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From the Other Side of
the Barrel
By Peter Bos
In the dead of winter we need to hunker down and
survive till spring, the Ground Hog saw his shadow so we have six
more weeks of winter. We also live in a time where we need to
stretch our nickels, so here are my picks for February.
- My wife and I like to travel and not deal with glass bottles
so we usually grab a 3 Liter box of wine when we are on a road
trip. Whether here in the States or in Europe our choices are
getting better. At the college (the Northwest Wine Academy) we
are always looking for good examples of wine packed in
alternative packages. These products have improved greatly over
the last few years for all sorts of reasons, from technology to
demand. So here are two that we like, J. Chenet from France and
Vizarro from Spain. Vizarro, made by Bodegas Monte La Reina
of Spain, is 100% Tempranillo ($19.99) and is what I would
call full and fruity. The J. P. Chenet 3 liter box is a
Cabernet- Syrah blend ($14.99) and is more in a rustic
French country style and of the two would be better paired with
food.
- Folie a Deux Menage a Trois red wine is a big juice
full wine is just what is needed to drive the cold away, need I
say more. I see this wine all over town for $10.00 or less and
follows me home on a regular basis.
- I love Rose’s and when I see them appear in the market place
I know spring is not far away! The 2008 Rose’ from Chatter
Creek Winery of Woodinville ($9.99) is here just in time for
Valentine’s Day. Made by Gordy Rawson this wine is a blend of
Syrah, Grenache, and Viongier, a classic Rhone blend. The wine
is bright, vibrant yet elegant with a lovely delicate pink
color. The thing I like about Rose’ is the wine’s versatility
when it comes to food. From grilled meats and barbeque to
shellfish and poultry, it works. Enjoy!
From the “Other Side of the Barrel”
Peter Bos, Wine Instructor, South Seattle Community College |
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