La Romaine Rhone – everyday red

LA ROMAINE COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES VENUS, Southern Rhone
LCBO 28779 |Price: $ 12.95

“When we read we begin with A-B-C, when we drink we begin with Cotes-Du-Rhone” - paraphrasing Julie Andrews.  My favorite wine writer, Billy Munnelly, starts his Wine Boot Camp with a Cotes du Rhone (but not this one).  He says that if you understand Cotes du Rhone then you understand most of the world’s red wines. I believe him (mostly because he has authored a book and I haven’t).
Description

Syrah and Grenache : Spice and Fruit.  Each grape in this wine adds its character that has made them favorites in Spain, Australia, and in North America.  Produced right in the same region as Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Chateauneuf du Pape at a fraction of the price.  Pretend that you are drinking a $50 bottle and act a little snobby if you like. The French would love it if you did.

Brouilly by DuBoeuf – everyday red

This is one of the most beautiful bottles you can buy.  That’s why I put it in the “impress at a party” category.  Even my earlier embarrassment over the Beaujolais region – Wine Lesson Number 1  – doesn’t stop me from recommending this great wine.

DUBOEUF BROUILLY, Beaujolais
LCBO 70540 |Price: $ 16.95
12.7%

Description
A Grand Cru, this Beaujolais is not so light and fruity that you want to gulp it, although it’s tempting and possible.  There is nice structure so that the tannin works perfectly with the cherry and berry in the wine. Also, it comes in a cool bottle that will stand out on your table and impress as much as the wine. This should be served lightly chilled