Hope that helps Rick. I’ll be sure to include more in future pieces.
Q: Donna S. from Margate asks, I recently heard you speak of “fall wines” – what do you mean by this?A: When we talk about “fall wines,” we think of the weather turning colder and cuisine becoming richer. The way we prepare food shifts from light summery salads and grilled meats to one-pot meals baked in the oven, or long-simmering sauce on the stovetop. Suddenly, the texture of our food changes, so therefore we need our wines to change along with it.
This doesn’t mean we need to ditch white and rose wines in favor of reds! If our fall wines are to have more weight to them, then many red wines will fit the bill. Merlot-based Bordeaux blends and Grenache-based Rhone blends are an easy place to start. Spanish reds based on Garnacha or Monastrell are great options, too. Each of those grape varieties has a softness to them, where they each have a high level of potential alcohol (therefore, more body) and light or no tannins so the texture is plush.
White wines that are lower in acid or have some oak treatment are great choices, too. Unoaked Viognier, barrel-fermented Chardonnay and Italian wines like Soave Classico all have muted acidity while emphasizing a satisfying creaminess on the palate. And don’t forget about roses! Find a Garnacha rose from Spain or Malbec rose from Argentina: These give you beautifully ripe flavors with plenty of body to complement hearty soups and stews.
Q: Jeff B. from Linwood asks, I was pleasantly surprised with a Pinot Gris I had recently. I typically don’t like Pinot Grigio. Can you offer a recommendation?A: Better known by its Italian expression, Pinot Gris is a noble grape variety that has picked up a lot of steam in all forms. The light, refreshing crowd pleaser (Pinot Grigio) has its place with light appetizers and seafood (or simply for enjoying by itself on a warm summer day). However, when the same grape is grown in other parts of the world like Alsace or Oregon, you will find the expression to show more texture and aromatic character with tropical and/or stone fruit flavors complemented by a fresh, floral scent.