Every week, Mark Oldman — wine expert, acclaimed author and lead judge of the hit series The Winemakers — shares with readers the basics of wine, while making it fun and practical. In the coming weeks, he’ll tell you what to ask at a wine store, at what temperature to serve it and share his must-have wine tools.
There’s no shame in the expression, “I don’t want to have to think,” when it comes to selecting wine for the sizzling soirées of summer. At this steamy time of year, even wine aficionados want their pleasure immediate and their price tags moderate. When contemplating which corks to pull, strive for the alcoholic equivalent of a steel drum or the Black Eyed Peas’ exuberant “I Gotta Feeling” — these wine types are guaranteed to make “tonight a good night.”
Prosecco, Vinho Verde and Beaujolais »
Every week, Mark Oldman — wine expert, acclaimed author and lead judge of the hit series The Winemakers — shares with readers the basics of wine, while making it fun and practical. In the coming weeks, he’ll tell you what to ask at a wine store, at what temperature to serve it and share his must-have wine tools.
The aromatherapy of summer is the sweet perfume of a fired-up grill, accompanied by wine that complements whatever happens to be sizzling and smoking above the coals.
If burgers or steaks are your ‘cue of choice, you’ll never go wrong with a rich, fruit-forward red, preferably one with hints of smoke to match the food’s flavor and a tinge of oaky sweetness to flatter the meat’s marinade. Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and simple versions of Cabernet Sauvignon get the job done with aplomb, often with a slightly dry sensation that pairs so well with the protein and fats of red meat. If the weather is as sweltering as your grill, don’t hesitate to make these reds more refreshing by giving them 10 or so minutes of refrigerator time.
Wine recommendations for hot dogs, chicken and more »
Farewell, summer. Today marks the first official day of fall, which means it’s time to get jazzed about the best part of harvest season: WINE.
Check out these fun finds for autumn 2009.
Wine Ratings Guide iPhone App:
A one-million wine database, plus your own personal ratings list
Harvest Tweets:
Vineyard reports from across North America
From the Expert:
Screwcaps and boxed wine are in!
Wine Shop Savvy:
How to return a flawed bottle
Harvest Vine Wallpaper:
Dress your desktop for fall.
Need info and tips on vino? Let us know.
- Angela Moore, VP/Site Director
