Dear Sippers,I had an amazing wine and food pairing this week that just surprised me and made me so happy I had to tell you. I cooked a dinner for a serious wine collector for his 75th birthday. He requested lobster bisque to start the meal and when I got there the printed menu showed a Chateau d'Yquem matched to it. Well let me tell you.....first it was an aged Chateau d'Yquem so that certainly helped.....the two of these together was just magic.Not only was I delighted at this pairing but I suddenly realized I had more times and ways to sip on Sauternes. Not just with dessert or foie gras!!! I love wine surprises and when people are surprised by liking some wine they were sure they weren't going to like. The most frequent experience is when we do white wine tastings and someone decides that it is now okay to drink white not just red wines. We did some Italian white wines for our recent Saturday sipper and they were just delicious. Scarbolo Pinot Grigio surprised with lots of flavor, not something you expect. Eikos, a Pecorino, is a mouth full of flavor and texture. Greco di Tufo from Campania has the beautiful minerality from the volcanic soils the grapes grow in. Surprises they are what makes the day wonderful. Try a new wine and if you need a selection of Italian whites or some other selection put together let me know. We have some fabulous classes this month including special appearances from not one, but two winemakers. These classes are going to sell out fast so don't procrastinate - grab some friends and sign up today, you won't regret it!! Happy sipping. Deb
