie de vivre. This restaurant promises a good night out and a great culinary experience. But let's not forget why we're here. The wine. Grace finds the divine wines that will delight,
Wines reviewed inlcude:
* Didier Dagueneau Pouilly Fume, Loire Valley, France
* Domaine de la Grange Roussane/Marsanne, Languedoc
* Domaine Auguste Clape, Northern Rhone
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 28, 2023
Episode 439. Benoit, New York City
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier and Robert Tas review the all French and American wine list at Benoit. Grace checks out the French varietals and identifies the American counterpart on the list. She talks about the aging process and compares French Pinot to American Pinot.
Wines reviewed Include:
* Brocard Chablis, Burgundy
* RoseRock Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, Oregon
* Kosta Browne Russian River Pinot, Sonoma
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 27, 2023
Episode 438. Via Carota, New York City
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier and wine educator and Robert Tas review the wine list at Via Carota, a quaint Italian restaurant inspired by Chef Saudis 17th century family country house in the hills of Florence. The passion for all things italian is clear here. Relax in the rustic ambience and enjoy authentic pasta dishes and savor an adventurous selection of wines from all regions on the all-Italian wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Brunello di Montelcino Fanti
* 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva Felcina
* 2022 Vermintino di Gallura Serenata Silvio Carta
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 24, 2023
Episode 437. Dirty French, New York City
Sommelier Michaela Quinlan joins Robert to demystify the very French wine list of Dirty French in lower Manhattan and travel around the lesser-known wine regions, including wines of the Savoie, Provence. Dirty French is located on 180 Ludlow Street and is renowned for its timeless classic French cuisine with a contemporary twist. Michaela talks about the special regions on the list, the must-try wines, and she spots a few hidden value wines that offer a big bang for the buck.
Wines reviewed include
* 2017 Bandol, Domaine Tempier
* 2018 Valentin Morel, Côtes du Jura Les Trouillots
* 2020 Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine, La Pepiere Clos des Briords
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 23, 2023
Episode 436. Sorrel, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sorrel, an Italian contemporary restaurant located in Pac Heights that has earned a Michelin star thanks to Chef Alexander Hong. Grant spots some sensational sparklers, wines that are perfect for pairing with all things pasta, and some devilshly robust reds to take your dining experience to a whole new level of sumptuous.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Ryme “hers” Vermentino from Carneros
* 2019 Idlewild Arneis, Lost Hills Ranch
* 2012 Malvasia by Kante in Venezia-Giulia
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Nov 22, 2023
Episode 435. Balthazar, New York City
Wine educator and certified sommelier Maria Valletta joins Robert Tas for authentic French fare and a French wine list that is, indeed, in French at the Balthazar restaurant in Soho. Maria translates the menu, discovers the extraordinary little–known gems, and shares her knowledge of the industry to help you understand more about varietals and regions. Maria points out a few delicious sparkling wines and Champagne, a hidden gem of a rosé, and a less pricey wine that will still knock your socks off and impress your guests.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Bandol Rouge“La Migoua” Domaine Tempier
* 2020 Domaine de Beaurenard
* 2022 Château Haut-La-Péreyre
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 21, 2023
Episode 434. Felice, New York City
Wine director Alexis Rogers joins Robert Tas to explore and explain the wine list of the Italian restaurant Felice. With nine locations in NYC, this restaurant is proving to be a popular culinary destination and the wine list meets expectations. Alexis recommends stellar wines from Northern Italy, including an exceptional wine to pair with that classic Italian dish, bolognese.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2015 le toga Brunello di Montalcino
* 2016 Produttori del Barbaresco Rabaja
* 2020 Grüner Veltliner Federspiel "Klaus“
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 20, 2023
Episode 433. 1803, New Orleans
Certified sommelier and wine educator Grace Hood, and host Robert Tas review the wine list at the iconic 1803 where Grace identifies the wines that pair well with the blended histories of French and Cajun and Caribbean and Spanish cuisine.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2007 Louis Roederer Brut Rose Champagne
* 1986 Château Lynch-Bages, France
* Domaine Frédéric Brouca Côte de Glou
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 17, 2023
Episode 432. Root & Bone, New York City
In this episode, certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and oenophile Robert Tas visit the wine list of Root & Bone in NYC where they explore wines from Oregon, the Finger Lakes, and California. If you are looking for the perfect wines to pair with fried chicken and pulled pork, Michaela will help you find them as she shares her expert opinion on the value-packed wine list of Root & Bone. Michaela shares information on pinot gris vs. pinot grigio, how to shop for a Riesling, and the best champagne-quality sparkling wine to pair with fried chicken.
Wines reviewed include:
* The Boundary Breaks, Ovid Line North Riesling, Finger Lakes
* Fleur Pinot Noir, Carneros, California
* Ghostrider Ungrafted Syrah, Lodi, California
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 16, 2023
Episode 431. Casa Lever
Certified sommelier Grant Wood joins Robert Tas in this episode of Cork Rules where they review the wine list of Casa Lever on Park Avenue, New York City. Casa Lever is an icon in NYC, and, as they say themselves, this restaurant is where Manhattan sophistication meets Italian classics. If you visit Casa Lever be prepared for an elegant dining experience and a carefully curated wine. Grant points out wines to celebrate with, wines with verve, and special wines on the list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Pinot Bianco Goldberg, Italy
* 2000 Barolo by Roberto Veritux, Italy
* 2017 Lytton Springs Zinfandel, California
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 14, 2023
Episode 430. Gap Weekend, A Film Shoot in Wine Country, California
Robert Tas talks to writer, director Todd Norwood about his new film and the world of wine. Todd shares stories about the making of his film Gap Weekend, and, of course, wine. Todd shares why he chose to film in wine country, his favorite wine, how he paid the crew overtime, and where you can access the film.
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 13, 2023
Episode 429. Buddakan, New York City
In this episode, sommelier Grace Hood joins Robert Tas to demystify the wine list of the Buddakan, an Asian-fusion restaurant, and explore the wines that complement Asian food. Choosing a wine to work with Asian food always presents a dilemma for the discerning diner, but Grace explains which wines work, what they work with, and why they do.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Riesling Kabinett, Egon Müller Mosel, Germany
* 2016 Jonata Syrah 2016, Central Coast, California
* 2020 Spätlese Reisling from Selbach-Oster Mosel, Germany
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 10, 2023
Episode 428. The Grand Central Oyster Bar, New York City
In this episode, Robert and certified sommelier Maria Valetta review the wine list of the Grand Central Oyster Bar, a historic restaurant which originally opened in 1913 in NYC's Grand Central Station. They identify the perfect oyster wine, whites from the Loire Valley, and wines from the list that will take your dining experience to the next level.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine
* 2014 Hanzell Sebella Pinot Noir
* 2013 Louis Baisinbert La Piece Sous Le Bois -Meursault Premier Cru
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 9, 2023
Episode 427. Casa Lever, New York City
Certified sommelier Grant Wood joins Robert Tas in this episode of Cork Rules where they review the wine list of Casa Lever on Park Avenue, New York City. Casa Lever is an icon in NYC, and, as they say themselves, this restaurant is where Manhattan sophistication meets Italian classics. If you visit Casa Lever be prepared for an elegant dining experience and a carefully curated wine.
Wines reviewed include:
* Krug’s brut “Grande Reserve” multi-vintage Champagne, France
* 2000 Barolo by Roberto Voerzio, Brunate, northwestern Italy
* 2017 Lytton Springs, Zinfandel, Syrah, and Carignane field blend, Ridge, Sonoma’s Dry Creek AVA
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 8, 2023
Episode 426. Root & Bone, New York City.
In this episode, certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and oenophile Robert Tas visit the wine list of Root & Bone in NYC where they explore wines from Oregon, the Finger Lakes, and California. If you are looking for the perfect wines to pair with fried chicken and pulled pork, Michaela will help you find them as she shares her expert opinion on the value-packed wine list of Root & Bone.
Wines reviewed include:
* Rainstorm Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley, Oregon.
* Boundary Breaks, Ovid Line North Riesling, Finger Lakes, NY
* Ghostrider Ungrafted Syrah from Lodi, California
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 7, 2023
Episode 425. The Atlantic Grill, New York City
In this episode, Kim Kuznitz wine educator and certified sommelier joins Robert Tas in an exploration of Atlantic Grill’s wine list. The Atlantic Grill is known for serving the freshest seafood from the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, but they also serve a selection of high-quality meat dishes if you want the ultimate surf and turf experience.
Wines reviewed include:
* Chimney Rock, Stag’s Leap, Napa
* Merlot, Grgich Hills Estate
* Falanghina, Campania, Italy
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 6, 2023
Episode 424. il Buco, New York City
Robert Tas and certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan join forces once again to share their expertise on the wine lists of restaurants in New York City. In this episode, they explore the wine list of il Buco. With two locations in NYC, il Buco has earned a stellar reputation and is a popular destination. Their wine cellar holds a selection of over 400 wines and includes an exciting range of lesser-known, artisan wines from Europe in addition to better-known quality wines. il Buco's wine list has won Wine Spectator’s "Award of Excellence" several times.
Wines reviewed include:
* Ayala Brut Majeur, Champagne, France
* Enta Bianco, Sicily
* Greco di Tufo from Campania, Italy.
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 3, 2023
Episode 423. Pasquale Jones, New York City
In this episode, host Robert Tas and certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan explore the wine list of the renowned Italian restaurant, Pasquale Jones. Situated on the corner of Mulberry and Kenmare Streets in Manhattan's Little Italy, this establishment offers authentic Italian cuisine and a sophisticated wine list that is sure to please both the palate and the pocket. Michaela shares pairing suggestions and identifies tasting notes on a few select bottles, including orange wines.
Key points include:
*
2017 Molettieri Aglianico, Taurasi, Campania
*
2020 Jean Claude Lapalu Cote de Brouilly, Beaujolais
*
2013 Cascina Baricchi Riserva Barbaresco, Italy
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 2, 2023
Episode 422. The Grill, New York City
In this episode, host Robert Tas interviews Josh Ardizzoni, certified sommelier and cellar consultant, on the wine list of The Grill. They discuss the exciting side of where champagne is going, those exclusive and beautifully aged bottles and the extraordinary value wines on the list. Josh also points out a few unicorn wines on the list that are guaranteed to delight the most discerning oenophile.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2015 Volnay-Champans, Marquis d’Angerville
*
1986 Château Rauzan-Ségla, Margaux
*
1995 Château Pontet-Canet from Pauillac,
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 1, 2023
Episode 421. Smith and Wollensky, New York City
This episode of Cork Rules explores the wine list of Smith and Wollensky on the Upper East Side of New York City. Certified sommelier Maria Valetta and Robert Tas review a great wine list, explain what verticals are, point out a few value wines that offer exceptional value without compromising quality, and they identify a few outliers on the list for the adventurous wine lover.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Louis Jadot Macon Village, France
*
2019 PAX Gamay, California
*
2018 Aperture Cabernet, Sonoma Coast
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 31, 2023
Episode 420. The Lobster Club, New York City
CorkRules takes a trip to The Lobster Club in the Seagram Building, New York City where host Robert Tas explores the wine list with sommelier Michaela Quinlan to find the perfect pairings with sweetness and spice, the unique value wines, and the extraordinary bottles list. The Lobster Club is a Japanese Brasserie with an extensive wine list and is renowned for its unique interpretation of Japanese cooking and sushi.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Kruger-Rumpf, Riesling Kabinett, Germany
*
2019 Benjamin Leroux Aligote, Burgundy
*
2015 Domaine les Pallières Les Racines, France
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 30, 2023
Episode 419. Quality Meats Steakhouse, New York City
In this episode of CorkRules, certified sommelier Grace Hood shares her expertise on how sommeliers create and organize a great wine list. Grace and Robert explore the European and Californian wines on the list in addition to those unique and little-known gems. Grace shares a brief overview of how to pair wines.
Key points include:
*
2019 Chateau Montelana, Napa
*
2020, Gerrad Boulay Sancerre, France
*
2018 Bergström “Cumberland Reserve”, Willamette Valley
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 27, 2023
Episode 418. Oceana, New York City
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan joins Robert Tas for the first episode of Cork Rules. In this episode, Michaela explores the extensive, 33-page, award-winning wine list of the seafood restaurant Oceana, including a few fantastic standouts from around the globe.
Key points include:
*
02:30: The must-try wines on the list
*
03:38: The value wines
*
04:44: The better wines on the list
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 26, 2023
Episode 417. ABC Kitchen, New York City
In today’s episode, Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, demystifies the wine list from ABC Kitchen, a John George restaurant on 35 East 18th Street in New York City. Maria draws our attention to the simple breakdown of descriptive sections, making the list easier to navigate, but more importantly, she explores the unique white wine varietals from Italy before moving on to reds from South America, specifically, Chile and Argentina.
