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Welcome to Westside Liquor’s monthly wine newsletter. It is our goal to spread the good word about new and exciting products in each and every newsletter. We also will give staff reviews of featured products to help you pick out a new beer, wine or cigar. In future issues we will also delve into informative articles so we all can better understand the contributing factors involved in bringing us our favorite wine.

This is the time of the season when many different foods are served in many unique and lots of times traditional ways. From the ham and turkey to the prime rib or even stew and seafood dishes. Everyone has their old standby or are trying something new and exciting. Finding that perfect wine to compliment that special dish is sometimes challenging but finding an all around great food wine is quite easy. Wine that has low to medium alcohol, vibrant acidity, low oak and tannin and fresh fruit flavors are usually superb food wines. For whites I like Riesling( old world or new world), Pinot Gris also known as Pinot Grigio, Viognier, Gewurztraminer, Vouvray or any Chenin Blanc and more mineral driven Chardonnays. Champagne and sparklers are quite festive and pair nicely with many cuisines and work as aperitifs. If your looking for a red wine I typically go for a wine with a nice show of fruit, lower tannins and nice balancing acidity. Pinot Noir is always a sure bet for a wide array of foods. The French style tends to be a little earthier and lighter than its domestic version. Both are fine choices for heavier fish dishes all the way to beef. Beaujolais from France works well with many cuisines and even are own big red Zinfandels are outstanding with turkey all the way to hearty red meats. Spanish wines from Rioja are also a favorite of mine. The main grapes used in these are the Tempranillo and the Grenache. The wines tend to be lighter in style than say a Cabernet Sauvignon and have flavors that go well with many holiday foods. Italian reds are also fun for the holidays. More of the traditional styles have excellent acidity and are not so heavy in alcohol. The Barbera grape from Piedmont is a nice choice and many Tuscan wines will fit the bill. The main thing is not to sweat over the small stuff. Wine almost always makes the food taste better and vise versa. This holiday season I hope you all take time to enjoy not only the fabulous food and vino but to take time with the loved ones who make your world that much more special. And of course when you think of wine think of a Westside Liquor store nearest you. Our Staff, Selection, Prices and climate controlled stores offer the very best to you.
Happy Holidays,
Jeff Anderson – Sommelier

Superb Holiday Picks

1) Covey Run Riesling 2005 – Washington State is turning out some succulent and food friendly Riesling. This wine has a nice touch of sweetness with peaches, green apple and honeysuckle aromas and flavors. A steal for the price. Covey Run has been awarded 20 “Best Value” awards from Wine Spectator. $9.99

2) Michele Chiarlo Barbera D’ Asti Le Orme 2004 – Here’s a wine from the Piedmont region that is stunning but won’t break the bank. The Barbera is the grape. Aromas and flavors of blackcherry, boysenberry and a velvety texture to boot. This is an all around red for almost any holiday fare to fly out of the oven. $13.99

3) Chateau Ste. Michelle Pinot Gris 2005 or 2006 – If you enjoy Pinot Grigio from Italy than you must give this Washington State gem a try. A little more rich and robust than its Italian conterpart, this wine floors me every time for the quality to price ratio. Aromas and flavors of orange, melon, apple and spice with a crisp finish. Great with food or as a sipper. $10.99

4) Marques de Caceres Red Crianza Rioja 2003 – While in Spain last year I had the pleasure to tour this winery. The people were a pleasure and a joy. The wines are always excellent and the style is all their own. If you want quality than this bodega is for you. Wonderful aromas and flavors of raspberry, spice and a touch of oak intermingle nicely. Another all around food friendly red for the Holiday Season. $15.99

5) Perrier Jouet Grand Brut – This Champagne house was the first to introduce the “Brut” style in 1854. Incredible finesse and balance with aromas and flavors of white peach, pineapple and green apple. A crisp and clean dry finish. Always a pleasure to drink when I’m that lucky! $44.99 Both Perrier Jouret Grand Brut and Extra Dry Reg. $44.99 on sale only in newsletter for the low price of $24.99!!! Grab it why it lasts.