It has been consistently over 85ºF outside here in Los Angeles for the past two weeks. And that means I've been sitting by the pool, taking a dip in the ocean, or completely trying to avoid the heat by staying inside. There's really no in between.
Since I began my journey learning about wine, beer and spirits, I've been asked the same question: "Amanda, what's your favorite kind of wine." And of course different variations of that question: "Red or White? Which is your favorite?" Umm, I believe you're forgetting rosé, sparkling, fortified...okay I'll stop.
But in reality I like to approach this question with another question. Well...four questions:
1) What's the weather outside?
2) Am I eating something? If so, what?
3) What time of day is it?
4) What time of the year is it?
If you can set up a scenario for me, then I can pick the wine. So for the purpose of this blog, I'm going to give you the most likely scenarios and then SOMM recommendations ;).
Scenario 1:
It's summer time, you're enjoying a hot day by the pool. Maybe having a salad or a turkey sandwich for lunch that you would like to pair with a wine. There are several options here, not just chardonnay; however Chablis would be a great pair!
- 2016 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $14
- 2016 Triennes Rosé, Provence, FR $14
- 2015 Saint Aubin 1er Cru, Chablis, FR $50
Scenario 2:
It's the middle of winter and you're going for dinner with your new significant other's parents, at a steak house. You order the duck. They each order steak, but you want to all share a bottle.
- 2015 J Vineyards Pinot Noir, Monterey County, Sonoma County, Santa Barbara County, CA $20
- 2012 Gianfranco Bovio Rochettevino Barolo DOCG, IT $32
- 2014 Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA $70
- 2012 Pahlmeyer Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, CA $75
Scenario 3:
It's almost spring and you're going out to sushi dinner with your friends. The warm weather outside is perfect because all you really need is a light jacket. (what's that quote from Miss Congeniality?)
- 2017 Banfi La Pettegola, Vermentino, Toscana IGT, IT $14
- 2013 Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé, Carneros, CA $35
- 2015 Dr. Loosen Ürziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese, Mosel, DE $30
- 2016 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, Napa, CA $65
There are plenty more scenarios and pairings to learn about, but here are a few for right now! Hopefully you'll be able to use these recommendations next time you pick up a bottle!
Cheers!
Amanda