Raise your glass - Wine flavours

 Each Wine is distinct and different, even though it may be the same grape, but why? The complexity in taste, like our coffee; the aroma of our award-winning rum, and potency of our ginger, are all attributed to our rich soil and great climate. These very attributes are no different for wines - each region, or part of the world, produces something distinct and truly spectacular. Where are these regions?

History gives birth to grapes being fermented into wine in Europe. We recognise the wine-growing regions based on the greybeards that recorded history. Wine regions are categorised as Old-World wines or New-World wines.

Old-World wines are from the regions of the now non-existent Roman Empire - France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Germany. New-World wines are from part of the 'discovered world' - the United States, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, and Australia.

Each region is capable of producing different types of grapes or the same grapes, but each with a different taste, hence the multitude of wines you see on the shelves: reds, whites, sparkling, and everything in between. The key thing to note is that grapes make wine, and wine makes us happy.

With so many varieties, how do you possibly make a selection? I think the Romans did it best, pairing wine with food or just consuming wine to further their ambitions of relaxation and greater enjoyment of life. Trying to find that happy middle ground can be difficult - similar to the having a choice between chocolate and vanilla ice cream, only to end up with strawberry. Versatility exists in both reds and whites to give that happy middle ground that works with just about everything - whether food, or frivolity.

In my opinion, that 'happy' middle ground is a Merlot and Chardonnay.

A Merlot is a delicate and delicious berry-flavoured red wine, while a Chardonnay is a crisp, buttery or fresh fruit-flavoured white wine. Because of its versatility with most foods, it's a staple in just about every restaurant.

On a recent outing, the simplicity and ease of a Flipflop Merlot from California could not be ignored. It was the label that first attracted me and made me think of something fun. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed just sipping it by itself as well as enjoying a glass with some barbecue ribs. This particular wine has a great blend of aromas and flavours mostly resembling plum, which thoroughly tickled my palate. This is not a sweet wine like the Moscato I mentioned last week, but a great middle option for red-wine fans like myself.

Another brand I recently tried was the Obikwa Merlot from South Africa. After trying it, I was pleasantly surprised. Each of these bottles run in the region of $1,000 to $1,400, which puts it at an excellent price point, particularly if you are entertaining. There are other great Merlots that you may find on your supermarket shelves: Hobnob, Beringer, Trivento, and Vino Maipo are great value-based wines.

For those with a bit more of a refined palate looking for more robust flavours and willing to spend a little more, I recommend the Kendal-Jacksons Vinter's Reserve Merlot.

I would like to make a toast to good friends and great wine.

I am not an expert, merely a wine enthusiast sharing my thoughts and experiences. Feel free to share your own experiences at wineenthusiastja@gmail.com.

Join me and The Gleaner's Food section this Sunday (December 15) for a wine experience at Bin26 in Devon House, for a tasting of the Flipflop Merlot between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

CHEERS!

Thanks to all of you who shared your feedback and encouragement. I raise a glass to you.