by Nicole MacKay | Feb 27, 2025 | Travel
It’s probably been a decade since my husband and I celebrated Valentine’s Day. The contrived, pressure-filled holiday isn’t for us. Not to mention, we’re often still financially recovering from Christmas. But this year, we found a member deal...
by Nicole MacKay | Feb 11, 2025 | Wine
Livermore Valley represent one of California’s earliest viticultural traditions, with roots stretching back to the 1840s in this historic region just east of San Francisco. While these wines have long earned acclaim for their exceptional quality, a renewed focus...
by Nicole MacKay | Jan 29, 2025 | Travel
As a wine writer, I’m incredibly fortunate to call the world my office. Press trips take me to breathtaking places, where I meet fascinating people, uncover inspiring stories, and discover unforgettable wines. These journeys come with packed schedules — early...
by Nicole MacKay | Dec 26, 2024 | Wine
The 2024 Rhône Valley vintage demands attention — not for its ease, but for the extraordinary dedication it required from its vignerons. While some vintages unfold effortlessly, 2024 tested every winemaker’s resolve, yielding remarkable wines through...
by Nicole MacKay | Dec 7, 2024 | Wine
When Mark Sheridan, General Manager of Hester Creek, says, “When the tough get going, that’s when the cream rises to the top,” he’s not just talking about winemaking — he’s reflecting the resilience of BC’s wine industry. The past...