Once in awhile, moons align, and the right wine matches with great food. I hope you enjoy some of my absolute favorites for food and wine pairings as much as I do.
Côtes du Rhône and the grill: Consider any food with a char or sear marks—grilled veggies to a big steak. The deep fruit of a Château d’Aigueville Côtes du Rhône (around $14) with beef and veggies off the grill is awesome.
Chocolate and red wine: Is there anything better? I did a tasting and accidently came across this combo— Vina Robles cabernet (around $20) and sea salt chocolate caramels—decadent, and sometimes you deserve this.
John F. Farrell III is vice president; sales and merchandising with Haskell’s The Wine People. Find more at haskells.com.