Q&A
Pam gets asked many times what she would choose as an everyday drinking wine or the perfect wine for a hostess gift. We dedicate this page to those types of answers.
In addition, every month we’ll ask Pam, “If you had $100 what wine would you buy?” It may be just one bottle or it could be a combination of choices. Let the questions begin!
- Pam... How long can I keep a bottle of red wine for? - September
"Most wines are mass produced and not meant to be stored for long periods of time. Most wines are massed produced and should be consumed within the first year of purchase. The exception to this rule are the high-end bottles of the wineries. These wines are made with older vines and are designed to improve with age. Proper storage is essential, otherwise the wine will "cook" and end up tasting like raisins. Wines kept for the long haul must be stored in a cool, dark place with the temperature within 55 degrees, but no warmer than 64 degrees."
"While wines produced in the mid-range (not the cheap stuff, but not the best wine either) can age about 5 years, but drink them soon after that. Wines produced in great weather conditions tend to fair better than those in bad years, so become familiar with the best vintages because those are the ones that will stand the test of time. High quality wines from a great vintage can be stored for 20 years or more."
"Why age wine? My top 5 wines ever, were all wines that were 20 years or older. Age softens the tannins and helps it develop complex layers that really add to the wine tasting experience."
"Here's my favorite thing to do. Buy a case of wine that you want to age. Then after 3 years, drink a bottle, then one every year to determine about when the wine has reached its peak. Then use that knowledge to help cellar future bottles."
- Pam... If you had $100, what wine would you buy? - August
“You know what I would buy? I would buy the Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet.”
Why? Because Robert Mondavi recently passed away on May 16, 2008, at the age of 94. She did go over her budget by about $20, but oh well, it still sounds like a wonderful choice and a great tribute to one of California’s most influential vintners. - What types of wine should I keep in my wine rack? - July
By keeping these varieties of wine on hand, you’ll always be ready for surprise company or last minute dinner plans: Pinot Noir, Rioja, and Rose. These wines are very food friendly and will pair nicely with a wide variety of meals. Save the Rose for those lighter dishes of chicken and herbs. Pam suggests getting two of each bottle, that way you’ll have plenty to share. Keep the Rose bottles in the refrigerator so they’re always cold and ready.