This event was to celebrate the publication of the 2016 edition of Descorchados, or “Uncorked”, a comprehensive guide to the wines of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. While the guide series has existed for many years in Spanish, this is the first year the guide was published in English as well, marking a big turning point for producers and consumers alike in the relationship between the makers of the South and the enthusiastic drinkers here up North. Read more.
Read MoreWhen people think of wine by category, we often think: red, white, and rosé -- with rosé as another word for "pink". In Spanish, we say rosado. However, this category goes beyond "pink" alone, since we find an entire spectrum of from nearly-clear dusty lavender or peach, to brighter sparkling and light ruby, fruity selections, all the way to deep magenta full-body varieties. Read more.
Read MoreWorld Malbec Day, sponsored by Wines of Argentina, is celebrated in over 60 countries around the world. Wines of Argentina chose the date that marks one of the most important milestones in its industry. Read More.
Read MoreIn the Southern Hemisphere right now, it’s vendimia season. Vendimia is the Spanish word for the collection of wine grapes, an autumnal process also known as “vintage” in English. At Grand Cata, we’re looking toward Latin America to see what this year’s cosecha or “harvest” will bring for the future of Latino wine. A few winemakers from the region shared their secrets with us. We consider them to be quintessential examples of the quality wines that small family-owned operations are producing in Chile and beyond. Read more.
Read MoreOver the course of the last few months, we’ve taken you on a countdown journey with our concept. And it all comes down to one place, Grand Cata, the store we are excited to open today in the Shaw neighborhood of Washington, DC. We have 1,512 square feet with more than 300 hand-picked selections of wine, beer, spirits representing the Caribbean, Central and South American, and Europe. With time, our inventory is set to grow and include gourmet food and spices, as well as other cultural, artisanal, and unique regional products. Read more.
Read MoreAs 2015 draws to a close, the material evidence of DC’s first Latin Wine Market is more tangible than ever. The counters are built, the lights are hung, and the tiles are sparkling. If printed on paper, the list of inventory might stretch from wall to wall. Anticipation is strong, but there is still some work (and waiting) to be done. Since New Years is a time of contemplation, Grand Cata’s co-founders Pedro Rodríguez and Julio Robledo recently sat down to reflect on the formation of Grand Cata over the last four years and the events in both their own lives and in history that have gotten them to this point. Here’s a look at their conversation. Read more
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