Our wine class this week was a discussion of bistro reds. I often throw that term around and like most wine speak, when pressed to really explain what that means, I am, admittedly, pressed for thought. We have internalized these definitions, so one has to take a moment and think about it. What makes for a “bistro” character is not about flavor, but more about price, circumstance, and food pairing flexibility.
Bistro reds, like the food that one pairs with them, should be easy to enjoy with a meal. It should, in fact, be as integral
Archive for Pressed for Thought
Looking for a Juicy Red, Puglia Delivers
by Maria Glade on January 21st, 2011 | Pressed for Thought
It is the time of year for reds rich in flavor and texture, spicy and warm to stave off winter’s chill, so we need wine that will stand up to all the intense flavors and the complex and rich ingredients. For me, there are a long list of great “winter reds,” but a favorite as of late, because of both interest level and value, is Primitivo. This is a red that hails from one of Italy’s largest wine producing regions, Puglia, and while it may not be their most age-worthy grape, it delivers a wonderful juicy and satisfying glass
Yes, Healthy, But How So?
by Maria Glade on January 14th, 2011 | Pressed for Thought, Wine
I recently read in Food & Wine about the “healthiest pairing,” and they touted the praises of a particular white and some fish. The pairing sounded great, but I was left wondering what is meant by “healthy.” It could be diet conscious, moderate alcohol consumption, heart-healthy, but what about the health of our soul? To me the healthiest pairing is that which provides almost a spiritual experience. At the risk of sounding a bit too philosophical, I want to contemplate life and experience beauty. When a pairing does that, we have, indeed, the “healthiest pairing.”
Most recently, I had this
Most recently, I had this
Ridge Continues Its Excellence
by Maria Glade on January 7th, 2011 | Pressed for Thought
I have always prided myself on avoiding the big brands, stocking my shelves instead with the more esoteric varietals, unknown wine makers, and the fringe regions. I am committed to the philosophy of good wine, not good advertising, but occasionally, I am reminded that popularity is well earned. Case in point, Ridge Vineyards, where they have been making great zinfandel (and other varietals) since the late 60’s under the guidance and skill of Paul Draper. They make zinfandel that is unrivaled in quality and intensity.
Last night, I tried for the first time the most recent release of Pagani Ranch,
Last night, I tried for the first time the most recent release of Pagani Ranch,
Wow Your Friends Without Breaking the Bank
by Maria Glade on December 24th, 2010 | Pressed for Thought, Wine
I have made it my mission in life to debunk that myth that French wines are expensive and intimidating, and I rely on the wines of Southwest France to do that. While not all wines from this region show the same quality, generally speaking, if you trust your wine-monger, this is a region that delivers a lot more than the price tag might suggest.
Last night, at Gracie’s in Providence, I enjoyed a lovely roasted wild sea bass atop a lofty bed of greens and pureed parsnips, with which I selected a glass of 2009 Chateau d’Oupia from Minervois. First,
Last night, at Gracie’s in Providence, I enjoyed a lovely roasted wild sea bass atop a lofty bed of greens and pureed parsnips, with which I selected a glass of 2009 Chateau d’Oupia from Minervois. First,
