What We're Reading --

Stem Compounds Help Reduce Alcohol and Boost Freshness

Whole-cluster winemaking has long been associated with the nouveau wine style of Beaujolais, but now traditional winemakers in Bordeaux.  The addition of stems can decrease actual alcohol levels in wine. (Deborah Parker Wong)

Challenging Times for Washington State Wines

The second biggest wine-producing state of the Union has always been in the shadow of California, its neighbour. Now, as its largest winery announces cutbacks, producers are going to have to give more thought to exports.