Uncorked

Ninth anniversary time to look ahead

March marks Uncorked's ninth anniversary -- reinforcing the old adage that time certainly flies when you're having fun. I'm already looking forward to next year's big 10. I think a party may be in order.

During the past year, this column has explored all manner of wine topics, from ocean-aged wines to wine movie must-sees and even the occasional history lesson. My goal in writing this column is (and always has been) to offer honest recommendations of wines available in Arkansas, and possibly more importantly, to make the subject of wine approachable to everyone. Whether you're just beginning to explore the world of wine or you're a dedicated oenophile, my hope is this column offers something for everyone interested in wine.

This year I have a favor to ask of you. Over the next few weeks, please take a moment to send me a quick email or letter with a topic you would like to know more about. Don't be shy. Have you had a wine that tasted like cabbage and want to know why? Confused about malolactic fermentation and need clarification? I'm here to help. Having a party and debating how much wine to buy? Just ask. Did a friend give you a bottle of wine from Italy you loved? Tell me about it. It's your questions, comments and feedback that fuel this column.

I hope over the next year we can continue our dialogue and make Uncorked even more relevant to you the reader.

Last year was filled with wonderful wines and there's not room to list all of my favorites but here are two worth visiting again.

THE VALUE

2011 Stepping Stone North Coast White Rocks! Cornerstone Cellars, California (about $15 retail)

THE SPURGE

2009 Mira Winery Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, California (about $49 retail)

Send questions or comments to me c/o the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203, or email:

uncorked@thewinectr.com

Food on 03/19/2014

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