Southern

Lirac’s Quiet Revolution: The Southern Rhône’s Best-Kept Secret

Lirac’s Quiet Revolution: The Southern Rhône’s Best-Kept Secret

Lirac is the Southern Rhône’s best-kept secret—and it’s finally getting the attention it deserves. Nestled just across the Rhône River from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this appellation shares the same terroir, grape varieties, and mistral winds, yet it’s carving out its own identity with wines that are fresher, lighter, and more approachable. Over the past decade, a wave of new producers has crossed the river to plant roots here, turning Lirac into a hotbed of innovation. The results? Reds that echo Châteauneuf’s boldness but with a signature brightness, thanks to cooler microclimates and unique soil compositions. The magic of Lirac lies in its…
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8 Southern Italy Red Wines That’ll Surprise You

8 Southern Italy Red Wines That’ll Surprise You

Coffee lovers, wine enthusiasts, tea devotees—here’s your secret weapon. Southern Italy’s red wines are rarely spotlighted, yet they’re packed with depth, character, and a wildness that defies expectation. From volcanic soils to ancient vines, this region’s hidden gems offer a thrilling contrast to the usual Tuscan or Barolo crowd. These wines are the underdogs of the Italian wine world, and once you taste them, you’ll wonder why they’re not more celebrated. Aglianico is the king of Southern Italy’s dark horse roster. Found in Campania and Basilicata, it’s a grape that thrives in volcanic earth, delivering earthy, smoky notes with a…
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Sip Smart: A 48-Hour Sonoma Wine Escape

Sip Smart: A 48-Hour Sonoma Wine Escape

There’s something brewing in Sonoma that turns casual visitors into lifelong devotees. This isn’t just a place to sip—it’s a masterclass in balance, where world-class wines meet unhurried charm. If you’re eyeing a weekend escape but worried about overwhelm, here’s how to taste like a pro without burning out. Start in Southern Sonoma, where history and terroir collide. Begin with a detour to Muir Beach Overlook for coastal views before heading to The Marshall Store for a briny lunch paired with Muscadet. From there, Hanzell’s hilltop estate offers a rare glimpse into small-batch Pinot Noir, while Three Sticks Adobe’s historic…
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Sur Coffee’s Southern Expansion: A Rebellion Against the Coffee Giants

Sur Coffee’s Southern Expansion: A Rebellion Against the Coffee Giants

This might just change your routine: Sur Coffee is rewriting the rules of coffee in Southern California. While corporate chains churn out identical brews with robotic efficiency, this coastal roaster is building a movement—one cup at a time. With roots in surf culture and a mission to honor the people behind every bean, Sur Coffee isn’t just expanding its footprint. It’s redefining what it means to belong to a community. The brand’s strategy is simple but radical: prioritize connection over convenience. In a market flooded with drive-thru speed and algorithm-driven orders, Sur Coffee is betting on something older and more…
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