Monthly Archives: October 2010

How can a Wine made from a Grape Taste like a Peach?

Posted on October 29, 2010 by Merrill

This is such a frequently asked question. Most people assume that the winery has added some flavor extracts to achieve those flavors. Though there are some inexpensive wines that do add fruit flavors, these wines are called formula wines and the extra ingredients … Continue reading →

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Solera – What is a Cream Sherry?

Posted on October 27, 2010 by Merrill

Solera is the process of aging wine by a fractional blending in such a way that the finished product is a mixture of ages, with the average age gradually increasing as the process continues over many years. A solera is … Continue reading →

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Indian Summer and the Art of Vegetarian

Posted on October 25, 2010 by Merrill

Vegetables are the new health food. When I was a kid, the adults used Popeye the Sailor man to get me to eat spinach. It worked. I love spinach! Not only do I love spinach but I have a tendency toward vegetarianism. Fruits and vegetables … Continue reading →

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October Hotel Deal at The Villa Bed & Breakfast

Posted on October 22, 2010 by Merrill

Come stay at the Villa on any weekday (Sunday-Thursday) in the month of October and book our “October Hot Deal.”  Get this great deal for only $165 per night plus tax! This great deal includes a one night stay with … Continue reading →

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Understanding the Vine

Posted on October 20, 2010 by Merrill

A vine is known as Vitis, meaning the grape plants or trailing plant. In the North American English, grapevine is referred to as grape-bearing Vitis species while British English uses the term climber. There are many different species of vines … Continue reading →

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Are there any foods that when paired together with wine can be disastrous?

Posted on October 18, 2010 by Merrill

Every food can be paired with some wine. It is just finding the proper wine for the food. Some foods are very challenging. Foods that are high in acid or have strong raw flavors can be most challenging to wine. Artichokes, sauerkraut, habanera … Continue reading →

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Our Wine Bar

Posted on October 15, 2010 by Merrill

Looking for that cozy place to have a glass of wine and watch the sunset?  Come by the Winemaster’s Wine Bar at Messina Hof. Our newly furnished wine bar is a great place to bring a group of friends to enjoy … Continue reading →

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What does Varietal mean?

Posted on October 13, 2010 by Merrill

Varietal describes wines made primarily from a single named grape variety, referring to the wine produced by a variety. By law, the varietal must have at least 75% of that grape. For example, A Texas bottle of wine labeled Zinfandel … Continue reading →

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What Wine Goes with Burritos?

Posted on October 11, 2010 by Merrill

Tex-Mex is a staple for me. I love great salsa’s and the flavor combinations of tomatoes, avocadoes, black beans, and peppers. Though the hot dishes do not sit well with me, the great thing about Tex-Mex is that the other individual flavors … Continue reading →

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Halloween has come to Messina Hof

Posted on October 8, 2010 by Merrill

Halloween has come to Messina Hof Winery and Resort. We have frightfully fascinating activities for you and your friends to participate in this ghoulish season. Beginning on October 15th and every Friday after until All Hallows Eve we have Trick or Treat … Continue reading →

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