Grape Cat: Articles and Videos about Wine, Beer, and Bartending.

World's Top Ten Vintages

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:17 -0400

Wines are produced by allowing grapes to ferment. Vintage wines are prime quality wines that have a particular flavor owing to the process of making mother using grapes that were all grown in a particular year. Over the years this term has come to denote wine that is old and very valuable for its unique taste. You need to choose the right vintage for celebrating an important occasion to bring out the nature of the celebration. How do you choose vintage? You can choose them based on the brand names as wines from certain wine houses are of a finer quality than others and you can choose them according to the years of making. The older the wine is the better the taste and quality.

Light, Bright and Sparkling: How to Choose Your Next Bottle of Wine

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:18 -0400

With all the different brands, styles, and flavors, it's tough to know how to pick your next bottle of wine. Let this guide walk you through the process and give you great tips on how to choose your next bottle.

How to Pour the Perfect Glass of Wine

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:19 -0400

Would you like to pour the perfect glass of wine? Impress your friends and family with this easy to follow guide and you to can pour like a pro!

Five Simple Ways to Choose Wines

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:20 -0400

Wine is used as an accompaniment to food on several occasions. How do you choose the right type of wine? Here are some tips on this. Choosing wine really depends on the type of food that you are going to have. Another thing about wine is that when you take a particular type of wine or a wine from a particular region, the food of the people in that region goes with the wine from that region. So this is another point to keep in mind when selecting wine.

Wine Library TV, Episode 64: New York State Wines and a Tour

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:20 -0400

Today Gary Vaynerchuk not only tours the wines of New York State but takes a little tour of his own. Please leave Gary comments he adores them.

Wine Library TV, Episode 65: Barolo and Brunello Wine Tasting of Italy

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:20 -0400

Gary Vaynerchuk tastes through the Tuscany and Piedmont today when he tries 2 Barolo wines and 2 Brunello wines. Sit back and enjoy another great episode of WLTV.

Wine Library TV, Episode 66: A Wine Library Viewers Show and 2 California Wines

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:44:21 -0400

Today Gary Vaynerchuk goes through questions and wines that have been asked of him. Gary tours through the vineyards of California and speaks on many different wine topics. Sit back and enjoy and let Gary know what you think by adding some comments!

Recipes for Making Your Own Homebrew Beer

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:54 -0400

Homemade or home-brewed beer can be a rewarding experience with the right tools and the right recipe. A search of the Internet will bring up everything from recipes for Moose Milk Stout to Lawnmower Special. Here is a collection of homebrew beers from around the world.

Homemade Beer: Get Started With This Simple Guide

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:55 -0400

Get Started With This Simple Guide.

Beer Brewing 101: How To Make Cheap (But Great Tasting) Beer

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:56 -0400

If you enjoy drinking beer, but don't enjoy the high prices of going to a bar or restaurant for a decent brew, you can brew your own beer in your kitchen. If you are tired of paying a lot of money for beer that you think tastes like cat piss, you should consider brewing it yourself.

Art of the Drink: St. Patrick's Day Irish Coffee

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:56 -0400

Anthony delves into the art and science of making the perfect Irish Coffee!

Art of the Drink: Bourbon Tasting Class

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:57 -0400

Join Anthony in a Bourbon Tasting Class hosted by Master Distiller David Pickerell!

Art of the Drink: Espresso Martini

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:57 -0400

Anthony visits Bean Traders in search of the perfect espresso and transforms it into a martini.

Art of the Drink: Easter Ascension

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:57 -0400

Anthony brings back Melissa for an original Easter cocktail!

Art of the Drink: Classic Caipirinha

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:58 -0400

As the weather warms up, Anthony and Melissa show you the secrets behind Brazil's national drink, the Caipirinha.

Art of the Drink: The Samuels

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:58 -0400

Anthony and Melissa wrap up AOTD's first year with an original cocktail honoring the First Family of Bourbon.

Wine Library TV, Episode 61: Restaurant wines and funny sounds

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:59 -0400

Today Gary explores 4 wines that are often found on Restaurant lists and you get a look at some of the behind the scenes things going on at Wine Library. Gary tastes Cakebread, Far Niente, Stag's Leap and Duckhorn. Enjoy and please leave Gary comments!

