| Choosing the perfect wine really depends upon | | | | the Pinot Noir. With its blend of plum, vanilla and |
| personal tastes. You can do research on the various | | | | blackberry flavors it would be a nice addition to any |
| vineyards, what was a good year for a particular wine, | | | | meal. |
| etc. but the bottom line is what do you like. We have | | | | The peppery flavor of the Shiraz would be a great |
| listed a few things to look for in a really great wine | | | | accompaniment to spicy Mexican or Italian meal. This is |
| below to try to make your next purchase a successful | | | | another wine that would also go well with a meal of |
| one. | | | | beef or pork. |
| 1. White Wines: A white wine is a great choice to | | | | A Chianti is a perfect choice for a hearty lasagna or |
| serve with hors d'oeuvres as your guests are arriving. | | | | spaghetti dinner. You do not have to spend a lot to get |
| A white wine has a light, fresh flavor that won't | | | | a good Chianti. Who can resist those cute little bottles |
| interfere with the main dish. The Chardonnays, | | | | wrapped in the basket weave? |
| Sauvignon Blancs, and a good Chablis are all good | | | | If you are serving a tender rib roast, tenderloin steak, |
| choices. Ask your local wine merchant what he or | | | | Chateaubriand, filet mignon, or tournedos of beef, a |
| should would suggest. They will let you sample some | | | | robust Burgundy would be just the ticket. |
| upon request. | | | | The main thing when hosting a dinner party is to have |
| A sparkling white wine such as the Rolls Royce of | | | | several choices in wines. Everyone has their own |
| wines the champagne are reserved for those very | | | | preferences when it comes to wines. We have |
| special occasions such as a wedding, anniversary or | | | | offered a few guidelines of which wines would |
| engagement party. Again, you may want to ask the | | | | compliment a particular meal. It is also fun to introduce |
| local wine connoiseuer what would be just perfect for | | | | your friends to a new and unusual wine they may not |
| the event. | | | | have tasted before. |
| 2. Red Wines: A good red wine is great anytime, but | | | | You may enjoy making your own wine. You could |
| when considering which wine to serve with a particular | | | | start with one of the fruit wines. They are relatively |
| meal, a red is normal chosen for the heartier meals of | | | | easy to make and go great with desserts. Wouldn't |
| beef, pork or lamb. A good Merlot, Burgundy, or | | | | your guests be impressed. Visit a fruit wine making |
| Cabernet would all be perfect choices. | | | | website for some recipes. |
| A really nice red wine produced mostly in Oregon is | | | | |