Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus… and also a pretty good RED from Germany. It is called Spatburgunder (The German translation of Pinot Noir) and I really would like to receive a bottle of it in my Christmas stocking. That will probably not happen in the immediate future because Spatburgunder is produced and consumed almost entirely in Germany.
Records of German wine pourings go back to the 1300’s. If I tried to tell the entire story of German wine, the Lowcountry Weekly would have to stay in business for the next 900 years. And so I yield to reality and will try to talk about just a few types of German wine that land in the Lowcountry. According to Franco I should start with Riesling, and with the summer months fast approaching; I agree.
My first experience with Michigan was in the airport at Detroit. I thank Providence that my first impression was a fleeting one. My personal dislike for airports is a story for another day, and it does not belong in a wine column; especially the part with four-letter words. The airport was soon out of my system when I got into the countryside and Franco and I headed towards Traverse City.
Once again I find myself with the same old problem. Franco went and fell in love with another wine region; this time it’s the Finger Lakes. I have to bribe him to get going because we have another assignment and the only thing that will work is a picnic lunch consisting of McDonalds Burgers, French Fries and a bottle of Lakes Region Sparkling Rose. I like the combo, but it’s on my dime. I agreed and I sent the luncheon tab to Margaret Evans. I’ll take the heat, but at least it will get us to Long Island on time to get some work done.
There is a new store called “Wine and Cheese If You Please” opening soon on Hilton Head Island. The store will be completely stocked with wine, beer, cheese, soft drinks and really nice people. The address is 24G Palmetto Bay Road. (This is a “Rollers” owned store.) Store manager Camille Copeland and her knowledgeable staff have worked hard to make a unique presentation to the shopping public.