IN SEARCH OF HOLIDAY REDS
The big mistake you could make over the Holidays is to buy/pour too many heavy reds. Couch wines may score for yumminess, but they tire the senses, and can suck the energy out of a party. Focus instead on light and mid-weighs. Reds with a lively spirit. Buy a selection and have a couple open at all times.
~ . . . mid-weights
Rhone reds and Italy’s Ripassos are two no-brainer choices for Holiday drinking. They’re middle weights that deliver a combination of nourishment and refreshment. Most importantly, they have the kind of drinkability that invites glass, after glass. And they flatter almost any food.
ANTONIN RODET 11 Cotes du Rhone, France 8979 $12.95
PASQUA 09 “˜Passimento’, Veneto, Italy 141952 $13.45
. . . get going with playful Gamay
Gamay is the prince of party reds. A lighthearted drink for lighthearted times ““ daytime, or early evening. And to partner traditional Christmas dinner. Light red wines are different from “˜lite beers’ in that they have personality. It’s not a dummed-down drink.
There’s a new Beaujolais on the shelves that just perfect for party times. Villa Ponciago has delicious berry fruitiness and simplicity. A lively show of charm and playfulness. Angels Gate is shade leaner/tart but this just adds to the refreshment and “˜let’s get going’ feeling. A red to start the evening. Lightly chill, and also consider these for Boxing Day sandwiches.
VILLA PONCIAGO 12 Beaujolais-Villages, France 325134 $15.30
ANGELS GATE 11 Gamay Noir, VQA Niagara 107714 $12.95
