fine wine | Colonial Spirits

Basking in the California Sun – Day 1

Posted on September 30, 2011January 10, 2016 by Nicolay Castro — Leave a comment

I recently had the privilege of visiting Napa, California on behalf of Constellation Brands Co., and I have to say, it was wonderful! It was sunny for the majority of the time, and the people couldn’t have been nicer. I was treated to some of the finest food, wine and hospitality that Napa has to offer. To contradict one of my colleague’s blog posts, if that is what magazine living is like, bring it on! The next few blogs I release will be my recap of each day I spent there. Continue reading Basking in the California Sun – Day 1

Challenge accepted!

Posted on September 16, 2011January 10, 2016 by Nicolas Haegeli — 2 Comments

I have been taunting my hoppy colleague, Tim for quite some time about the ‘overuse’ of hops (particularly in American brews). Playing devil’s advocate, I’ve compared their use with the excessive use of oak in the wine world. My suggestion wasn’t merely a simple taunt. I was (and remain) curious over the role of hops in brew, particularly in American ones and how they compare with the use of oak in wine. Some may find it silly to compare the two, but I really don’t think so.

Now just a little about myself for you brew folks… Continue reading Challenge accepted!

Bittersweet Emotion

Posted on August 8, 2011March 20, 2016 by Nicolas Haegeli — Leave a comment

Wine is personal. I’ve always maintained this, and, despite what we wine professionals tell you, wine is often more subjective than objective. Much of this has to do with how we relate to wine.

Some of my fondest wine memories are inextricably linked to people and places that I care deeply about. It’s amazing how a glass (or bottle) can transport you to a moment in your past were your mind’s eye allows you to experience all your senses and memories as if you were really there. These memories are powerful, and they often come back to us when we least expect them and need them most.

Let me share with you some of my moments… Continue reading Bittersweet Emotion

Wine Existentialism

Posted on July 8, 2011January 10, 2016 by Nicolas Haegeli — Leave a comment

My fellow colleagues-in-wine and I are always discussing, debating, and arguing about hot wine topics. Sometimes it’s about oak, over-extraction of fruit, old world v. new world, and of course…terroir. We also discuss what makes a wine good and what sells, and we often find that the good wines don’t sell.

A couple weeks ago, Patrick wrote about Malbec and it’s rise and fall. Weeks before, Nic wrote about the concept of terroir. These blogs are the result of our on-going conversations. Both blogs got my attention. Continue reading Wine Existentialism

Merriam Wine Dinner at Sprigs Restaurant – April 28th

Posted on April 20, 2011 by Colonial Spirits — Leave a comment

Please join Colonial Spirits and Host, Peter Merriam, for an amazing presentation of food and wine at Sprigs Restaurant in Acton. The link below shows an incredible menu. Coupled with the outstanding quality of Sprigs will be a delightful compliment of world class wines, presented by the winemaker. This evening will be one to remember.

Please call Sprigs – 978.263.3325 – for your reservation.

A Taste of Spain – Friday, May 13th from 4-7pm

Posted on April 17, 2011April 28, 2021 by Colonial Spirits — 1 Comment

Please join us at Colonial Spirits on Acton for ‘A Taste of Spain’. This unique tasting event will feature some of the finest creations of Spanish wine making, supported by the wine makers themselves. The evening will give wine enthusiasts the opportunity to visit with world class producers and learn from their passion for wine. Don’t miss out on a special experience and adventure in Spanish wine!