Wedding Wines

Planning and executing a wedding involves a beaucoup amount of work.  Fortunately for the guys, it usually is simply a matter of writing checks and following directions. As with many of life’s more important occasions, the ladies take control and make things happen. In this instance, it was a superb effort by Team Jean-Colleen. Nary a single participant or guest had even a murmur of concern. All had a ball.

Nonetheless, sometimes the guys get involved just a wee bit. In my case, it was the assignment to select two wines; a white and a red that would be the featured pours for the evening. While the bar was fully stocked, I viewed the wines as the crown jewels of the libations. My task was to focus on high quality and moderate cost–the goal of any serious wine drinker. I enjoyed the hunt.

Here are the two little beauties I settled on. As typical for a commercial event, our actual cost was about double the retail price tag you would expect to pay. But, both these wines are reasonably priced and widely available. I recommend on your next trip to the wine shop you grab a bottle of each.

’07 Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc/Marlborough New Zealand: The Land Down Under produces some wonderful wine, and New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blancs lead the pack. Our white for the evening demonstrated why these exuberant wines are so popular. The light straw color and lemon/lime aromas telegraphed the grapefruit and gooseberry flavors that cascaded on the palate. This stainless steel fermented and aged wine was perfectly matched with the cheeses and light hors d’oeuvres served during the reception.  Average retail price $17-$20. Drink now.

’06 Cline Cashmere/California: Here we have a geographical anomaly of a French Southern Rhone coming out of CA.  But, it works beautifully. The blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre produces a wine worthy of the best of the Old World, yet evoking the rich, soft feel of expensive cashmere from a boutique shop on Rodeo Drive.  Aromas of black cherry, plum, coffee and mint all follow through on the palate.  And the 15% alcohol is seamlessly integrated into the wine, producing no heat on the finish. It paired nicely with our filet mignon and grilled salmon entrée.  Average retail price $17-21. Drink now through 2014.