Hanging out with light summer reds

Chateau des Charmes

Billy's Best Bottles by Billy Munnelly

Published: August 21, 2008 5:00 a.m.

Last modified: August 20, 2008 4:51 p.m.

Be the first to comment

Print article

Text size

Light reds are not yet understood in North America. People regard them with the kind of suspicion they once had for small cars -- but look how we’ve changed that attitude. Maybe we can also learn to like lighter wines, especially red wines made in the Beaujolais style.
These wines are light, refreshing and fun to be with –- especially in warm weather, and early in the evening.

We need to get over the idea that every red wine has to feel like a Cadillac –- something excessive -– because often the mood we're in doesn't call out for a 'rich' solution. Many social occasions –- especially hanging out with friends, around a platter of appetizers -– are
best served by a lighter wine that doesn’t demand the limelight. Save the big Shiraz for dinner.

Anyone who has visited the Mediterranean countries will have experienced a lightly chilled light red at a sidewalk café. They're absolutely perfect with flavourful appetizers. Try my following Greek selection with some mildly hot snacks.

Niagara’s Ch. Des Charmes does a version of Gamay (the Beaujolais grape) that’s loaded with French country atmosphere. It's lively and gutsy. Think Brie and baguette, and a lazy Saturday afternoon.

Kourtakis N/V Vin de Crete, Greece 415406 $8.75
Ch. Des Charmes 06 Gamay ‘Droit’, Niagara 582353 $16.75

P.S. Saturday, August 16 LCBO Vintages release recommendations are
posted on www.billysbestbottles.com.