Wine

valentine's dinner wine pairings

Wine Pairings for Classic Valentine’s Meals

Spec’sology Blog, Holidays, Wine
Valentine’s Day is approaching, and whether you’re planning an intimate dinner at home or reserving a table at your favorite restaurant, the right wine can transform a delicious meal into an unforgettable evening. The good news? You don’t need to be a sommelier to nail the perfect wine pairing for your romantic dinner. When we talk about classic Valentine’s meals, we’re looking at the dishes that have defined romantic dining for decades: a perfectly seared steak, buttery lobster tai... Read More
best wine pairings with turkey

What Wine Pairs Best with Turkey: A Complete Guide to Perfect Thanksgiving Wine Pairings

Spec’sology Blog, Holidays, Wine
Best Wine Types for Turkey Turkey’s mild, delicate flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile for wine pairing, working beautifully with both red and white wines. The key is selecting wines that complement rather than compete with the meat’s subtle taste. The top wine varieties for turkey include: Pinot Noir – Light-bodied with bright acidity and earthy undertones Beaujolais – Fruit forward with low tannins and food-friendly character Chenin Blanc – Versat... Read More
what is fortified wine

What is Fortified Wine: A Complete Guide to Port, Sherry, and Beyond

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
When Portuguese sailors discovered that adding brandy to their wine helped it survive months at sea, they unknowingly created one of the world’s most diverse wine categories. Today, fortified wines represent some of the most complex and versatile wines available, spanning everything from bone-dry aperitifs to rich dessert wines that pair beautifully with chocolate. Understanding what fortified wine is opens up a world of flavor possibilities that extend far beyond the dinner table into your... Read More
how to chill wine

How to Chill Wine: Complete Guide to Perfect Wine Temperatures

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Serving wine at the wrong temperature can completely transform its taste – and not in a good way. Whether you’re hosting unexpected guests or simply want to enjoy that bottle you just picked up, knowing how to chill wine properly makes the difference between a mediocre glass and an exceptional wine experience. The science is clear: temperature dramatically affects how we perceive wine’s aromas, flavors, and overall character. Serve a red wine too warm, and the alcohol becomes harsh ... Read More
what is orange wine

Why Everyone’s Obsessed with Orange Wine — And What to Pair It With This Summer

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Despite its name, orange wine contains no oranges whatsoever. This unique category of wine gets its distinctive amber hue from an ancient winemaking technique that predates modern white wine production by thousands of years. Orange wines represent a fascinating bridge between traditional red and white wines, offering wine drinkers a completely different sensory experience through extended skin contact during fermentation. The story of orange wine is one of rediscovery. While this winemaking m... Read More
specs top 50 roses

Spec’s Top 50 Rosés

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Dry Rosé made a meteoric rise over the past few years. For many years, Rosé was considered sweet with wines like White Zinfandel flooding the market and creating an insatiable appetite for sweet pink wines. As the American palate progressed into enjoying drier styles of wine there was an inevitable drop off from White Zinfandel which allowed for drier Rosé to enter the market. The popularity of Dry Rosé was a slow burn for several years until wines such as Whispering Angel and Miraval lit th... Read More
what is mead

What is Mead? Everything You Need To Know About The Renaissance Festival Staple

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Mead, often referred to as the “nectar of the gods,” is a fermented honey-based alcoholic beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was revered for its perceived divine qualities and its association with immortality and wisdom. Mead’s resurgence in popularity is not only attributed to its historical significance but also to its versatility and diverse flavor profile. The process of making mead involves fer... Read More
top new zealand sauvignon blanc wines

New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Estimated Reading Time: 8 Minutes New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has rapidly ascended to global acclaim as a premier white wine, celebrated for its intense aromatics and vibrant taste. Within a few decades, this grape variety transformed from relatively unknown New Zealand plantings into a worldwide sensation. Significance to New Zealand’s Wine Industry Sauvignon Blanc isn’t just a successful grape for New Zealand – it’s the lifeblood of the country’s modern wine industry. Fl... Read More
wine storage fridge vs cellar

Wine Fridge or Wine Cellar: Making the Right Storage Choice

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Estimated Reading Time: 7 Minutes Proper wine storage is essential to preserving the delicate flavors, aromas, and overall quality of your wine collection. Whether you’re a casual wine enthusiast or a serious collector, understanding the differences between a wine fridge and a wine cellar is key to protecting your investment. Today on the blog, we’ll explore why temperature control matters, how improper storage can damage your wine, and then dive into what wine fridges and wine cellars ar... Read More
best texas wines to pair with texas bbq

Best Texas Wines to Pair with Texas BBQ

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
Estimated Reading Time: 5 Minutes Texas barbecue, a culinary tradition renowned for its smoky flavors, tender meats, and rich, savory sauces, can be elevated to new heights by pairing it with the right Texas wines. Spec’s has a diverse selection of Texas wines that perfectly complement the bold and smoky notes of barbecue. From full-bodied reds that stand up to the richness of brisket to crisp whites that cut through the fattiness of ribs, Spec’s offers a wine for every barbecu... Read More
spring sangria spritzers

Our Best Sangria & Spritzer Recipes

Spec’sology Blog, Wine
When the Texas weather warms up in spring, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing beverage. Sangria and spritzers are ideal for the season, and with a Texas twist and ingredients from Spec’s, you can create delicious drinks for any gathering. Here are some recipes and ideas to help you craft the perfect springtime drink. How To Make Sangria With Red Wine & Sprite Sangria, a beloved Spanish beverage known for its refreshing and flavorful profile, is a versatile punch th... Read More
traveling with liquor and wine

Traveling with Liquor and Wine

Spec’sology Blog, Spirits, Wine
Estimated Reading Time: 6 Minutes Planning a trip and want to bring your favorite bottle of wine or liquor? Careful planning and handling are essential when transporting alcohol, whether for a short weekend getaway or an extended international trip. This ensures that your beverages arrive intact, without leaks or damage, and that you comply with all legal regulations. Today on the blog, we’ll provide ten essential tips for safely traveling with your favorite beverages. 1. Check Local Law... Read More