A bottle of Ruchè.

In Wine Enthusiast, Marisa Finetti reports on Ruchè’s revival in Piedmont. “While Ruchè’s deeper history is dependent on storytelling from generation to generation, DNA analysis confirms its roots as a crossing of Croatina, a tannic and rustic black grape, and the near-extinct, Muscat-tasting white grape Malvasia Aromatica di Parma, which likely contributes to Ruchè’s aromatic qualities.”

The ink is dry on the largest private equity purchase of a US wine company in history, as Sycamore Partners buys the Washington-based Ste. Michelle Estates from US Tobacco.

On JancisRobinson.com, Alder Yarrow explores how Arkansas billionaire Gaylon M. Lawrence Jr. is shaking up the Napa winery investment scene.

Tom Wark wants to discuss lowering the drinking age after Representative Todd Rutherford of South Carolina introduced House Bill 4512 last week. If passed, it would lower the legal age in South Carolina for drinking and purchasing alcohol to 18 years of age.

“Global warming has forced wine regions around the world to consider new grape varietals that can better withstand the forecasted rise in temperatures,” says Liz Thach. “One such wine grape, Marselan, appears to be gaining more traction in Bordeaux, China and Napa Valley.”

Jamie Goode explores the price of South African wine.

In VinePair, Jamie Rubin makes the case for American Zinfandel. “What is it about Zinfandel that makes it such a darling of industry professionals? For some, it’s the heritage and history of vineyards that have survived the ages. Though none predate the scourge phylloxera, many, planted in the waning days of the 19th century, remain. Others are simply charmed by a grape that is so versatile.”