By Leslie Sbrocco–
If you’re looking for a fascinating read while enjoying a glass of wine, reach for the new book, Crushed (Rowman & Littlefield Publishers). Penned by wine and spirits consultant, writer, and author Brian Freedman, the tome is sub-titled, “How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink.”
Climate plays a huge role in not only wine and vineyards but also how grain is grown for spirits production. The exceptionally engaging book is told through stories of winemakers and distillers who deal with everything from fires to hailstorms to floods to get their drinks into the bottle and onto our tables.
Freedman travels the world in the pages of Crushed to see the way global climate change is impacting what we drink now and in the future. For those interested in exploring more through tasting, the book’s chapter on the “Bright Future for Overcast England” is the place to start. Some of the hottest sparkling wines are those hailing from the cool southern coast of England. With soil and climate like northern France’s Champagne region, this is one spot benefiting from warming temperatures and a changing wine world.
Nyetimber Classic Cuvee, England $65
English fizz can be fabulous as demonstrated by this wine from the bucolic property, Nyetimber. The producer is iconic on the English wine scene and leads the country in sparkling wine quality. Their Head Winemaker, Cherie Spriggs, and her Winemaker husband, Brad Greatrix, craft numerous styles of sparkling that rival the best in the world. Their flagship Classic Cuvée blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier (the noted grapes grown in Champagne and England). The cuvée is sleek and elegant with fine bubbles, rich, toasty aromas, and a creamy yet crisp finish. It is a unique beauty to uncork for the holidays.
Author, speaker, wine consultant, and television host Leslie Sbrocco is known for her entertaining approach to wine and food. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her work on PBS, which includes hosting the series “Check, Please! Bay Area,” “Check, Please! You Gotta Try This!” and “100 Days, Drinks, Dishes & Destinations.”
Sbrocco Sips
Published on November 17, 2022
Recent Comments