Subscribe to Snail Mail Sommelier
If you’d like to get letters in the mail from me. I send wine information, general education, as well as news and updates you probably don’t want to miss.
Copper Cups, Copper Doorknobs, and Why Everyone’s Suddenly Obsessed
Hospitals are using copper to kill bacteria and it works. Here’s why this ancient metal is making a major medical comeback.
The Rapid Rise of AI: How Artificial Intelligence “Learned” 40 IQ Points in Just One Year
AI’s intelligence is skyrocketing, gaining 40 IQ points in a year. Here’s what that leap means for business, creativity, and the balance of global power.
Japan’s New Plastic Dissolves in Seawater (and Boosts Soil Health)
Japan’s new plastic vanishes in seawater and boosts soil health. A breakthrough that could transform the fight against pollution.
Why Limiting Sugar in the First 1,000 Days of Life Matters More Than We Realized
Cutting added sugar in a baby’s first 1,000 days can shape lifelong health, from stronger metabolism to lower obesity risk. Here’s why it matters.
How California’s Wine Industry Survived Drought and Wildfire (and Keeps Pouring On)
Droughts, wildfires, and heat haven’t stopped California wine. Here’s how winemakers adapted, innovated, and kept pouring through it all.
California’s Central Valley: The Unsung Hero Feeding the World
It grows a quarter of America’s food, yet it’s running out of water. The Central Valley’s quiet crisis could reshape how the world eats.
California Just Became the World’s 4th-Largest Economy
California just became the world’s fourth-largest economy, passing Japan. Here’s what’s driving its rise and what it means for the future.
Spending More Than 4 Years on Mars Could Kill Us
Humans can’t survive more than four years on Mars without lethal radiation. Here’s what that means for future missions and life beyond Earth.
Are Black Holes Actually Tunnels? The Mind-Bending Theory That’s Changing Space Science
What if every black hole is an exit? Scientists now think they could open into white holes doorways through space, time, and everything we know.
NASA Found a “Spider Web” on Mars, and it Might Be Hiding Clues to Alien Life
NASA just found a strange, web-like structure on Mars. It’s not a spider, but it might be a clue to life hiding below the surface.
AI is Already Outperforming Humans in Image Analysis, Here’s What That Means for All of Us
AI now sees what we can’t finding hidden patterns in medical scans, satellite photos, and even our eyes. What does that mean for trust?
The World’s First “AI Baby”? Let’s Unpack This Wild Story
An algorithm chose the embryo. A baby was born. Here’s what that means for fertility and the future of being human.
The Future of Cement: Could Your House Be One Big Battery?
Scientists just invented cement that stores electricity, turning buildings into giant batteries. Here’s how “power walls” could change energy forever.
How to Clean a Wine Decanter (Pro Tips from a Sommelier)
Cleaning a wine decanter doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here’s the surprisingly simple espresso-cleaner trick that leaves your glass spotless, no beads required.
The Wild, Winding History of Pinot Noir: How One Grape Became a Global Obsession
Moody, magical, and maddening, Pinot Noir built Burgundy, fuels Champagne, and still surprises every glass. Explore the grape that changed wine forever.
The Story of Champagne: How Bubbles, Accidents, and Science Created Everyone’s Favorite Celebration Drink
Discover the wild history of Champagne, from royal mishaps to science breakthroughs, and why its bubbles still define celebration today.
10 Everyday Sounds You Didn’t Know Have Weird Scientific Explanations
Why do some sounds make us cringe while others calm us? Discover the weird science behind 10 everyday noises you never think about.
Figs: The Ancient, Delicious, Slightly Weird “Fruit” (That’s Not Actually a Fruit)
Figs are inverted flowers with ancient roots and wild facts. Learn how to grow them, especially the hardy, delicious Chicago variety.
Scientists Are Controlling Mouse Brains With Nanoparticles… and I Have Questions
Nanoparticles can now control mouse brains. The science is real and the ethics are complicated.
Why Airplane Wine Tastes Different (And What to Order Instead)
Wine tastes different at 35,000 feet, here’s why, what to sip instead, and how to hack your next in-flight drink for better flavor.