Key points:
* 02:47: Italian whites
* 03:53: Best bang for your buck in reds
* 04:26: Wines for the special guest
For more information on today’s episode and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 24, 2023
Episode 416. Alba, Massachusetts
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas visit the renowned steakhouse Alba in Quincy, Massachusetts. Michaela reviews Alba’s wine list with Old and New World favorites in standard, half, and large bottle formats. She offers pairing suggestions and identifies the tasting notes of several bottles on the list, and she points out wines from a winery that has been producing award-winning wines since 1626, a bold Chilean wine made from the Carmenere varietal, in addition to the value wines and wines that should not be missed.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Trimbach Riesling, Alsace, France
*
2019 Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio from Friuli in Italy
*
2016 Tenuta dell Ornellaia,Tuscany, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 23, 2023
Episode 415. 10 Greek Street, London
WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier Tina Johansson and Robert Tas review the wine list 10 Greek Street located in Soho, London. From British Fizz to delicious whites and robust reds, Tina identifies the wines on the menu that pair well with the food served.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Johannesh of Reinisch Rotgipfler, Austria
*
2021 Ministry of Clouds Grenache from McLaren Vale, Australia
*
2012 1086, Prestige Cuvee, Nyetimber, England
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 20, 2023
Episode 414. L’Auberge Chez Francois, Virginia
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas review the wine list at L’Auberge Chez Francois, an elegant restaurant serving classic French dishes in a farmhouse setting with a delightful garden patio. Family-owned since 1954, the ethos here is to set the standard for authentic French food that satisfies your appetite and your soul. Michaela reviews the extensive wine list of old-world and new-world wines and shares her knowledge of pairing wines with the menu and tasting notes to help you make an informed decision.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Domaine Schoenheitz Gewurztraminer, Alsace
*
2015 Domaine Brana, Bizi Berri, France
*
2019 Anthill Farms, Mixed Blacks, Russian River Valley, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 19, 2023
Episode 413. Andrew Edmunds, London
WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier Tina Johansson and Robert Tas take a trip across the pond to London where they review the wine list at Andrew Edmunds, a restaurant that serves a modern European menu served at candlelit tables in a snug 18th-century townhouse.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Chablis Vent d’Ange, France
*
2022 Vassaltis Santorini Assyrtiko, Greece
*
2014 Testa dei Cherubini, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 18, 2023
Episode 412. Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar, New Jersey
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas review the wine list at Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar. A restaurant that serves a fresh, unique menu in a rustic designed space. Michaela offers tantalizing descriptions of tasting notes with aromas of white flowers and citrus, along with notes of tangerine, ripe peach, and tropical fruit, or aromas of ripe cranberries, ripe red cherries, and blackberries, with notes of clove, spice, vanilla, and cocoa and she offers pairing suggestions and wine recommendations.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Dalila Reserva, Viognier and Grillo blend, Sicily
*
2020 Pago del Vicario, Tempranillo Blanco, Spain
*
2021 Tsililis, Theopetra Estate Assyrtiko and Malagouzia, Greece
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 17, 2023
Episode 411. Matteo’s, Las Vegas
Certified sommelier and wine educator Maria Valetta and Robert Tas review the wine list at Matteo’s in Las Vegas where they offer a deliciously Italian menu in a contemporary setting. Maria spots a few by-the-glass wines that are sure to please In addition to pairing suggestions. She also selects a few Indigenous Italian varietals and a wallet-friendly wine to try in place of the pricier barolos and barbarescos.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Valtiglione, Piemonte, Italy
*
2020 Arneis Roagna, Piemonte, Italy
*
2015 Piedirosso, Kerres, “I Pentri”, Campania, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 16, 2023
Episode 410. Eddy V’s Prime Seafood, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Eddy V’s Prime Seafood restaurant. This vibrant location offers a stand-out menu specializing in steaks and seafood and a classic wine list with a selection of old and new world wines to pair with items on the menu, including scallops and salmon, wines with spice to pair with smokey meats, and wines to pair with richly sauced seafood and spicy dishes,
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Cave de Lugny, Les Charmes, Burgundy
*
2018 K Vintners Millbrant Syrah, Washington State
*
2019 Bodegas Caro, Amancaya, Mendoza, Argentina
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 13, 2023
Episode 409. 28-50, London, England
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas go overseas to the U.K. where they review the wine list at 28-50 Marleybone where the Wine Workshop & Kitchen concept takes the traditional wine bar experience to a whole new level. They offer over 30 carefully chosen wines, available by the glass, and an extensive list that has been carefully curated to pair with the seasonally changing, modern European menus. Tina spots a few classics on the list, including a unicorn wine for the adventurous oenophile.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2010 Clos Rougeard Le Clos, Loire Valley
*
2019 Didier Dagueneau Silex, Loire Valley
*
2019 Reva Barbera d’Alba, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 12, 2023
Episode 408. The View, New York
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The View in Oakdale, New York. A Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner, View’s wine list features an excellent selection of Old World and New World favorites. Michaela points out the hidden gems on the list, including a wine that pairs well with bold spices and sushi, a delicious Spanish sparkling wine, and a few stand-out reds.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Frank Family Chardonnay from Carneros, CA
*
2020 Bertrand “Orange Gold”, Languedoc of France
*
2015 Bodegas Muga ‘Conde de Haro’ Cava Brut, Rioja, Spain
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 11, 2023
Episode 407. Viva Garcia, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at the Mexican restaurant Viva Garcia where they choose wine to pair well with bold Mexican flavors. The list offers a great selection of Mexican wines from Mexican wine country, Valle de Guadalupe, in addition to a fine choice of old and new world wines. Maria introduces a flight of rosés, and value Spanish wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Raúl Pérez, Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo, Spain
*
2017 Solar Fortune, Syrah, Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico
*
2020 The Domaine de Triennes, Rosé, Provence, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 10, 2023
Episode 406. Il Cappricio, New Jersey
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list of Il Capriccio in Whippany, New Jersey where they serve authentic Italian cuisine featuring local seafood, meats, and vegetables from their local 180-acre organic farm. Michaela shares her expertise in tasting notes and pairings to complement the menu and identifies the exceptional value wines in addition to those little-known gems and sparklers for all occasions.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Case Paolin, Coste Degli Angeli, Manzoni Bianco, Veneto, Italy
*
2014 Odoardi, Giovan Battista, Gaglioppo, Calabria
*
2013 Bellavista Franciacorta Brut, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 9, 2023
Episode 405. Craft L.A., Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Craft L.A., a Chef Tom Colicchio restaurant. Following his success in New York, he brought Craft’s pioneering approach to the West Coast. Grace dives into the boutique style list, and in true international fashion, she chooses bottles from around the globe, including France, Australia, Spain and beyond.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2009 Soter Brut Rose, Willamette Valley, Oregon
*
2018 Txakolina from Ameztoi, Spain
*
2017 Alber Boxler Pinot Gris, Alsace, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 6, 2023
Episode 404. Clarity, Vermont
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Clarity in Vienna, Vermont. Clarity offers an à la carte or gourmet prix fixe four-course dinner tasting menu that showcases the very best seasonal offerings, largely sourced from a close network of local farmers and suppliers from across the country. Specially selected wine and whisky pairings are available with the tasting menu. Their wine program features over 400 wines from all over the world, ranging from classic wines available by-the-glass to fine vintages and some of the most exciting wines from all over the world.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2012 Pakravan-Papa, Prunice di Riparbella, Tuscany
*
2016 Valerie Forgues Gamay, Touraine, France
*
2019 Le Jade, Viognier Cave de Pomerols, Languedoc, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 5, 2023
Episode 403. Brera Osteria Venetian, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Brera Osteria. This restaurant is known as one of the best places to eat Italian food without pretension or fanfare. It’s a place to relax, eat, enjoy, and drink wine. Feel free to flip the list and order the wine to kick off the relaxation. Maria explores the mostly Italian wine list from region to region to find the best of the fine and fun wines and offers pairing suggestions to help you find the wine to complement the meal.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Falanghina San Salvatore, Campania, Italy
*
2013 The Montefalco Rosso Tenute Lunelli, “Ziggurat”, Italy
*
2010 Borgogno, Barolo “Cannubi”, Piemonte, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 4, 2023
Episode 402. Bleu Provence, Florida
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Bleu Provence in Naples, Florida. This family-run French restaurant won many prizes, including Wine Spectators Grand Award for the best wine lists of the world, so you know you are going to enjoy this wine adventure. Tina kicks off the review with a spectacular white before moving on to one of the most celebrated reds from Burgundy, and a special bottle from the Champagne region.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2012 Auguste Clape Saint-Peray, Rhone
*
2014 Bollinger La Côte aux Enfants, Burgundy
*
2005 Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru, Champagne
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 3, 2023
Episode 401. Bellisimo, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Bellisimo, a northern Italian restaurant that serves locally grown produce, seafood, and house-made pasta, and a wine list that features Italian classics, unique varietals, and value wines. Michaela identifies the stand-out bottles for both red, white, and sparkling wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2012 Buondonno Campo al Ciliegi, Tuscany
*
2012 De Fillipo, Montefalco Sagrantino, Umbria
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Oct 2, 2023
Episode 400. Kochi, New York
Tina Johannson and Robert Tas review the interesting selection of wines on the wine list at Kochi. If you want to know which wines to pair with Korean cuisine, this is the podcast for you. Tina reviews a unique selection of wines, including a food-friendly crisp white that pairs well with street corn fritters served with caviar, and a white from a cult producer, and a fruity red wine from Patagonia.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Anima Negra Quibia, Mallorca
*
2013 Coche-Dury Bourgogne Blanc, France
*
2020 Bodegas Chacra Barda Pinot, Argentina
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 29, 2023
Episode 399. Wally’s, Santa Monica
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Wally’s in Santa Monica where, in addition to a carefully curated wine list with over 100 wines by-the-glass. They offer everything from lunch, brunch and dinner to exclusive caviar events, a gourmet shop selling cheese and chocolate and even a bar with rare spirits. But we’re here for the wine, and Tina kicks off with a review of the bubbles on the list before moving on to wines from Spain and a fabulous, light and floral barolo.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Veronica Ortega CAL, Bierzo, Spain
*
2017 Burlotto Monvigliero, Spain
*
2014 Vilmart & Cie Coeur de Cuvee, France
*
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 28, 2023
Episode 398. Broadbent Selections with Bartholomew Broadbent
In this special episode of CorkRules, Robert Tas interviews Bartholomew Broadbent, founder and CEO of Broadbent Wines Limited. Bartholomew was named one of the “fifty most influential people in the wine world” by Decanter Magazine (1997) and ranked 48th in the “Top 100 Most Influential People in the U.S Wine Industry” in 2013 by IntoWine.com, and in this episode, he shares his journey and adventures in the wine industry, beginning with an early introduction to the industry with his father, before moving on to the fascinating history of Madeira, the rise and fall of sales in the States, and how he chooses wine in a restaurant.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Rainwater Madeira
*
10 Year Sercial Madeira
*
Broadbent Single Cask O 078 Verdelho Madeira
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 27, 2023
Episode 397. Buddy V’s, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head to Las Vegas where they stop in at Buddy V’s an Italian restaurant in the Venetian resort with views of the strip. What a great place to relax, enjoy, and people-watch in Vegas. Maria kicks off the review with wines from the extensive wines-by- the glass list before moving on to a stellar bottle for prosecco lovers, and a fabulous, must-not-be-missed Friuli. For red fans, she also spots a baby Super Tuscan, a certified organic barolo and many more.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Trinchero, Iron & Sand, Paso Robles, California
*
Nino Franco Rustico, Prosecco Veneto
*
2015 Ziata, Mia Madre, Bordeaux Blend Napa,
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 26, 2023
Episode 396. Krasi, Boston
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at the meze and wine bar in Boston, Krasi. If you want to explore Greek wine, this is the place to go. Krasi literally means wine, and at this cool spot you will find a fabulous selection of Greek wines. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, Sam is on hand to help you find the wines on the list that will tickle your palate and expand your knowledge of wines from a variety of Greek regions and islands.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Douloufakis, “Amphora” Vidiano, Crete
*
2019 Stillanou, Mandilari, “Great Mother”, Crete
*
2013 Nerantzi, Koniaros, Serres, Maceodonia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 25, 2023
Episode 395. Sandbar, New York
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sandbar. A winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, this list features a beautiful selection of Old World and New World favorites. Michaela identifies the tasting notes of full-bodied reds, fresh bright Italian whites, Grand Crus and value wines, and offers pairing suggestions with a wide range of dishes on the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Corey Creek Vineyard Cabernet Franc Blanc, Long Island
*
2020 Villa Pozzi Grillo, Sicily
*
2018 Heritiers de Comte, Lafon, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 22, 2023
Episode 394. Hav & Mar, New York
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier and Robert Tas review the bold and eclectic wine list at Hav & Mar, a restaurant that serves Swedish and Ethiopian cuisine and a delicious selection of wines. Tina discovers the gems on the list, ranging from Austrian orange wine to the most prestigious Barolos and Hungarian Tokaj and offers advice on what to pair with the exotic menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Castello di Verduno Basadone
*
NV Krug Grand Cuvee, Champagne
*
2019 Kiralyudvar Tokaj Sec, Hungary
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 21, 2023
Episode 393. Yardbird, Las Vegas
Robert Tas talks wine with Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, also known as Maria The Wine Blonde on Instagram. If you have ever wondered what to wine to pair with Southern Fried Chicken or St. Louis Ribs, this is the episode for you. Maria reviews an English sparkling wine, an award-winning cabernet franc, and an insanely delicious Burgundy.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Chalk Hill Sonoma Coast, Chardonnay, California
*
2018 Ridge Lytton Springs Dry Creek
*
2016 The Mascot, Napa Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 20, 2023
Episode 392. Mirabelle at Three Village Inn, New York
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas talk tasting notes and wine pairings with a stellar selection of wines from Mirabelle at Three Village Inn. This restaurant has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and offers a truly cosmopolitan wine list, featuring wine by region and varietal. Michaela identifies the tasting notes on wines that must not be missed for the discerning oenophile and discovers a few gems for the adventurous wine lover, including a dessert wine from Greece and a beautiful white Bordeaux.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Corte Pagliare Verdieri, Lambrusco Rosato “Ven Crud”, Emilia Romagna, Italy
*
2018 Domaine du Coulet-Matthieu Barret “Et La Banniere”, Crozes-Hermitage, France
*
2017 Charles Smith “Kung Fu Girl” Riesling, Washington
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 19, 2023
Episode 391. Sazon, New Mexico
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sazon, in Santa Fe New Mexico. Sazon serves classic Latin American dishes made by their James Beard Award-winning chef Chef Fernando Olea. Chef Olea creates sophisticated flavors using Old Mexico’s indigenous and culinary traditions and he has earned a stellar reputation for his unique interpretation of contemporary and traditional Mexican dishes. The wine list is equally exciting, and Sam explores what Mexican wines have to offer, offers pairing suggestions, and shares a little background information on growing regions and the varietals chosen for some of the spectacular wines on the list.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Bruma “Ocho Blanco de Carignan”, Valle de Guadalupe
*
2019 Solar Fortún Petit Verdot, Valle de Guadalupe
*
2020 Casa Jipi Nebbiolo, Baja California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 15, 2023
Episode 389. Red Fox Inn, Virginia
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Red Fox, a restaurant renowned for locally sourced, four-course dining with local wine pairings. They also offer Pub fare and an exceptional wine list. Michaela reviews the best wines on the list, including a Viognier that is a perfect companion to herb-roasted chicken and salmon, a Cabernet Franc that is an excellent pairing with herbed and savory dishes, and a remarkable blend of zinfandel, petit syrah, and Carignane.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Pollak Vineyards Viognier, Greenwood, VA
*
2021 Argiolas, Costamolino Vermentino, Southern Italy
*
2017 Gimenez Mendez, Alta Reserva Tennat, Uruguay
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 14, 2023
Episode 388. La Boca, New Mexico
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at La Boca in Santa Fe, New Mexico. La Boca features a carefully curated wine list that showcases Spanish varietals and pairs well with their Spanish-inspired menu. Sam reviews wines made from lesser-known varietals from a variety of regions in Spain. If you want to expand your palate and find some new favorites, this episode will open up a world of new wines to explore. In addition to pairing suggestions and tasting notes of each wine, Sam offers a little background information on the terroir to expand your knowledge of how the growing region influences the wine.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Raúl Pérez La del Vivo
*
2020 Envínate Benje
*
2015 Bodegas LAN Culmen
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 13, 2023
Episode 387. The Edge, New York
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Edge in Jackson, New Jersey where they offer a New American menu, with subtle Latin and Asian influences. If you are uncertain of which wine pairs well with the subtle combination of spices and herbs, don’t worry, from seafood and sushi to pasta and proteins, Michaela identifies the wines that pair well with the dishes on the menu, and she points out a few unique bottles that will add to the table conversation.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 La Colombera, “Derthona” Timorasso, Piedmont
*
2017 Donnafugatta “Tancredi”, Sicily
*
2017 Bernhard Ott, Gemischter Satz, Austria
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 12, 2023
Episode 386. Chica, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas chat about wines to pair with Latin food as they explore the wine list at Chica where Chef Lorena Garcia has melded the vibrant flavors from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Mexico to provide a wholly unique dining experience and to ensure we choose the wine that pairs well with the heat spice, Maria offers pairing suggestions from a list that presents Latin wines from Spain, Argentina, and Chile in addition to wine from Europe and North America. For all chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon lovers who are ready to venture out of their comfort zone, Maria offers a few delicious alternatives that will expand your list of favorites.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Agro de Bazán Granbazán Etiqueta Verde Rias Baixas, Spain
*
2019 Carmenère from Montes Alpha Colchagua Valley, Chile
*
2018 Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett Mosel
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines…
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Sep 11, 2023
Episode 385. Bern’s Steakhouse, Florida
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Bern’s Steakhouse in Tampa. Bern’s offers a sensational wine list with an extensive selection of renowned wines from around the world, including Hungary and China. They also have a special dining room just for the dessert and paired beverages for a not-to-be-missed way to end a meal. Tina spots a few exceptional bottles on this 200-page list, including one of the best syrahs in the world, and if you want to know the difference between a syrah and a shiraz, Tina explains all in this episode of CorkRules.
