Posts by MikeF

My understanding is that a big part of the reason that the Charles Shaw wine exists is the current availability of relatively "high quality" grapes at ridiculously low prices. These aren't Napa or Sonoma grapes, of course,...

In addition, I'd add that the stuff is generally drinkable, but totally uninteresting. It's a wine that appeals to folks who just want something that's cheap and not too terrible. I've had the chardonnay a couple of times and two or...

Great story, Craig! I have only had one experience in which I may (and I emphasize may) have been the object of a predatory somellier. Since it was the single greatest food and wine experience of my life, I've been willing to let it...

FWIW, if the Scan Pan doesn't work out, you might try a Cybernox, from Sitram. Instead of teflon, they use some kind of microcrystalline coating. It's not as non-stick as teflon (I doubt that it will meet your cheese test) but it's...

I have an old one that I use for making risotto. It's not really any better than a good metal pan although being able to see through can help to make sure you're stirring properly and not letting anything stick to the sides or bottom....

Peter - Your knife-handling info is great! My knife skills are abominable, and I've been well aware of that for some time. Your tips have been very helpful. Thanks! Mike Filigenzi (Sacramento)

We've looked at these as well. There's a local dealer that has a couple in the showroom. They look really nice, but we were scared off by the fact that we can find little or no info on them. We also like the looks of their refrigerators...

We've been looking at dual-fuel ranges for about six months now, and are zeroing in on our choices. We'll probably go with Wolf's new line as their ovens seem to be the best as far as baking things evenly. FWIW, the Kitchenaid was...

I don't have any experience with Wolfgang Puck or Cook's Essential, but I like All-Clad a lot more than Calphalon. We have a couple of Calphalon pieces we never use anymore after going to All-Clad. It seems to work better for us, it...

I have no intention of reducing my consumption of European food or drink just because they believe there are ways of bringing Iraq into line that fall short of war. The fact that our own nation is so divided over this issue suggests...