Cheap, Sexy Wine Pairings
Restaurant Makeover
This wine pairing all depends on the entrees ordered. For meaty Italian pastas try Canaletto Nero d'Avola Merlot Sicilia 2007 ($11.95 CDN, $9.99 USD). For French fish dishes try Jaffelin Bourgogne Aligoté 2007 ($15.45 CDN, $9.99 USD) or just keep experimenting.
International Affairs
Great idea, and if you're going with a spicy Mexican theme you might want to try the Stamp Riesling Gewurztraminer 2008 from Australia ($9.95 CDN, $6.99 USD) to soothe the taste buds with your hot enchilada.
Cinema a Casa
Sparkling wine goes surprisingly well with popcorn (and practically everything else). Try the Seaview Brut Methode Champenoise N/V ($11.95 CDN, $10.00 USD), a budget-worthy sparkler from Australia.
Backyard Getaway
Nothing says red wine like BBQ and a campfire. Try the Cline Zinfandel 2007 ($14.80 CDN, $10.99 USD) from California. So rich and jammy, you'll make it a household favorite.
Game Plans
Let the games begin with the Australia's Banrock Station Unwooded Chardonnay 2007 1L Tetra ($12.75 CDN). This charming little quaffer in Tetra Pak will come in handy when the arms start flying.
In Vino Veritas
My wine club sets different themes for our various get-togethers, from the obscure to themes like "Red." Billy Munelly's best bottles is a fantastic resource for reasonably priced wines and he's is a lovely guy. I recommend you subscribe to his newsletter (as do I) and start planning your themes -- go to
http://www.billysbestbottles.com/weekly_tips/eWineletter.html.
Spring Break
When it ain't broke, don't fix it. Corona & margaritas are just the ticket for this indoor fantasy. But start with a good tequila.
Rock Me Amadeus
Drink enough of the Freixenet Cordon Rosado N/V ($12.95 CDN, $10.99 USD) and you'll be cutting a rug to 80s classics in no time! And at that price, why not buy more of this crisp, lively sparkler?
How Sweet It Is
Chocolate is just as painstaking a craft as winemaking in some circles, with flavors ranging across the spectrum, making wine pairing a challenge. If you like milk chocolate, try the Woodbridge Merlot 2007 ($13.45 CDN, $8.99 USD). For dark chocolate try Washington's Columbia Crest Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 (14.95 CDN, $9.99 USD).
-- Jill Vanderkooy
