The Second Glass

I returned to the Boston late on Saturday night after an eight day stint in London, Paris and Champagne. Although I say this everytime that I go on vacation, I seriously want to move. However, until the almighty greenback regains some of its luster, I am thrilled to be, in the words of the illustrious Chuck Berry, living in the U.S.A.

Here are some of the highlights:

Favotire Parisian Pour: Bourgueil. One of the many lovely things about France is that no matter how divey the bar, there is delicious wine to be had. However, it pays have a little knowedge of the coutry’s AOC system before you order up: bottles are labelled according to their region not the varietals used in the blend. One of the more obscure appellations is Bourgueil, a Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley. Soft, lush, light and spicy, its velvety goodness goes down smooth on its own or with whatever artery clogging treat your inebriated heart desires: pates, cheese plates and steak tartare are perfect pairings.

Favorite Vineyard: Domaine Agrapart. Although, truth be told, it was my only vineyard visit while I was in Champagne, it was wonderful nonetheless. This family run winery forms a stark contrast to the Salenstein Bodega as described by Jessie and Morgan: the wife of one of the Brothers Agrapart, tasted us on the vineyards various offerings, the bottles are corked by hand, and the grapes are pressed and aged in the garage! My favorite was the “Venus” Blend: named after the horse that tills the vineyards, this 100% Chardonnay offering receives no residual sugar in its secondary fermentation. The result is a lightning bolt of acidity followed by a beautifully chalky balance, well worth another visit.

Newest Role Model: Alison Vollenweider, Sommelier at Les Caves de Taillevent. Although it was a toss-up between the aforementioned Vollenweider and my designer cousin Antonia, whose work was featured on the British version of “The Apprentice,” I decided that Allison’s experience was more relevent to the blog.

This woman is living the dream: An American working in Paris at one of the most incredible wine shops in the world. Check out her blog for a better idea of the fun.

Favorite City Block: Vinopolis. Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Tate Modern along London’s South Bank, this spot is like Disneyland for wine nerds: three restaurants, a wine bar, a retail space and, naturally, several spaces for wine tastings, all of which are available for rental. They even offer a blog for advice on how to host the perfect tasting. I would have sprang for the Absinthe tasting but as I was along with an Uncle we chose a more sedate glass of wine at the Wharf Bar. Ah well - something to look forward to the next time around.