Wines reviewed include:
*
1985 Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage, France
*
2019 Clonakilla Shiraz, Canberra, Australia
*
Graham’s 30-year-old tawny port
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 8, 2023
Episode 384. Gibbet Hill Grill, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the 500-acre farm-to-table restaurant Gibbet Hill Grill in Massachusetts. Set in an idyllic pastoral location, this is the place to come if you want to get away from the bustle of the city and relax. The menu is inspired by local, seasonal produce, and the wine list offers a fine selection of Old and New World wines. From rich full-bodied reds to creamy whites with notes of ripe pear, peach, and lemon zest, MIchaela shares the tasting notes and pairing suggestions that will help you make an informed, and impressive, choice of wine for your guests.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Kooyang Estate Chardonnay Victoria, Australia
*
2018 Familia Torres “Gran Coronos” Reserva, Spain
*
2019 Forlorn Hope Picpoul, Napa Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 7, 2023
Episode 383. Bar Zazu, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas join forces for a fun review of the wine list at Bar Zazu where they offer wines from around the globe with a special focus on Spain. If you wonder just what to pair with the charred spanish octopus with chorizo, gremolata, almond, romesco or the seafood paella, Maria has the wine for you. In addition to wines that make your meal just too delicious for mere words, Maria offers a little wine education on lesser-known varietals such as the Tintilla, the Callet, and the Tannat.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Samuel Tinon “Birtok”, Tokaj, Hungary
*
2017 Anima Negra “An” 2017, Mallorca
*
2016 Garzon Single Vineyard Tannat, Uruguay
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 6, 2023
Episode 382. Strega, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at Strega in Boston’s historic North End. Strega’s wine list offers renowned wines in half-bottle formats from both Old and New World, and, as a classic Italian restaurant, they offer a standout Italian selection, too. In addition to a few Super Tuscans and superior chardonnays, Michaela chooses wines that showcase ripe pear, cantaloupe, and lime zest, wines that feature bright acidity, ripe cranberries, raspberries, red cherries, cedar, clove, and cocoa, and wines that sing with notes of honeysuckle, white flowers, ripe peach, green apple, and grapefruit. If these wines don’t tickle your palate and take your dining experience to a new level, call the doctor. It’s time for a checkup.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Feudi di San Grigorio, Greco di Tufo, Italy
*
2019 Terrabianca Campaccio, Italy
*
2020 Colosi Nero d’Avola, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you l…
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Sep 5, 2023
Episode 381. Coppa, Massachusetts
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Coppa in Boston, Massachusetts where Sam reviews their fantastic list of wines which have been curated to highlight small producers, so you know there will be some surprise varietals and hidden gems on this list. Sam chooses the wines that pair well with items on the menu, so if you love Italian food (and who doesn’t) get ready to eat, drink and be more than merry with the suggestions Sam offers in this episode of CorkRules.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Foradori Teroldego, Alto Adige
*
2020 Quantico “Etna Bianco”, Sicily
*
2014 Gravner Ribolla Gialla, Slovenia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Sep 4, 2023
Episode 380. Channing Frye and Chosen Family Wines
Robert Tas and Channing Frye talk wine culture, wine community, and Chosen Family Wines. Channing shares his journey from the NBA to winemaking, the community of winemakers he works with and how his company choose the winemakers to work with. He also explains what he loves about the wine industry and what he thinks should change, and, of course, his wines, including a bottle that you’ll want to save for ten years, and an exciting rose.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Chardonnay, Lingua Franca
*
2021 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, Salty Goats
*
2022 Willamette Valley Rosé, Chosen Family
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 18, 2023
Episode 379. Ferraro's Kitchen, Miami
Tina Johansson, Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas join forces to navigate the wine list at Ferraro’s Kitchen in Miami where they serve authentic Italian cuisine by Igor Ferraro from Venice. He draws inspiration and experience from all over Italy, so you know the food will be an authentic Italian adventure, and in addition to his culinary experience, Igor was introduced to the world of wines at an early age, so you know the wine list is going to be thoughtfully curated with some exemplary small producers. Tina spots wine from a well-known Barbaresco producer, wine from the Dolomites, and a truly unique cult wine.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo, La Spinetta, Italy
* 2018 Foradori Manzoni Bianco Fontanasanta, Italy
* 1980 Le Pergola Torte from Montevertine, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 17, 2023
Episode 378. Hell’s Kitchen, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas dare to review the wine list at Hell’s Kitchen, a Chef Gordon Ramsay restaurant in Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas. Among many of the stellar wines, Maria suggests are a bottle of bubbles from the UK and a beautiful example of an all-chardonnay sparkling wine made in the champagne method, a Burgundy made in the Champage style, a value wine from Australia that showcases a little-known varietal, and a wine from the king of pinot noir vines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Domaine Tempier, Bandol, France
*
2017 Foley Johnson, Rutherford, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
*
2014 Three Sticks Gap’s Crown Pinot, Napa Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 16, 2023
Episode 377. 1770 House, New York City
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan, and Robert Tas review the wine list at 1770 House in East Hampton. They have received the annual Wine Spectator Award of Excellence consecutively since 2007, and they offer high-end half bottles and magnums in addition to an extensive list of wines from around the world. As she reviews the list, Michaela identifies wines with bright acidity, lime zest, tropical fruit, minerality, with notes of saline on the almond finish; dried apricot, candied fruit, honey, and caramel, or how about a wine that features notes of plumb, fig, and ripe blackberries with notes of licorice and cola on the finish? To help you choose from this range of delicious choices, Michaela offers pairing suggestions that will help ensure the meal you choose pairs beautifully with the wine.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Domaine La Sufferene Rose, France
*
2013 Felsina Vin Santo, Tuscany
*
2018 Oremus “Mandolas” Dry Furmint, Hungary
For more information on today’…
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Aug 15, 2023
Episode 376. Helm Oyster Bar and Bistro, Maine
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas talk shellfish, seafood, and, of course, wine to pair with the fresh seafood, enjoy immensely and remember. In this episode, they visit the Helm Oyster Bar in Portland, Maine. Sam introduces a spectacular biodynamic bottle of bubbles from the Montlouis-sur-Loire region in France, a Sicilian rose, and a few reds for the red lovers. If silky tannins, slight spice along with herbal aromas or hints of pepper, along with violets and herbs sound enticing, this review has the wine for you.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Domaine Usseglio Cuvée Girard
*
2018 Domaine Pierre Gelin “Les Hervelets”, Burgundy
*
2020 Olivier Tricon Chablis
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 14, 2023
Episode 375. Brera, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, also known as Maria The Wine Blonde on Instagram, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Brera, on the Las Vegas strip where they offer over 200 wines with a focus on Italian wines from all the best wine producing regions to pair with the delicious Italian cuisine.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Nero D’Avola Crisera Luna Nuova, Sicilia, Italy
*
2020 Aglianico San Salvatore, “Vetere”, Campania, Italy
*
2010 Borgogno, Barolo “Cannubi”, Piemonte, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 11, 2023
Episode 374. Delfina, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Delfina, a wholly “Cali-Itali” restaurant that bridges that offers a beautiful amalgamation between the old-world and the new. This cozy and intimate restaurant offers a casual dining experience with fine-dining quality. This location does not disappoint and neither does the wine list. Grant recommends wines to pair well with items on the menu and suggest a few stellar cocktails to kick off your Delfina experience.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Weissburgunder ‘Praesulis’ by Gump Hof in Alto Adige
* 2021 Carignan from Railsback Freres
* 2016 Barbera by Guiseppe Mascarello
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 11, 2023
Episode 373. Bricco, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Boston’s North End where they review the wine list at Bricco where guests enjoy Italian cuisine and a unique wine experience from the enoteca (wine bar) with an exceptional selection of all-Italian wines. Bricco is renowned for their great wine collection and signature cocktails all to be enjoyed in an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Super Tuscan Brancaia “Tre”, Tuscany
*
2020 Vesevo Falanghina, Campania
*
2019 Pojer y Sandri Muller Thurgau, Alto Adige
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 10, 2023
Episode 372. Ledger, Massachusetts
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head downtown to Salem, Massachusetts where they review the wine list at Ledger. This restaurant is located in a beautiful building (circa 1818) and the menu includes traditional 19th-century dishes, cocktails, and techniques. The wine director has brought in wine from all over the world to provide an interesting list of old and new world wines. Sam identifies the special bottles on the list, and from bubbles to pair with fresh oysters to a bold red to pair with duck, Sam finds the wines to complement the dish.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Domaine Piccard Daley-Lavaux “Grand Cru Villette”, France
*
2021 Abbazia di Novacella, Italy
*
2016 Yves Gangloff Condrieu, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 10, 2023
Episode 371. Barbrix, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Barbrix a wine shop and restaurant hotspot in Los Angeles with a spectacular selection of woman winemakers, orange wine, pet nat wines, and natural wines. Grace identifies must-try wines from the unique selection on offer.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Prosa Sparkling Rose, Austria
*
2021 “Ode to Lulu” Rose, Bedrock, California
*
2020 Barbera d’Alba, Sottimano, Pairolero
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 7, 2023
Episode 370. Tresca, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Tresca in Boston’s North End. This restaurant wins yearly recognition from Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice and Open Table’s Diners’ Choice. Their Italian dominant wine list also features crowd-pleasing New World favorites and Michaela takes us on a tour of Italy’s wine regions as she points out stellar wines from various vineyards.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Surrau Limizzani Vermentino, Sardinia
*
2019 Tenuta di Ghizzano, Tuscany
*
2016 Tenuta Sant’Antonio Amarone della Valpoicella, Veneto
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 4, 2023
Episode 369. Row 34, Boston
Samantha Holl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Row 34 in Boston's historic Fort Point neighborhood. Sam points out a few of the best bottles on the list and offers pairing suggestions for a few of the sensational seafood dishes such as the tuna tartare and sesame cucmber in lime, monkish, and champagne and oysters. From natural wines and orange wines to Hungarian hidden treasures, Sam shares tasting notes and a little information on the wine producers to take your wine education up a level.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Stone Crusher by Donkey and Goat
*
2019 Morick and Villa Tonnay's Hidden Treasures
*
2021 Lomoresco Nero Capitano from Sicily
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 3, 2023
Episode 368. The Surf Club, Miami
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to The Surf Club at Miami Beach, a Kellers' flagship restaurant and one that celebrates and upholds the glamor of the '50s and '60s hotspots. The Surf Club offers a list of traditional wines with a lot of the big, famous names that always deliver, and Tina identifies the bottles on the list that pair well with delicious dishes on the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Henri Germain Meursault, Burgundy
*
2020 Clos de la Roilette Fleurie, Beaujolais
*
2016 Trimbach Clos Ste Hune, Alsace
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 2, 2023
Episode 367. The Ordinary, South Carolina
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head south to Charleston to review the wine list at The Ordinary, where Sam finds a spectacular selection of wines including a pet nat from Slovenia, a spectacular skin contact wine, and one that is a must-pair with oysters. In addition to her wine tasting expertise, Sam shares a little background knowledge on the wine producers and vineyards, which always makes the bottle you choose more interesting and memorable.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Mortellito, "Tuttu", Sicily
*
2021 Gonc “Canvas”, Slovenia
*
2020 Anjou à Françoise, Loire Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Aug 1, 2023
Episode 366. Wally’s, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the extensive wine list at Wally's Beverly Hills, a one-stop shop for everything delicious – including a list of over 100 wines by-the-glass to explore, and five pages of Bordeaux to choose from. Wally's offers a large selection of wines from the world's finest vineyards, and Grace helps you navigate the list to choose a divine wine for your table, picnic, or wine to unwind at the end of the day.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Clos du Roy Sancerre from Pascal Jolivet
*
2018 from Zind Hambrecht, Alsace
*
2019 Chateauneuf du Pape from Domaine de la Solitude
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 31, 2023
Episode 365. Tuscarora Mill, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Tuscarora Mill, affectionately known as Tuskies. While the cuisine here is classic American fare, the wine list offers an extensive choice of Old World and New World favorites, organic and biodynamic selections, and several, carefully selected local wines. Michaela kicks off the review in Italy, moves over to Spain, and continues the exploration of wines from France, Portugal, and Argentina; she also identifies a few exceptional local wines from Virginia.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Borgo Paglianetto Verdicchio, Marche of Italy
*
2019 Bodegas Epifanio Erial from Ribera del Duero, Spain
*
2019 Domaine Equis, Domaine des Lises from the Crozes-Hermitage
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 28, 2023
Episode 364. Viva Lenoir, Le Nez du Vin
In this episode of CorkRules, Robert Tas interviews, Viva Lenoir Head of Aromas and Development Officer at Le Nez. Viva was born around the same time as Le Nez du Vin, the olfactory-book created by her father, Jean Lenoir. A keen enjoyer of wine, she specializes in the sensory analysis of coffee and whisky. A former comedian and radio speaker, Viva had an interesting and adventurous life before returning to the world of wine. As a child, her father introduced her to the concept of tasting notes in wine, and now she follows her passion for aromas and the adventures of the olfactory system.
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 27, 2023
Episode 363. Jasmine, Bellagio Hotel, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Jasmine, in Bellagio Hotel. This restaurant is located in a beautiful setting that serves Cantonese, Szechwan, and Hunan cuisine. If you don’t know what to pair with Asian food, don’t worry, Maria identifies the tasting notes in wines and offers pairing suggestions with meals on the menu, including well-known favorites such as Peking Duck and, for the adventurous oenophile, she suggests trying China’s best wine from the foothills of the Himalayas.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Marc Bredif, Vouvray, Loire Valley, France
*
2019 Sokol Blosser, Dundee Hills, Oregon
*
2018 Ashes & Diamonds, Blanc, a Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc blend, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 26, 2023
Episode 362. The Fig, South Carolina
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to South Charleston to review the wine list at The Fig where southern dishes with a unique twist are prepared with seasonal ingredients and creativity. Sam checks through the list where she identifies a small producer with 40-year-old vines who focuses on minimal intervention, she spots a producer who farms their vines organically and biodynamically, and she recommends a special bottle of which only 1200 cases are produced.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Pinot Noir, Mac Forbes, Yarra Valley, Australia
*
2018 Domaine de l’Ecu Muscadet “Granite”, France
*
2017 Domaine du Collier "La Ripaille" Saumur Rouge
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 25, 2023
Episode 361. Trio Grill, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the Trio Grill in Falls Church, Virginia where the focus is on offering the finest steaks, the freshest seafood, and, most importantly, an extensive, award-winning wine list. Michaela identifies standout, Old and New World favorites, wines to pair with salmon, tuna, scallops, and spicy dishes, and a chardonnay with bright acidity, ripe green apple, and ripe pear, along with notes of brioche and honey with a creamy finish.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Badenhorst “Secateurs” Chenin Blanc, Swartland, South Africa
*
2020 Domaine Frederic Esmonin Les Genevrieres, Burgundy
*
2019 Mer Soleil, Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 24, 2023
Episode 360. The Belvedere, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Belvedere located in the Peninsula Hotel in Los Angeles. This elegant, European brasserie displays a classic French-country aesthetic steeped in Southern California luxury. Guests can enjoy the culinary creations of a Michelin-star chef while indulging in a wine list that offers an equally elegant wine list. Grace recommends kicking of the evening with a bottle of top-notch bubbles, she suggests some light floral whites, a beautiful Burgundy and bold cab savs.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2009 Cristal Brut, Champagne
*
2016 Pouilly Fume, Jean Claude D’Aganeau, Loire valley
*
2004 Pillar Rock, Stags Leap, Napa
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 21, 2023
Episode 359. Marchesi di Barolo Winery, Piedmont
Valentina Abonna talks about the generational family-owned and operated vineyard, Marchesi de Barolo. She shares the genesis of the Barolo wine (also known as the king of wines and wine of kings) that dates back to the 1600s, and is birthed from a love story when a young bride was brought to the village and decided that a quality wine was needed, long before the Piedmont region was recognized as a wine region. The family has owned the winery and vineyard since and still uses barrels that date back to the 1800s.
Key points include:
* The difference between Barolos and barbarescos
*
What makes Barolos unique
*
Innovation and the future of the winery
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 20, 2023
Episode 358. Harvest, Massachusetts
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Harvest in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This restaurant has been serving meals with its unique twist on American cuisine since 1975. Sam finds some spectacular wines on the list, including wine from producers who use only grapes they grow themselves, wines from 50-year-old vines, and wines from high up Spring Mountain in Napa Valley.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Huet Le Haut-Lieu Vouvray Sec, Loire, France
*
2018 Beurer Trollinger, Weingut Beurer, Württemberg, Germany
*
2008 Philip Togni Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 19, 2023
Episode 357. Magnolias at the Mill, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Magnolias at the Mill in Virginia where new American dining meets old America complete with barnlike wood decor, quilts, and rustic charm. Michaela looks through the extensive wine list that features classic old and new world wines from standout producers and offers pairing suggestions with items on the menu, and wines with notes of ripe blackberries, fig, prune, and cassis, along with smoke, vanilla, and silky tannins that make this wine a winner for any special event.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Zuccardi, Serie A Torrontes, Argentina
*
2018 Zenato Veronese Alanera Rosso, Veneto, Italy
*
2018 Archery Summit Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills, Oregon
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 18, 2023
Episode 356. Estiatoria Milos, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas hit the Las Vegas strip and pop in to Estiatoria Milos to review the wine list at this award-winning Greek restuarant that serves authentic Greek cuisine and an eclectic wine list that features a wonderful selection of Greek wines, including 20 wines-by-the glass options which offers guests the opportunity to branch out and explore new wines, and Maria provides insights and recommendations on which wines to try.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021, Ktima Geravassiliou Malagousia
*
Agiorgitiko Ktima Driopi Nemea, Greece
*
2019 Ghost Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 17, 2023
Episode 355. Afici, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Afici, a contemporary, fine dining restaurant with welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The multiple-course menu showcases Italian and French flavors and techniques. And most importantly, they have a great cocktail program and a wonderful wine list to match.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2013 Guy Charlemagne”Les Coulmets” Grand Cru
* 2016 Alain Chavy “Les Champs Gains” 1er Cru, Puligny-Montrachet
* 2014 Dom Levet “Les Journaries”, Cote Rotie
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 14, 2023
Episode 354. Spago, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas hit the high spot Spago in Beverly Hills where Grace reviews the 60-page wine list to find the hidden gems, value bottles and celebration wines. Whether you lean towards a delightful white Burgundy, Italian or Spanish reds, or are a firm believer in chardonnay all day, every day, Grace finds the wine that will delight and deliver on expectations.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2002 Krug Reims, Champagne, France
*
2006 Franz Kunstler, Rheingau, Germany
*
2015 Gangolff Condrieu, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 13, 2023
Episode 353. Michael’s on the Hill, Vermont
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head to Vermont to review the wine list at Michael’s on the Hill, a restaurant set in an 1820s farmhouse that serves European comfort food, sustainable & unprocessed. The award-winning chef, Michael Kloeti, has been recognized as one of the country's top culinary talents in the inaugural edition of Best Chefs America. Sam reviews the wine list where she finds wine from vineyards that date back to the middle ages, a Gewurztraminer with beautiful aromatics, notes of peach, orange and lychee, and a medium-bodied zinfandel with blackberry and black cherry notes, some floral qualities and subtle spice.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Château Yvonne Chenin Blanc, France
*
2017 Château de Saint Cosme, France
*
2019 Broc Cellars ‘Vine Starr’ Zinfandel, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 12, 2023
Episode 352. Girasole, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas embark on another wine adventure as they peruse the wine list at Girasole. Chef-owned and operated, Girasole serves authentic Italian cuisine with house-made pasta and local ingredients. The mantra here is fresh, rustic fine dining and a warm welcome. You will find a casual European atmosphere, and the highest quality food and wine. The wine list is Italian dominant with half bottles, local wine selections, and a limited Reserve list. Michaela runs through the list, offers pairing suggestions and identifies tasting notes, and shares a little information about the grape varietals.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Elisabetta ‘Brunetti’ Sangiovese, Tuscany
*
2020 Leone de Castris ‘Five Roses’ Rose, Puglia
*
2020 Tasca d’Almerita Grillo, Sicily
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 11, 2023
Episode 351. Zucca, Miami
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas head downtown to review the wine list at Miami hotspot, Zucca. Known as one of the best Italian restaurants in Miami, Zucca has received numerous accolades for its authentic Italian cuisine, award-winning wine cellar, and gracious hospitality. Tina travels north and south as she dives into the list and finds some real gems, including structured Italian reds; fresh, fun whites, volcanic wines and sparkling wines, and special bottles that won’t break the bank but will be fondly remembered.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Tornatore Pietrarizzo, Sicily
*
2010 Annamaria Clementi Franciacorta Riserva, Ca’ del Bosco
*
2018 Burlotto Langhe Rosso Mores, Piemonte
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 10, 2023
Episode 350. Jeune et Jolie, San Diego
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Jeune et Jolie in San Diego. This restaurant offers diners a choice of a 4-course menu in which guests make their selections, but ultimately enjoy fine dining California style, or the more casual, "Le Menu du Bar” an à la carte menu available for walk-in guests at our bar and lounge. Whether you prefer casual or formal, the wine list offers a quality selection of bottles to choose from. Grace lets her inner Francophile loose as she reviews a fabulous selection of French wines from bubbles to white Bordeaux and beautiful, bold reds.
Wines reviewed include:
2015 Blanc de Noir Marie Courtin, France
*
2018 Meursault from Buisson Battault, France
*
2012 Grand Cru Pauillac from Pontet Canet, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 7, 2023
Episode 349. Ancora, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Ancora. If seafood is on your mind, this is the restaurant for you. Ancora is focused on seafood and is influenced by Italy.
You could even go as far as to say this restaurant pays homage to the bounty of the ocean, and the wine list has been specifically curated to work with the seafood dishes. Grant talks bubbles and whites, and a few great reds that go with seafood.
Wines reviewed include:
● 2016 Caraccioli Brut Cuvee
● 2021 Do Ferreiro from Val do Salnes in Rias Baixas
● 2021 Arnot-Roberts rose of Touriga Nacional
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 6, 2023
Episode 348. Carisma, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore a fabulous selection of Italian wines at Carisma. Known as one of Toronto’s best Italian restaurants, Carisma offers an extensive wines-by-the-glass list. The list focuses on Italian wines from various regions but also offers favorites from the New World. If you are looking for a beautiful wine to enjoy as an aperitif or to pair with shellfish and fried seafood, or if you are a fan of bold, savory reds, Michaela has identified a fine selection of wines to pair well with the delicious Italian dishes on the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Feudi di San Gregorio, Fiano Di Avellino, Campania
*
2011 Tenuta Cavelier Pepe Opera, Taurasi
*
2013 Lungarotti Rubesco Riserva, Vigna Monticchio, Umbria
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 5, 2023
Episode 347. Naxos Taverna, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, also known as Maria the Wine Blonde, interviews Beverage Program Director Tim Keller at Naxos Taverna at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa in Las Vegas. talks about his experience in the hospitality industry, how he first became interest in wine, and his enterprising journey from waiter to restauranteur, and finally, how he was hired at Naxos Taverna. Tim talks about how he chooses wine for the wine list to introduce patrons to Greek wines and wines that pair well with Greek food. He reviews several special bottles, including wines from Macedonia, and a few alternatives to popular favorites such as sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to help wine lovers find a few new favorites and expand their wine knowledge.
