by ozziepost 15 Replies latest jw friends
pettygrudger
Sorry for the slow reply. I'm just now getting in to work. No, I would not describe any of these wines as "heavy". A Bordeaux, or even Shiraz I would consider to be more like that. But I mean, if you're wanting a lighter wine you could try a Beaujolis, a Chianti or a Pinot Noir or a good Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. Hope this helps. Gee I never thought anyone would want my opinion on wine!
Ozzie.
You said that the Valpollicella was a bit "thin" for your taste. Remember that Italian cooking typically consists of a lot of olive oil and vinegar based dishes. When drunk in those conditions and in the company of things like parmesan cheese, Valpollicella really comes into its own as its "thinness" then becomes its strength.
Personally I am currently consuming large amounts of Beaujolais Nouveau fresh from it's release on the 3rd Thursday of November. Although my wife does point out that we're not meant to drink it ALL by the 3rd Friday of November! Don't suppose there's any harm in trying though!
Pub
My Italian red of choice would be a Barbera, or a Barolo for a very special occasion. Have any of you expert imbibers tried these? Comments?
True, Pub, but I like to enjoy a glass of full bodied red at any time, not just with olive oil cooking!!
A shiraz is my personal preference, as you may have gathered!
I found the Valpollicella OK, but no more than that.
Frankly I find the European wines overrated, but then I am biased!!!
I've enjoyed French wines in France, Italian wines in Italy, but frankly, they're not up to the mark of those from the "New World" of California, Australia, and South Africa. Even one Asian country is now producing a very agreeable red wine. See the current issue of the Accor magazine for details.
Some "new" areas of the world are really producing some fine drinks. Take as an example, the beer market. My two favourite beers are Grolsch from Nederland, and Tiger from Singapore. I find that Tiger is a beer well suited to the hot climate of eastern Asia and Australia. It certainly comes from the most suitably hot place, Singapore!
Cheers, Ozzie
I've enjoyed French wines in France, Italian wines in Italy, but frankly, they're not up to the mark of those from the "New World" of California, Australia, and South Africa. Even one Asian country is now producing a very agreeable red wine.
I have not tried any Asian wines that i know of, but I agree with your assessment of European wines being over-rated (not that there aren't some good bottles there). Australia and South African wines are favorites as well, and California makes some good ones too, but I don't find they are good value for the money sometimes. Chilean wines are often good value, but often tended to be a bit "muddy" imo and very hit and miss. I am not a fan of most Canadian reds, but some whites are okay.
An interesting "hobby" Facinating how wines change and tastes change over time.
Path
would you be so kind to recommend a few good wines for me? My brother, quite adept at picking the right bottle is on holiday, and I will not be able to talk to him before the Christmas festivities.I need a GOOD wine (but cheap - $20.00 or so for a bottle). Merlot's & Caberet Sauvignoin are preferred - but us American hillbillies like a good old zinfadell as well (some of my family thinks Cold Duck rocks!). I also need a few good picks for christmas presents. Most of them like the "fruitier wine" although some prefer the dry as you have mentioned above. Good grief - this is impossible!
Now that's a good question, Pettygrudger! I think many a book has been written on the subject.
It's difficult for us antipodeans to judge because we don't know what's available in your "neck of the woods". However, old Ozzie would have to recommend an Australian label, wouldn't he?
If you look back over several threads on this topic, you'll see that I've mentioned quite a few.
A Penfolds was recommended last night, and I think the Jacobs Creek label is also available in North America.
A few weeks back, someone mentioned Wolf Blass as a recommendation, the cab sav that is.
Finally, I've recommended, and others here have too, the Rosemount Cabernet Sauvignon. Try the black label.
All of these would, or should, be available for $20 or even less.
Hope this helps.
Cheers, Ozzie
