Manoavino Taste!

Brotherhood, Oldest American Winery, Celebrates 175 Years

Yes Thomas Jefferson may have made wine in America earlier than 1839, but the oldest operating winery, one that has survived Prohibition and many other challenges, is Brotherhood, right here in our own Hudson Valley, New York State.

The Wine: New York State, Hudson Valley, a Tasting of 12 by Brotherhood Winery

The Food: That was later, although there is a great restaurant here, Vinum.

The Place: Brotherhood Winery, founded in 1839 by Jean Jaque, a French Huguenot emigre, Washingtonville, Hudson Valley, NY

Loca Linda, Jolie Folle, Yes We Think So!

At our second tasting of these fun wines, we asked our friends two questions. The answer to both was yes!

The Wine:  Three by Sommelier and New New World Winemaker, Brian Smith, a Malbec, a Torrontes and a Cotes de Provence Rose.

The Food: Classic American from the great kitchen of Neptune Market, Harvey Cedars, NJ.

The Place: Our Friend's, Gail and Marc, Beach House, Lane 89, Loveladies NJ.

Magical Night - Beautiful Wine - Cantina Roccafiore 'Fiorfiore'

I think the two most joyous moments of a winemakers year, are the first taste from the barrel, when she or he knows the vintage is just right, and then as they behold their wine being enjoyed by people like you and me. On this night the winemakers of Cantina Roccafiore would have been very very joyous.

The Wine: Roccafiore Grechetto di Todi 'Fiorfiore' from Umbria

The Food: A Sea and Farm to Table Feast

The Place: Our Backyard by Candlelight

Ruby Red Grapefruit Negroni

Made with the best booze and fresh squeezed juice, these beauties are a variation of Negroni that is positively addictive. Here’s my recipe.