LYRA MAG.

S amples From the Bernard Magrez Portfolio of Wines  Grand Crus Classés Bordeaux reds are Valentine's Day perfect -and relatively speaking-are good values vs the trophy red Burgundies. THE Highlight: Grand Crus Classés Bordeaux Reds  from the esteemed Bernard Magrez collection included our favorite-and imo-well priced 2009 blend from  Chateau Pape Clément . This "urban" winery-  dates back to the 13th century(!!!!!)..and is in the Pessac Leognan appellation not far from the center of the Bordeaux region. What we tried-the 2009 vintage-is terrific...a hand picked, earthy intoxicating aromatic blend - with a wonderful  elegant finish-  a complex fusion of deep fruits, leather, smoky-lovely pepper hints (50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc). Many foods including  Asian...would pair well. Priced in the USA around $170+ FYI: this jewel in Magrez portfolio-has white gloved employees de-stemming berry ...

Drinking less beer  now-Americans more and more quench thirst with specialty red options like mineral water + functional beverages. Still a party atmosphere with choices - still expected -but the liquid selections lean more 'upscale'-matching the global-sophisticated eats...that go beyond fast food fare. TRY: A multi-tasking red wine: From Spain- Rioja is a well balanced, value priced (imo) red wine made from 100% Tempranillo grapes-that pairs well with everything from pizza, Buffalo chicken wings, tasty Middle Eastern spreads---- to South Asian or South of the border spicier snacks. we loved this Fernández De Pierola -deep bursts of ripe berries-stewed fruits, gorgeous dark cheery color, subtle tannins  and warmth of aged toasted wood-with elegant finish The perfect pairings....Fig Cake, mixed nuts, and an assortment of cheese. These samples are from  Mitica-via forevercheese.com-and available on AMAZON .   via GIPHY

Tis' the season. via GIPHY Whether hosting or bringing beverages and eats for a playoff tv viewing crowd -chances are attendees have elevated expectations for sustenance-right along with their increasingly sophisticated palates. For a change from usual Buds: Sparkling wines with the elegance of French champagne-without the costs? We say stay within France for handy party sized splits...that are worthy alternatives- at half the price (at least) by Burgundy based Le Grand Courtâge -conveniently available online and in many states. Pictured-the delicious bubbly Grand Cuvée Blanc de Blancs (crips granny smith apples, honeysuckle, strawberry and heady bread-y hints that we love ) made from a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc (honey, citrus), Colombard (high acid, structured-mineral-y), and Ugni Blanc (fruit) and the Rosé Brut-a terrific fruity fresh sip of berries- strawberry-raspberry and floral aromas-courtesy of a blend of Chardonnay, Ugni Blanc and Gamay grapes. IMO-sparkl...