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Can you tell the difference between the #Syrah and #Shiraz grapes? If you'd like to learn more we've got answers. 

Have you ever been curious what types of wines improve with age? thegrape.com offers a fresh take on the topic of "laying down" wines.

Do you really understand wine ratings? There's a better way! Learn more... 

Have you ever wondered which expensive white wines have the best wine ratings? Sometimes we want to step out of line and experience a taste of the “good life,” whether you’re celebrating a momentous occasion or just wanting to try something different, something other than #cheapwine.

For this reason we’ve put together the following list of white wine varietals, priced from $50 - $250, that serves as a great reference for tasting something different or more expensive, starting your very own #wine collection or for celebrating that special moment!

Have you ever wondered which expensive red wines have the best reviews? Sometimes we want to venture outside of our comfort zone and experience a taste of the “high life,” whether we’re celebrating a milestone or just wanting to try something new, something other than cheap wine.

Because of this, we’ve put together a list of red wine varietals below priced from $50 - $250 that are a great starting point for tasting something different (more expensive), starting a wine collection or for celebrating that special moment!

From The Russian River Valley #JordanChardonnay 2010

The sediment, known as tannins, are complex compounds that come from plants. In wine, tannins come from grape seeds, grape skins, grape stems, and from the (oak) barrels they age in.

Because tannins are attracted to protein, which is found in human saliva, they are the reason your mouth may feel grainy, dry or puckered after a sip or glass of red wine.

a) Shining a light on the underside of the wine bottle when pouring yourself a glass of wine will help you see the tannins and avoid pouring sediment into your glass.

b) Using an aerator with a sediment filter can also prevent the tannins from ending up in your glass.

The presence of tannins is directly related to the winemaking process and is an important part of the wine ageing or cellaring process. So, even though you don’t necessarily want to consume them, be thankful for them as they play a role in the deliciousness of your wine.

Although a nice #decanter can be a conversational piece and win compliments at a dinner party, there’s no need to break the bank for one. If your only intention is to use it as a means to release your #wines full potential, believe it or not, an inexpensive, plastic pitcher will do. If you’d like something nicer, try crystal, which can be surprisingly inexpensive.

Let’s get back to releasing your wines full potential! Young #varietals, blends and vintages are the most common wines we buy so making the best of them should be important, right? Of course! This means “swirling” is your young wines best friend. Exposure to oxygen intensifies the aromas of young, tannic #redwines and softens their textures. So let your bottle “glug” into the decanter. Along with some swirling, allowing your wine to breathe for 30 - 60 minutes will make a dramatic and hopefully enjoyable difference.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Red Wine?

Based on recent wine studies, we'd like to share why you should consider drinking a glass or two of wine a day, all in the name of improved health!

Of course all of these heart healthy tips are only part of a larger, comprehensive health plan that includes a balanced diet, exercise and the proper amounts of rest.