A long-time Hollywood friend mailed me a copy of the New York Times Eric Asimov column of March 28th. Whether you are a wine newbie or even more experienced this is a piece you should read.
From the page I’ve picked out some of his major points he wants us to think of wine as food. Further description suggest wine should be viewed as a manifestation of culture.
Later on he suggests linking your wine selections to the specific occasion that you’re looking for at the moment. Thinking of a light bite, your best wine might be an Oregon white wine and not an expensive Grand Cru.
Asimov says it’s important to find a good wine shop — avoid grocery stores unless as they claim a good wine selection and a wine savvy clerk.
Asimov urges his readers to rely on a merchant who knows his business or an accredited sommelier. Getting a good relationship with a merchant like Bill Gotti, now with Total Wine in the Long Island area or an experienced wine expert like Bill at Remedy Liquor in Glendale, CA. They would, as Asimov says, give you good advice because they very much want you to return.
Fifth point he present — explore. Find little-known wines from strange (to you) grapes and foreign areas. If you’re in the LA area, check out a wine store in Los Feliz. Lou, there really is a Lou, was accredited by the WSET program in the UK and is an approachable guy.
