Wine has been a part of our lives since the beginning of civilization. Records dating back to before 4000 BC tell us that grapes were cultivated for the purpose of wine making. Even the Old Testament states that Noah had a vineyard for making wine. Wine has been used in religious ceremonies and for medicinal purposes. Of course no celebration or feast is complete without wine. Friend or foe, wine is and always will be a part of our culture.
A good glass of wine, to me is truly the nectar of the Gods. There is nothing more relaxing than sitting in front of a roaring fire on a cold winter's night, sipping a wonderful Pinot Noir, or a Châeauneuf-du-Pape, and sharing that moment with someone special.

However, one of the major downsides to purchasing a really good bottle of wine is the amount you will most likely pay for it. In some cases it could be an entire paycheck. Not to worry though, there are great wines out there that will please the palette and not break the bank.

Below are a few of my personal favorites. I have also asked a number of my close friends, who share my love of wine, to give me their recommendations to pass on to you.


1997 Vieux Mas Des Papes Chateauneuf Du Pape
France
Average Price: $25.00

All Louis Jadot Wines
France
Average Price: Varies

1999 Beaulieu Vineyards Napa Valley Pinot Noir

California
Average Price: $23.00

Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay
Washington State
Average Price: $28.00

Chateau St. Jean Merlot Sonoma County
California
Average Price: $20.00

1999 Rupert & Rothschild Classique
South Africa
Average Price: $15.00

1999 Mazzei Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Chianti
Italy
Average Price: $21.00

1999 Crozes-Hermitage blanc, Alain Graillot Rarität
France
Average Price: $15.00

1999 Chateau Haut-Corbin (St.-Emilion)
France
Average Price: $20.00

1997 St. Clement Cabernet Sauvignon
California
Average Price: $26.00

Spiegel gift and collectibles 2.21.02 Sssh recommends Wine.Com, the perfect place to find that great bottle of wine, or for the wine enthusiast, the perfect gift. Check out their Wine Club!

How many gallons of wine were lost in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake? Answer: 30 million

Wine For DummiesŪ
As much as I hate to admit it, Wine for Dummies really is well written and informative. You will find it well laid out and extremely easy to understand.

Thomas Jefferson helped stock the wine cellars of the first five U.S. presidents. His favorites; Bordeaux and Madeira

Here are the basic rules: red wine with red meat, white wine with fish and white meat. Some types of wine go better with certain dishes; Cabernet Sauvignon goes well with plainly roast meat and especially lamb. Pinot Noir is best with sauced meat. Ultimately though your palette will make the final decision.

Wine Lovers Page, is an excellent source of general information. From articles to wine recommendations, this site has it all.

Dom Perignon (1638-1715), The Benedictine Abbey cellar master who is credited with “inventing” the Champagne making process, was blind.

Return to Recommendations Menu