Politics Uncorked

Bountiful Balistreri

9/3/2010

By Kimberly Dean
THE COLORADO STATESMAN

I first met Julie Balistreri while on a tour of Denver wineries, and brought home nearly a case of wine before this column was ever conceived of by Jody and myself. Ms. Balistreri gave wonderful presentations of all the wine we tasted. Sitting on the outdoor patio in the garden, you can imagine a beautiful event being held there… people sipping wine, sampling cheeses and discussing politics.

Soiree at the Governor’s Mansion

9/2/2010

By Kimberly Dean
THE COLORADO STATESMAN

POLITICS UNCORKED

On a warm summer evening at the Boettcher Mansion, recent award-winning Colorado winemakers showcased and poured their best wines in the garden of the beautiful century-old Colorado home.

What’s up at Wines Off Wynkoop

8/20/2010

By Kimberly Dean
THE COLORADO STATESMAN

Many businesses have had to change how they do business in this economy, and Wines Off Wynkoop is no different. Specializing in wine, owner Jed Rulon says the bad thing is that people who were buying $20 bottles have gone down to $10, but the good news is that, “Everybody’s drinking!” Rulon also says that over the last six to eight months, it has loosened up a bit and he is seeing more of the luxury wines being bought. Very good news…

Women and wine: Can you think of a better combination?

8/20/2010

By Kimberly Dean
THE COLORADO STATESMAN

The League of Women Voters of Adams County and the Spero Winery in Denver made for a perfect pairing on a recent Saturday night this summer when I attended their joint event. Not only did I get to taste some of the best wine made in Colorado, but I met some very nice people as well.

Senator Brophy’s little-known hobbies

8/20/2010

By Kimberly Dean
THE COLORADO STATESMAN

We recently heard through the grapevine that state Senator Greg Brophy, R-Wray, is not just a farmer, but also an avid wine enthusiast. Lucky us! Statesman publisher Jody and I had the chance to sit and have a glass of wine with the Senator one very warm Tuesday evening at Lala’s Wine Bar & Pizzeria in Denver to learn more about his silent obsession.

The sweet life: Welcome to Politics Uncorked

8/20/2010

By Kimberly Dean
THE COLORADO STATESMAN

Several years ago I was driving from coast to coast on my way home from a business trip in Florida, and I happened on a winery that I would’ve missed had I blinked. Tucked away down a dirt road in a house with rocking chairs on the front porch (literally) was an old family winery. Tastings were $2, and I got to try their six special wines. To make a long story short, this mistress of wine not only knew her wines inside and out, but taught me a very valuable lesson: to trust my palette. White wine with steak, red with fish, whatever. You like what you like, and don’t let anyone tell you different!