Jeff Siegel

Jeff Siegel, the Wine Curmudgeon, is a wine writer, wine critic and wine judge who specializes in inexpensive wine—the wine, he says, that most of us drink. He is author of The Wine Curmudgeon’s Guide to Cheap Wine and teaches wine, spirits and beer at El Centro College in Dallas. WineCurmudgeon.com

Inexpensive Wines for When the Grill Is Hot
Food

Inexpensive Wines for When the Grill Is Hot

Jeff Siegel | July 7, 2023

The grills are coming out—but that doesn’t mean the wine gets put away. In fact, wine can be paired with…

The New Rules for Drinking Wine
Food

The New Rules for Drinking Wine

Jeff Siegel | March 22, 2023

In this age of wine in cans, sweet red wine and Instagram wine ­parties, it’s difficult to believe that there…

The Right Bubbly for Your Occasion
Food

The Right Bubbly for Your Occasion

Jeff Siegel | December 9, 2022

Americans drink the most sparkling wine—perhaps one-third of all that is sold in this country each year—between Thanksgiving and New…

Rosés Are Back in Stores
Food

Rosés Are Back in Stores

Jeff Siegel | July 23, 2022

There’s good news for rosé ­drinkers as the 2022 pink wine season gets underway. The Trump wine tariff, which cut…

Box Wines for Holiday Gatherings
Food

Box Wines for Holiday Gatherings

Jeff Siegel | March 1, 2022

Three-liter box wines have become legitimate. They’re professionally made…can last as long as a month…and offer tremendous value. Here are the best from the Wine Curmudgeon.

Are “Healthy” Wines Better for You?
Nutrition

Are “Healthy” Wines Better for You?

Jeff Siegel | December 30, 2021

Are wines labeled “healthy” really better for you? Our wine expert weighs in.

Best Flavored Spirits for Your Holiday Celebration

Best Flavored Spirits for Your Holiday Celebration

Jeff Siegel | March 4, 2021

Flavored spirits—infused with chocolate, mandarin, cucumber and more—are a tasty way to bring more cheer to your holidays. Drink on their own or as part of a cocktail.

Beware of Smoke Taint in American Wines: Another Wildfire Casualty
Nutrition

Beware of Smoke Taint in American Wines: Another Wildfire Casualty

Jeff Siegel | January 28, 2021

Recent wildfires can taint 2020 wines from California, Wash-ington and Oregon, causing them to taste like mild, smoky bacon or even burnt chemicals. What to know before you buy.

The Best-Selling Sparkling Wines in the US

The Best-Selling Sparkling Wines in the US

Jeff Siegel | December 11, 2019

Prosecco is an incredibly popular, inexpensive, very tasty sparkling wine. Here, wine guru Jeff Siegel’s top picks plus tasty cocktail recipes.

Wine in a Can—Delish or Disaster?

Wine in a Can—Delish or Disaster?

Jeff Siegel | August 19, 2019

Wine in a can is a hot new trend, but beyond single serving, what’s so good about it? Here’s what you need to know.

How to Store Wine—Plus 3 Affordable Wines That Get Better with Age

How to Store Wine—Plus 3 Affordable Wines That Get Better with Age

Jeff Siegel | March 14, 2019

It's mostly a myth that good wine gets better with age. Most bottles don't. But you can ruin wine by storing it wrong. Here’s how to store wine.

The Secret to Finding Great Cheap Wine

The Secret to Finding Great Cheap Wine

Jeff Siegel | February 19, 2019

Great wines from famous places are overpriced. Here's how to find great values by seeking similar wines from obscure regions.

Great Holiday Gift Wines from $10 to $70

Great Holiday Gift Wines from $10 to $70

Jeff Siegel | November 26, 2018

Bringing wine? Make it special! You'll find great values in these delicious and unusual red, white, and sparkling wines.

The Best Wine to Have with Pizza

The Best Wine to Have with Pizza

Jeff Siegel | October 29, 2018

Whether your favorite pizza is super cheesy, thin crust, deep dish or no-tomato-sauce white, there's a perfect and affordable wine for you.

The Best Wine to Have with Cajun Food

The Best Wine to Have with Cajun Food

Jeff Siegel | September 28, 2018

For great affordable wines that match Cajun cuisine, think Portugal and Spain.