Gourmet-Alcohol

Italy’s premier sparkling wine region has become a leader on the world stage. Nestled in the province of Brescia, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, Franciacorta has a rich history dating back centuries, but its modern rise as a world-class wine region began in the 1960s. At that time, the region’s potential was apparent, but its path to greatness was yet to be fully paved. According to Silvano Brescianini, President of the Consorzio Franciacorta , the region’s journey toward excellence required a focused and forward-thinking approach. “We understood the potential, but we needed to build the foundation to achieve this,” Brescianini reflects. It was in 1997 that Franciacorta made a pivotal move by redefining its production regulations, lowering yields, extending aging periods and investing in new technologies. This transformation laid the foundation for Franciacorta’s commitment to quality, a commitment that has been unyielding over the past three decades. Today, Franciacorta...

Mendocino, ‘California’s greenest AVA,’ accounts for one-third of the organically farmed vineyard acreage in the state. With increasing wine quality and more widespread availability, the region is setting a model for sustainable growth. In very few places can you find both the level of quality coupled with accessibility that you’ll discover here. In even fewer can you sip wine against the backdrop of a redwood forest whilst simultaneously breathing in fresh ocean air. Add in the level of commitment to preserving this singular place for future generations and there is no place quite like Mendocino , the wine region reputed as California’s greenest AVA. And facts are facts: 25% of Mendocino’s planted acreages are certified organic—increasingly regenerative organic—and are responsible for one-third of the organic acres in the entire state. “Those of us who live here know what a special place this is,” says Elizabeth Archer, communications manager at Bonterra Organic Estates and market...

Do you believe in ghosts? If the answer is no, these wine-soaked stories might change your mind. In this episode, we explore spooky tales from some of wine country’s most well-loved destinations. First, we take a trip to Trefethen Family Vineyards in California’s Napa Valley, where mother and son duo Janet and Lorenzo Trefethen share the backstory of their winery’s haunted grounds. Next, we travel to Miles Wine Cellars in New York’s Finger Lakes region, where owner Susan Hayes recollects some of her most memorable yet friendly encounters with visitors from the afterlife. Lastly, we visit Belvoir Winery in Missouri, home to its own population of “boos” and booze. Imagine pairing your next tasting with paranormal activity—it’s harder to find a more comprehensive multisensory experience than that.  Still not convinced? Get cozy, pour yourself a glass and kick back to listen in on this week’s Halloween edition of the Wine Enthusiast Podcast.  More Halloween Coverage...

This creamy Mushroom Casserole is an  impressive side dish  to any meal! It’s loaded with  tender mushrooms  mixed in a  cheesy decadent sauce , then baked with a panko herb topping. Reasons to LOVE This Casserole Rich and Creamy: The creamy richness of this decadent casserole is unmatched! Cream cheese, sour cream, and parmesan cheese are always a winning combination. Loaded With Mushrooms: Calling all mushroom lovers! The texture and flavor of the mushrooms in this casserole will blow everyone’s minds! Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish: Serve this side dish for holidays or to impress your dinner guests. Everyone goes back for seconds! Ingredients to Make Mushroom Casserole With a few pantry ingredients and lots of mushrooms, this mushroom casserole comes together in one pan and bakes together in a casserole dish. The panko topping is the perfect finishing touch to this recipe! Baby Bella Mushrooms: Yes, 2 pounds! It seems like a lot, but they cook d...