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 4, 2023
Episode 346. Cucina Urbana, San Diego
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Cucina Urbana where they serve contemporary Italian cuisine with a focus on California seasonality and the bounty of local farms. Their wine program features 200+ labels from around the world, with an emphasis on Italian and California varietals and Grace peruses the wine list to find some hidden gems, including a white Bordeaux that has been described as “liquid gold” a fabulous Cremant, which equals Champagne if bubbles are on your mind, and a unique, pinot noir rose from Sancerre.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Gruner Veltliner, Manni Nossing Winery, Alto Adige
*
2017 Mayacamas, Mt. Veeder, Napa
*
2019 Grenache one from the Giovanni Montisci Vineyard, Sardinia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jul 3, 2023
Episode 345. Holsteins, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Holsteins in the Cosmopolitan hotel and casino, home of the best burger in town and a wine list that’s broken into four sections: Reds, Rosé slash Sparkling Rosé, Whites, and Champagne & Sparkling wine. Maria kicks off the review with a cocktail to whet the appetite before diving into the wine list where she finds some spectacular wines to pair with the specialty burgers this restaurant is famed for, or how about a wine that will pair well with the Firecracker Chicken Meatballs with Chives, or the Brussel Sprouts Ceaser.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Whitehaven, Marlborough New Zealand
*
2020 Moulin Jamet Sancerre
*
2015 North by Northwest Red Blend, Columbia Valley, Washington
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 30, 2023
Episode 344. Meson, Montreal
Camila Alvarez, head sommelier and consultant, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Meson, Camila explores the extensive list, including Spanish wines, different grape varieties in different styles, Armenian wines, indigenous varieties and wines from Texas. She suggests Cava which is perfect to pair with seafood and Spanish dishes, an elegant red blend full of red and black plum flavors, blackcurrant and spicy notes, and a Cuve made from 12 Grand Cru.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2015 Yacoubian Hobbs, Vayots Dzor, Armenia
*
2002 Vega Sicilia Unico from Ribera del Duero, Italy
*
1985 Faustino, Rioja, Spain
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 29, 2023
Episode 343. Dear Annie, Massachusetts
Sam Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Dear Annie, a community-focused neighborhood restaurant that focuses on brand values of sustainable foodways, unique and natural wines and friendly vibes. Sam shares what to pair with the house-made small plates and the menu that has a focus on fresh seafood and shellfish, including wines from a 400-year-old vineyard, wines with notes of vanilla and spice, or lemon, honeycomb and stone, and sparkling wines from a winery that uses a fermentation process that dates back to the 1500s.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Honeymoon by Martha Stouman, California
*
2018 Collecapretta La Selezione delle Cese, Umbria, Italy
*
2019 Patrimonio Rouge “Cru Des Agriate”, Corsica, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 28, 2023
Episode 342. Rossoblu, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the Italian wine list at the LA hotspot Rossoblu. This fun and funky restaurant will not disappoint serious diners and wine lovers. On the menu, you will find handmade pasta dishes, in-house butchery and salumi, and classic Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. The wine list offers unique varietals from family-owned wineries. From sensational sparkling wines to light and zesty whites, Grace spots the bottles that will be delicious, delightful, and sometimes downright decadent.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Vermentino, Antonella Corda Vineyard, Sardinia
*
2021 Galanghina, Marisa Cuomo, Campania
*
2016 Margaux, Chalatour de Bessan
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 27, 2023
Episode 341. Lago by Julian Serrano, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, also known as Maria The Wine Blonde, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Lago restaurant in the Bellagio Hotel, a special Italian hot spot with fountain views. The menu reflects the regional cuisine of Italy and the wine list offers carefully selected bottles from various regions of Italy but also noteworthy wines from all over the globe. Maria helps you decide what to pair with the menu including a stellar Barolo with the mushroom risotto, a wine whose vines grow on lava flow, and a mineral-driven fresh white, that is perfect to pair with seafood pastas.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Cordero de Montezemolo, Arneis, Piedmont
* 2019 Edge, Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley
* 2019 Greg Linn, Langhe Nebbiolo
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 26, 2023
Episode 340. Le Farfalle, San Diego
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at Le Farfalle in the Harleston Village of Charleston South Carolina where they put a modern spin on traditional Italian cuisine and offer a stellar wine list. In addition to pairing suggestions and tasting notes, Sam shares background information on the wine regions and producers to take your wine education up a notch. She introduces us to an Italian wine cooperative composed of 400 small winegrowers who sustainably farm the land, rare Italian varietals, and the more well-known and loved barolos and nebbiolos.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Montepulciano Rosato, Viticoltori Riuniti
*
2018 Nero Buono “Polluce”, Italy
*
2021 “Alice” Verdeca, Puglia, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 23, 2023
Episode 339. Petit Trois, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the French bistro Petit Trois in Los Angeles, an unassuming and unpretentious restaurant inspired by classic Parisian bistros and has won many accolades from foodies and food critics alike. They offer two award-winning wine lists and Grace reviews the wines on both to identify the approachable and affordable and the big baller bottles of French wines, including Bordeaux, Burgundies, syrahs, and stellar cab blends.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Melon du Bourgnon, Muscadet
*
2011 Riesling Domaine Marcel, Alsace
*
2019 Domaine Rougeot Pommard
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 22, 2023
Episode 338. Red Dory, Rhode Island
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Red Dory where the views of the Sakonnet River offer a clue to the Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring fresh ingredients from local farms and docks. And to help you pair wine with seafood, shellfish, or meaty, saucy dishes Michaela identifies tasting notes and offers pairing suggestions to ensure the spices and herbs pair well with the wine. From white Riojas with notes of cantaloupe, green apple, lime zest to bold reds with flavors of blackberries and cassis, along smoke, black pepper, and oak, Michaela helps you understand which wines to pair with meals on the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Ostatu Viura, Rioja, Spain
*
2017 Cantina del Taburno Aglianico, Campania, Italy
*
2021 Movia Sauvignon Blanc, Slovenia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 21, 2023
Episode 337. Audrey, Nashville
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, joins Robert Tas to talk about the wine list at Audrey, a traditional south-eastern inspired restaurant with a menu that serves local and seasonal products to showcase the best of the South. cornbread, heirloom apples and grits, all cooked and presented with a modern take. Want to know what to pair with grilled deer skewer with hickory oil, or ember-baked Candy Roaster squash? Tina offers pairing suggestions to make sure you choose the right wine for your dining experience, and with wines from Slovakia, South Africa, Europe and beyond, Tina’s selection ensures a next-level dining experience.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Testalonga El Bandito, South Africa
*
2018 Marie-Courtin Blanc de Noirs, Champagne
*
2017, Vino di Anna, “Jeudi 15”, Sicily
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 20, 2023
Episode 336. Cowboy Star, San Diego
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Cowboy Star in San Diego’s East Village. This steakhouse and butcher shop sources ethically-raised, meat and seafood. They have a stellar wine list and a reputation to match. From bold, tannic reds to crisp, light whites, champagne that will definitely tickle the taste buds, and a few surprises in between, Grace identifies the bottles on the list that will please the most discerning palate, including a Margaux from Bordeaux.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Shea Estate Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley
*
2020 Chalk Hill Sauvignon Blanc, Napa
*
2017 Joseph Swan from the Russian River Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 19, 2023
Episode 335. Bar Mezzana, Boston
Sam Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas talk wine, food, and wine producers as they explore the wine list at Bar Mezzana in Boston. Sam identifies some interesting finds and introduces wines made from hybrid grape varietals, organic vineyards in Greece, and great vintages from family-owned vineyards. If notes of roasted nuts and flower petals, and beautiful bright flavors of apple and peach sound delicious to you, or if you don’t know what to order with PEI mussels, or the Paccheri pasta with lobster, Sam will point you in the right direction.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Erbaluna “Rocche Dell’Aannunziata” Borolo
*
1701 Franciacorta Satèn, Lombardy, Northern Italy
*
2020 Kontozisis “A-Grafo” Assyrtiko
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 16, 2023
Episode 334. Vanderpump a Paris at Paris Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, also known as Maria the Wine Blonde, and Robert Tas head to Vegas where they review the wine list at Vanderpump a Paris, one of the Vanderpump collection of restaurants belonging to reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump and her husband Todd. The vibe here is classical Paris complete with an old Parisian courtyard, Art Nouveau decor, and crystal chandeliers. Elegant and romantic. They serve a French-inspired menu, and a short but sophisticated wine list that includes a selection of bubbles by-the-glass to kick off a fabulous evening. Maria finds the diamonds on the list and offers pairing suggestions to ensure a sublime wine and dine experience.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Saget la Perrière Sancerre, Loire Valley
*
2019 Trimbach Riesling, Alsace, France
*
2012 The Château Montrose, “La Dame de Montrose,” France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 15, 2023
Episode 333. Essential by Christophe, New York City
In this special episode, Robert Tas reviews the wine list of Essential by Christophe with their very own beverage director and sommelier, Andrea Morris. This newly-opened restaurant located on the Upper West Side of New York City has already won many accolades. It is a French restaurant, but rather than imitate the French Brasserie of bygone days, the decor is similar to modern restaurants in Paris, and the tone of casual hospitality renders this fine dining establishment elegant and laid back. Andrea explains how she selects wine for the wine program and why she chooses certain bottles on the list. She points out a few special bottles at spectacular prices in addition to those great finds from lesser-known producers.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Joseph Drouhin, Montagny, Burgundy, France
*
2017 Camp Atthalin SLB Dessus les Vermots
*
2017 Burklin Wolf Wachenheim Riesling
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 14, 2023
Episode 332. Felix Trattoria, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wines of Italy at Felix Trattoria region by region. Travel by wine region. What a great way to get to know Italian wines, and Grace is on hand to help you navigate the list and the regions. Both the wine list and menu at Felix are inspired by the deeply rooted culinary traditions of regional Italy. Chef and master pasta maker Evan Funke crafts fresh, handmade pasta on-site and to order while you kick off your evening with a light white or glass of sparkling wine.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Primitivo, Tenuta Chiaromonte
*
2021 Nebbiolo Rose, GB Burlotto
*
2019 Verdeccio, La Monacesca
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 13, 2023
Episode 331. Oberlin, Rhode Island
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a look through the wine list at Oberlin in Providence, Rhode Island to find the value wines, special bottles, and little-known gems you might miss. A James Beard Award finalist, Oberlin features an extensive menu of seafood and pasta, and the wine list offers an eclectic selection of Old World and New World wines, organic, skin contact, and local wines from New England. Michaela spots wines made from rare varietals, natural whites from Chile, and unique orange wines from Georgia. If an adventure in wine is what you’re looking for, you’ve arrived.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Echeverria Viognier, Curico Valley, Chile
*
2020 Hofstatter Meczan Pinot Nero, Alto Adige, Italy
*
2019 Nine Oakes Khikhvi
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 12, 2023
Episode 330. Chef Adrianne's, Miami
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard restaurant, a fine-dining steakhouse in Miami inspired by the wine country of Napa Valley. They offer an extensive, and international menu of wines including Japan, Italy, and Peru to name a few. Tina points out a few lovely bottles on the list and offers pairing suggestions and a little background information on the vineyards, the varietals, and vintages to help you make an informed decision.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Stags Leap Wine Cellars Artemis
*
Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc
*
Kistler Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 9, 2023
Episode 329. Taberna de Haro, Massachusetts
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Taberna de Haro in Brookline, MA. This Spanish restaurant is known for its massive Spanish wine list and authentic Spanish cuisine that takes diners far beyond tapas. Think saffron-scented paellas, spicy garlic shrimp, and perfectly sliced Iberian ham all paired with select bottles from a James Beard award-winning wine list. And Sam is here to help you find the perfect pairing whether you are celebrating something special or just winding down for the weekend. She identifies the tasting notes, offers pairing suggestions, and delivers a little background information on the producers to take your wine knowledge up a notch.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Avinyó Brut Nature Reserva Cava
*
2017 Do Ferreiro Rebisaca
*
2005 Viña Bosconia Reserva
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 8, 2023
Episode 328. Left Bank, Colorado
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the French restaurant Left Bank where they specialize in fine dining and fine wine. The wine list is organized by region, and Grace travels through to find the wines that pair exceptionally well with the menu and are exceptionally delicious. From Champagne to Burgundy and beyond, taking this trip with Grace is a fun way to explore French wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Ladoucette Pouilly Fumé
*
2018 Pouilly Fusse from Domaine Leflaive
*
2018 Cote Rotie from Domaine Gangloff
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 7, 2023
Episode 327. Lamaii, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas talk Thai food and wine at Lamaii. This cozy, inviting restaurant offers a wine list that focuses on rieslings, chablis, and, of course, Champagne, which are perfect for pairing with Thai food, but they also offer specialty cocktails, and reds. In addition to excellent pairing suggestions, Maria offers a little background information on how to identify the sweetness levels in rieslings and reds that work with Thai food to help you make a more informed choice.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Carl Graff Himmelreich Spatlese Riesling
*
Domaine Petit et Bajan Obsidienne Grand Cru Brut
*
2020 Röettgerding Winninger Riesling Trocken
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 6, 2023
Episode 326. Blu Ristorante, Ontario
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Blu Ristorante where they offer a stand-out selection of Old-world and New-world wines to accompany their delicious menu. One addition to her suggestions is a pinot noir from the Dundee Hills in Oregon, and a Grecheto from Umbria with notes of white flowers, and lilacs, lemon zest, and grapefruit, with a mineral and herbal finish. Wow! Liquid lusciousness.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 La Carria Grechetto
*
2016 Bedegas Fuenmayor “Nocedal Reserva” Tempranillo, Rioja, Spain
*
2020 Zolla Primitivo, Puglia, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 5, 2023
Episode 325. Hatchet Hall, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier and Robert Tas visit the fun and funky restaurant Hatchet Hall. This lively neighborhood restaurant and bar focuses on the simplicity of quality ingredients sourced from local farmers. It’s all about friendly vibes and fun times. The wine list is regularly updated with a menu that focuses on the wine's culture and history. Here, you will find a stellar natural wine selection of all organic, biodynamic, and sustainable wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Newton Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa
*
2019 Chanin, Santa Maria Valley
*
2021 Viognier from CCGP Vineyard, Santa Barbara
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 2, 2023
Episode 324. Jaleo by Jose Andres, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas talk about Spanish wine (and a little sherry) at Jaleo by Jose Andres. Jaleo is all about the spirit and flavors of Spain. They provide an authentic Spanish culinary experience and showcase the rich regional diversity of Spanish cuisine, and, of course – Spanish wine.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Ulacia Txakolina, Hondarrabi Zuri
*
2020 Estenas Vera de Estenas, Bobal, Utiel y Requena
*
2010 Viña Tondonia Reserva López de Heredia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jun 1, 2023
Episode 323. Hy’s Steakhouse, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Hy’s Steakhouse in Toronto. Their wine list has won the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, and includes classic producers, limited releases, and local selections from small producers in Canada. Michaela spots some stand-out wines on the list including a syrah with notes of ripe, red cherries, ripe raspberries, white pepper, and thyme, perfect for pairing with pasta or rich, saucy dishes.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Wild Goose Riesling from the Okanagan Valley
*
2019 Domaine Chante-Perdrix Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc
*
2018 Tenuta Sette Ponti “Oreno” from Tuscany
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 31, 2023
Episode 322. Frasca, Colorado
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas tune in to Frasca in Boulder, Colorado where they explore wine for all occasions including hanging in the mountains or after skiing down the slopes. Grace checks out the champagne list, she finds a stellar white from this list that offers wines from many regions of Italy, including Umbria and Fiulli, and varietals that offer their own unique and subtle notes.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Bereche et File Beaux Regards
*
2020 Foradori from Alto Adige
*
2004 Brunello di Montelcino from Cerbaiona
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 30, 2023
Episode 321. Juliet, New York City
In this special episode of CorkRules, Robert Tas interviews Allison Luvera and Lauren De Niro Pipher, the co-founders and CEOs of Juliet, a company that is turning perceptions of boxed wine upside down and delivering quality wine in sustainable, and accessible packaging. They talk about the unique design choices they have made, how they overcame the stigma surrounding the quality of boxed wine, and why they got into the business in the first place. They also discuss the quality of wine, including orange wines, and the longevity of wine due to the packaging.
Topics discussed include:
*
The inspiration behind the design
*
The innovative, sustainable packaging
*
The premium quality of their wine, including appellations and varietals
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 29, 2023
Episode 320. Alcove, Boston
Sam Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Alcove. Located on the waterfront at Boston’s Lovejoy Wharf, Alcove is a welcoming, neighborhood restaurant that serves fresh seafood fare and an award-winning wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Domaine Guiberteau “Les Chapaudaises”, Loire Valley
*
2021 Ameztoi “Rubentis” Txakolina, Spain
*
2020 La Soufrandiere “Le Clos de Grand -Pere”, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 26, 2023
Episode 319. Tatiana, New York City
Robert Tas and special guest, Bradley Knebel, General Manager of Tatiana, talk about Bradley’s career in wine, inclusivity and diversity in wine production, and, of course, the wines on the list at Tatiana. From velvety pinots to sublime orange wines, Bradley shares the inspiration behind the list, the extraordinary bottles that should not be missed, and a little background knowledge on the producers.
