Dr Johns Tasting Notes

The Insider's Guide to Prosecco

Friday, September 11, 2026

Prosecco

Prosecco is a sparkling wine that has found great appeal in most of the Western world.

All wines called Prosecco must come from the Prosecco Region of NE Italy and be made with Glera Grapes following the DOC rules of that region. It is made using the “Charmat” or Tank method where the secondary fermentation that causes the bottles is done in large tanks rather than in the bottle like Champagne is made.

Most Prosecco that you get in the store is DOC rated and typically costs $15-$20. However, if you look for the designation DOCG, you are assured of getting a higher quality and more expressive version of this sparkling wine. The heart of prosecco is the region between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. This is similar to the “black rooster” wines of Chianti indicating that thos...

Barbera Wines - Amazing Value

Download: Barbera Wines - Amazing Value

This Italian Wine is an amazing deal!

Everyone knows about the great Italian wines made from Sangiovese and Montepulciano grapes: Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vin Nobile di  , etc. But notmany people know about a red wine grape grown in the North-Western part of Italy(Piedmonte) that is an everyday wine that most Italians enjoy with most of their local foods.

Barbera is the third most planted red grape in Italy, afer Sangiovese and Montepulciano, and shares many of the characteristics of these more expensive and better-known wines. It is a medium bodied, fruity wine with good acidity and moderate alcohol (13.5% -14.5%). It is known for its bright cherry flavors. It can be improved with age, but most Barberas are meant to be consumed young. It pairs beautifully with both tomato ...

Dr. John's Wine Prescription

Dr. John's 'Wine Prescription' this month features some great wines, with the following qualities: 

• One 'Best Value' wine (around $15–20)
• One 'Splurge' wine
• One 'Hidden Gem' that's off the beaten path
• A suggested food pairing
• A brief explanation of why you chose each bottle

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Food & Wine Pairing

Upcoming Topics: 

• The Best Wines for Steak Night
• Perfect Wines for Seafood
• Holiday Wine Pairings Everyone Will Love
• Backyard BBQ Wines That Impress Without Breaking the Bank
• Thanksgiving Wine Made Easy

Learning About Wine

Upcoming Topics: 

• Why I Love Rhône Wines
• Napa vs. Bordeaux: What's the Difference?
• White Wines Beyond Chardonnay
• Hidden Wine Regions Worth Discovering
• How Wine Changes as It Ages

Personal Perspective

Upcoming Topics: 

• 'Dr. John's Perfect Pour': The Story Behind My Passion for Wine

Shopping Smart When Buying Wine

Upcoming Topics: 

• My Favorite Wines Under $20
• How to Buy Wine for a Dinner Party
• Choosing Wine as a Gift That People Will Actually Enjoy
• What I Look for When Shopping at Costco, Total Wine, or Grocery Stores
• When Is an Expensive Bottle Worth the Money?

Wine Consultation FAQ's

• Do I need to know anything about wine before hiring you?
  
  • No, I'll help simplify the choices and make selecting wine enjoyable, educational, and rewarding.
• Can you work within my budget?
  
  • Yes
• Do you recommend wines from Costco, Trader Joe's, grocery stores, and Total Wine?
  
  • Yes
• Can you help me build a wine cellar?
  
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• Do you travel for private tastings?
  
  • Yes, travel fees are available upon request.
• Can you host a wine tasting in my home?
  
  • Yes
• Do you offer virtual consultations?
  
  • Yes, we offer virtual consultations via Zoom meetings or by phone.
• Can you help choose...
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