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Uncorking the secrets to unique wine accessories


There are about 784 million gallons of wine consumed each year in the United States, so it's likely you're either a wine connoisseur or you know one. As these wine apps can attest to, there are varied tastes; some people prefer a dry wine, while others will only imbibe sweet wine. Instead of purchasing a bottle that might or might not be enjoyed, consider one of these unique wine accessories for gift giving. Some of these gadgets are so handy that you'll want one for your own enjoyment, too.

Apps for wine experts and sommeliers in the making


When I am handed a wine list, I recognize the words -- Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot -- but I don't quite know exactly what they mean. If there's a wine expert at the table, I sheepishly hand them the menu. If not, I'll gratefully take the waiter's recommendation. However, I secretly always wish that I, too, could easily choose the appropriate wine for a meal. In the quest to educate myself, I downloaded two apps that cater to wine experts or those that aspire to become one: WineSnob (free on iTunes, $1.99 for Android) and Drync Wine Pro ($3.99 on iTunes and $2.99 for Android). Contrary to what the name might imply, WineSnob isn't just for snobs. It contains useful features and interesting information for experts, yet it is eager beginners that will particularly benefit from the app. Seasoned wine tasters can take advantage of Drync Wine Pro's larger database and interactive features. (Drync will soon offer "Drync Direct," which will deliver hand selected artisanal wines to your doorstep.) Check out our photo gallery below to see how each of these apps work - I tested the iPhone versions of both.

Wine in a box: Not just for squares anymore


If you're a regular wine drinker, you may have noticed that boxed wine has been creeping onto the shelves of serious wine shops over the past couple of years. Unlike boxed wines of old, which were often no better than jug wine (if not worse), critics say today's boxed wines are surprisingly competent. At least, some of them are.

Then again, you're not buying boxed wine because you want to a savor a rare reserve. But if you enjoy a glass of table wine with your meals or if you're planning a casual party for a large number of people, a carefully chosen boxed wine from a well-reviewed vintner can be delightful.

"No one would mistake any of these for fine wine, but they aren't bad," says Cyril Penn, editor of Wine Business Monthly, tells BusinessWeek. "It's really all about convenience."

Sip your way skinny: Can a glass of wine help you slim down?


Trying to trim down? Toss back a glass of wine. That's right, according to a recent study, it might make a difference. In their study, scientists monitored about 20,000 trim women. Over time, they found that women who drank alcohol in moderation put on less weight and were less apt to become overweight compared to non-drinkers.

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