I'm a teetotaller, but two weeks from now I will be meeting a couple of ladies on whom I want to make a good impression, and I'm supposed to bring a bottled of chilled Chardonnay. I know nothing at all about wine, and when I go to different wine-related websites it seems like there are a million different brands and vintages, each of which have one enthusiastic recommendation.
I don't have to spend big bucks or anything - I'm not trying to blow these people away, I just don't want to look like a complete rube or a total cheapskate. I'd prefer to stay under about $30. So how do I go about finding something decent, here in the Las Vegas area? Preferably, I'd like a recommendation that I can be almost sure to find at any liquor store or even a supermarket. Thanks to anyone who can help!
Pontac2008-03-29T03:45:29Z
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OK, so you want to buy a Chardonnay to impress, but you know nothing about wine.
1) Go to a wineshop, i.e. a shop that specializes in selling wine and ask the people in the shop for a recommendation -- tell them exactly your reason for purchasing and they'll be able to give you some background information you canb casually drop into conversation. Thsi way you'll likely get a wine that is not so common.
2) Buy a Chablis. Chablis is in France and its white wines are made from Chardonnay and are recognized as the worlds best Chardonnays. That is where the grape variety originates and there is a village the named Chardonnay which probably gave the variety its name. Don't buythe cheapest and you'll be sure of a wine that will impress.
The most common or popular Chardonnay out there is Kendall Jackson (around $8-$12) available most everywhere. If you want it to be a little spiffier go for the private reserve ($12-$17). If you want to avoid be generic or common, then go for DeLoach($16-$20).
If you want a sweeter wine that is more female-oriented go with a Riesling. Chateau St Michelle is good, this runs $11 to $15. It's not as heavy as a Chardonnay.
Don't go with the Chablis. I doubt these folks are afficionados and wouldn't appreciate it.