Place—what is sometimes called “somewhereness”—is an ancient, central concept in wine. An onion is an onion wherever it grows, but great wine has a “place print,” as unique as a fingerprint. Yet place is also a frustratingly unknowable aspect of wine. Does it help us when a winemaker says of her wine that it tastes “of its place?” My Blog this week tackles the conundrum. Our Wine to Know is a stunning Chinon that’s wild and savory. If you love Cabernet Franc, this is a must try. It’s still summer out there, and WineSpeed readers know I love Sauvignon Blanc for all its cooling “good green” flavors. This week’s Steal is a perfect example. Don’t miss our Back-to-School Special (see Exceptional Opportunities). And finally the Numbers. One of which is heartbreaking for Bordeaux. And the other proves you cannot eat your cake and have it too.
—(Impatiently) awaiting fall, Karen
