StilettoChef

I must say, I have been quite disappointed with the lack of food and wine knowledge that men are able to roll with. (ehhhemm callin’ you out!) Your best ammo should live in that big ol’ noggin you’re carrying around! That brain of yours! Learn to store seemingly useless tidbits about the dating holy trinity…wine, cheese, and chocolate! Because that my friends will win over any girl’s heart. Not to mention if you know when to deftly make a suggestion…you just might get to that second date. C’mon guys, don’t be afraid to show us that your Mom raised a proper gentlemen that has a trick or two up his sleeve! Believe me, we’ll be asking for seconds if you do…

Today I will just be focusing on 4 of my Vino varieties. Sounds so basic right? Well umm do you know the difference between Rioja, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc or a Malbec? The regions in which they originated from and what sets these varieties apart? Or, are you a “I’m gunna buy it b/c my Ralphs Club Card Saves me $2.99 kinda guy? Wow, impressive! And no, 2 Buck Chuck is NOT impressive! Read along my wise friend.

PINOT NOIR: A hard grape variety to cultivate and care for, shows your lady friend that you are in tune to seasonal rhythms and that you appreciate the subtleties that make her unique! With hints of cherries and soft grape like kisses, you cannot go wrong with this choice. It’s one of my personal favorites and it’s very versatile for food pairing as well.  Hint: Look for labels from California (Napa or Central Coast) or Oregon for best value.

MALBEC: From Mendoza, Argentina, Malbec is the heartbeat of Argentina’s wine industry. This selection will show her you that you are an international man of mystery that knows a thing or two about bold quality when you see it. With hints of deep plum, dark currants, blackberries, figs and even chocolate, she’ll know this is a winner. There’s just something so succulent and seductive about a man who knows a good South American wine!

RIOJA: Spanish is just so sexy… why? Rioja is the only wine region in Spain that has the designation DOC (Denominación de Origen Calificada), which is the highest classification in Spain. The area is known for it’s rose-colored soil, and I have to admit, roses are just classically romantic. Choosing a Rioja will show her you know both quality and classification. Some of the grape varieties used to make Rioja are Tempranillo (my favorite) – a delicate, berry flavor; Garnacha Tinta –  more on the peppery side; Graciano – hints of blackberry; and Mazuelo – a tannin.

CABERNET FRANC: One of the three main varieties in Bordeaux originally from the Western Loire Valley in France. Predominantly used as a blend variety for quite some time. Until wine connoisseurs (particularly in Northern America!)  realized that Cabernet Franc could stand alone.. Ha, meaning you are just a real “stand out” guy. Show her that you know your grapes, with lower levels of tannins and a distinct berry taste you simply cannot go wrong with this bad boy. If you love being that underdog that can show he what you’re made of, than Cabernet Franc is your sweet spot vino.

Did I mention red vino contains resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant known for its anti-aging properties, and many also aid in prevention of heart disease and lower cholesterol. Hellurr!? Beauty in a bottle! There you go gorgeous! Stay tuned for Cheese and Chocolate and you’re on your way to becoming a Lady Killer. xx♥ ck