Wine Lists

Despite all the wine information out there these days, most of us are probably somewhat intimated by wine lists. To understand pricing on a wine list, try to find a wine that you have purchased in a store. This will help you figure out the mark-up in the restaurant. Anything more than 2 or 3 times the retail price bothers me.

In addition look around the restaurant and see how much wine is poured when someone orders wine by the glass. Remember that most wine glasses are very large (around 18 ounces) and anything more than 5 ounces of wine is a good "pour". There are about 27 ounces in a wine bottle. Many times wine by the glass can be a much better deal than by the bottle. In addition it gives you flexibility in your wine choices as you can easily switch to another wine.

 Here are some other helpful tips.

If the wine list is overpriced, order beer.

If you find a good wine list, do not be afraid to order the cheapest bottle.

If you are really interested in drinking a good bottle and really want to eat at a restaurant with a problematic wine list, ask about the corkage fee. Most restaurants charge a fee if you bring your own bottle. They may charge $10 or $15. This is usually a good deal.

Wines of the day

Crios wines by Susana Balbo. These are from Argentina. There is a cabernet sauvignon, malbec, rose of malbec and torrontes. All are good and cost around $13. 2008 and 2009 are the current vintages. Torrontes is a white wine. Very floral and refreshing. Malbecs are fruity reds without much oak. The rose of malbec is is interesting. High alcohol but good flavor. Tell me what you think. Like it with most food.

The Show. A California cabernet. About $12. The 2007 is vintage you want.

Beaulieu / BV 2006 Rutherford Napa cabernet. Around $20. Good solid cab. Much better than many higher priced cabs from California.

Last night had 2007 East End Chardonnay from Pellegrini Vineyards on Long Island. We enjoyed it with scallops. Not sure of the price; it was a gift.

Enjoy.