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 25, 2023
Episode 318. Urban Farmer, Portland
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas bring a little country to the city with a wine list review from the Urban Farmer, a modern steakhouse that, as they say, is unexpected, unpretentious, and unforgettable. They offer a spectacular wine list that includes an international selection and many great bottles from the Pacific Northwest. Grace finds some sensational sparklers, robust roses, and whites that will make your night just right.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 King Estate Brut Cuvee
*
2019 Wichmann Vineyard from Triseatuem
*
2021 Teutonic Rose
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 24, 2023
Episode 317. Mariel, Boston
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Mariel where Cuban dishes, craft cocktails, and a curated wine list offer a taste of Havana in its heyday.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Rafael Palacios Godello from Valdeorras, Spain
*
2018 Marcel Deiss Saint Hippolyte Pinot Noir
*
2018 Suertes Del Marques “Trenzado”
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 23, 2023
Episode 316. Chaido, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Chiado a Portuguese restaurant that offers an exciting selection of wines specifically from Portugal, and, in addition to wine, port which originates from Portugal. Michaela suggests wines from several different regions of Portugal, she describes the tasting notes and offers pairing suggestions, and even helps you find a stellar wine if you are on a budget and don’t want to compromise on quality.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Quinta de Pellada, Quints de Saes Reserva
*
2018 Alves de Sousa, Branco da Gaivosa.
*
2016 Cortes de Cima Blend
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 22, 2023
Episode 315. Jory at the Allison, Oregon
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas join forces to navigate the wine list at Jory at the Allison where their focus on wine pairings delivers an exquisite dining experience. Grace reviews a wonderful selection of Italian wines, including chardonnays, pinot noirs, tempranillos, and, of course, bubbles to ensure that she covers your favorite grape and offers a few that might surprise you.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Soter Mineral Springs Rose
*
2019 Grand Oak Vineyard, Raindance Winery
*
2019 Walter Scott Seven Springs Vineyard
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 19, 2023
Episode 314. Harriet’s Rooftop, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Harriet’s Rooftop, an elegantly comfortable space where patrons can take in the most expansive views of vibrant Toronto. Do aromas of white flowers, honeysuckle, ripe pear, lemon zest and spice tickle your palate? If so, dive into the podcast where Michaela offers pairing suggestions for a few local and organic wines, and she suggests several noteworthy wines that will enhance your meal and your evening.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 13th St Winery Chardonnay, Creek Shores, Canada
*
2020 Malivoire Small Lot Gamay, Beamsville Bench, Ontario
*
2019 Juggernaut Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 18, 2023
Episode 313. The Painted Lady, Oregon
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at The Painted Lady. This restaurant is in the heart of Oregon Wine Country and is surrounded by more than 200 wineries. If a fine dining wine experience is on your list, this place is worth the trip. The goal of the owner-operators is to create and “unforgettable food journey crafted from the fine ingredients and wines sourced from the Willamette Valley and beyond.” Grace reviews wines on the list to help you choose the wines that elevate your experience.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Patricia Green Sauvignon Blanc
*
2017 Sigrid from Bergstrom
*
2004 Domaine Danielle Laurent, Solena
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 17, 2023
Episode 312. Barberian's Steakhouse, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Barberian's Steakhouse. With over 100 pages, this list is a who’s who of top producers, and in nearly every vintage. This could be Canada's most stunning wine cellar, with more than 15,000 bottles from the world's greatest vineyards, and all to complement top-grade, dry-aged steaks that are butchered in-house.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Sacred Hill, Riflemans Chardonnay, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
*
2010 Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia, Reserva, Rioja, Spain
*
2018 Chappellet Signature from Napa Valley, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 16, 2023
Episode 311. Coast Guard House, Rhode Island
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Coast Guard House Restaurant, a delightful location with spectacular sea views, and locally harvested seafood. Whether you want a special wine to celebrate with or one that meets your budget, or if you want to try one of the newer natural wines on the list, Sam offers suggestions on old-world and new-world wines that will meet your needs. She also reviews natural wines
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Muller-Catoir “Mandelring” Muller-Catoir Winery, Germany
*
2020 Ermes Pavese Blanc de Morgex et de la Salle, Italy
*
2016 Frank Cornelissen “Magma” Cornelissen, Scicily
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 15, 2023
Episode 310. Larkspur, Colorado
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at Larkspur, set in a glorious location, this mountain venue is set on the edge of a forest and provides panoramic views. Grace reviews a wide selection of wines and kicks off the review with bubbles.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Pierre Gimonet Premier Cru
*
2019 Brundlmayer Gruner Veltliner
*
2005 Clerc Milon from Bordeaux
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 12, 2023
Episode 309. Canoe, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Canoe, a Canadian restaurant that is inspired by the provinces of Canada, and the wine list offers a carefully curated selection of old and new-world wines to explore. Michaela explores the list, shares information about sweetness in bubbles, and kicks off the review with a spectacular sauvignon blanc that would pair well with shellfish from the East coast provinces, and follows it up with a red that would pair well with fish and heavily sauced dishes.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Leaning Post Sauvignon Blanc, Niagra
*
2020 Closson Chase Vineyard Pinot Noir, Ontario
*
2016 Bodegas San Isidro “Gemina Cuvee Seleccion”, Spain
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 11, 2023
Episode 308. Dear Margaret, Chicago
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Dear Margaret, an authentic French Canadian restaurant. The atmosphere is rustic and the food is wholesome, comforting and surprisingly decadent. The wine list represents the world of wine with selections from classic areas in addition to regions on the rise, offering something for the traditional wine lovers and something for the more adventurous.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Enrique Mendoza La Tremenda
*
2020 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett
*
2018 Domaine du Closel La Jalousie, Loire Valley, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 10, 2023
Episode 307. Elways, Colorado
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at Elways owned by and named after the NFL quarterback, John Elways. This is the place to go in Vail if you want a chophouse that serves steak and sides with sensational wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Gruner Veltliner from Ingrid Groiss
*
2019 Chateau la Rame White Bordeaux
*
2020 Paul Pernot Puligny Montrachet
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 9, 2023
Episode 306. Harbour 60, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head north to explore the wine list at Harbour 60 where they serve the best steak in town. This exceptional restaurant offers a wonderful selection of old-world and new-world wines, and it also features a few standout Canadian wines that are new to the market but well worth trying. Michaela finds a few delicious whites to pair with shellfish on the menu, a shiraz to pair with lamb, and a beautiful Rioja from the oldest vineyard in the region that dates back to 1852.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Lungarotti, Torre di Giano, from Umbria, Italy
* 2018 Wakefield “Crooked Horse” Shiraz, Australia
* 2017 Marques de Murrieta Reserva from Rioja, Spain
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 8, 2023
Episode 305: Barbuto, New York City
Sam Hohl, certified sommelier, joins Robert Tas to review the wine list at Barbuto, an Italian restaurant heavily influenced by California vibes. The menu is simple and seasonal, and the wine list features an eclectic selection of Italian, French, and California wines, amongst other lesser-known varietals from all over the world. Sam dives in, finds a few hidden gems, and makes stellar pairing suggestions to help tantalize the taste buds.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Vigneti Luigi Oddero e Figli “La Morra” from Barbera d’Alba
* 2018 Lieu Dit, Sauvignon Blanc from the Santa Ynez Valley
* 2019 Feudo Montoni “Lagnusa”, Nero d'Avola
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 5, 2023
Episode 304. Craft, New York City
Robert Tas interviews Cheron Cowan, Advanced Sommelier from Court of Master Sommeliers, and the beverage director from Craft, Tom Colicchio’s flagship restaurant where guests enjoy award-winning dishes in an elegant and comfortable space. This restaurant has won many awards for both food and wine. Whether you want a white, red, or rose, Cheron identifies the bottles on the list that should not be missed.
Wines reviewed include:
* Grongnet, Blanc De Blancs, Brut, Nv, Champagne
*
2020, Rías Biaxas, Spain
*
2021,Pinot Noir, Failla, Sonoma Coast
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 4, 2023
Episode 303. The Shore Club, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit The Shore Club, a fabulous restaurant with locations in both Ottawa and Toronto. This is an elegant seafood and steakhouse with a comfy dining area and lively cocktail bar, plus a long wine list. Michaela explains why you should try a Brut Cremant if you are looking for quality bubbles at a good price, and, of course, she identifies the tasting notes in wines from both the old and new world wines and offers pairing suggestions guaranteed to elevate your dining experience.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Jules Rose from Provence, France
*
2020 Ben Marco ‘Plata’ Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
*
2020 Domaine Lucien Jacob Aligote, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 3, 2023
Episode 302. Brennan’s, New Orleans
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier joins Robert Tas to review the wine list at Brennan’s, a New Orleans restaurant that has been open since 1946. They offer an innovative Creole menu with influences from France and Spain. If you want a New Orleans experience, this is the place to go. Tina spots a delicious and natural wine prosecco, a wine to eat with sweet desserts, and a magnum bottle that offers exceptional value.
Wines reviewed include:
*
NV Prosecco Naturalmente from Casa Coste Piane
*
2004 Château La Lagune Haut-Médoc
*
2013 Castello di Volpaia Vinsanto di Chianti Classico
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 2, 2023
Episode 301. Fall Line, Colorado
Grace Hood and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Fall Line Kitchen & Cocktails. This restaurant embodies the apres-ski vibe and offers fresh, contemporary cuisine with worldwide inspiration, but most importantly, a stellar wine list to enjoy after a day in the snow or on any summer afternoon.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Pinot Bianco from Catina Tramin, Alto Adige, Italy
*
2019 Chenin Blanc from Domaine aux Moines, Loire Valley
*
2019 Domaine Drouin from Willamette Valley, Oregon
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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May 2, 2023
Episode 300. Opus, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Opus, named one of the top 91 restaurants in the world, and has earned the Wine Spectator Grand Award consistently for over 20 years. This is no easy task because their cellar holds over 52,000 bottles. Luckily, Michaela navigates the list and finds a range of bottles that will satisfy the palate, whether you are looking for a quality, value wine, a special bottle, or a unique wine from a rock-star winemaker.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Rotem & Mounir Saouma Inopia Blanc, Rhone Valley
*
2005 d’Arenberg “The Dead Arm”, McLaren Vale, South Australia
*
2015 Vincent Giardin, Volnay, Vieilles Vignes, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 28, 2023
Episode 299. Miller & Lux, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the famed Miller & Lux modern American steakhouse. This establishment dates back to humble beginnings as a butcher shop in the 1850s. The founders, Henry Miller and Charles Lux, grew the business into one of the largest cattle ranchers in America, so you know the menu is going to offer prime cuts with delicious results. And to top it off, their wine list is carefully curated to bring out the best in the menu with a wide selection of by-the-glass, half bottles, and large format options.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Brovia Barbera d’Alba “Ciabot del Fi”, Piedmont
*
2019 Continuum Cabernet, Sage Mountain Vineyard, Napa
*
2019 Peter Michael “La Carriere”, Knights Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 27, 2023
Episode 298. Ruffian, New York City
Robert Tas and sommelier Emily Gutierrez's sommelier reviews the wine list at Ruffian, and who better to review it than the restaurant’s sommelier herself? Ruffian has earned many accolades and awards for both the food and the wine. Located in East Village, they offer a great selection of vegetarian cuisine and a dynamic wine list that provides over 250+ selections by the bottle (including 35+ orange wines) and over 30 wines by the glass. The list includes little-known producers from all over the world – Turkey, Lebanon, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, and Greece, with super unique choices from all around the world. With so many choices on hand, it’s a good thing Emily is here to help navigate this list.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Benedek, Hárslevelű “Öregtőkék”, Mátra, Hungary
*
2021 Ocho “How Do U Feel?” Chinuri / Kakheti, Georgia
*
2019 Heinrich “Naked” Blaufrankisch Blend / Burgenland, Austria
For more information on today’s episode, and the…
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Apr 26, 2023
Episode 297. Stoneacre Garden, Rhode Island
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas kick back at the restaurant, Stoneacre Garden where they not only have a welcoming and wholesome dining room where you will experience deliciously comforting cuisine, but they also offer a greenhouse bar, a courtyard bar, and rooftop bar. The vibe here is vibrant, fun, and wholly delightful. They frequently host events including live music. And to top off your experience, they offer a well-developed wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2017 Les Vieux Clos Joly Chenin Blanc, France
*
2015 Raúl Pérez Ultreia, Spain
*
2018 Gail Vineyards “Doris”, Sonoma Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 25, 2023
Episode 296. Field and Maine, Virginia
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Field and Maine, a restaurant with a wholesome, rustic vibe that serves locally-sourced and globally-inspired cuisine. Michaela reviews a stellar list of reds, whites, roses and sparklers from around the world. She identifies the tasting notes to help you make pairing choices that will elevate your meal and enhance your evening.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Michael Shaps Viognier from Charlottesville, VA
*
2021 Domaine de la Mordoree “La Reine du Bois” Rose from Tavel, France
*
2020 Mullineux Syrah from Swartland, South Africa
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 24, 2023
Episode 295. North Italia, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head to Las Vegas where they review the wine list at North Italia. If Italian wine is your jam, then this review should not be missed. Maria offers tasting notes and pairing suggestions on wines from a variety of varietals and regions. Want to know what to pair with pizza or your favorite pasta dish? Maria can help you choose with confidence.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico
*
Ferrari Blanc de Blanc Sparkling
*
Marchesi di Gresi Barbera d’asti
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 21, 2023
Episode 294. Yvonne’s, Boston
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas to enjoy the speakeasy vibe at Yvonne’s. This playful supper club offers an intimate and exclusive dining room where guests can revel in the eclectic decor, enjoy a seasonal menu, and an adventurous wine list. Sam reviews the list to find the best bubbles and budget wines and offers pairing suggestions to ensure your dining experience is one to remember.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Tocai Friulano from Larkmead Vineyards, Napa
*
2019 Lindquist Family Marsanne, California
*
2015 Pierre Gimonnet Special Club Brut Champagne
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 20, 2023
Episode 293. Haley.Henry Wine Bar, Boston
Hanna Lauerman, General Manager of Haley.Henry Wine Bar and Robert Tas review the wine list at Haley Henry. This popular wine bar has an intimate and bohemian vibe and a stellar wine list. They made the semi-finalist list for the 2020 James Beard “Outstanding Wine Program” award, and they focus on responsibly sourced and natural, small-production wines, so you know exploring this list is going to be an adventure. Hanna points out the must-try little-known wines, shares a little background information on the producers and regions, introduces an orange wine from Greece, and a punk rock Pet Nat.
Wines reviewed include:
* The Bodegas Albamar Albarino, Spain
* The Koukos Sidiritis Orange Wine, Greece
* The Forlorn Hope Abandoned Bicycle, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 19, 2023
Episode 292. Bin 26 Enoteca, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Bin 26 Enoteca, a restaurant that proudly states they serve great food with their wine. In fact, the definition of Enoteca is a wine shop, wine bar, and wine library, so you know their wine list is going to offer some great bottles, and Michaela shares her expertise to help you navigate this international wine list with over sixty wines by the glass and over two hundred wines by bottles.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Nerello Mascalese, Benanti, Etna Rosso, Sicily
*
2020 Sauvignon Blanc, Alice Berthier, Coteaux du Gienois, Loire Valley
*
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Bin 26 Rosso, Veneto, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 18, 2023
Episode 291. Freya, Detroit
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Freya. This multi-course dinner restaurant serves a price-fixed 5-course menu and exemplary hospitality. This is a welcoming and friendly establishment where the food and wine will not disappoint. Tina points out a few special bottles from Argentina and Chile, and she shares a little knowledge about the blends, varietals, and pairings.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Domaine Huet Le Haut Lieu, France
*
2017 Ashes & Diamonds Red Hen Vineyard, Napa
*
2021 Garage Wine Co, Chile
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 17, 2023
Episode 290. Carmine’s, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Carmine’s. This comfortable, low-key eatery offers a big menu of pizza and Italian classics. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family, and while the food is mostly Southern Italian in style, and the vibe here is relaxed, they offer a superior selection of wines from all around the world.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Damilano Barolo
*
2020 Abbazia di Novacella Gruner Veltliner
*
2018 Valipolicella-Ripasso, Sant' Antonio
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 14, 2023
Episode 289. Frenchie Wine Bistro, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Frenchie Wine Bistro, and as the name suggests, the wine list provides a plethora of old-world wines to tickle your palate and complement the flavors in your meal. This easy-going neighborhood restaurant has a wall-length wine bar for you to explore and a romantic garden-side solarium where you can enjoy the vast selection of delicious wines while tucking in to French cuisine.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Vincent and Tania Careme “Spring” Vouvray, Loire Valley
*
2019 Domaine Lionel Faury Syrah, Northern Rhone
*
2016 Domaine du Prince "Le Plaisir du Prince”, Malbec, Cahors, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 13, 2023
Episode 288. Josh Phelps, Grounded Wine Co.
Winemaker and entrepreneur, Josh Phelps talks to Robert Tas about his company Grounded Wine Co. They discuss reaching a younger generation, how climate change is affecting the industry, and packaging and marketing. Josh shares his experience in making wine in different regions of the U.S., the reason behind the success of his company, and his plans for the future.
Key points include:
*
The future of the wine industry
*
Changing perceptions in bottling and packaging
*
The terroir in Washington and California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 12, 2023
Episode 287. Vincent’s, Massachusetts
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Vincent’s, a modern American restaurant where they offer a two-page wine list that is carefully crafted and packs in some really unique bottles, natural wines, and a mix of Old and New World options.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Orto Vins Les Argiles Blanc, Spain
*
2019 Maitre De Chai, California
*
2021 Division Winemaking Company “Béton”, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 11, 2023
Episode 286. Sorellina, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sorellina. This Italian-inspired restaurant is invitingly warm and chic, and the wine list offers an excellent representation of wines from both the Old World and New World. Their wines-by-the-glass program offers a broad range of wines, including nearly 40 wines to taste from-sparkling, red, white, and dessert styles, and they provide a stand-out selection of Italian wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Cantina del Taburno Falanghina, Italy
*
2019 Luigi Giordano ‘Cavanna’ Barbaresco, Piedmont
*
2019 Ridge ‘Three Valleys’ Zinfandel from Sonoma County
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 10, 2023
Episode 285. Herb & Wood, San Diego
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to San Diego where they explore the wine list at Herb & Wood, a delightful Italian restaurant that focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and rustic, wood-fired dishes. The secret garden courtyard and indoor restaurant with vaulted ceilings make this location a dining destination in San Diego and one that will not disappoint diners.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Trimbach Grand Cru Geisberg Riesling, Alsace
*
2019 Keenan Upper Bowl Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Napa
*
2019 Tornatore Etna Bianco, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 7, 2023
Episode 284. The Morris, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Morris, a modest bistro that serves exceptional meals and offers a unique collection of wines and spirits from around the globe. The many reviews of this restaurant are testimony to the quality, and Grant ensures you make the most of the innovative cuisine by offering tasting notes on a wide variety of wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2001 Kalin Semillon from Livermore
*
2021 Sigalas Assyrtiko, Greece
*
2011 Allemand Syrah from Cornas, Northern Rhone
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 6, 2023
Episode 283. Chris Phelps - Ad Vivum, California
Robert Tas talks to Chris Phelps, winemaker and owner-operator of Ad Vivum in Napa Valley. Chris talks about his background in wine, how his son encouraged him to start making wine, and the origin story of Ad Vivum, but throughout this interesting conversation, one thing is clear: Chris has an immense passion for the land, the grape, and, of course, the magical alchemy that happens when you bring the grape through fruition, fermentation, and finally the wine.
