 |
Malbec
Argentina is home to some of the most robust Malbec wines in the
world. You can taste a subtle smokiness in this wine which
makes it a great companion for that juicy grilled steak,
(Argentinean beef), ribs or even a prime rib. You’ll taste
blackberries. You’ll taste plums. But the smokiness is
prevalent and an assertive characteristic to this varietal.
By far and away Argentina makes the best ones.
Carmenere
This is an elegant and fuller bodied red from of all
places, Chile. Spicy like red peppers, smooth like vanilla
and an undertone of herb. This is an excellent choice if
you’re serving red meats of any sort, either grilled or
roasted. These are popular wines. Most people enjoy them
because they represent an excellent product for a modest
price. But be prepared to pay more in the future. A product
this good will not stay this cheap. |
Zinfandel
This varietal was originally grown in the Balkans,
Greece and the heel of Italy. Its origin is actually
Croatian. Today the absolute best ones are from California.
The climate, sunshine and conditions produce a grape which
is so rich and fruity that it can produce a wine with an
alcohol content of 15% or more. Zin’s can only be described
as big, juicy and voluptuous. You’ll taste wild blueberries,
black cherry and plums. These sophisticated wines are the
favorite of Thomas Keller, Chef de Cuisine at the French
Laundry Restaurant in Yountville California, considered by most to
be the best restaurant in America and in the top ten in the
world. (So you can guess, they have to be good). What to
eat with them? Red meat, of course.
 Syrah
You might know these bold and spicy reds as Shiraz if
you’re drinking anything other than the French version.
These wines offer a flavor of very ripe, very dark fruits,
but with a hint of black telicherry pepper. Australia makes
some positively grand ones, rich and full bodied and dark in
color. These are the perfect accompaniment to hearty stews,
grilled meats, venison, beef and bison.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabs are the ideal elegant and formal wines, perfect for
entertaining and hostess gift giving. They are especially
fine when paired with meat. These are the famous Bordeaux wines
everybody’s always chatting about. They’re big. They’re
sophisticated and they can range in price from fairly
moderate to out of this world expensive. You’ll taste dark berries, coconut,
chocolate all with a distinct oak flavor because these big
reds spend a lot of time aging in fine French oak barrels,
especially the top priced ones. Without a doubt, the world’s
best come from Bordeaux in France. But you can get a very
nice product from Chile, California and if you’re really
into cherry bombs, try an Australian.
|
