The following is a selection of recent wine columns published in Worcester Magazine by Madeleine Ahlquist, co-owner of The Sole Proprietor and 111 Chop House, both of which are frequent winners of Wine Spectator's "Award of Excellence".

Taming the Savage White Wine
Worcester Magazine
If the round and buttery Chardonnay is the beauty of white wines, then sauvignon blanc may be the beast. The name comes from the French word sauvage, meaning “wild,” and is fitting to describe what is one of the wine world’s strongest personalities. more

Spring Ahead to Chardonnay
Worcester Magazine
With the weather warming and the flowers blooming, I find nothing more satisfying than a glass of good chardonnay. California produces more than 1,000 different chardonnays, ranging from not-so-good to outstanding. more

Test Your WQ (Wine Quotient)
Worcester Magazine
Wine enthusiasts have their own vocabulary for the passions behind choosing a wine, describing a wine — and certainly, drinking a wine. You’ve probably heard many of these terms, but here’s a chance to test your Wine Quotient with regard to some of the vocabulary, and see just how literate you are in the language of wine. more

Cracking The Code For Your Valentine's Day Champagne
Worcester Magazine
My standard poodle's favorite toy is a stuffed replica of a Champagne bottle labeled "Dog Perignon," which she carries around the house during special occasions, such as the end of a nap. more

Wine Truths Will Set Your Palate Free
Worcester Magazine
Wine truths should not be secrets. As you enjoy the pursuit of wine knowledge, a few simple truths can enhance your experience. more

Wine-Pairing 101
Worcester Magazine
Milk and cookies. Beer and pretzels. Fava beans and a good Chianti. Food and beverage combinations are a matter of individual taste. more

Wine Fact and Fiction
Worcester Magazine
The mythology of wine is as rich and deep as a good bottle of cabernet. more

Pucker Up for Tannins
Worcester Magazine
What do tea and wine have in common? More than you might think. more

Sideways and Upward with Pinot Noir
Worcester Magazine
The popularity of last year's movie Sideways has put the varietal wine pinot noir front and center with wine enthusiasts. more