Lately I’ve had a full blown love affair with red wine. Red is sexy, seductive, smooth, sassy, and sometimes sinful. Red wine is not for everyone, and it’s definitely a mature acquired taste. Most people begin their wine drinking affair with a sweet white, and slowly begin to step out with a more exciting pleasure that is red. When taking on a red, it’s important to start slow; sip and taste, never just swallow. I assure you, I am still talking about wine!
I love many red wines, but some recent romps of mine have been with three in particular. My first escapade was with Clos du Bois Shiraz, a 2008 vintage from the North Coast. Clos du Bois is a spicy, peppery Shiraz that makes you feel like stepping into the “wild side” wasn’t such a bad idea after all. It screams raspberry and blackberry flavors, with a hint of licorice. This raging red will pair well with grilled pork or duck, but definitely nothing spicy, this bottle has enough spunk of its own!
My next indulgence was a Spanish wine, Flaco Tempranillo, 2009 Vintage. Spain’s famous Tempranillo grape is complex, yet playfully simple. “Flaco” is Spanish for skinny, and this red contradicts the usual heavy red wine with its soft luscious kisses of fruit. Flaco would be a great first step into an intimate, yet innocent affair. It’s not quite a sweet red, but definitely has a gentle charm. And it makes for great Sangria! Try this!
· 1 bottle of Flaco
· Oranges, apples, pears and/or bananas (2 of each) cut into wedges
· 5 Tbsp sugar
· Splash of orange juice or lemonade
· 750 ml orange soda or ginger ale
· 2 shots of Triple Sec or rum (optional)
Combine wine, fruits, sugar, and juice and let sit for at least 30 minutes in refrigerator. Add ice, orange soda/ginger ale, and Triple Sec/Rum (optional) before serving. And there you have it, a fruity pitcher of fun!
…………..You know you want to. Give in to the temptation, indulge in your own love affair with Red.
