Worth your weight in wine August 17, 2009

We all mean well to end well. Mondays begin with promises and commitments to eat right, diet hard and hit at least two yoga sessions that week. But life has a tendency to run away with us and by Friday night, combined with a glass or two of wine, the Caribbean flavoured Lays chips don’t touch sides.

Whatever you do, don’t panic. Where there is a will, there is a way. Weigh-less has numerous success stories, all who followed the simple advice of sticking to white wine while out and about, adding a little soda water to two thirds of a glass.

~Christine Watters

Budget Buys August 17, 2009

It is a phrase that is being used almost as nonchalantly as “fine thanks.” Everyone is saying it, thinking it and living it: the tough economic climate. While I will admit to more often than not scanning the shelves for the best-looking label at the lowest possible price, there are more ways than one to enjoy a good glass or two.

Local, as they say, is ‘lekker,’ and Robertson Winery and Two Oceans  are often the most affordable ranges. But if like me, you are looking for some sparkle and a little more show, give Robertson’s Vendage sparkling wine range a try.

But sometimes, the day just calls for a bit of luxury. So gather the girls and either so a wine night in, where everyone brings one expensive bottle, or head out to the winelands where a taste of six wines will rarely cost you more than R20 at selected farms along the route.

~Christine Watters

Sip with Savvy August 17, 2009

Choosing a wine is a bit like choosing which favourite pair of shoes; you know that you could essentially pull off any pair without anyone noticing the difference, but the right match would just make the outfit. Author of “Be A Wine Connoisseur,” Steve Campbell, says that “anyone can drink wine, but it takes practice to be able to recognize & distinguish a wine’s characteristics.” Red, or white, cheap or pricy, here are a couple of popular options:

Chardonnay

A Chardonnay (pronounced shar-doe-nay) is one of the most popular choices and is relatively dry. This wine is an ideal partner to fish and chicken dishes.

Sauvignon Blanc

This particular wine (pronounced so-vee-nyon blah) is lighter than a Chardonnay and is versatile. The foods best suited to this variety of wine are seafood, poultry and salads.

Shiraz

Shiraz (pronounce shi-raz) is a wonderful companion to a red meat dish such as steak, beef, wild game and stews.

Cabernet Sauvignon

A Cabernet Sauvignon (pronounced ka-ber-nay so-vee-nyon) is considered to be one of the world’s best varieties. This wine is served best with simply prepared red meat but is rather dry.

~ Christine Watters