The Bonterra Edit

A journal by Bonterra Organic Estates

Zinfandel Sweet or Dry: A Wine Lover’s Complete Guide

The question “Is Zinfandel sweet or dry?” deserves a nuanced answer. Most red Zinfandel is decidedly dry, delivering bold fruit without leftover sweetness. White Zinfandel—made from the same grape—leans distinctly sweeter with its off-dry, rosé-style profile. And then there’s late-harvest Zinfandel, a dessert-worthy exception known for its concentrated richness. With all these styles, it’s easy…

Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Merlot: Key Differences in Taste, Body, and Pairings

In the rolling hills of Bordeaux, two noble grapes have shaped the world of wine for centuries. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, both originating from one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, represent different expressions of red wine craftsmanship—each with its own distinct personality and appeal. These two varietals are often compared because they frequently appear…

Top view of Bonterra Chardonnay with Thanksgiving pie recipe

Thanksgiving Wine Guide

Does anyone else get ambitious at Thanksgiving? There is so much to savor about the holiday, and we tend to over-commit in the pursuit of enjoying every delicious moment of the day. If you are like us, we are here to help. We can’t set the table, but we can help you choose the best…

bonterra blog is pinot noir sweet or dry

Is Pinot Noir Sweet or Dry? A Guide to Its True Flavor Profile

With its juicy red fruit flavors and silky texture, Pinot Noir is a favorite for good reason. But one question still pops up a lot: is Pinot Noir sweet or dry? It’s a fair ask, since Pinot Noir’s vibrant cherry and raspberry notes can give the impression of sweetness, even when the wine is technically…

Is Merlot Sweet or Dry? Exploring Its Taste and Characteristics

At Bonterra, we love Merlot for what it is—and what it isn’t. It’s generous without being overbearing, smooth without being simple. And yet, one question comes up often: Is Merlot sweet? This is no surprise given Merlot’s soft, approachable character. The straightforward answer is that Merlot is generally a dry red wine, despite its reputation…

chardonnay vs sauvignon blanc which one is right for you bonterra blog post

Chardonnay vs. Sauvignon Blanc: Which White Wine Is Right for You?

When it comes to white wine, two varietals tend to lead the conversation: Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Both are wildly popular, endlessly versatile, and grown around the world—yet they couldn’t be more different in taste, texture, and personality. At Bonterra, we craft both wines from organically farmed vineyards, letting nature shape their character. Whether you’re…

Is Chardonnay Dry or Sweet? Everything You Need to Know

It’s one of the most common questions we hear: Is Chardonnay a dry wine—or is it sweet? The short answer? Typically dry. But the real answer—like great wine—is a bit more layered. That’s because the Chardonnay grape is a shape-shifter. From lean and mineral to round and creamy, its style can vary widely depending on…

What Is Blanc de Blancs? The Sparkling Style Made from White Wine Grapes

Some of wine’s most elegant expressions come from the simplest concepts. What happens when you take classic white wine grapes and transform them into sparkling wine using time-honored techniques? You get blanc de blancs—a style that spotlights the brightness and finesse of white grapes in their most celebratory form. Whether you’re curious about that elegant bottle on…

What Is Ranch Wine? A Complete Guide to Taste, Types, and More

Sometimes the best innovations come from the simplest questions. What if wine could be as flexible as your Friday night plans? What if sustainability and spontaneity could shake hands in the same glass? What if the most sophisticated choice was knowing when to throw sophistication out the window? Meet Ranch Wine: our answer to every “what…

What Is a Dry White Wine? A Beginner’s Guide

Ever stood in the wine aisle, surrounded by labels that sound like poetry or code, and wondered what actually makes a wine “dry”? You’re not alone. Yet this fundamental concept is simpler than you might think, and mastering it opens the door to a world of crisp, refreshing wines that elevate everything from a Tuesday…

Best Dry White Wines for Cooking: Discover What to Use and Why It Matters

The moment wine meets the pan, something magical happens. Steam rises, aromas intensify, and what began as a few simple ingredients transforms into something extraordinary. Yet for many home cooks, the question lingers: what is a good dry white wine for cooking? The answer lies in understanding how wine functions in the kitchen—not just as an…

Simple Fresh Green Salad

Hello food and wine lovers Chef Olan Cox here from the heart of Mendocino County, California. I adore greens, especially those fresh from the garden. One of my favorite ways to enjoy is with a good simple salad using a base of about two thirds lettuce and a third arugula. I like to use a…