Wine Weekly

Champagne Tips for New Year’s

In a few days we’ll be ringing in 2006… and chances are you’ll be celebrating with Champagne. Check out the article Champagne Tips for New Year’s for some quick facts on what Champagne is, how to chill and serve it, what to look for on the label, which brands to choose, how to get the cork off without killing anyone, why you shouldn’t drink it out of a styrofoam cup, and some other interesting tidbits.

Hope this quick primer helps you have a truly effervescent New Year’s Eve.

Happy holidays and Happy New Year !

Red Wine Review: Delas Cotes-du-Rhone Saint-Esprit 2000

9.99

N: Smokey, earthy, with black berry fruits, black pepper, and mild tobacco.

P: Good acidity and mild to medium tannins open the door to ripe black berry fruit and hints of earth. Well-structured, a perfect wine for food as the acidity will stand up to many dishes and the flavor is good but not overpowering. Earthy, vegetal flavors wrap up the finish, which includes a touch of alcohol.

This is a good, sturdy “bistro” wine that will match well with burgers, mac and cheese, bangers and mash, and similarly “blue collar” fare. The 2000 is considered an “old” vintage now but it is still vibrant, fresh, and full. An excellent value at under ten bucks.

a-7 t-7 b-8 fc-10 v-9 = 91 points

Find this wine at a retailer using Wine-Searcher

Or follow this link to buy this wine from Wine.com: Delas 2003 St. Esprit Cotes-du-Rhone Rouge