Spin The Bottle
by Jenna SchnuerAdventure: Buitenverwachting Sauvignon Blanc 2005 ($15)
Hard cheese and crackers
You always keep these staples on hand for the drop-by-unannounced
types. A few sturdy reds will wait with them with ease. Medium- to
full-bodied reds are the safest bets with firm cheeses (soft and
semi-soft cheeses go better with light- to medium-bodied unoaked
whites).
The easy choice: A red Côtes du Rhône. These blends of up to 15
different grape varieties "have been refined over decades of
blending to the point where the top wines are far better than the
sum of their parts," Wesson says. They're great wines to always
have on hand. Just don't store them in the cupboard above your
fridge (better in the broom closet or under the bed - or any cool
place that's dark and free from vibration).
The adventure: Ah, an Argentine Malbec. Stock up on this reliable
wine. Malbecs in the $10 to $15 range "deliver the goods in
boatloads," says Wesson. "They don't make a fuss; they're there to
please." They'll treat your taste buds well, whether you pair them
with cheese and crackers, cold steak, or take-out barbecued ribs.
Easy: Paul Jaboulet Aîné Parallèle "45" 2005
($12)
Adventure: Graffigna "G" Malbec 2004 ($14)
Peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich
Whether it's a late night or just a lazy night, PB&Js deserve
to be served with (and require) a wine that's refreshing and a bit
sweet.
The easy choice: Don't laugh: Wesson wants you to open your mind to
White Zinfandel. He calls the pairing with PB&J "White Zin's
highest and best use. [It's] easy to malign, but it gives milk a
run for its money."
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