by contributing writer Steve Gross
I really enjoy sharing wine with friends. Over the years, they’ve learned to trust my judgement, putting themselves in my hands. I try not to let them down. Most of them are not serious wine drinkers, however. They simply want something enjoyable to drink during enjoyable social time.
I like to share wines that match most people’s palates, but offer something to think about, too.
Some of my favorite wines to share are:
- Dr. Loosen Dr. L Riesling
- Decoy Red Blend by Duckhorn
- Seghesio Zinfandel (particularly the Old Vine Zin)
- Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir
These wines run from $12-32. Each wine represents the grape it’s made from, but it goes a step further. When I serve these wines, I usually get a strong reaction. Not just, “This is good,” but “This is REALLY good!”
It gives me great pleasure to share these wines. They’re People Wines. Not stuffy, not hard to find, not overly expensive. They simply bring joy and a clear indication of how satisfying wine can be. From there, who knows?
Steve Gross likes wine that smells good, moves him to states of reverie, and demands a second, third, or fourth taste. Seeking these wines keeps him busy, but he somehow finds time to work as a Special Education Teacher and to guide birdwatchers throughout Texas and the Western US. Look for Steve wherever great food and wine, mountains, birds, and fresh air are found.
