Stirling Fine Wines

Interested in Wine? Check Out These Helpful Links!

If you’re interested in learning about wine from all over the world or giving wine as a gift, check out these helpful links. To purchase fine wines and spirits, visit Stirling Fine Wine’s online store or call us at (908) 649-0084.

• Learn about the individual wine regions and why they’re famous at Tree.com

• If you’re clueless about wine, this article from the Chicago Tribune can help.

• Check out this detailed map of wine regions from Wine Spectator magazine.

• Giving wine as a gift is a great idea during the holiday season!

• The history of wine is a great conversation starter for holiday parties.

A Look at the Wine Making Hubs of the World

Many cultures have played a significant role in the history of wine production. Grapes were first cultivated in the Fertile Crescent in the Middle East, Romans perfected airtight containers, and the Celts were the first to use oak barrels that allowed wine to breathe. Until the 20th century, wine was almost exclusively European. Today, even though a large percentage of wines are of European origin, wine is made all over the world.

• France produces some of the most famous wines in the world. Since French wine is classified as an Old World wine, its varieties are named for their regions. France boasts the much-loved Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne wines, just to name a few. France is also the number-one producer of wine in the world.
• Spain is another of the major Old World wine producers. Spain is probably most famous for the fortified wine, sherry. The Spanish brought grapes to the New World, which would spread the production of wine across the ocean.
• Germany is second only to France in the production of wine. Their most famous wines are whites, most notably Riesling. Germany also crafts some of the world’s finest dessert wines.
• In the United States, California is the premier wine producer. Californian wines use very robust, high-quality grapes. The most popular wine that comes from this region is the zinfandel.
• Chile is the wine producing hub of South America. Wine made in Chile may actually be from the same lineage originally brought over the ocean by the Spanish. This lineage no longer exists in Europe, so Chilean wines are perhaps the most historic.
• China has been producing wine since the 16th century and their high-quality approach has been gaining favor in recent years. China, for example, produces some very well aged Chardonnay.

If you’re interested in sampling wine from all over the world, visit Stirling Fine Wines online. Our wine store ships to most states, so give us a call at (908) 649-0084.

What to Consider When Buying Wine as a Gift

A bottle of wine is one of the most classic gifts, and the holiday season is the perfect time of year for wine gifting. The wine business rakes in almost 20% of its profits between the start of November to just after the New Year. With so many types of wine to choose from and so many loved ones to shop for, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Consider these tips when buying wine as a gift:

• Being clueless about wine doesn’t mean you can’t give it as a gift. Ask a clerk at a local wine store for help. A good wine shop can be counted on for advice—if your gift is a success then you are more likely to return. Offer as many details as possible, including price range and the gift recipient’s preference for white or red wine.
• You can still give a quality gift of wine even if you’re on a budget. Try to avoid wine from major manufacturers. Look for something more interesting or novel. Ask the clerk for suggestions on cheese or chocolate pairings and include a small card with these tips attached to the gift. Champagnes and sparkling wines can be cheaper options for special occasions as well.
• Sometimes the size of the bottle can be a deciding factor. A full bottle of dessert wine could take years to get through, so try gifting it by the half bottle. On the other hand, something in a larger format could be more appropriate for wine lovers or loved ones who host large parties. Some wine stores carry magnum-sized bottles while others can have them shipped straight from the distilleries.

Stirling Fine Wines offers an incredible selection and wine shipping from our online store. If you’re in the Stirling, New Jersey or NYC area, call (908) 649-0084 to place an order or stop by today.

Become an Expert: Wine Tasting with a Sommelier

You don’t have to visit the finest restaurants the enjoy recommendations from an experienced sommelier. In this video, sommelier Carola Price explores the proper way to taste wine. It’s important to use specific methods when tasting wine in order to enjoy every note the wine has to offer.

First, swirl the wine in the glass to release its aroma. Then, sniff to gauge the acidity, alcohol content, and fruitiness. Next, take a small sip and swish it around your mouth. After you swallow, exhale slowly to bring the taste and smell back through your mouth. What you are looking for is the balance of the fruit and acid, as well as alcohol. Once you get to know the nuances of wine tasting, you can further research which other wines achieve the same balance of flavors.

For the finest wines, visit Stirling Fine Wine’s online store or call (908) 649-0084 today. Our experts will help you find the perfect wine.

Seasonal Wine Guide: Three Wine Selections for Fall

As cold weather arrives across the nation, people are looking to bold fall wines to accompany the changing seasons. Robust red wines go well with the hearty fall foods you will be eating. Pair a bold Cabernet Sauvignon with your favorite pot roast or a flavorful Syrah with a rack of lamb. If you need some fall wine suggestions, be sure to take these three suggestions into account:

Cabernet Sauvignon 

Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold, fruity wine, with much more tannins than its lighter counterparts. Cabs are usually fermented in oak, leaving flavors of dill, caramel, coffee, and vanilla. Beef goes exceptionally well with a cabernet sauvignon. Consider pairing Stirling Fine Wines’ Jordan Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 with your favorite cut of steak.

Syrah 

Syrah is another good selection for crisp fall months. Syrah’s have hints of smoke, coffee and blueberries. This strong wine begs for palatable food. Lamb, mushrooms and potatoes paired with Stirling Fine Wines’ Clarendon Hills Liandra Vineyard Syrah 2002 would make an impressive meal.

Zinfandel

Of the many different types of Zinfandels, lighter styles would pair well with fall foods. The lower alcohol content in a lighter Zinfandel wine goes perfectly Italian cuisine, for example. Whip up your favorite spaghetti and meatball recipe, pour yourself a glass of our Decoy Zinfandel 2009, and you will have a fabulous fall feast.

For more fall wine suggestions, visit Stirling Fine Wines in Stirling, NJ or check out our online store. We offer a wide selection of white, red, and sparkling wines as well as a variety of spirits and accessories. Call (908) 649-0084 for more information.