Uncorked Sarah Jane English: a Distinguished Woman and an Invaluable Resource Austin Woman Magazine, March 2004 By Erin Prather
Described as bubbly and effervescent, like a bottle of champagne, Sarah Jane English has been an important contributor to the world’s wine community for many years. The author of five books, and numerous magazine articles, she has made a name for herself in a business often dominated by male counterparts.
“I continue to be amazed, when invited to speak at conferences about wine, that I am often the only woman on the expert panel” she says.
A native of Dallas and fifth generation Texan, English learned about wine and food pairing as a young adult in France. She wrote her first book "Vin Vignettes Stories of Famous French Wines," at the suggestion of her friend, Dick Harden. After its publication she began to research about other aspects of the wine industry.
“Once my first book was published I was considered an authority and so I had to become one” English says. “I knew French wines, but had never been to the California wine country. I traveled there to attend symposia, wine events, wineries, and tastings and such to learn as much as possible.”
It was shortly after starting her studies that English’s publisher requested a book about Texas wine. She began researching and the first edition of "The Wines of Texas" was published in 1986. English continues to revise the book, described by Texas Gov. Rick Perry as a “breezy excursion through the history of Texas winemaking,” as new wineries open; the fourth edition was published in 2002 and marked the publication’s 16th year.
In addition to her books, English has presented a program on Texas wines for the Texas Department of Agriculture, is the food and wine editor for Country Lifestyle Magazine, has served as a judge for the James Beards Foundation to honor food and beverage industry pros for their achievements, writes a monthly newsletter for her web site and teaches the Sarah Jane English Wine Symposium at her home in Central Austin.
“My website has free information about how wine was made, how it tastes, and what foods pair well with it” says English. “Personally I think it’s stilly to drink wine just because an expert recommends it. Wine should bring pleasure to dining or an event; always drink what you like with whatever foods you want.”
In fact, English encourages responsible drinking. “Wine with dinner,” she says, “is a civilized way to enjoy an alcoholic beverage in moderation. Certain standards of behavior, I believe, should always be exhibited—courtesy and prudence are two of them. Inebriated persons are tiresome and neither."
"One of the things I like about wine is that the people who produce it are always striving for excellence, she said. "In today's popular culture where mediocrity—and even worse, things that lack dignity—are often the goal, it is refreshing.”
Having stomped grapes in France, California and Texas; dined at the tables of some of the United State's most talented chefs; and traveled to production facilities in France, Italy, Chile, and Germany, English has established herself as an invaluable resource. And Austin residents should ensure they take advantage of her presence.
Books by Sarah Jane English "The Wines of Texas, 4th edition," 2002 "Sharing is Unnatural & Other Amusing Notions," 1999 "Top Chefs in New Orleans, 1992 Top Chefs in Texas," 1992 "Vin Vignettes Stories of Famous French Wines," 1984
Sarah Jane English's web site: www.sarahjanewineandfood.com
Sarah Jane English Wine Symposium A four evening course over four weeks that enables attendees to learn more about wine than most of the people they ever meet. For more information call 512-474-1889.
Wine Tips From Sarah Jane English White wines generally complement more food than red wines. They are less complicated, as a rule, and the acidity seems more readily available to the palate.
Price, to a point, does represent more quality in wine.
Sauvignon Blanc is a lovely food wine—so are certain types of Riesling.
An individual must spend time to truly learn about wine.
