WineTime TV

Sommelier Jodi Fritch

The other day I came across the statement “taking the mystery out of wine and making it fun.” For some reason this statement became stuck in my head, like a bad jingle. For days, I walked around wondering why I could not let this statement go, and then it occurred to me . . . the mystery is what makes wine fun for me.

Wine is a journey of discovery and like any learning experience, there are going to be some mistakes along the way, but that’s okay. I can tell you that after several years in the business, I still pick out bottles that are less than stellar, although far less often that I used to.

Someone once told me that the most important thing you can ever take to a wine-tasting is an ‘open-mind.’ Especially during the summer months, when the weather heats up, I encourage you to embrace an open minded approach to wine. There are so many delicious white wines from more obscure varietals that pair with summertime foods beautifully.

I recommend this approach: Instead of buying two bottles of your favorite Chardonnay the next time you are at the wine store, pick up your usual and commit to picking up a bottle of a white wine that is new to you. Invite some friends over and share your new discovery.

Another great idea is to plan a ‘summer white’ event. We used to hold a dinner at the restaurant at the end of summer. We served five courses paired with only white wine. I find that it is always a surprise to even the most serious wine drinkers how well white wine can pair with so many dishes.

To help you get started, these are some of my favorite ‘off-the-beaten-path’ white wines for summer:

Fiano (Italy) – aromas of honey, almonds, and dried fruit.

Greco (Italy) – rich, fruity flavors, with hints of smoke and pine nuts

Muscadet (France) – citrus fruit flavors with hints of mineral, toast, yeast from sur lie aging (the wine is aged on its yeast cells) crisp with lovely acidity,

Torrontes (Argentina) – aromas of stone fruit and dried hay, a perfect summer patio sipper.

Comment about your favorite off the beaten path white wine. I am always looking for new recommendations.

Howdy Wino’s!

I may be finding a way back into Wine-dom and go figure, it may be an Australian wine at that! I’m interested in a Social Media and/or Event Marketing gig. Naw, we’re not talking big money but quite possibly big passion and in the long run, life is short baby! Enjoy it while you can.

Which leads me to ponder; Has anyone tried Razor’s Edge Wine before? I haven’t found it yet in my local market. I’d love some opinions on the product if anyone has one/some. Don’t be shy!

I made this clip simply out of inspiration.