Category Archives: Wine + Food

Wine Country Comer: Paso Robles

Posted on December 30, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Kathryn Matthews Reminiscing about 2011’s favorite epicurean discoveries, Christopher and I championed our respective “Best …” lists.  One thing we could easily agree upon: how much we enjoyed discovering Paso Robles wine country… 

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An “Explosive” German Riesling

Posted on December 26, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews My wine tastes and affinities are wide-ranging.  But one constant staple at our table is Riesling. In particular German Riesling, which remains the benchmark for most Riesling styles — and quality — for what has become a truly international grape. It’s also … Continue reading →

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A Hot Posse of Paso Whites

Posted on November 4, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Paso Robles, located halfway between San Francisco and LA along California’s Central Coast, is a happening place…right now!

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Pinot Pleasure…in Germany

Posted on October 13, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Quick: name a German wine. Bet it’s a Riesling. And not for nothing: Germany is by far the world’s biggest producer of the noble grape, as well as the international benchmark for Riesling styles and excellence — from delicate, shimmering off-dry Kabinetts, to … Continue reading →

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Serious Spanish Wine Value: Toro’s Bodegas Fariña

Posted on June 10, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews For wine lovers seeking value, Toro, a historical and up-and-coming wine region in north-central Spain — traditionally known for its brawny reds — is well worth getting to know. And among Toro’s wineries, Bodegas Fariña is a flagship producer, turning out exceptional wines at … Continue reading →

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Chinon and Ramps? Mais Oui

Posted on May 2, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Before the ramp season completely plays out for 2011, here’s one more ramp-related post, this one on a noteworthy food-wine pairing. As a pungent spring green, ramps are often labelled, like asparagus and artichokes, as tricky to pair with wines. The stock solution … Continue reading →

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Croft Pink Port Proves Prescient

Posted on August 5, 2010 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews I had cynical thoughts after hearing about the release of a rosé Port last year. “Pink” Port? Another Johnny-come-lately attempt to cash in on the rising rosé tide hitting these shores in recent years, I speculated. Nevertheless, … Continue reading →

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Just Desserts (on Martha Stewart Radio)

Posted on July 28, 2010 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Occasionally I “appear” as guest on Martha Stewart Radio’s show, Living Today, hosted by Mario Bosquez (part of the Sirius Satellite Radio network). Every Wednesday, the show features a wine segment (“Winesday) at 3:30 pm, when an invited wine expert brings in a few wines geared … Continue reading →

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