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+--- Thread: whats a good wine (/thread-17022.html)
- skirf - 10-04-2003
Just really wanting to learn about wines..
Wanted to start by learning what is a good i guess middle of the road merlot, cab and chardonnay..something that i can easily go out and buy around $10-$15 that would be nice to have..especially to serve to a girl..
- Innkeeper - 10-04-2003
Hi Skirf, and welcome to the Wine Board. Go out and pick up a Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Either should fit your needs. Also go out and pick up "Wine For Dummies." No slam intented, it is an excellent and easy read. I recently picked up "Italian Wine for Dummies" by the same authors, and use it all the time. Of course I am a dummy.
- Georgie - 10-04-2003
The other day I bought "Great Wines Made Simple" by Andrea Immer and I am finding that to be extremely helpful in demystifying the world of wine. I suggest getting it along with the "Dummies" books.
- stevebody - 10-06-2003
Hey, we forgot the Chard! I'd suggest two and to try them both because of the contrasting styles. The Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chard is very hard to beat at any price under $25 but you can also sample the Beringer Founder's Estate for the big, CA oaky profile and the new Solex Russian River for the cleaner, more Burgundian style. I say "more Burgundian" but the Solex is really NOT strictly Burgundian. It's a lot larger and fruitier but it's a lot closer to that ideal than the Beringer.
I'd also like to put in a word for the McManis Family Cabernet California at about $8. Unlike most cheap Cabs, this has a LOT of the characteristics of the grape - the cassis, tar, chocolate, coffee, blackberry, and herbs. Great stuff for a pittance.
For the Merlot, I also like the WA fave, Waterbrook Red Mountain. It may cost you closer to $20 but it's an elegant expression of that grape. for a cheaper alternative and GREAT Merlot character, seek out the Zenato (Italian) Merlot. About $10 and flawless.
- skirf - 10-08-2003
I was out of town for a couple of days, so I didn't get a chance to check replies for a few days but thank you for your responses......now I feel like a real dummy....
just kidding...I will try these suggestions.
thanks wine board