Stormy Outside, Warm Inside

Here are three of my favorite reds to weather any storm.

Let it snow, people. I’ve got a list of favorite reds to weather any storm. I did some legwork, err…umm…some glasswork and have three great reds to wash away the winter blues.

Italian Reds:

If it’s a big storm, and you’ve got a big budget, go big with a big Italian red like a Barolo, which is made 100% from nebbiolo grapes. Another option would be to try a Barbaresco, which is also 100% nebbiolo as Barolo much less expensive. Snuggle up to the fire, pour a glass of one of these intensely flavored reds and cook up some risotto. The intensity of the wine will complement the richness of this classic northern Italian dish.

Cabernet Sauvignon:

Nothing says weather chaser better than a rich cabernet. The cabernet grape is a small berry with a thick skin, giving it a high solid to juice ratio and creating a wine high in color, tannin and extract. Some typical cabernet descriptors include cassis, cedar and currant. Big and balanced, cabernet is the perfect stormy match for a fatty steak or something gamey.

Zinfandel:

If the rations are low, Zinfandel is bold enough to keep you warm all on its own. Known as the quintessential California grape, so find some California cheese and enjoy. Many Zinfandels are usually priced for longer storms in case multiple bottles are needed.

Don’t shovel the driveway. Pop a cork instead. And since we don’t usually get snow in Lafayette, pop a cork anyway - It’s still winter right.  Which reds will you be sipping on throughout the winter?