Wine Review Monday

This past weekend we had a mini-nor’easter and it was quite damp and chilly. That nasty weather didn’t keep me down. I was out and about and chilled to the bone from that nasty weather.

While driving and listening to the wipers click back and forth, I thought about how there is nothing more relaxing than sitting back with a hot cup of tea and a good book. It was a nice thought even if I wasn’t able to indulge in relaxation this weekend.

But I digress. On my errand jaunt I made a stop at a new wine shop. It had quite an extensive inventory of wines. After walking through the store I couldn’t decide what to buy. I certainly didn’t need to add another merlot or cabernet to our wine rack. Then it came to me, why not think outside the box – or bottle in this case.

I could buy something that we usually don’t drink. So there I was among hundreds of bottles and they were all saying “pick me, pick me!” I was cold and damp and what I really wanted was a hot toddy. So I left the store with the thought that I would share with you a few suggestions.

We all have a favorite wine, though there may be times that we would like to try something new. But there’s that question, “what if we don’t like it?” So here’s something to take with you when your shopping for a bottle of wine and want to be a little adventurous.

WHITE WINES

If you like:
Chardonnay: Try Viognier; Friulano; White Burgundy

Pinot Grigio: Try Pinot Gris; Gruner Veltliner; Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc: Try Albarino; Pinot Gris; Sancerre

RED WINES

If you like:
Cabernet Sauvignon: Try Malbec; Chinon; Bordeux

Shiraz: Try Zinfandel (red only, not the white zin variety); Primitivo; Nero d’Avolo

Chianti: Try Tempranillo; Rioja

This is only a short list of the most popular white and red wines. These varieties share basic similarities, though they may have a slight difference in fruit flavor profiles. They will be similar in body style; either light, medium or full-bodied depending on the white or red variety.

I will expand on this list in next week’s Wine Review Monday with notes on each variety so that you can decide yourself which wine you would enjoy most.

Salute!
Winelady Cooks