Usually when our Cork Poppers gather to taste wine,. wine guide Dick picks several wines that might be from the same country or region, a mix of reds and whites, and in a variety of price ranges. We taste and compare and he gives us excellent notes which generally end up in my Gypsy posts (See labels and look for Cork Poppers or Wine for other wine posts).
This time everyone was on their own, with each couple bringing a bottle of wine they either wanted to try or wanted to share. The results? Four reds and two whites!
We were greeted at the door by our hostess Pat, aka Mrs. Merlot. She had asked us to wear something of Christmas... more on that later!(None of us were as Christmassy as Pat!)
We started out with a poem -- and a lovely poem it was, to the meter of "The Night Before Christmas" but in which Barb celebrated each and every one of us!
This time we started with the reds because the whites were both sweeter. The first up was the Chateau du Pin Bordeaux, 2009. Rick picked this out and at $9.99 it was such a bargain that at that very moment we called the wine store and ordered a case to split among the 11 of us!
Rich and full, it was a delicious Bordeaux and at that price, an excellent value.
Dick was up next with Ramon Roqueta 2006 Reserva, a Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon. I loved its smooth finish and at $13.50 quite reasonable.
Mike offered Marques de Caceres Crianza 2008 Rioja from Spain. This, too, was very good. (Do you notice a theme here? They were all great!) This was another at $9.99.
Then Clayton brought a Gnarly Head Old Vine Zin 2010. Excellent -- at $13.99, another good buy.
Roger brought a Chauteau Chantal 2011 Late Harvest Riesling. this was a Michigan wine, generally not my favorite. But still, I found it quite nice and fresh. It was a bit sweet for me. The price? "Around $11 something."
And finally Pat offered a Gewerztraminer -- Covey Run 2012 from the Columbia Valley in Washington State. It was her favorite and at $9.99 a good bargain. Yes, it was a little sweeter, but very crisp and with turkey it would be excellent.
Remember the Christmas garb theme? Several had to wear the Santa hat because their clothes weren't Christmassy enough!
After exchanging gifts we did what Cork Poppers do best -- celebrate with a great feast! This time it was an early Christmas dinner with meatloaf, veggies, potatoes and a delicious wedge salad.
Pat's table looked gorgeous with a little red...
...and a little white!
We all took home party favors and best of all, took home the friendship of our fellow Cork Poppers, with lots of good wine recommendations to get us through the holiday!
All of these wines would be very good for the holidays and because of the relatively inexpensive prices for all of them, good to offer for holiday entertaining.
Try a few -- you'll like them!
As usual, it looks like a good time was had by all.
ReplyDeleteYes, looks like a convivial and fun get-together. Have a wonderful Christmas Jeanie, you and yours!
ReplyDeleteIt is always good to hear about inexpensive wine that is GOOD! I always get so overwhelmed in wine stores, so it is helpful to have some names to look for!
ReplyDeleteSuch good times and wine--so glad you shared, Jeanie! I was hoping you're have some good win tips before the end of the year. ;o) I have a post /photo to publish on Monday, but I will be away form the pc sometimes next week to enjoy some festive time with family & friends. Happy Holidays to you & yours, my friend! ((HUGS))
ReplyDeleteWhat a great evening! And thanks to your pictures and delightful post, I really feel I was there, too, even minus being able to sample the wine!
ReplyDeleteJeanie - It would be a delight and honor to sit at your table! this is wonderful, love seeing your friends and rick in his holidiay hat! and appreciate knowing about the bordeaux...(I LOVE french wines) and I did not know you were featured in a local magazine for your trees (you are TOO humble) nor in Romantic Country magazine!!!! can I get a copy? You are a marvel my friend and bring such joy to so many.
ReplyDeleteJust want to miss you a Merry Christmas and yes, now it's my turn to visit your turf!!!!
more later, and again Merry Christmas!!!!!!!! hugs to you and your Guys, too!
Grrrr...didn't mean to choose "anonymous"- it's me, Oh! 9aka Diana in St. Louis!)
ReplyDeleteA little red and a little white always means great Christmas cheer! You all look like you had such a great time. Thanks for sharing all of the recommendations.
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ReplyDeletethat looks like so much yummy fun
ReplyDeleteand the suggestions are wonderful
and I think I'll start earlier next year.
yes, when i see the possibility
if i just begin to plan a little sooner,
i'm inspired:)
thanks for sharing the beauty, friend:)
(and now I am SO hungry for meatloaf and a wedge salad!)
peace and love and all the merriest,
Jennifer
oh jeanie you set up the most beautiful table! What atreat
ReplyDeleteI think I will pick one, don't know which, but the descriptions are great.
ReplyDeleteWhat a special way to celebrate with friends. The food looks good too.
ReplyDeleteFun! Your Cork Poppers group reminds me of a group of women in my town that get together monthly to drink wine and visit. Everyone pays a small amount for each gathering, with money donated to the Red Cross. They call themselves Women Who Wine. I've been invited several times but haven't ever gone. Your pictures made me think I need to make more of an effort to go. Wine gatherings look fun!
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