It’s time for another edition of Wine WTFs! In this series we explore wine terms and ideas and try to figure out what the fuss is all about. Last time we figured wtf structure is all about.
This time around we learn about a term that gives you no help learning what it is. It sounds stodgy and snobby, exactly aspects of the wine world I try to avoid.
Still, once you know (or, better yet, taste) what this term means it’s hard not to fall in love.
Seriously, wtf does ‘traditional method’ mean?
I try not to get too political here (I tend to save that pleasure for in-person hangouts) but the Ontario provincial government has been making waves in the craft beer world this week and I thought you should know about it.
This fall, recreational cannabis will become legal in Canada (medical cannabis has been legal since 2001). When I first learned about recreational cannabis becoming legal I thought of all the potheads I’ve known over the years and how happy they’ll be to bring their bongs out from the backs of their closets. Finally they can stop hiding their habit!
As I learned more about legalization I realized that there are way more people interested in it than I originally thought. From edibles to topicals to cannabis for wellness and stress relief, recreational cannabis has the potential to disrupt a bunch of industries – including beer and wine.
I pride myself on my ability to adapt. To be able to appreciate everything, even when it comes to beer.
I’ve trained my palate to enjoy wine, olives, coffee, even super-hoppy IPAs. But I just can’t get my palate to like sours! And believe me, I’ve tried. I’m like Charlie Brown and the freaking football with sour beers, only sour beers are Lucy and my enjoyment is the elusive ball.
So, while other cool kids are diving right into this latest beer trend, I sit sadly on the sidelines, waiting for another fad to come along. Sigh.
It’s time for another edition of Wine WTFs! In this series we’ll explore wine terms and ideas and try to figure out what the fuss is all about. Last time we discovered wtf the deal is with sweetness in wine.
This time around we tackle a concept that has confounded many, including myself, at one time or another. It’s a weird word for the wine world. It feels like it fits better in relation to sculpture or architecture.
Seriously, wtf is structure?
Every year when summer rolls around my love of a good cocktail is rekindled.
Liquor and cocktails aren’t normally my thing. It’s not my preferred liquid to liquor ratio, it hits me harder, and for a long time buying it felt cost-prohibitive. But still, every summer I enjoy a handful of caesars and the occasional gin and tonic.
As my passion for all beverages alcoholic deepens it’s also expanded to include some of the more peripheral cocktail necessities. Bitters, vermouth, maraschino cherries – they’ve all caught my interest.
Then, last week, a friend asked me a question that stumped me.
“What’s the difference between club soda and tonic water?”
I couldn’t answer him. But now I can.
I never knew about the importance of having a local pub until I spent a semester abroad in London England.
I’d spent lots of time in bars and pubs by then but it was during those four months that I experienced the transformative power of returning to the same place again and again.
I’ve spoken to many people over the past year about my adventures learning with WSET, the Wine Spirit and Education Trust. I’ve also shared my journey in posts here and there, but not all in one go – that changes now.
As we head into our first summer long weekend I wanted to bring you a post filled with lots of things to read. I’m spending this long weekend at the cottage and with family and just before I close my laptop and truly turn off I leave you with a round-up of posts about all things WSET.
Enjoy!
Palate Practice - tasting with intention