Wines of Winter

Sure, we all associate red wines with winter. Belle Prairie Rouge (a Cabernet Sauvignon) is perfect for steaks, stews and chili. Other good choices would be Patriot, a Cab. and Merlot blend and Big Red, a proprietary blend. (Think "Cab and cow.") G'Day, an Australian Syrah, goes well with leg of lamb or other lamb dishes, or with a vegetarian dish of braised Shitake mushrooms with savory and thyme. And, of course, Rockland Rouge, an old vine Zinfandel, goes well with Italian red sauces, cheese and chocolate.

But, a white can also be a wine of winter. They also need to be big wines such as Golden Eagle, a Chardonnay, Blanco Real, an African Chenin Blanc or Crusader, a proprietary blend. These go well with white bean chili, clam chowder, buttered mashed potato and roasted chicken. Experiment. You will enjoy the experience of maybe finding a new best combination. Have fun. And keep warm.