Wine Library TV, Episode 62: 3 Highly rated Reds

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:33:59 -0400

With his apartment move completed Gary returns today with a new episode of WLTV. Today Gary tastes and reviews three red wines. See how these three highly rated wines stack up. Also Gary has a new question for our viewers today.

Wine Library TV, Episode 63: California Red Zinfandel

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:34:00 -0400

Today Gary Vaynerchuk attacks California Red Zinfandel, their Alcohol's, flavors and finishes. Gary V loves Zinfandel so it will be fun to see what he thinks of these 4 wines. Please join in and leave a comment.

Become a Private Bartender

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:20 -0500

Are you a bartender and are you sick of getting bad shifts at your job? Do you want to control your work schedule and get paid top dollar for your bartending skills? You can become a private bartender with the tips I am about to give you. Even if you are not a bartender you can get the training you need and become a private bartender.

Bartending for Dummy: 5 Keys to Success Behind a Bar

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:22 -0500

Have you always wondered how it would be to make an extra few hundred dollars behind a bar each week? I have spent the last 5 years living as a bartender as I attend and finish college, and I must say it is going to be hard to give up the money. I am here to help you get behind a bar and make a generous CASH salary like I have, and may continue to do.

The Complete Bartender: How to Become a Better Bartender

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:22 -0500

The complete bartender has specific qualities that his or her customers benefit from. I am sorry to say, but not a single one of these qualities includes anything physical. Yes, it is nice to have a decent looking person serving you from behind the bar, but that is not the most important thing and most customers will gladly trade in a hot bartender for one that will take care of them the right way.

Art of the Drink: Maker's Mark Distillery Tour

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:22 -0500

Anthony takes you on a guided tour and shows you how Bourbon is made by the masters!

Art of the Drink: Season 2 Outtakes

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:23 -0500

A compilation of the funniest moments from our second season (so far)!

Wine Library TV, Episode 58: I'm Not Pissed

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:23 -0500

Today Gary takes Wine Library TV to the next level, creating a forum for honest discussion about wines. Gary loves sharing his passion for wine with you and now he needs your help. Gary needs input from you the viewer proving that Wine Library TV is not a one-way street. Oh yes, he also reviews a hot Pinot Noir from New Zealand and lets you know who it stacks up against traditional Burgandy. Follow Gary into this brave new world.

Wine Library TV, Episode 59: Argentine Malbecs

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:24 -0500

In today's episode Gary tastes and reviews four Malbecs from Argentina. Gary also responds to the overwhelming response from our viewers. Keep those comments and the emails coming!

Wine Library TV, Episode 60: 90 point wines 2 reds 2 whites

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 16:53:24 -0500

Today Gary Vaynerchuk tastes 4 different wines all scored 90 points or higher. This is a great episode and one that we think will drive a lot of comments. Enjoy the Chardonnay's and Barolo.

101 Bartending Basics: Mixology for the Beginning Bartender

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:15 -0500

Bartending is becoming a great way to make extra money or to make a great living. There are new bars and restaurants popping up all over the place. In order to become a bartender you need to know some of the basics. I am going to lead you through some of the 101-bartending basics of mixology.

Girl Bartender: Does Male or Female Make a Difference

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:16 -0500

There is an ongoing debate in the world of bartending on whether being male or female makes a difference behind the bar. It does, but mainly for the bar owner more than the actual bartender. For the bartender the only thing that really matters is their skill level.

Mixology School: The Bartender's Recipe Guide

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:16 -0500

Mixology is basically the art of mixing a good drink behind a bar. There are many different definitions to what a good drink is. Some of us like it strong enough to put hair on our chest, and others like it fruity and tasty. It just depends on what your taste is. Every bartender should go through Mixology School, and I am going to tell you why.

Sangria Summer Nights

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:17 -0500

For years now a staple to my summertime diet has been to have a glass or two of sangria while sitting out on my patio on those warm summer evenings with friends. Sangria is a wine based punch that originates from Portugal and Spain. The word sangria is derived from the Spanish word sangre, which means blood. Sangria is usually made from red wine, sliced citrus fruit, sugar, and a sprit such as brandy or triple sec.

A Great Sangria Recipe

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:18 -0500

Read all about Sangria, including the different kinds and get a great true Sangria recipe.