Key points include:
*
How Chris began making wine
*
Chris’ philosophy on wine
*
Where the Californian wine industry is going
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 5, 2023
Episode 282. Krasi, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at the Greek restaurant Krasi. This comfortable, convivial restaurant is all about creating a welcoming space where people can gather to enjoy good food, good company, and good conversation. And what helps the conversation flow better than good wine? Krasi offers an incredible lineup of standout Greek varietals, natural wines, and orange wines. If you feel like a little adventure for your palate, this is the place for you.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Vassaltis, ‘Pet Nat’ Savatiano, Santorini
*
2017 Zafeirakis ‘Limniona’, Tyrnavos
*
2017 Douloufakis, ‘Amphora’ Vidiano, Crete
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 4, 2023
Episode 281. Elvie’s, Mississippi
Tina Johansson, WSET Diploma Graduate and Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at Elvie’s. The wine list offers bottles from America to Slovenia in Europe and includes wine from small wineries where they cultivate untraditional grape varieties. This is a place to expand and explore your knowledge of wine, and Tina is here to help identify key pairings, tasting notes, and those stand-out wines that will delight you and your guests.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Broc Cellars Wirth Vineyard Zinfandel, California
*
The Alpamanta Breva Rosé from Mendoza, Argentina
*
Minimus Dijon Free from Willamette Valley, Oregon
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Apr 3, 2023
Episode 280. Bavettes Park MGM, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the classic steakhouse Bavettes. The restaurant is an inviting, Parisien-styled brasserie complete with intimate lighting, making this an ideal romantic date-night spot. The wine list is a carefully curated choice of classic wines and steadfast favorites. Maria explores select bottles on the list, identifies tasting notes, and offers pairing suggestions.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 The DeLille Cellars "Chaleur Blanc", Washington
*
2012 Château Lynch Bages Echo de Lynch Bages, France
*
2019 Malbec, Susana Balbo, Mendoza, Argentina
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 31, 2023
Episode 279. The Federal, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at The Federal where white table elegance and an innovative “new American” cuisine with Italian and French influences ensure an enjoyable and memorable dining experience, but let’s not forget the wine. The extensive wine list features half bottles, magnums, stand-out value wines, and excellent dessert wines, and fortunately, Michaela is here to help point out the bottles that will pique your palate and tickle your taste buds.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Castello di Neive, Montebertotto, Arneis, Italy
*
2017 Robert Foley, The Griffin, Red Blend, Napa
*
2019 Domaine Christian Moreau 1er Cru Chablis Vaillons, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 30, 2023
Episode 278. Key Challenges Facing the Restaurant Industry
In a special edition of CorkRules, Robert Tas interviews Erika Polmar, Executive Director and one of the founders of the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC). She founded Plate and Pitchfork and has been a strong advocate in our industry, and Bobby Stuckey – a legend in the hospitality industry. He is a Master Sommelier who worked for the likes of Thomas Keller and has built his own hospitality group that includes the exceptional and renowned Frasca in Colorado.
If you have ever considered entering the restaurant industry either as an owner, entrepreneur or employee, this podcast explores how policies, COVID, agriculture, and public perception affects the industry, and how the industry affects all of the above.
Key points include:
*
How legislation impacts the restaurant industry unfairly
*
How the restaurant industry supports agriculture
*
How the supply chain issues have impacted the industry
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love,…
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Mar 29, 2023
Episode 277. Spago, Los Angeles
Maria Valetta, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Spago where they go through the 60-page menu to find a few select bottles for you to try. In addition to a stellar range of Rieslings, they offer a delicious range of chardonnays and white Bordeaux wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2006 Barolo Monfortino, Giacomo Conterno, Italy
*
2005 Château de Fonsalette, Cotes du Rhone
*
2015 Paul Lato Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 28, 2023
Episode 276. Coquette, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the French brasserie, Coquette. If you love the food of Southwest France and Spain’s Basque Country, this is the place for you. The combination of Galic influences and Boston’s fresh seafood are beautifully represented in the menu, and the wines served open the door to the brasserie’s playful and flirtatious energy.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Benedicte et Stephan Tissot Traminer, France
*
2019 Barbara Ohlzelt Zobinger Gruner Veltiner, Austria
*
2015 Olga Raffault Picasses Cabernet Franc, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 27, 2023
Episode 275. Spruce, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to San Fan where they review the wine list at Spruce. This restaurant serves California-inspired cuisine sourced from a private five-acre organic farm. The wine list is carefully curated and offers 3, 500 selections. Whether you are wondering which cocktail to choose, glass or bottle of wine, Grant shares his experience to help you make a wise and delicious decision.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Grüner Veltliner by Hiedler, Kamptal
*
2019 Ramey Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Napa
*
2016 Marienburg Falkenlay, Mosel
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 24, 2023
Episode 274. Bacchanalia, Georgia
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Bacchanalia, an award-winning restaurant that serves a four-course, seasonal, prix fixe menu. Sam shares a little background info on some of the wine producers, offers pairing suggestions, and stellar recommendations on both value wines and special occasion bottles.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 Pinot Noir from Day Wines in Oregon
*
2018 Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec
*
2014 Bollinger, Grande Année Brut
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 23, 2023
Episode 273. Prairie Whale, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the restaurant, Prairie Whale. Surrounded by circle of vegetable and livestock farmers, cheesemakers, and foragers these suppliers have helped build the Whale's reputation as a legitimate farm-to-table restaurant. This dedication to quality extends to the wine list where they offer a large selection of reds and whites, organic, and orange wines, and a special selection of natural wines from a small local importer.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Domaine de Souch, “Jurancon Sec”, France
*
2021 Marcel LaPierre “Morgon”, Beaujolais, France
*
2020 Franck Peillot, “Altesse”, Savoie, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 22, 2023
Episode 272. Carbone, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Carbone, a high-end Italian restaurant that retains the glamor of mid-20th-century Italian restaurants. The New York-inspired menu is complemented by a wine list that offers a stellar selection of wines from Italy, France, and, of course, California.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Lunae, Colli di Luni, Liguria Vermentino, Italy
*
2018 Barbaresco, Musso, Rio Sordo, Piedmont
*
2007 Fontodi, Flaccianello della Pieve, Tuscany
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 21, 2023
Episode 271. Market del Mar, San Diego
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head south to San Diego where they review the wine list at Market del Mar, an upscale restaurant that serves Californian fare with a local, seasonal focus and a great international wine list including a stellar mix of whites, reds, roses, and of course, bubbles to set your evening in the right direction.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2014 Vueve Fourny Première Cru Blanc de Blanc
*
2018 Hubert Meyer Pinot Gris, Alsace
*
2018 Emmerich Knoll Gruner Veltliner, Austria
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 20, 2023
Episode 270. Chez Panisse, California
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at the farm-to-table restaurant Chez Panisse. Alice Waters opened Chez Panisse fifty years ago as a place where friends and neighbors could gather together around the table, eat good food, and exchange ideas about politics, art, and culture, and, the reason we are here, enjoy exceptional wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Ramble Chenin Blanc, Buddha’s Dharma Vineyard, California
*
2021 Dom de Terrebrune, France
*
2014 Sky Zinfandel from Mt Veeder, Napa Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 17, 2023
Episode 269. Terra Eately, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Terra Eately, a unique restaurant inspired by earth and fire. The dining room centers around a wood-burning Italian grill, and they offer an extensive wine list with a superb collection of Italian wines.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 OTELO Lugana, Veneto, Italy
*
2019 Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore Vigneto di Tobia Col Di Corte, Italy
*
2019 Lenotti Bardolino Classico, Tuscany
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 16, 2023
Episode 268. Jane Lopes, Vignette: Stories of Life and Wine in 100 Bottles
Robert Tas interviews wine educator, sommelier, and author Jane Lopes about her new book, Vignette: Stories of Life and Wine. Jane talks about her journey from studying Renaissance literature to becoming a master sommelier and wine author. Jane recommends the 100 bottles of wine (and some spirits and beers) that are affordable, accessible, and will expand your wine journey. The book also gives a complete palate education of the important styles, grapes, regions, and flavors.
You can buy Jane’s book Vignette: Stories of Life and Wine in 100 Bottles on Amazon.
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 15, 2023
Episode 267. Little Donkey, Massachusetts
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Little Donkey, a global tapas restaurant by James Beard Award-Winning Chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette. Here, guests can enjoy a menu influenced by global cuisine and local market fare, providing the opportunity to sample food and wine from all over the world. Sam offers excellent advice on what to pair with select bottles of wine, and she offers a little background information on the wines, vines, and producers.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2016 COS “Cerasuolo di Vittoria", Sicily
*
2021 Meinklang Burgenland White, Austria
*
2020 “Petal” by Sonshine Vins, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 14, 2023
Episode 266. Et Voila, San Diego
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas enjoy a little joie de vivre at the French bistro Et Voila, voted the best French restaurant in San Diego in 2022. The menu is fresh, wholly French, and absolutely delightful, and of course, the wine list is spectacular.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2013 Echezeaux Grand Cru Marchand, Cote de Nuit
*
2015 Chateau Mouton, Graves, France
*
2018 Chimney Rock Stags Leap, Napa
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 13, 2023
Episode 265. Bar-a-Vin 1855, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the French bistro Bar-a-Vin. The wine list here is composed of more than 250 different varieties of French wine, not only from Bordeaux, but from across France, including well-known classics on the list. This restaurant is a tribute to French wine and casual cuisine, and Michaela is here to help find the hidden gems in the list.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Domaine St. Amant, Viognier, France
*
2018 Chateau du Seuil, Graves, Bordeaux
*
2020 Chateau Sainte Marguerite Grand Cru Clesse, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 10, 2023
Episode 264. Sprezzatura, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sprezzatura, a laid-back but wholly elegant Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown San Francisco. Grant kicks off with a review of their creative cocktail menu before moving on to bubbles that will delight your guest, and on to the wines to elevate your dining experience.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Ca’del Bosco Franciacorta, Lombardy
*
Frappatto by Valle Dell’acate, Sicilia
*
Rosato de Narello Mascalese by Graci, Mt. Etna
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 9, 2023
Episode 263. Skybar, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head to Las Vegas where they review the wine list at Skybar in the Waldorf Astoria. High above the Las Vegas Strip, the 23rd-floor SkyBar is the place to enjoy a superb selection of wine while enjoying the unforgettable views.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Lucien Crochet Sancerre, a sauvignon blanc, France
*
Chalk Hill Chardonnay, Sonoma County
*
Orin Swift “Eight Years in the Desert” Zinfandel, Napa Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 8, 2023
Episode 262. Porto, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the modern Mediterranean restaurant Porto. This restaurant has a lively bar scene and outdoor patio in Boston's Back Bay, the perfect location for a fun night out. In addition to a James Beard award-winning menu, Porto’s wine list consists of unique and classic varietals and Michaela is here to help find those special bottles and hidden gems.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Santo Winery, Assyrtiko from Santorini, Greece
*
2019 Castellare, Poggio alla Guardia, Tuscany
*
2020 Pacher Hoff, Muller Thurgau, from Varna, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 7, 2023
Episode 261. SF Giants, San Francisco
The San Francisco Giants are an American professional baseball team based in San Francisco. They compete in Major League Baseball as a member club of the National League West division and thousands of Giants fans attend their games to watch the sport, and now they can also enjoy a glass or two of top-quality wines while watching the game. That’s right, a wine list curated by master sommelier Evan Goldstein.
Topics discussed include:
*
Bringing wine into the sports arena
*
Top sports celebrities who have entered the wine business
*
Upcoming events
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 6, 2023
Episode.260. Craftsteak, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Craftsteak by top chef personality and James Beard Award-winning chef Tom Colicchio. Maria offers excellent pairing suggestions to tantalize your palate and, of course, points out the best bottles on the list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 William Févre, Champs Royaux, Chablis
* 2021 Four Graces Willamette Valley, Oregon
* 2017 Chateau de Pez , St. Estephe, Bordeaux
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 3, 2023
Episode 259. Primo, Maine
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Primo in Rockland, Maine. Primo serves a truly fresh and ever-changing menu, and since they source their produce from their own farm, you can’t get fresher than that. This is the ultimate farm-to-table experience and they offer a stellar wine list to match the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Chateau de Segries, Tavel, France
*
2019 Skouras Salto Moschofilero Wild Yeast, Greece
*
2014 Clau de Nell, Grolleau, Loire Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 2, 2023
Episode 258. Tutti Mangia, Los Angeles
Certified sommelier and wine educator Grace Hood and Robert Tas take a trip to Los Angeles where they review the wine list at Tutti Mangia an Italian chophouse. This Italian grill offers a delicately composed menu of Italian Cuisine with global influences. They have won many awards including Best Restaurant, Best Italian Restaurant, and a dozen Wine Spectator Awards, so you know this wine list is going to be full of beautiful bottles, and Grace is here to identify the best ones to try.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Summerland Vineyard, California
*
2017 Grgich Hills Cabernet, Napa Valley
*
2019 Montepulciano D’Abruzzo, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Mar 1, 2023
Episode 257. Madcap, California
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas review the wine list at Madcap, an upscale dining establishment in an intimate, casual setting with an urban feel. Chef Ron Siegel is the owner, operator and creator of a tasting menu of seasonal selections and the delicious wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2021 Nigl Zweitgelt Rose, Austria
*
2018 Gamba Vineyards Etrusca Velia, Red blend, Russian River Valley, California
*
2018 Château de Fosse-Sèche, Arcane, Saumur, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 28, 2023
Episode 256. Toscana, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas go downtown to Brentwood in West Los Angeles to review the wine list at Toscana. Toscana is a neighborhood trattoria that celebrates the rustic, authentic, farm-to-table flavors of Northern Italy, and they have a superb selection of Italian, French, and American wines to complement the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Jermann Friuli Pinot Grigio, Italy
*
2019 Paul Hobbs, Russian River Valley, California
*
2018 Brunello di Montalcino, Saldero
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 27, 2023
Episode 255. Damas, Montreal
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head north of the border to visit Montreal and the Syrian restaurant, Damas. Damas feels like a crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures; the atmosphere is inviting and exotic, and the wine list is both adventurous and traditional. Michaela guides us to the bottles that will deliver in quality, including a few Canadian wines.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Overnoy Cremant de Jura, France
*
2021 Grand Saint Charles, St Pepin, Quebec
*
2021 Domaine Neumeyer Blanc Tache
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 24, 2023
Episode 254. Terra, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Terra. Terra is a rooftop restaurant and lounge featuring a wood-burning Italian grill and views of the Hollywood Hills. Named for "earth" in Italian, Terra's menu is centered around the grill, and their wine menu is a fabulous selection of Italian wines. This is the place to explore Italian wines region by region. Who could complain about that?
Wines reviewed include:
*
2013 Dolcetto, Piedmont, Italy
*
2013 Brunello di Montalcino, Italy
*
Bollicinie Rose from Serafini and Vidotto, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 23, 2023
Episode 253. Stratus, Toronto
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas cross the border into Canada where they review the wine list at Stratus, a fine-dining restaurant that serves inspired Canadian cuisine that is a mix of new-world flavors and old-world classics, and their wine list is curated to pair well with their menu. Michaela reviews wines from both sides of the Atlantic, including Canada.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2018 Misty Cove Estate Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand
*
2017 Cave Spring, Indian Summer, Late Harvest Riesling, Niagara, Canada
*
2019 Claudia Ferrero “Pepita” from Tuscany, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 22, 2023
Episode 252. Bottega Louie, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head downtown to Botegga Louie, where it’s all about food. It’s a restaurant, gourmet market, patisserie and café, and they offer a well-rounded wine list to complement whatever takes your fancy; bubbles with breakfast, snacks and Sancerre, or Bordeaux and we’ll take one more bottle to go.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2019 Four Graces in the Willamette Valley, Oregon
*
2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Piancornello, Tuscany
*
2018 Elizabeth Spencer Special Cuvee, Napa
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 21, 2023
Episode 251. Waypoint, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review an interesting selection of wines at Waypoint, a restaurant with a unique and creative menu and a wine list that offers a few surprises in addition to those well-known and well-loved bottles. Michaela identifies pairing notes in a range of wines from Slovenia, stand-out Greek wines, and organic and biodynamic wines from Washington State.
Wines reviewed include:
*
2020 Enderle & Moll, Muller Thurgau, Germany
*
2020 Thymiopoulus “Young Vines” Xinomavro, Greece
*
2020 Krasno Malvasia Blend from the western edge of Slovenia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 20, 2023
Episode 250. Bardot Brasserie, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, wine educator, and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Bardot Brasserie, a lavishly elegant restaurant where, as Chef Michael Mina explains "Every detail of BARDOT Brasserie was designed to transport guests to a café along the Champs-Élysées in the 1920s. Maria recommends some bubbles by-the-glass if you’re feeling constrained, and by-the-bottle if you're all in, she also offers pairing suggestions and a little background info on producers.
Wines reviewed include:
*
Lucien Albrecht, Crémant De Alsace Rosé, Alsace, France
*
Cristom, Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
*
Greg Linn “Howling”, Syrah Arroyo Grande Valley, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 17, 2023
Episode 249. The Palm, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas bring a little Hollywood glamor to the airwaves with a review of the wine list at The Palm, a Beverly Hills hotspot. This is a place where people come to celebrate life and enjoy the good food and exceptional wines, and patrons have been enjoying this renowned location since the twenties and through the decades that followed.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Toscolo Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Italy
* 2020 Argyle Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon
* 2020 Renato Ratti Barbera d'Asti, Piedmont, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 16, 2023
Episode 248. Ostra, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the Mediterranean restaurant Ostra where they discuss some favorite regions and new varietals on the wine list. The menu at Ostra is Inspired by local and European varieties of seafood, and the extensive wine list features over 275 labels. The selection ranges from renowned wine regions across Europe and Napa Valley producers, and Michaela provides recommendations on the standout bottles, pairing suggestions, and tasting notes to ensure you choose the wine that elevates your dining experience.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Bodegas La Cana Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain
* 2019 Averaen Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon
* 2020 Vila Matilde ‘Rocca dei Leoni’ Falanghina, Campania
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 15, 2023
Episode 247. Bistro du Midi, Boston
Samantha Hohl, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas visit Bistro du Midi a classic bistro vibe with a lively bar and a menu that is seasonal and creative. The wine list offers selections from both the old and the new world but places a special emphasis on French wines.
