PRIME at Sky Meadow

  The belief that sulfites in wine cause headaches is a common misconception, but it’s not supported by scientific evidence for most people. Sulfites are preservatives added to wine to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness. They also occur naturally in foods like dried fruits, processed meats, and some vegetables. While a small percentage of people, particularly those with asthma, may have a sensitivity to sulfites, leading to symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or other allergic reactions, headaches are not typically among these symptoms. The real culprits behind wine-related headaches are more likely to be other compounds found in wine. One such compound is histamines, which are present in grape skins, especially in red wines. Histamines are naturally occurring chemicals that can trigger headaches in individuals who are sensitive to them. When histamines enter the bloodstream, they can cause blood vessels to expand, potentially leading to a headache. Tannins, anoth...

This week school is OUT, so I figured a little trivia would be fun for the Summer: The Martini, a symbol of elegance and sophistication, dates back to the late 19th century. The origins are debated, but one popular story suggests it evolved from a cocktail called the Martinez, served in California. A gold miner, celebrating his newfound wealth, ordered something special at the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco. The bartender mixed gin, vermouth, a dash of bitters, and a lemon twist, creating the Martini. An amusing twist came later when a bartender served it with an olive, sparking endless debates over the "proper" garnish. Next, the Old Fashioned, a cocktail as timeless as its name suggests. It was born in the early 1800s, when cocktails were simply spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. Colonel James E. Pepper, a bourbon distiller, introduced the Old Fashioned to the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel bar in New York City. The Colonel’s preference for simplicity in an era of elaborate drin...

  Oak has a profound impact on wine, adding complexity, flavor, and texture in ways that other aging methods do not. Imagine a vanilla bean transforming a plain cookie into something much more aromatic and flavorful. Similarly, oak barrels enhance the wine with various characteristics. Firstly, oak imparts flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and spice, which can make the wine taste richer and more layered. The toastiness of the barrel can add hints of smoke, coffee, or even chocolate. On the other hand, non-oaked wines are typically more fruit-forward and crisp, highlighting the natural flavors of the grapes without additional influence. Think of a fresh, juicy apple compared to a spiced apple pie—both delicious, but distinctively different. There are differences between the characteristics imparted by French and American oak. French oak tends to be subtler, adding elegance and finesse with notes of spices and soft tannins. American oak, being more intense, imparts stronger vanilla a...

Bourbon, rye, Scotch whisky, Canadian whisky, Japanese whisky, and Irish whiskey each offer distinct flavors and qualities, shaped by unique production methods and regional influences. Bourbon   is deeply rooted in American history. Made with at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels, bourbon is known for its characteristic sweetness and vanilla flavor. An anecdote about Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. highlights his role in modernizing bourbon production. His dedication to quality led to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, ensuring the integrity of bourbon during a time of widespread adulteration. Brands like Maker’s Mark honor his legacy with meticulous production processes. Rye whiskey   stands out due to its primary ingredient: rye, making up at least 51% of the grain mash. This imparts a spicier, more robust flavor compared to bourbon's sweetness. George Washington operated one of the largest rye distilleries in early America at his Mount Vernon estate, showcas...

  Founding Year : Caymus Vineyards was founded in 1972 by Charlie Wagner Sr., his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner, and their son Chuck Wagner. Imagine enjoying a glass of wine from a family that has been crafting exceptional vintages for over 50 years! Special Selection : Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon is the only wine in the world to have twice earned Wine Spectator’s "Wine of the Year" award, in 1989 and 1995. This accolade makes every sip a taste of history. Family Tradition : The Wagner family has been farming in Napa Valley since the 1850s, making Caymus a true legacy wine. Drinking Caymus is like taking a trip through Napa Valley’s rich winemaking history. Name Origin : Caymus is named after a Mexican land grant that once included the Wagner family’s land. It’s a tribute to the region’s deep-rooted heritage. Walking Fool : Charles Glos, Lorna’s grandfather, was affectionately nicknamed “The Walking Fool” because he would walk miles to work at local wineries. H...

  BBQ Ribs   - Zinfandel Zinfandel’s bold, fruity flavors and peppery spice perfectly complement the smoky, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce on ribs, making every bite a harmonious delight. Grilled Steak   - Shiraz/Syrah The spicy and rich character of Shiraz/Syrah mirrors the charred and juicy qualities of a grilled steak, creating a robust and satisfying pairing. Burgers   - Malbec The dark fruit and earthy notes of Malbec enhance the savory flavors of a grilled burger, much like how the Malbec grape thrives in the rugged terrain of Argentina, pairing perfectly with hearty, down-to-earth dishes. Beef Brisket   - Cabernet Sauvignon The robust tannins and dark fruit flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon stand up to the rich, slow-cooked brisket, similar to how this wine holds its own in the bold wine culture of Napa Valley. BBQ Chicken   - Merlot Merlot’s soft, fruity flavors complement the sweet and savory barbecue glaze on chicken, just as Merlot’s approachable nature ...