Creating a Traditional Sangria Recipe from Spain

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:24 -0500

Besides the beautiful weather and beaches of Spain, you'll not want to miss out on one of the great sangria recipes at the local bars and restaurants. Sangria is a drink that's traditional to Spain, and nearly any restaurant establishment will serve it.

Art of the Drink: Mardi Gras Sazerac

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:25 -0500

Anthony and Krysta get ready for Mardi Gras with a traditional New Orleans Sazerac!

Art of the Drink: Negroni

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:25 -0500

The Negroni, another addition to the Classic Cocktails Series, stuns in both looks and taste.

Wine Library TV, Episode 55: More today with Philippe Melka

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:26 -0500

In today's episode Gary continues with Philippe Melka. Gary and Philippe taste four wines including two wines from Melka Wines.

Wine Library TV, Episode 56: Gary welcomes his guest Robert Mondovi Jr.

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:26 -0500

Today Gary and his special guest Robert Mondavi Jr. talk about his return to the world of wine and wine making. Watch as Gary tastes and reviews four of Roberts wines.

Wine Library TV, Episode 57: We're Back! Gary rates 4 Australian Wines

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:13:27 -0500

Watch today as Wine Library TV returns after it's hiatus. Gary talks about TV deals and the future direction of Wine Library TV. Then Gary reviews four Australian wines and reviews them in a unique way. This is one episode you can't miss!

Wine Terms for the Scared

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:25 -0500

For whatever reason, wine has become a drink that some people fear. Some people are simply too scared to approach it, looking at a bottle the same way they used to look at the popular girl or boy they had a crush on in high school. No one is really sure when wine got this reputation, but it did: wine is the most intimidating of alcohol.

Seven Essential Wines: What to Always Have on Hand

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:26 -0500

You're not quite ready to fill your entire wine cellar, but you need to have at least some wines on hand. Here's a guide to selecting and maintaining seven essential wines so you are prepared for any situation.

Wine 101

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:26 -0500

Have you wondered what the differences are between the red and white wine or how to taste wine? Wine 101 navigates you through some of nuances and gets you on track to becoming aficionado.

How to Make a Manhattan Cocktail

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:27 -0500

Are you tired of drinking the same thing every time you want a cocktail? Are you looking to try a great drink with some history attached to it? Why not try a Manhattan cocktail? This guide to the Manhattan cocktail will show you everything you need to know to make them at home.

Espresso Martini

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:28 -0500

The espresso martini is a delicious way to satisfy both your craving for alcohol and your caffeine fix. Learn some of the most popular ways to make this up and coming new drink in this article.

Art of the Drink: His-n-Hers

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:28 -0500

Anthony introduces February DrinkArt Girl Krysta and shows you the perfect new libation for Valentine's Day!

Wine Library TV, Episode 52: 05 Bordeaux Update, Where is the Market Going?

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:29 -0500

Today Gary Vaynerchuk updates the world where the 2005 Bordeaux Market has gone. What will happen with Pape Clement, Pavie, Haut Brion, Mouton, Petrus, Latour, Troplong Mondot, Clinet, Branon and others go? Gary is also tasting 4 great Bordeaux, lets see his reaction to them.

Wine Library TV, Episode 53: Today Gary Tastes the Wines of Chateau St Jean

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:29 -0500

Today Gary welcomes his special guest Margo Van Staavern, Winemaker from Chateau St Jean of California to taste and talk about her wines.

Wine Library TV, Episode 54: Today Gary Tastes 2 New Wines from Melka Wines

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 16:25:30 -0500

Watch today as Gary welcomes his special guest Philippe Melka of Melka Wines. One of Gary's favorite California wine makers, Gary tastes two of Philippe Melkas newest wines.

I Love Italian Wine and Food: The Marche Region

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:24 -0500

If you are looking for fine Italian wine and food, consider The Marche region of central Italy. You may find a bargain, and I hope that you'll have fun on this fact-filled wine education tour.

I Love Italian Wine and Food: Liguria Region, Tuscany Wine

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:25 -0500

I love Italian wine and food so much that I am doing a series on the typical and special wines and foods of Italy's twenty regions. This article explores the Liguria region of northern Italy. Bargains abound. I'll make specific recommendations, and won't be silent if I'm unhappy with a wine.