Sam offers a few stellar suggestions to kick off your evening, value wines that won’t break the budget, and a special bottle for those who want to understand why wine from Bordeaux is celebrated.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Alphonse Mellot Les Romains, Sancerre
* 2019 Antidoto Ribera del Duero, Spain
* 2000 Grand-Puy-Lacoste Pauillac, Bourdeaux
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 14, 2023
Episode 246. Sushi Note, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the Sherman Oaks hot spot, Sushi Note. This restaurant offers not only carefully crafted cuisine but a carefully curated wine list that features a creative selection of wines from around the world, including the little-known wine region of Alsace.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Willakenzie from the Willamette Valley
* 2019 Christophe et Gils Gourchame Chablis, Burgundy
* 2015 Barolo from Curto, Piedmont, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 13, 2023
Episode 245. Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore a wonderful selection of wine at the Italian trattoria Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse, a small restaurant big on ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine. Their wine list has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, and features a number of standout selections which Michaela reviews and recommends Super Tuscans, little-known value wines, and a few special bottles for those who want to indulge in
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Sor Ugo, Ala Vecchia, Tuscany
* 2020 Pipoli, Vigneti del Vulture Blanc, Southern Italy
* 2017 Nails Margreid, Schiava, Alto Adige
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 10, 2023
Episode 244. Sustainable Luxury
Jane Anson joins Robert Tas today to talk about the future of wine and sustainability in the wine industry. Jane is a graduate of the DUAD tasting diploma with the Bordeaux Institute of Oenology and an accredited wine teacher at the Bordeaux Ecole du Vin. She has lived in Bordeaux since 2003; she has won several awards for her writing and is the author of Inside Bordeaux, and is the co-author or translator of over a dozen wine and travel books.
Key points include:
* The perception of luxury in wine
*
The next generation of wine consumers
*
New packaging for wine
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 9, 2023
Episode 243. Smitty’s Grill, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Smitty’s Grill in Pasadena where they serve all-American comfort food accompanied by a well-rounded wine list from their award-winning wine cellar which has been recognized by the esteemed Wine Spectator every year since they opened their doors. And Grace is here to identify those bottles on the list that are sure to impress your guests.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Kosta Browne, Russian River Valley
* 2018 Shae Vineyard from Sonria Vineyards, Willamette Valley
* 2016 Marchand Tawse, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 8, 2023
Episode 242. Brewster Fish House, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Cape Cod where they review the wine list at Brewster’s Fish House. This contemporary seafood restaurant provides a bistro-style menu that changes seasonally to reflect the freshest available fare. And more importantly, they offer a stand-out selection of Old World and New World wines to complement the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Decero, Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
* 2019 Markus Huber Grüner Veltliner, Austria
* 2019 Château de Pierreux Brouilly Beaujolais, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 7, 2023
Episode 241. Camille’s, Rhode Island
Sam Hohl, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas take a trip to Camille’s in Rhode Island. This classic Italian restaurant features a spectacular wine list (they won a Wine Spectators award in 2020) with beautiful bottles from Italy and renowned producers, including the largest organic estate in Tuscany.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2015 Col D’Orcia Brunello Di Montalcino Vigna Nastagio, Italy
* 2018 Zenato Lugana San Benedetto, Italy
* 2013 Gaja Barbaresco, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 6, 2023
Episode 240. Alcove, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Alcove a neighborhood restaurant situated on the waterfront at Boston’s Lovejoy Wharf and a great place to enjoy the sea view, sea air, and, of course, seafood and wine.
Michaela reviews a few stellar whites and reds from Spain, a must-try Beaujolais and a white Burgundy that pairs beautifully with the seafood on the menu, and she shares information on the different types of oak to help you make a more informed decision when choosing a bottle of chardonnay.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Domaine Guiberteau “Les Chapaudaises” Loire Valley
* 2021 Ameztoi “Rubentis” Txakolina, Spain
* 2020 Domaine de Colette, Regnie, France
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 3, 2023
Episode 239. Queensview Steakhouse, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Queensview Steakhouse in Long Beach. This chophouse offers a wine list with a diverse selection that’s earned Wine Spectator’s distinction Award of Excellence. Grace reviews whites from Italy and California, reds from renowned Californian producers, and of course, the baller bottles for a special occasion and budget-friendly must-try wines that won’t disappoint.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Scarpetta Pinot Grigio, Italy
* 2016 Louis Latour Gevrey Chambertin, France
* 2008 Cabernet Franc, Jonata, Santa Ynez
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 2, 2023
Episode 238. Julian Serrano, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier, also known as Maria The Wine Blonde, and Robert Tas try a little tapas in Las Vegas, but more importantly, they review the wine list at Julian Serrano at the Aria Casino and Resort. The wine list at this restaurant is mostly Spanish and hosts a delicious selection of wines. Maria offers expert opinions on malbecs, must-trys and value wines, in addition to offering the perfect pairing for paella.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Rías Baixas, Albariño, Leirana, Forjas del Salnes
* 2019 Ribera del Duero, Psi, Peter Sisseck
* 2013 Ribera del Duero, Valbuena #5, Bodegas Vega, Sicilia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Feb 1, 2023
Episode 237. Cecconi’s, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Ceconni’s in West Hollywood. This is a modern-day classic Italian restaurant that serves hand-made pasta, seafood and dishes from Italy using the finest ingredients. Their wine list offers a wide selection of Italian wines that range from wonderful finds in the value section to some nice special occasion bottles.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
* 2019 Gary Farrell Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley
* 2012 Veuve Clicquot Grande Dame Champagne
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 31, 2023
Episode 236. La Voile, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at the French brasserie, La Voile. The food is quintessentially French, and the wine list is a fine expression of the best French wines. Michaela chooses wines from a variety of French regions, including a stand-out Bourdeaux, a must-try Chateau Montus, and an exceptional blend for a celebration wine.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2016 Chateau Vieux Chaigneau, Lalande de Pomerol
* 2019 Domaine Tinel-Blondelet, Pouilly Fumé, Loire Valley
* 2021 Domaine le Freud Pinot Gris, Alsace
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 30, 2023
Episode 235. Via Sophia, Washington D.C.
Thomas Delasko, General Manager and Sommelier at EOS Hospitality and Robert Tas review the wine list at Via Sophia, a modern osteria in the heart of DC where patrons can enjoy Italian classics and a large selection of Italian wines in addition to wine from the best French growing regions and acclaimed Californian wines, too.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Surrau Vermentino, Italy
* Pommery "Cuvee Louise Brut Nature", France
* 2017 Marina Cvetic "Riserva"
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 27, 2023
Episode 234. Giada’s Restaurant, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas visit Giada’s Restaurant. Maria spots a few fabulous finds, offers pairing suggestions, and dives deep into the tasting notes and mouthfeel to help you find a wine you’ll love.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, Sonoma, California
* 2013 Three Sticks, The James, Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills
* 2017 Herman Story, Nuts and Bolts, Paso Robles
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 26, 2023
Episode 233. White Horse Tavern, Rhode Island
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit The White Horse Tavern. Originally opened in 1673, this colonial restaurant is committed to providing local, fresh produce, including artisan cheese, honey, prime cuts of beef and the highest quality chops and poultry from local farms. In addition to tasting notes and pairing suggestions, Michaela offers a little background information on the wine producers and locations of the wines reviewed.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Françoise Crochet, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France
* 2019 Oberon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California
* 2019 Château de Santenay, Meursault, Cote de Beaune, Burgundy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 25, 2023
Episode 232. Parker’s Lighthouse, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head to Long Beach where they review the wine list of Parker’s Lighthouse, a spectacular seafood restaurant and home to a two-story wine cellar. This establishment is the proud recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, so you know there are going to be some great bottles on the list, and Grace will help you find them.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Domaine Drouhin, Oregon
* 2016 Marques de Caceres Rioja, Spain
* 2019 Gaja Ca’ marcanda Promis, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 24, 2023
Episode 231. One White Street, NYC
Sam Hohl, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at One White Street located in Tribeca, New York City. This neighborhood restaurant serves seasonally-inspired dishes and exciting wines from Wine Director Tyler Potts' curated list. Sam reviews a few stellar bottles and offers pairing suggestions to enhance the wine and the cuisine.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Baily A, Grape Republic, Japan
* 2020 Chalmers Heathcote Greco, Australia
* 2019 Thalvin 'Syrocco,” Morocco
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 23, 2023
Episode 230. Il Cappriccio, Massachusetts
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas review the wine list at Il Cappriccio where they serve a northern Italian menu, featuring locally-sourced fish, meats, and produce, accompanied by an award-winning Italian wine and grappa list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2014 Roagna Rosso, Piedmont
* 2014 Bucci “Villa Bucci” Verdicchio Riserva, Castelli di Jesi
* 2017 Fèlsina 'Rancia' Chianti Classico Riserva, Tuscany
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 20, 2023
Episode 229. Patroon, NYC
Grace Hood, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas visit the American-fusion restaurant Patroon where guests can experience a modern menu of seasonal American favorites an exceptional wine list that displays a deep commitment to wine in a lively sophisticated atmosphere and unforgettable New York experience. In this episode, Grace recommends natural wines fermented from wild yeast, some spectacular whites, reds, roses and chardonnays for celebrating today and every day.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Lemelson Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley
* Gamay Noir, Barsotti Vineyard, California
* 2016 Domaine Leflaive Premier Cru Puligny Montrachet
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 19, 2023
Episode 228. Steak Frites, NYC
Certified sommelier and wine consultant Alexis Percival and Robert Tas chat about the wine list at Steak Frites, named after that French staple and international favorite meal that’s always enjoyable, just like the atmosphere at this comfortable and welcoming restaurant. Alexis curated the list here and offers expert advice on orange wines, sparkling wines, what to pair with select items on the menu, and which wines to explore for a steak dinner, for a special event, or just for fun.
Wines reviewed include:
* Domaine Collin, Crémant De Limoux Brut, Languedoc
* 2018 Beck-Hartweg, Gewürztraminer, Grand Cru Frankstein, Alsace
* 2020 Maison Loron, “Beau!,” Gamay, Beaujolais
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 18, 2023
Episode 227. Lyla Lila, Georgia
Sam Hohl, certified sommelier, joins Robert Tas to explore Lyla Lila’s wine list. Lyla Lila is located in Midtown Atlanta, and this southern European restaurant provides menus that evolve seasonally, reflecting local, fresh produce and seafood. Their carefully curated wine list champions winemakers and grape growers who farm their vines responsibly and craft their wines with little to no intervention. Sam identifies the best bottles on the list and offers pairing suggestions that ensure you enjoy an exceptional culinary experience.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Guastaferro, “Memini”, Campagnia
* 2018 Comando G Tumba del Rey Moro, Spain
* 2014 Ca’ del Vent Anima, Lombardy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 17, 2023
Episode 226. 22 Bowen, Rhode Island
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit 22 Bowen in Newport where they serve steak and fresh, local seafood in a classy nautical-themed dining room with waterfront views. This charming restaurant is defined by its casual elegance, indulgent food, classic drinks and warm, genuine hospitality, and did we mention the wine list? It’s a lively, ever-evolving list that includes both the traditional and trending wines.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 La Chapiniére, “Touraine”, Loire Valley
* 2019 La Posta, “Paulucci” Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina
* 2019 San Marzano, “F Rosso” Negroamaro, Puglia, Italy
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 16, 2023
Episode 225. Mon Ami Gabi, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier, also known as Maria The Wine Blonde, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Mon Ami Gabi, an expansive restaurant at the base of the Vegas Eiffel Tower in the Paris Hotel Casino. This restaurant feels and looks classically French. They serve authentic French cuisine and a wine list that offers more than 80 boutique French wines by the bottle or glass. Maria shares her expert recommendations on both wine notes and pairings.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Pinot Blanc, the Dopff & Irion
* 2018 Jacky Janodet Domaine, Les Fines Grave Moulin-a-vent Beaujolais Cru
* 2016 Peter Michael Mon Plaisir, Knights Valley Chardonnay
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 13, 2023
Episode 224. The Polo Lounge, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the legendary Polo Lounge inside the Beverly Hills Hotel. Grace kicks off the review with a few tantalizing cocktails before diving into the wine list where she discovers
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Chardonnay, Patz & Hall, Dutton Ranch, Russian River Valley
* 2019 Chardonnay, Domaine Laroche, Saint Martin Chablis, France
* 2017 Pinot Noir, Dierberg, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Santa Barbara County
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 12, 2023
Episode 223. Barcelona Wine Bar, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a look at Barcelona Wine Bar’s wine list. With locations across 11 states, this Spanish wine bar offers a next-level tapas experience. The cuisine is clean and rustic, the tapas are inspired by Mediterranean, Spanish, and South American influences, and nearly 400 wines are featured on the wine list. In fact, they have one of the largest Spanish wine programs in the United States and offer an extensive selection from Spain and South America. Hola! Let the wine pour while Michaela offers suggestions on what to drink and what to pair.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Cerro Chapeu, 1752 Gran Tradicion, Uruguay
* 2021 Alta Alella, Aus, Pét Nat, Catalunya, Spain
* 2019 Bodegas Cueva, Valencia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 11, 2023
Episode 222. Gordon Ramsey Steak, Las Vegas
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Gordon Ramsey Steak where they find cuts of prime beef aged to perfection under a program directed by the fiery, internationally-renowned chef and his culinary team. This is a posh Las Vegas steakhouse and it has a rather posh wine list to ensure perfect pairings and much enjoyment. Maria navigates the terrain and discovers the best bottles on the list, including little-known stellar sparkling wines, super zippy sauvignon blancs, and Californian mountain juice.
Wines reviewed include:
* Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Rose
* Smith & Sheth "Cru" Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ
* The Gargiulo Vineyards “G Major” 7 Oakville
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 10, 2023
Episode 221. Parkway Grill, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to the Parkway Grill where casual sophistication strikes a perfect balance creating a rustic chic space with an award-winning wine cellar, comprised of upwards of three thousand bottles, includes a broad selection of wines served by the glass. Luckily, Grace is on-hand to help identify the must-try bottles, the value wines, and the special occasion splurge wines.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2005 Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque, Champagne
* 2012 Brut Rose, Frank Family Vineyard, Napa
* 2016 Laurene Pinot Noir, Domaine Drouhin, Oregon
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 9, 2023
Episode 220. Spoke Wine Bar, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the Spoke Wine Bar where they focus on local by working closely with farmers, brewers, and winemakers to create a stellar, seasonally-focused menu that is designed for tasting and sharing, the perfect place to try new wine pairings. Michaela shares her expertise and offers suggestions and a little background knowledge to enhance the experience.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Bertrand et Axelle Machard de Gramont, Aligote, Burgundy
* 2019 Ochota Barrels, “Fugazi” Grenache, McLaren Vale, Australia
* 2019 Cacciagalli “Pelerosa” Aglianico Rose from Campania
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 6, 2023
Episode 219. Rich Table, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Rich Table. If you are looking for a restaurant where food is expertly prepared and served in a modern, friendly, casual and comfortable space, this is the place for you. And to take your dining experience to the next level, Grant offers recommendations and wine pairings.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Lady of the Sunshine “Chene Vineyard”, Edna Valley
* 2019 AD Beckham “Amphora”, Chehalem Mtns, Oregon
* 2018 Scribe “Atlas West” CS, Atlas Peak, Napa valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 5, 2023
Episode 218. Babbo Ristorante Enoteca, NYC
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Babbo Ristorante Enoteca, a restaurant aclaimed as an exuberant celebration of the best of italian food, wine, and lifestyle. The menu incorporates the best and freshest seasonal produce, Italian cheeses, meat, game, and seafood. And to pair with the delicious dishes, a wine list that represents one of the most extensive and intelligent collections in the city.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Tiberio
* 2018 Cesanese del Piglio Riserva, Lepanto Alberto Giacobbe
* 2015 Le Due Terre Sacrisassi, Friuli
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 4, 2023
Episode 217. Cote Miami, NYC
Tina Johansson, a Michelin restaurant sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Cote Miami a MICHELIN-starred and James Beard Award-nominated KOREAN STEAKHOUSE™where they navigate the wine list that hosts 1200 labels from around the world and places a big focus on wines from California and Burgundy.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Crozes-Hermitage, Domaine Combier
* 2000 Viña Tondonia Rosado, López de Heredia. Rioja
* Vouette Sorbée Blanc d’Argile, Champagne
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 3, 2023
Episode 216. Bungalow Kitchen, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at a Long Beach hotspot, Bungalow Kitchen by Michael Mina. This restaurant offers a welcoming vibe combined with great food and a bohemian design where guests can drop in for a bite, meet for lunch and stay for dinner and wine. The ethos here is live long, love life, and get together with good friends for good times.
