What wines to pour at Labor Day: the best of the Chairman's Selections
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See these bottles? All under 10 bucks (except the French red, which is still a steal at 15).
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When I popped into my local wine shop this week to purchase supplies for the upcoming long weekend, I never made it past the front of the shop. Before I got beyond the area where the Chairman's Selections are displayed, my cart was brimming with what I consider a bonanza of great bargains.
There were simple but correct wines to pour for a crowd as well as a few I look forward to sharing with friends who have demanding palates. I have not yet tasted any of these wines but chose them based on what I know of the grape variety, the producer or the vintage year. I feel they are all good risks.
I have checked the stocks in Allegheny County and at present my choices are widely available in most premium stores.
But it is always a good idea to check the amazing website PaWineTalk.com (independent of the LCB).
Under "Resources," scroll down to the "Wine Availability Map." Type in the code number, then check "Allegheny County only" and hit the search button. A map will show exactly how many bottles are in each store. Hit the red pin on the map and you will get the address and phone number of the store.
The two big bargain reds will go quickly so don't dally:
Marquis Philips Grenache, 2008, McLaren Vale, Australia (PLCB No. 32279, $6.99)
Made from low-yielding vines that are 30 to 60 years old, the wine is aged for 12 months in oak and scored 89 points in a rating magazine. It is medium bodied, fruity and smooth. Probably will make up in charisma what it lacks in complexity.
Pillar Box Red, 2008, Australia (PLCB No. 32052, $6.99)
Another 89-point Australian charmer, this is a combination of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and merlot and it consistently hits all the "best buy" lists even at the normal price of $12.
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There are two verdejo white wines from Rueda, Spain, that will nicely fill the slot for grilled fish or chicken. They go well with veggies and salads as well, and even pair nicely with tomatoes (not an easy vegetable to match with wine). The tart verdejo grape can pull it off.
First Published September 1, 2011 12:00 am
