A journal by Bonterra Organic Estates
There’s an alchemy that happens when red wine meets creativity, a transformation that takes something already delicious and spins it into something delightfully unexpected. At Bonterra, we’ve always believed that good wine should be fun, not fussy. The most memorable moments often happen when you break the rules, mix things up, and rediscover your favorites…
Continue reading Creative Red Wine Cocktails to Elevate Your EveningsAs winter settles into its rhythm, with frost painting morning windows and evenings drawing in early, the season invites slowing down and savoring moments made for coziness. It also calls for drinks that do more than simply quench thirst. They should wrap you in comfort, spark conversation, and transform ordinary nights into occasions worth remembering,…
Continue reading Winter Wine Cocktails to Cozy Up with This SeasonPasta and wine may be timeless, but the best pairings feel anything but expected. At Bonterra, we’re all about creating moments where flavor, texture, and a little spontaneity come together—organically. When the perfect wine transforms a simple weeknight dinner into something memorable. It all begins with noticing how flavors, textures, and acidity play together on the plate.…
Continue reading The Best Wines to Pair with Pasta: A Complete GuideIn the world of white wines, few debates spark as much friendly discussion as Pinot Grigio vs. Sauvignon Blanc. Both wines have earned devoted followings, grace countless tables during warm-weather gatherings, and pair beautifully with an impressive range of dishes. Yet despite their shared popularity and refreshing appeal, these two popular white wines offer distinctly different experiences in the glass. Understanding the nuances between…
Continue reading Pinot Grigio vs. Sauvignon Blanc: A Guide to Two Classic WhitesIntroduction to Holiday Wines There’s a particular magic that unfolds when wine finds its way to the holiday table. It’s more than a beverage—it’s a catalyst for connection, a quiet signal that the everyday has given way to something worth savoring. As conversations deepen and laughter rises, the right wine becomes part of your evening’s…
Continue reading Best Wine for Holidays: Top Picks for Every CelebrationThe 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…
Continue reading Zinfandel Sweet or Dry: A Wine Lover’s Complete GuideIn 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…
Continue reading Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Merlot: Key Differences in Taste, Body, and PairingsDoes 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…
Continue reading Thanksgiving Wine GuideWith 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…
Continue reading Is Pinot Noir Sweet or Dry? A Guide to Its True Flavor ProfileAt 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…
Continue reading Is Merlot Sweet or Dry? Exploring Its Taste and CharacteristicsWhen it comes to white wine, two varietals tend to lead the conversation: Organic 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…
Continue reading Chardonnay vs. Sauvignon Blanc: Which White Wine Is Right for You?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…
Continue reading Is Chardonnay Dry or Sweet? Everything You Need to Know
