Selecting the right wine really depends upon personal tastes. You can do research on the various vineyards, what was a good year for a particular wine, etc. but the bottom line is what do you like. We have listed a few things to look for in a really great wine below to try to make your next purchase a successful one.
1. White Wines: A white wine is a great choice to serve with hors d’oeuvres as your guests are arriving. A white wine has a light, fresh flavor that won’t interfere with the main dish. The Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, and a good Chablis are all good choices. Ask your local wine merchant what he or should would suggest. They will let you sample some upon request.
A sparkling white wine such as the Rolls Royce of wines the champagne are reserved for those very special occasions such as a wedding, anniversary or engagement party. Again, you may want to ask the local wine connoiseuer what would be just perfect for the event.
2. Red Wines: A nice hearty red wine such as a Merlot or Burgundy would be perfect with an Italian meal or with grilled steak, pork or lamb. Serving a good red with a meal can actually help to enhance the dinner.
A really nice red wine produced mostly in Oregon is the Pinot Noir. With its blend of plum, vanilla and blackberry flavors it would be a nice addition to any meal.
The peppery flavor of the Shiraz would be a great accompaniment to spicy Mexican or Italian meal. This is another wine that would also go well with a meal of beef or pork.
The perfect wine to complete an Italian meal would be a Chianti. With its rich flavor and deep red color it blends easily with ravioli and pizza. When you finish the wine, the beautiful raffia wrapped bottles make great candle holders and set the mood for your romantic Italian dinner.
A robust Burgundy would be the red to choose for a fine standing rib roast or delicate filet mignon.
The main thing when hosting a dinner party is to have several choices in wines. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to wines. We have offered a few guidelines of which wines would compliment a particular meal. It is also fun to introduce your friends to a new and unusual wine they may not have tasted before.
You may enjoy making your own wine. You could start with one of the fruit wines. They are relatively easy to make and go great with desserts. Wouldn’t your guests be impressed. Visit a fruit wine making website for some recipes.
Tags: fruit wine making, red wines, white wines, wine