Wednesday Wine

For today’s Wednesday Wine, I asked Quintessence’s resident expert Terry Rogers of Horseneck Wines in Greenwich, to suggest some wines appropriate to serve at a holiday cocktail party. Terry of course has insider access to many wonderful sources and naturally had terrific ideas how to serve something special without breaking the bank. So without further ado….heeeeeere’s Terry.

It is that time of the season for holiday parties and thinking about what to wear and what to bring to the hostess.  Wine is always a great present to arrive with but if you are hosting the party then your job is to figure out what would be a nice red, white and possibly a nice specialty cocktail to serve.  I know when I have been invited to a holiday party I am always very excited to see what we will be imbibing.

Many wine regions from around the world are producing delicious varietals for very reasonable prices.  If you are having an event for a large number of people, you may want to hold down the cost of the beverages but still give your guests something they will enjoy and hopefully remember.  Here is a listing of some of my favorite wines that I would be very happy to serve. Starting with whites:

Triennes Viognier Sainte Fleur

Chateau Lamothe Bordeaux Blanc

This is a spectacular wine with 1/3 Sauvignon Blanc, 1/3 Semillon and 1/3 Moscat grape varieties.  The blending of these three grapes brings about a wine rich with  flavors that are well balanced with good fruit and acidity for the hors d’oeuvres.  $14 per bottle

Sasha Ridge Chardonnay

This is a creation I have produced that fills two needs.  Flavor for the customer and also dollars to the local animal shelters.  I worked on producing this 100% Chardonnay with a winery in California.  Sasha was the name of my dog that was abused and in her memory I give $1.00 or $12.00 per case back to the local shelter of your choice.  Sasha’s name lives on and helps other dogs and cats in need.  You can’t beat this for $13 per bottle. (note from Q., with tearing eyes – OK, unfair – I now HAVE to buy this – but that’s ok – it’s a two-fer – good cause and knowing Terry, I’m sure it’s delicious!)

Who would have thought that California could produce a sangiovese that was this seductive. Perfect for the holidays!

And for something a little different –

The Lillet Cocktail

Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif white wine with hints of citrus and spice. Although many consider it to be a variety of vermouth, I tend to put it in a category all by itself. It’s not as herbal as vermouth, but that being said, it is an excellent subsitute for white vermouth in any cocktail that calls for it. There’s also a classic method of consuming Lillet, simply chilled with a slice of orange, either straight up or on the rocks. Lillet is definitely served more in Europe then in America, but I just love the flavor of this lovely aperitif.  This may take a bit of getting used to; but it is well worth that French effort!! (note from Q. – I love Lillet and didn’t find it difficult to get used to at all :-) mmm…wonder what that means? )

• 2-1/2 to 3 ounces Lillet Blanc, chilled until very cold
• One strip of orange peel, 2″ by 1/2″, white pith removed

Pour liberal amounts of chilled Lillet into a cocktail glass, then flame the orange rind over the glass — squeeze the rind next to a match and the oil will spray out and ignite. That burnt residue of orange oil will flavor the cocktail. Drop the rind into the glass and … voilà!

And if you are in that cocktail mode, let’s make my favorite – which I call the GREENWICH COCKTAIL.  This cocktail will keep people coming back for more so make sure you are stocked up.

Stoli Blueberry  2 oz.

Cointreau  2 oz.

Roses lime juice  2 oz

Stirrings Wild Blueberry mix – 2oz.

Fill a shaker with ice and pour in the above ingredients and shake 45 times.  Shaking  is extremely important, believe it or not.  And since blueberries have such wonder antioxidents – how can you go wrong!!

Thanks so much Terry! All great suggestions that I can’t wait to try, especially the Greenwich Cocktail – and when you readers serve it, be sure to coordinate it with Elvis’ Blue Christmas on your play list!