The best wine and food pairings create harmony among unexpected flavors. Chardonnay, Riesling, and Merlot are classic pairing choices, but less conventional grape varieties like Albariño, Grenache, Grüner Veltliner, Malbec, and Tempranillo are becoming increasingly popular, coveted by those with curious palates and a taste for good value. In Daring Pairings, the adventurous companion to the acclaimed Perfect Pairings, Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein shows how anyone can bring these emerging, exciting varieties to the table. He ventures into wine’s new frontiers, exploring the flavors and pairing potential of thirty-six distinctive grapes from around the world, including Argentina, Spain, Italy, Greece, and France. In his entertaining and approachable style, Goldstein offers advice on crafting unforgettable wine and food pairings, suggests wines for everyday and special occasions, and recommends producers and importers. Thirty-six star chefs present recipes specially tailored to Goldstein’s wine selections, and full-color photographs display these dishes in delectable splendor. This authoritative, down-to-earth guide reveals that pairing food and wine is no great mystery—anyone willing to explore or experiment can create bold and memorable combinations.  Get a copy today!

Evan Goldstein is a Master Sommelier and a four-time James Beard Award nominee for Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year. He is the author of Perfect Pairings (UC Press) and Five Star Service: Your Guide to Hospitality Excellence, and is President and Chief Education Officer of Full Circle Wine Solutions.

The Good Life Guy Wine of the Week:
2008 Mastroberardino – Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio
100% Coda di Volpe del Vesuvio. A wine with a prestigious name and a history entwined with legend: God cried as he found a corner of heaven stolen by Lucifer. Where his tears fell, there grew the Lacryma Christi vine. Given the extraordinary nature of the territory, where the vine must struggle through terrain rich in ash, lava and volcanic rock, who could ignore such natural force in the expression of aromas and flavors.

The Tears of Christ…whatever, it’s a great wine for the heat of summer.  Aromas and flavors of peach, pineapple and a fair dose of minerality.  Pick up a bottle at Jacob Liquor Exchange and also get a copy of the recipe that Whitney paired with this wine.

Video Wine of the Week

Today I’ll be talking to Lance Chastain from Chautauqua Hills Farm in Southeast Kansas about his thoughtfully grown Blueberries, Blackberries and Asparagus.  Herbicide-free with organic pest control, this is some of the best produce Kansas has to offer.  We’ll tell you all about the products, how you can make a great family outing and go pick your own, or where you can purchase locally.

For available picking times, berry availability and directions to the Sedan Kansas Farm, call or email Lance Chastain at 620 249-3369, chastains@cox.net

Learn more at:  www.chautauquahillsfarm.com

Good Life Guy Wine of The Week: Gloria Ferrer NV “Va de Vi”

Va de Vi is the stylish new méthode champenoise sparkling wine that celebrates our Spanish heritage. This ultra-premium cuvée adds new dimension to our house style. Elegant and refreshing, dry but not too dry, Va de Vi is a classic blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with just a trace of Muscat. Va de Vi captures the exuberant aromas and luscious flavors of perfectly ripened fruit and reveals them throughout a long, soft finish.  

Tasting Notes: The wine offers abundant aromas of ripe apple, Asian pear and Bing cherries amid enticing yeasty tones. On the palate, rich flavors of ripe peach, Meyer lemon, fresh berries and vanilla join with creamy textures in a lasting finish.

Watch the Wine of The Week video