I Love Italian Wine and Food: Riserva Wines

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:26 -0500

I love Italian wine and food so much that I am doing a series on the typical and special wines and foods of Italy's twenty regions. What does the word Riserva on the label mean? Can you still get a bargain?

Bar Tool Time

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:26 -0500

No matter what task is before an individual, you must have the proper tools to accomplish the job. If you want to tend bar, whether in the home or professionally, to make quality drinks which everyone will enjoy, you will need your box of bar tools, which will allow you to turn out delicious concoctions. Having the correct tools will ease the job of making good drinks. Let's take a look at the most essential tools.

5 Things To Remember While Serving A Cocktail

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:27 -0500

Cocktails are a great way of enjoying your favorite spirits and liqueurs. Here are some tips to help you serve them the right way.

Restaurant Cocktail Menu: World's Best Food and Wine Combo

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:27 -0500

Don't bother mentally processing the infinite pairings possible with food and wine, in any consideration of the world's best. I must also leave out my personal childhood favorite of Tom's Peanut Butter Crackers and Coca Cola (a treat I still indulge on road trips). There is no doubt that a well made Sazerac cocktail with freshly opened oysters stands astride the epicurean world like The Colossus of Rhodes as the best possible combination of food and drink.

The Origin of the Cocktail

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:28 -0500

The cocktail has the distinction of being an original American drink. Its origins are murky, but the most common account names one Antoine Amedee Peychaud, a young Creole from a distinguished French family, as the originator of the drink.

Art of the Drink: Bill Samuels Jr. Interview

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:28 -0500

Anthony visits Loretto, KY, and talks with Maker's Mark president Bill Samuels Jr.

Art of the Drink: Season 1 Highlights

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:29 -0500

Watch clips from the first season of Art of the Drink.

Wine Library TV, Episode 49: Today Gary Goes to South Africa

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:30 -0500

Watch today as Gary Vaynerchuck tastes an up and coming South African white wine.

Wine Library TV, Episode 50: Spain and Spanish Wines

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:31 -0500

Watch today as Gary tastes 3 wines from Spain and takes you along on his trip through Spain.

Wine Library TV, Episode 51: Gary Vaynerchuk Tastes the Wines of Raymond

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:20:31 -0500

Gary welcomes Walter Raymond from Raymond vineyards. One of the great California wineries makes it's latest reserve selections available for Gary to comment on. Watch as there is a huge surprise at the end of the show.

Mixing It Up: A New Era of Sherry Cocktails

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:06 -0500

Everybody is looking for the next big drink: Sherry cocktails could be the future.

A Cocktail of Cultures: The Growth of Asian Influence in the London Bar Scene

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:07 -0500

Read about the explosion of Asian influence in the London bar scene.

Tequila: Beauty and Brutality, Bottled

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:07 -0500

Wine snobs, eat your heart out. The pop culture icon and poor man's drink, tequila, has somehow reinvented itself yet again. Embracing its feminine side through centuries of violence, religion, sex and beauty, it has landed, to everyone's surprise, on the top shelf of the beverage world, ready to spark another rebellion.

The X Factor: A New Generation of Discerning Drinkers is Turning to Sherry as the Drink of Choice

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:08 -0500

The growth of Sherry across the world is attributable to our fast maturing palates. We know our wines far better than 10 years ago, we are inundated with fine vodkas and a plethora of foreign beers and we constantly crave the next big thing.

Wine Library TV, Episode 46: I'm back and Washington State

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:09 -0500

Today Gary Vaynerchuk finally returns from Spain with 4 super wines from Washington State and a few stories!

Wine Library TV, Episode 47: Don't Judge a Wine by it's Vintage

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:09 -0500

Today Gary Vaynerchuk tries to educate the public about off vintage wines and why they maybe the best thing in the market today! With the 2000 Ristow as his tool Gary challenges the wine world!

Wine Library TV, Episode 48: Today Gary Meets the Meekers

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:10 -0500

In today's episode Gary Vanerchuk welcomes Molly and Charlie Meeker of Meeker Vineyards.

Art of the Drink: Champagne Cocktail

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:13:11 -0500

Anthony shows you the correct way to open a bottle of bubbly for your New Year's Eve celebration!