The Wine RackBy Suzanne and Parks Hall
TOP PICK
1999 Although the “experts” say the economic slow down will produce steady or even slightly lower wine prices, we’re finding it harder and harder to find a lot of fine reds that are under $15. So, like others, we find out wine budget getting a little larger each month. Having said that, let us be quick to point out that you can find lower priced wines and that this Quail Ridge is a stylish and spicy wine, well worth its price. Ruby red in color with a tinge of purple, it has a nose filled with the aromas of anise and caramel. Chewy and a little thick on the tongue, this particular Zin has more wood, especially cedar, than fruit flavors. Still young and a little sweeter than some Zinfandels, this is a well balanced very drinkable wine. Since this is no “Rambo” red, keep food pairing relatively simple. We like it with grilled swordfish, chicken cooked in red wine and beef brisket. It’s also a good match for vegetarian dishes like stuffed eggplant, eggplant Parmesan or stuffed peppers. OTHER GOOD BETS THIS MONTH
1999 Michel Picard is a huge producer of French wines, many of which are quite reasonably priced. Youth is one of this wine’s greatest assets. Close your eyes as you sip it and you can imagine your sitting in a little French bistro. Crisp, dry and fruity, pair this wine with light poultry dishes, mild cheese or a turkey sandwich.
1998 Atypical of many contemporary California Chardonnays, this Buena Vista, is quite dry and somewhat spicy. The flavor begins with ripe yellow apples, then opens up to reveal hints of coconut, pineapple and banana. The finish is slightly nutty. It’s a good wine to pair with creamy pasta, poultry or seafood dishes. It’s also a good match for brie and other creamy cheeses. Image by S. Parks Hall Back to the Wine Rack index page |
TM
Drinking wine
is fun. But many people make it too complicated. That’s why for more than 10
years, we’ve tried hundreds of wines and shared what we’ve discovered with
newspaper, magazine and now Travellady.com readers. Our approach to wine
tasting may not be scientific. But it is down-to-earth. Since we believe
wine and food are a natural combination, we consider that when trying wines
and make pairing suggestions for every wine we recommend. You may not agree
with all our choices. But you can be assured that the wines we recommend,
whether priced at $10 or $40, represent good value. And speaking of prices,
please remember that they can vary from city to city and that some wines may
not be available everywhere.