Wine tasting dinners are perfect for Bradenton. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukka, the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mawlid el-Nabi, Kwanzaa, Solstice or even Boxer Day – December is a busy month for partying and social gatherings. With that comes the responsibility of providing refreshments, and that usually includes wine.
Without question the most popular party varietals today are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and either Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Most folks go to the local supermarket, select a major California brand of each and voilà – their party planning is complete.
But are those wines providing you with the greatest value for their money? Can you buy better wine and save money at the same time? The answer is a resounding YES! There are many alternative sources for high quality wine that offer more bang for the buck. You just have to know where to look.
For instance, instead of Cabernet or Merlot you might substitute a delicious Malbec from Argentina. Cousin to the Cab grape, Malbec thrives in the Mendoza Region where excellent vintages are produced for very reasonable prices. Try some Catena, Altos de las Hormigas or Trapiche. All are sure to please for less than $20 per bottle.
You can also substitute a good blended wine for the Cabernet. These wines may contain Cab, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Sirah, Grenache or any number of other varieties. But they make for a wonderful party pleaser. Try Lehmann’s Clancy’s, Rutherford Ranch Two Ranch Red or Chateau Ste. Michelle’s Indian Wells Red.
When it comes to Pinot Noir go straight to its land of origin – France. You can get a lovely Bourgogne Rouge for less than $20 that will outperform most domestic Pinot Noir at the same price. You can even find some French vintages that say “Pinot Noir” right on the label and sell for under $15. Total Wine & More offers Ropiteau Pinot Noir for $9.99 that’s pretty darn good.
Chardonnay. Personally, I would reread paragraph five (above) and substitute the work blanc for rouge. However, if you are looking for a creamy, mouth-filling Chardonnay look to Australia and brands like Jip Jip Rocks, Tyrrells, Butter and most anything Penfolds. But stay clear of uber producers like Yellow Tail and Jacob’s Creek.
Now when it comes to Sauvignon Blanc head for New Zealand. Refreshing with an abundance of citrus flavors… especially grapefruit and passionfruit. You can but the popular Kim Crawford from $12.99 to $19.99 depending on how greedy your local retailer is feeling. I suggest Frenzy, Matua or Ponga. All are crisp and delicious selling for under $15.00.