David Falchek

Scranton

Executive Director at American Wine Society Journal

David Falchek is the executive director of the American Wine Society, the oldest and largest organization of wine consumers.

Articles

A white wine grape that may pleasantly surprise you

5 days ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

Chenin Blanc is kind of the underdog of white wine grapes — but in the best way. Originally from the Loire Valley in France, this versatile grape can do it all: crisp and dry, sweet and rich, still or sparkling. I’ve called it the Swiss army knife of white wines. In its French homeland, it’s behind some of the most elegant and age-worthy wines, especially from areas like Vouvray and Savennières.
Different ways to put the sparkle in sparkling wines

1 week ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

Planning a post-party for friends involved with the Scranton Half Marathon had me looking for fun sparkling wines. None of the sparkling wines I found were made in the traditional method used in Champagne. Winemakers using the méthode champenoise aren’t aiming to be playful — they’re aiming to convey seriousness. I really enjoy the bright colors on the wrapped bottle of House Wine Rosé Bubbles.
German white wines can be a little pricey but age well

2 weeks ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

German white wines are known for their fruity character, rich texture and crisp acidity. Many are lower in alcohol, making them a good option for those looking for a lighter wine. While most white wines start to fade after about four years, German whites tend to age well. Unfortunately, they are often more expensive than comparable white wines due to market factors and limited supply.
Empty Bottles: With the approach of warm weather, rosés on the mind

1 month ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

All wine-producing countries make rosés, but more than any other, France holds the history and diversity of rosé. We may think only of red wine when we think of Bordeaux, but the region actually makes a lot of rosé. The same is true throughout France. The tradition traces back to southern France, where warmer temperatures ensure that grapes ripen promptly, creating the need for a refreshing drink to pair with the food.
Empty Bottles: Exploring South America’s other signature grapes

1 month ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

When most people think of South American wine, malbec immediately comes to mind. Originally from Bordeaux, this red grape now thrives in Argentina, offering wines across a range of quality levels and price points. But malbec isn’t the only grape worth exploring from this region. South America is home to several other noteworthy varieties that deserve attention. One such grape is carménère, which shares a Bordeaux heritage with malbec.
Empty Bottles: Lots of variation in pinot noir depending on where it originates

1 month ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

Pinot noir is the signature red wine of Burgundy, a region whose wines have captivated people for centuries. It’s no surprise that a bottle of Burgundy has inspired many winemakers and winery owners to pursue their passion for pinot noir. Pinot noir is a lighter red wine, but beyond that, it varies significantly depending on where it is grown. Every pinot-producing region and winemaker claims some influence from Burgundy, yet no place replicates its unique character exactly.
Classic cocktails call for eggs, or egg alternatives like aquafaba

2 months ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

Several classic cocktails call for eggs, typically — but not exclusively — egg whites. Some of our favorite drinks may be feeling the pinch of rising egg prices. Or are they? Turns out, there are non-fresh egg alternatives ideal for the cost-conscious and vegans. Egg whites enhance the texture and taste of cocktails like the gin fizz, amaretto sour, and whiskey sour. Other drinks, such as the golden fizz, flip and egg nog even include the yolk.
What can you expect to get from a $10 white wine?

2 months ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

Last week, we explored some $10 red wines, and today, I’m sampling a few whites. In general, white wines tend to perform better at lower prices than reds. There are fewer expectations for white wines, and the winemaking process for reds presents more opportunities for things to go wrong. All the wines I tried were passable and delivered good value for the price — though at this range, expectations are naturally lower.
Empty Bottles: Grüner Veltliner pairs nicely with variety of foods

2 months ago | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

Until about 20 years ago, Grüner Veltliner was considered just another obscure wine grape — assuming people even knew the others. The trajectory of this white wine tilted upward in the late 20th century with the rise of food-friendly wines and some high-profile wine tastings. Pronounced GROO-ner velt-LEE-ner, some refer to it as “GV,” “Groovy” or “Gru-V.” If you say “LINER,” some people will correct you. Grüner Veltliner remains Austria’s most planted wine grape.
Empty Bottles: Soju, of South Korean movie and TV fame, a popular choice

Jan 12, 2025 | thetimes-tribune.com | David Falchek

If you’ve watched the macabre international sensation “Squid Game” on Netflix or any of the other heralded movies from South Korea, you likely noticed frequent references to soju. The characters seem constantly inclined to buy soju, share soju or get a round of soju. Casually consumed, soju culturally occupies a similar role to beer in the U.S. — it’s typically inexpensive and sessionable.