Total Eclipse of the Sun

Had the amazing experience of witnessing a total solar eclipe in beautiful tropical north Queensland just after dawn yesterday. The few clouds in the sky parted like curtains on a stage at just the right time. This is the view we had from Four Mile Beach at Port Douglas. An awesome experience shared with thousands of others stretched right along the beach.

The Australian Wine Industry’s most prestigious award, the 2012 McWilliam’s Maurice O’Shea Award, was awarded to the Australian Screwcap Initiative last week. A big congrats to all involved, especially those in the Clare Valley who were amongst the first to take the risk in a big way. No more cork taint and wastage for those who have adopted the screwtap. The French will catch on one day - in fact a few have already. 

The success and longevity of Science Quest series would not have been possible without the creative input of my exceptionally talented co-author Merrin J Evergreen. We have been working together on Science Quest and its companions, Core Science and Jacaranda Science since the idea was conceived in 1994.                              

Please take the time to find out more about Merrin by clicking on 'The Science Quest Story' tab.                               

It Doesn't Make Sense: Scott Leggo at TEDxCanberra 2012

Slim Newton - Redback on the Toilet Seat

"Come To Australia" by Scared Weird Little Guys

Does the right glass make a difference?

Choosing the right glass CAN add to the flavour and enjoyment of wine. Some glasses are best suited to reds, while others are best suited to whites or sparkling wines.

The best glasses for red wine have a broad base. This leaves a large surface area of the wine in contact with the air, which heightens the sensation of the wine's aromas.

White wine glasses are generally smaller and narrower. They direct the wine to the centre of the tongue, diminishing the acidic flavours that are tasted at the sides of the tongue.

Sparkling wine glasses generally have a narrow mouth to allow the bubbles to escape into the air less slowly. Like still white wine glasses, they direct the wine towards the centre of the tongue.

If your wine has been served at the correct temperature, don't hold your glass by the bowl. Place your fingers around the stem so that your body temperature doesn't change the serving temperature of the wine.

Of course, it's not quite that simple. Some glass manufacturers make a specific glass for specific grape varieties. Each glass has characteristics that bring out the best aromas and the best flavours of the variety.