WINE

Wine is many things to many people. To some it's merely one of many alcoholic beverages to choose from, to others ..a bore, but to many; wine is a hobby that provides a lifetime of searching and tasting and collecting. Whether enjoyed in a cold, damp tasting room, at an intimate dinner for two or with good friends; tasting and pairing wine is always a great experience.

Our cellar is growing and is full of interesting bottles from Europe and the United States. Laying down 1st growth Bordeaux is fun but researching bottles from different regions and developing a  nice selection of food-friendly wine is good fun. Recently, we've been bringing in a nice selection of Burgundies (red and white). 

Having lived, literally, over the hill from the town of Chablis during my cooking stint in France, I always search for high quality Chablis wine. The 1970's era boxed "chablis" sold in the US severely tainted the name Chablis here, so selections are still fairly limited. Without  Kermit Lynch in Berkley and Garagiste.com in Seattle, I doubt my Chablis selection would be as solid as it is. If you are interested in a food wine with a tasting profile of green apple, citrus and  a hint of vanilla, then Chablis is for you. Paired with fresh water fish, halibut, scallops or even chicken, Chablis' balanced fruit and acidity makes for a perfect pairing. 

Back in the USA. Being a huge fan of Chateau Montalena in Calistoga, Ca, I find it difficult to turn down an opportunity to add to our collection. After receiving an email from the winery recently announcing new releases from their cellar, a few bottles of Montalena Cabernet has recently been added to our vertical. Montalena cab is a known for it's deep ruby color with blackberry and plum fruit on the palette and firm tannins. Always a winner when red meat or game appears on the menu. 


Cheers...pull that cork!