Wines reviewed include:
* Rose Poe Vander Kamp, Sonoma
* 2013 Bond Quella, Napa
* 2017 Chinon Cabernet Franc, Le Rochete des Violettes, Loire Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Jan 2, 2023
Episode 215. Row 34, Boston
Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas demystify the wine list at Row 34, a casually elegant restaurant with deep seafood roots. A few of the wines Michaela recommends include bubbles from the Languedoc, bold wines that are must-try for red lovers, and the perfect whites to pair with seafood.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Soalheiro Primeiras, Vinhas, Alvarinho, Portugal
* 2019 Tetramythos Agiorgitiko, Greece
* 2019 Vincent Fournier Sancerre Blanc, Loire Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 31, 2022
Episode 214. Bin 26 Enoteca, Boston
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Bin 26 Enoteca, an Italian restaurant where one can find simple foods to accompany the wines served there. They offer an international wine list with over sixty wines by the glass and over two hundred wines by bottle. With a list this extensive, it’s a good thing Sam is here to offer recommendations and pairing suggestions.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Neuenberg Riesling Grand Cru from Peter Lauer
* 2020 Weingut Beurer Schwabischer LandweinTrocken
* 2020 Bernard Baudry Les Granges
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 30, 2022
Episode 213. The Progress, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the delicious wine list at The Progress, a restaurant defined by the chef proprietors as: A vehicle for a completely local production. Innovative banquet-style meals served with memorable wines. The greatest dinner party ever. In addition to identifying the best value and must-try bottles on the list, Grant shares a little background information on the producers.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Stumpf Pinceszet Kekfrankos, Hungary
* 2020 Maison des Ardoiseres Silice, Savoie
* 2015 Dagueneau Silex, Loire’s Pouilly-Fume
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 29, 2022
Episode 212. Carbon Beach Club Malibu, Miami
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier and Robert Tas visit the award-winning Carbon Beach Club, Malibu, Miami, located on the coast, this is the perfect place to sample some bubbles on the beach, watch the sunset and enjoy fresh seafood. Grace shares her expertise on the list, and points out the best bubbles, French and Italian wines and a few special bottles for cabernet lovers.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2013 Corton Clos du Roi Grand Cru
* 2013 Pinot Noir Rochioli Riverblock
* 2014 Veja Sicilia from Ribero Del Duero
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 28, 2022
Episode 211. Sportello, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Sportello, a casual, lively Italian spirit energy in a sleek, minimalist space. This restaurant is a modern interpretation of a diner where guests can enjoy a bowl of handmade pasta and a glass of wine from an approachable, artisanal wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Occhipinti il Frappato
* 2017 Viola Shiva
* 2019 Giornata Ramato
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 27, 2022
Episode 210. Miller Union, Atlanta
Sam Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head down to Georgia to review the wine list at Miller Union. Miller Union is an authentic, farmstead-inspired restaurant complete with a rustic, yet modern atmosphere and a guiding ethos of respect for the history of the land. Organic, seasonal, and local produce drive the menu, and they offer dynamic wine list that focuses on small producers with sustainable farming practices.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Luis Seabra ‘Xisto Cru’ Douro
* 2017 Domaine Grand’ Cour Gamay, Geneva
* 2019 ‘The Gadabout’ by Donkey and Goat, California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 26, 2022
Episode 209. Empress by Boon, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the Cantonese restaurant, Empress by Boon. Owner and operator Chef Ho is a Michelin-starred chef with over 36 years of experience at several of the world's most renowned Asian restaurants. In this restaurant, he combines traditional techniques with fresh ingredients from local purveyors to produce dishes that are both contemporary and with the essence of traditional Cantonese cuisine. Grant Wood offers suggestions on which wines to pair with Cantonese cuisine.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Rudi Pichler, Ried Achleiten, Smaragd, Wachau
* 2009 Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion, Pessac Leognan
* 2016 Royal Tokaji, Red Label, 5 Puttonyos, Hungary
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 23, 2022
Episode 208. Neranobh, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas put their wine minds together to review the wine list at Neranobh, an Italian-American restaurant in Beverly Hills where they serve delicious, exceptionally well-prepared food to pair with an exceptionally well-curated wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2014 San Salvatore Gio, Campania
* 2019 Greco from Cantine Ippolito
* 2019 Toscana Chardonnay, Isole and Olena
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 22, 2022
Episode 207. The Fox and the Knife, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas dive into a deliciously Italian-focused menu at The Fox and the Knife, a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves soul-satisfying Italian food in a warm, welcoming, high-energy atmosphere. It’s all about good food and good times here, and that includes the wine list. Michaela reviews their exceptional selection of Italian wines.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Le Battistelli Battistelli" Soave Classico, Veneto
* 2018 Cantina Lilliu, Cannonau, Sardinia
* 2019 Benanti, Etna Bianco, Carricante, Sicily
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 21, 2022
Episode 206. Materia, Connecticut
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Materia Ristorante, a beloved location that offers fresh and seasonal Italian cuisine, distinctive wines and European hospitality in a charming dining room. The focus here is "la Materia prima" so you know they use the finest, freshest ingredients.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Elvio Cogno Montegrilli
* 2018 Inama Foscarino Soave Classico
* 2017 Tua Rita “Per Sempre”
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 20, 2022
Episode 205. Baltaire, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Baltaire, an elegant steakhouse with a distinctive California vibe. The light and airy dining room, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and outdoor terrace provide an excellent location for sun-soaked lunches and elegant wining and dining. This is definitely a special occasion location. The wine list is 32-pages with a large selection of exceptional wines from California and France. Grace recommends a selection of fine wines and kicks off the review with some bubbles.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2004 Gosset Celebris Extra Brut
* 2018 Domaine Didier Dagueneau, "Pur Sang" Pouilly-Fumé
* 2013 Mathilde et Yves Gangloff
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 19, 2022
Episode 204. Foreign Cinema, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Foreign Cinema, a vibrant location that weaves food, wine, cocktails, film, and art gallery into one harmonious ambiance. It provides evolving menus in a sensual environment where guests can enjoy fabulous selections of wines, including Champagne and oysters on the half-shell.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2016 Dom Albert Boxler “Dudenstein” Sommerberg Riesling Grand Cru, Alsace
* 2018 Agostino Pavia & Figli, Grignolino d’Asti
* 2012 Padelletti Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 16, 2022
Episode 203. Dear Annie, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Dear Annie, a friendly restaurant with an ethical foundation. They offer a selection of fine and rare natural wines and focus on using sustainable foodways to ensure quality without compromising the environment. Sam identifies tasting notes, offers pairing suggestions, and shares a little background information on both the producers and production of the wines.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Honeymoon by Martha Stouman
* 2018 Collecapretta La Selezione Delle Cese
* 2019 Patrimonio Rouge “Cru Des Agriate”
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 15, 2022
Episode 202. GlenArbor, Massachusetts
Fernando Silva, artist, wine critic, and sommelier, joins Robert Tas to review the wine list at GlenArbor Golf Club. The dining room and grill room open on to traditional covered porches, taking advantage of sweeping views of the first and eighteenth fairways, and the wine list is as spectacular as the view. Fernando explains how he selects wine for the list in addition to offering suggestions on which bottles to pair with select dishes on the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
* Michel Rolland’s Val de Flores Malbec
* Chateau Palmer 2015
* Cherrier Sancerre, la Croix Poignant
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 14, 2022
Episode 201. Arroyo Chop House, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Arroyo Chop House in Pasadena. This restaurant offers the finest traditions of the classic American steakhouse and is a popular location for business dinners, special-occasion dining, and after-work handcrafted cocktails. In addition to a few stellar wine suggestions, Grace also explains why the barrel used in aging chardonnay makes a difference.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2011 Sea Spray Blanc de Noir
* Gran Moraine from the Willamette Valley
* 2016 Foxen from Santa Maria Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 13, 2022
Episode 200. Gary Danko, San Francisco
Grant Wood, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Gary Danko on San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. This Michelin-rated restaurant has also earned several James Beard Awards, and has earned its twelfth Five Diamond rating from AAA as well as a coveted Relais & Châteaux designation. The wine list is guaranteed to deliver some spectacular wines and Grant helps find the best bottles on the list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2016 Keller, Dalsheimer Hubacker, Rheinhessen
* 2017 Bedrock Wine Co. Papera Ranch, Russian River
* 1997 Niepoort, Colheita, Portugal
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 12, 2022
Episode 199. Osteria Delbianco, NYC
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Osteria Delbianco. Located in midtown, a stone’s throw from Manhattan’s fashionable shopping and theater districts, this is a charming Italian gem where you can enjoy authentic Italian fare in a comfortable setting. They also offer an extensive list of award-winning wines which Maria helps us navigate.
Wines reviewed include:
* The Jermann Pinot Grigio
* The Sella e Mosca Cannonau Riserva
* The Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 9, 2022
Episode 198. Boa, California
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas travel down Highway 1 to West Hollywood, where they visit the legendary steakhouse on Sunset Boulevard, Boa. They have an award-winning wine list and Grace is here to help us find the best bottles on the list, including a sparkling pinot from Oregon, killer chardonnays, and a few delicious value wines that don’t compromise on quality.
Wines reviewed include:
* Willamette Valley’s Soter Vineyard Brut Rose
* 2018 Groth from Napa Valley
* 2010 Barbaresco Sori San Lorenzo
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 8, 2022
Episode 197. Kokkari, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Kokkari, a restaurant that has all the old-world charm of a rustic Mediterranean country inn, but offers a quality wine list with traditional wines from Europe and California in addition to a few more wines from off the well-beaten track for the more adventurous oenophiles.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Troupis, Rose of Moschofilero, Arcadia, Greece
* 2019 Limerick Lane, Russian River Zinfandel
* 2018 Diamontakos, Xinomavro, Naoussa
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 7, 2022
Episode 196. La Lanterna, NYC
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas hit the popular Italian date-night spot La Lanterna to review the wine list and shine a light on the hidden gems and special bottles. This restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated selection of wines by the glass, half bottles and full-sized bottles, plus some good finds for after-dinner drinks, and Maria is here to help identify the best wines on the list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2013 Cantina Prà, Passito Bianco from Veneto, Italy
* 2010 Ornellaia, Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany
* 2018 The Coppi Guiscardo, Falanghina
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 6, 2022
Episode 195. Sportello, Boston
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Sportello, a casual, lively Italian spirit energy in a sleek, minimalist space. This restaurant is a modern interpretation of a diner where guests can enjoy a bowl of handmade pasta and a glass of wine from an approachable, artisanal wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Occhipinti il Frappato
* 2017 Viola Shiva
* 2019 Giornata Ramato
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 5, 2022
Episode 194. Chanticleer, Massachusetts
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Chanticleer in Nantucket. This seafood restaurant was originally opened as a small tea house at the turn of the century, and the New England culture informs the ambience. The Rose garden is a delightful place to spend a leisurely lunch. They offer an extensive wine list features some of the finest wines in the world.
Including fine French wines featuring a number of small producers. Michaela discovers a few hidden gems, a beautiful Burgundy, and a must-try from the Loire Valley.
Wines reviewed include:
* Naveran, Brut Rose, Cava from Catalonia, Spain
* 2018 Paul Garaudet Bourgogne Blanc
* 2019 Serge Laporte Cuvee MAGES Sauvignon Blanc
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 2, 2022
Episode 192. Fellow, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at Fellow, now known as Wolfsglen, is a modern American restaurant with an innovative, thoughtfully-sourced fine dining menu and wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Arterberry Maresh
* 2015 Chartogne-taillet Champagne
* 2017 Hitching Post, Santa Rita Hills
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Dec 1, 2022
Episode 191. Quince, San Francisco
Grant Wood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas point out the best bottles on the 67-page list at Quince. Quince has earned a a green star from Michelin for its efforts in sustainability and biodiversity, and the wine list offers a stellar selection of organic and biodynamic wines to try.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2018 Ansitz Dornach Pinot Bianco, Vigneti delle Dolomiti
* 2000 Jamek “Ried Klaus” Smaragd, Wachau
* 2018 Monteraponi, Colli Della Toscana
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 30, 2022
Episode 190. L’Artuzi, NYC
Maria Valetta, certified sommelier and wine educator, and Robert Tas talk Italian wines at L’Artusi, an Italian restaurant with a 2500-bottle walk-in wine cellar. Maria offers pro tips on what to pair with cheese, suggests a few intriguing wines produced from unique southern Italian grapes and introduces a few hard-to-find wines from a legendary producer in a biodynamic winery.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2015 “Eclisse“ La Roncaia
* 2013 “Albium,” Poggio dei Gorleri
* 2018 Conero Riserva “Sassi Neri,” Le Terrazze
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 29, 2022
Episode 189. Rowayton, Connecticut
Sam Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit the multi award-winning, family-owned and operated seafood restaurant, Rowayton Seafood. Seafood doesn’t get fresher than this, and the wine list offers old-world and new-world options with a range of price options to suit all budgets. Michaela shares her expert opinion on a few whites, a naturally sparkling rose, and a pinot noir to pair with fish.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2020 Willamette Valley Vineyards White Pinot Noir
* 2018 Borgogno Riesling
* 2020 Lioco Pinot Noir, Mendocino, County California
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 28, 2022
Episode 188: The Nautilus, Boston
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at The Nautilus. This is a New England restaurant with a coastal/seafood base, but it also adds an international flavor to the menu with sharable seafood plates inspired by Latin, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisine. Nautilus offers wines from around the world, and Michaela shares her top choices from the wine list.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2021 Southern Right Sauvignon Blanc, Walker Bay, South Africa
* 2014 Clos de l'Elu, Cabernet Franc, Loire Valley
* 2020 Savage Grace, 'Blanc de Franc,' Yakima Valley, Washington.
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 25, 2022
Episode 185: Fia Steak, Los Angeles
Episode 184: Fia Steak, LA
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas head south to Santa Monica where they review the wine list at Fia Steak. This wine list complements a menu of steakhouse classics, featuring the finest U.S. cuts of beef sourced from local farms, as well as handmade pastas, and fresh fish, and did we mention they offer some of the world’s best bubbles? Grace reviews a few bottles of bubbles, wines from the Mediterranean coast, and an old-world pinot favorite.
Wines reviews include:
* 2017 Garofoli Verdicchio, Italy
* 2020 Paul Pernot Puligny Montrachet
* 2017 Bergstrom Cumberland Reserve from the Willamette Valley
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 24, 2022
Episode 184: Cafe Champagne, Seattle
Robert Tas and Whitney Grant, wine educator and certified sommelier, visit the well-known and loved Cafe Champagne in Pike Place market, a charming Parisien-style cafe complete with a traditional menu and a wine list that offers thirty wines by the glass. The wines chosen for the Café are bistro-like: forward, simple, delicious wines from smaller appellations off the beaten path.
Wines reviews include:
* Nv Crémant De Savoie
* 2019 Sancerre - Sancerre AOC
* 2011 Saint-Julien Château Gloria
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 23, 2022
Episode 183: Empire Steak House, NYC
Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas dive into a fabulous wine list at Empire Steak House where they identify the best reds to pair with red meat dishes.
The Empire Steak House is known for serving the finest cuts of meat, a delicious menu of seafood, and of course, the reason we’re here, a premium wine list. Sam points out a few robust reds, and explains what they pair well with and why. She also reviews wine from a small-batch wine made with sustainable practices, and an exceptional bottle for a celebration.
Wines reviews include:
* 2015 Kir-Yianni Ramnista
* Orogeny Russian River Valley Chardonnay
* 2019 Bedell North Fork Cab Franc
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 22, 2022
Episode 182: Chillingsworth, Massachussettes
Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to the east coast where they review the wine list at Chillingsworth, a fine dining bistro in Brewster. Michaela points out a few scrumptious whites to pair with seafood dishes, reds that put Oregon on the map for pinot noir, and a vintage bottle that would make any special occasion exceptionally memorable.
Wines reviews include:
* 2019 Ladoucette Pouilly Fume from the Loire Valley
* 2019 Hugel Gewürztraminer from Alsace
* 2012 Chateau D’Issan, Blason D’Issan Margaux
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 21, 2022
Episode 181: Lavo, NYC
Maria Valetta, wine educator & certified sommelier, also known as MARIA the Wine Blonde, joins Robert Tas to navigate the wine list at Lavo. Lavo is an Italian restaurant and nightclub in Midtown Manhattan that is all about good food, good wine, and good times. Maria takes some time to find the wines on the list that complement both the menu and the occasion, including champagne from the world’s oldest champagne house.
Wines reviewed include:
* Ca’ del Bosco from Lombardia, Italy
* 2016 Barbera d’Alba, Prunotto ‘Pian Romualdo’
* 2020 Château Minuty, ‘M’, from the Côtes de Provence
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 19, 2022
Episode 180. Daniel Posner, Grapes the Wine Company
Daniel Posner, owner of Grapes the Wine Company, joins Robert Tas for a special episode of CorkRules. Daniel has been a wine consultant, with clients from all over the globe. He travels extensively each year to wine regions to meet with producers, winemakers, winery owners, and to help procure the wines for his store. Daniel’s expertise in wine goes far beyond the usual wine store owner’s knowledge, and in this episode, he shares his expertise to help you choose wine for the holiday season.
Daniel's Holiday Recommendations:
Pinot Noir
Samuel Louis Smith
SCMV
Evesham Wood
Boedecker
Gerard Seguin
Jean Vaudoisey
Sparkling
Pierre Peters
Tarlant
Charles Heidsieck
Louis Roederer
Domaine Carneros
Domaine Chandon
Cava
Cremant de Bourgogne
Bourbon
Second Glance
Barrell Bourbon
New Riff
Pinhook
Bowman
Old Forester
Scotch
Macallan 12
Compass Box
Glenfiddich
Glenrothes
Tequila
Clase Azul
Reserva de la Familia
Dobel
Fortaleza
Mezcal…
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Nov 18, 2022
Episode 179: Le Grand, Los Angeles
Grace Hood, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas go downtown LA to visit the hotspot Le Grand. This restaurant is a venue for live music, a vibrant scene, and Le Grand Party complete with a resident DJ and exotic dancers. To complete the scene, they also have a jamming wine cellar stocked with old and new world wines.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2019 Ori Marani Exile on Caucasus
* 2019 Villa Mosavali Mtsvane
* 2005 Dom Perignon Brut Rose
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 17, 2022
Episode 178: Boia De, Miami
Cecilia Bonet, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Boia De, an Italian restaurant that has recently earned a Michelin Star. In addition to identifying the tasting notes on some stellar wines, Cecilia offers pairing suggestions and a little background information on the producers of the wine she highlights in today’s episode.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Poulsard & Pinot Noir, Joseph Dorbon, Les Bernardines, France
* 2010 Garnacha & Tempranillo, Lopez de Heredia, Rosado Rioja, Spain
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 16, 2022
Episode 177: Pane e Bene, Connecticut
Sam Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas join forces to demystify the wine list at Pane e Bene, an Italian restaurant with a great atmosphere and the host of the annual Truffle Fest. This place is all about great food and good times, and the wine list is curated to add to the experience. In addition to identifying the best wines to try, Sam offers excellent pairing suggestions with items on the menu.
Wines reviewed include:
* 2017 Tignanello Antinori
* 2017 Cannonau Nuraghe Cabrioni
* 2018 Ornellaia La Grazia
For more information on today’s episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.
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Nov 15, 2022