Do you have a suggestion on a wine that will impress for a party?

Question

My wife and I are going to a party in a few weeks. Everyone at the party including ourselves are foodies and wine lovers. I am looking to bring a wine ( $100 range ) that will impress.

Answer 1

When making your selection, consider the menu and the tastes of the attendees. Perhaps you can find out the menu options and pair your wine with a course that will be served throughout the evening.

I liked the above idea on the blind tasting of the wine at the party.

I also agreed with the above on the recommendation for Silver Oak. (I prefer the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon) - again, see if this fits the menu and the palate of the guests.

I also recommend the selection at a wine shop in NY - if you can acquire more details on the menu and the likes of the attendees, consider emailing the proprietor.

http://www.saratogawine.com/default.asp

Additionally, if the collective tastes of the group tend towards cabernet sauvignon, perhaps a bottle from the 1997 vintage would be appropriate. (Again, I enjoy Silver Oak, Robert Mondavi, Stags Leap - other good vintages as well - 1990/1993 Silver Oak Napa, 1999 Stags Leap Cask 23) If the group likes to try new, different, or culty wines, try to locate a Turley Zinfandel single vintage or something like Red Car. (Both I've enjoyed - not an all-inclusive list) Where you are located, perhaps these wines are normal or have already been featured at your parties.

Answer 2

Well there Scott, winemaking has become more of a science than ever with small time operators turning out superior quality wines.

I suggest taking the latest trend and adding a little twist.

First, select a few reasonably priced wines from your local grocery store. Several California vinters turned in great results in 2003. Pay attention to Sonoma or Monterey here.

Then, choose a bottle or two of "the good stuff." This can be any sought after wine.

Finally, at your suaree, offer a tasting of the wines, but give prizes to anyone with the golden pallette- those who can identify the more reasonably priced off-labels.

A little friendly competition can be exciting. It should be a fun time for all.

Answer 3

If the audirence likes strong flavors go with anything Gran Reserva from Ribera del Duero, Spain (Arzuaga, La Planta, El Vinculo, Pesquera). Clos Dofi 2001 Alvaro Palacios, L'Ermita, $50-$100 Range. In this range, I love the Pesquera Gran Reserva 1999.

For a more mellow flavor, Santa Dighna, Jourdan, Anima, Torre Oreas, Rosemount, Yellow Tail and Black Opal from Australia. Underraga from Chile is also very nice and cheap. $20-$50 Range.

For lighter taste and cheaper, Kendall Jackson, Robert Mondavi, and a few others from Napa Valley.$10-$25 Range

Answer 4

I have always liked the Shafer wines. There are a range from this vineyard between $60 and $150+. A Shafer hillside select cab should be a showstopper.

From Australia I recently had the best shiraz I've ever tasted from a winery called Shirvington. 95 points from Parker - $85.

Insignia would also be a home run.

Answer 5

Ha! How many people are going to be at this party? If it's more then 4 total, your $100.00 bottle of wine won't impress, it'll make you look like a doofus; figure 4, 3/4 full glasses to an average bottle of wine; if they're any more people then that you'll have to have everyone drink from a shot glass; An expensive wine doesn't impress me; a good, medium range, full bodied, private reserve from a nice California or Washington State vineyard would impress me more....something new with potential for "growth" after it matures for a few more years, but can be drank now; in other words, spend no more then 20-30$ per bottle, buy 4 or 5 bottles, drink 3 or 4 with friends now in it's young stage and let the host/hostess save the extra bottle to "ripen" in their "private reserve"...

Answer 6

Go to bevmo.com and search there. They have a VAST supply of wine info. Try these 90+ point wines: http://www.bevmo.com/productlist.asp?bhcp=1&N=168+166+39+63+56&area=wine&

Answer 7

I don't know what varietal you were thinking of, but for a Cabernet Sauvignon....Silver Oak is very impressive. The Silver Oak 2001 Napa Valley is a big Cab with lots of finesse. It is has nice dark garnet color with aromas of chocolate, cloves, and vanilla. This is a full bodied wine with flavors of chocolate, cloves and berries with a nice, long finish. This winery specializes in Cabernet and is located in Oakville in the Napa Valley. Consistently rated highly by everyone and recognized for quality. (Costs $99 a bottle)

Answer 8

Get a copy of Food & Wine magazine. They have wine recommendations (for all types of budgets) in every single issue, including new and unique wines.

Answer 9

For your price range, Adam O is right, go with Shafer. You could also try to get some Merry Edwards Pinot Noir. On the other hand, champagne was also a good suggestion--perhaps Veuve Clicquot.

Answer 10

There are many wines way under that price that everyone will enjoy. One of my favorites is called Franzia House Wine Specialties and they come in 5 liter boxes. I like the Sunset Blush myself but there are different flavors. You would save alot of money and could bring 2 or 3 boxes so that everyone could get drunk. Have fun and enjoy your party!