The urban terrain of one of 21st century America's most vibrant cities melted into rolling hills, a curious mix of green and grey driving west from Austin into the wine country of the Texas hills. Rain poured sadly down, but the pastoral serenity of this place was as lovely as it was surprising to be found in a state conceptualized by most who are not from here as an endless prairie of scorched earth and heat. We had come looking for Becker Vineyards, the next chapter in our long standing fascination with wine from places you'd not expect, and surely but the first chapter in our flirtation with wine from Texas Hill Country.
Read moreTouching down in Phoenix for a little taste of Arizona wine and absolutely beautiful country
Returned from Phoenix, AZ with good things to say about the local Arizona wine, newly renovated American Airlines Admirals Club at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and -- of course -- the beautiful scenery. It is absolutely beautiful country.
Read moreSu Vino urban winery in Scottsdale, Arizona serves up unique wine in a modern, fun setting
An urban winery that sources at least the vast majority of its fruit from various California vineyards, Su Vino serves its own unique wine in a modern, fun environment. This winery is built for a good time, more like a wine bar that makes its own stuff, set apart from more traditional tasting rooms by everything from the big group of friends seated all together having a great time, to the happy hour specials listed on the menu.
Read moreReviewing new American Airlines Admirals Club renovations with Phoenix as case study
Travel through the airport, step out of the chaos, pick up a glass of wine. That's what airport lounges are built for. Happily, American Airlines has been remaking their Admirals Clubs at key airports for well over a year. If Phoenix is any indication, I think American is making really good strides.
Read moreWines of Arizona Stronghold Vineyards are innovative, full of character, deeply rooted in terroir
I came to Cottonwood looking for the exceptional wine of Arizona Stronghold Vineyards. I stepped across a stylized emblem from the Arizona state flag, painted on the sidewalk out front, into a lively and comfortable tasting room filled with people who clearly care very deeply about this 100% Arizona wine, artfully blended, filled with the history and character of their home state.
Read more