Windy City Wine Guy/Gals' Guide Tasting at Binny's

Windy City Wine Guy and Gals' Guide teamed up to sponsor Wine 101 at Binny's and it was truly a success!  Basic knowledge was given along with a tasting of four different wines, three cheeses, and chocolate.  This was my first instructional tasting on a large scale and it turned out to be a complete thrill.  The questions were fast and furious but WCWG was able to give answers and knowledge to over 20 budding wine fans.  I was taken with the enthusiasm and curiosity of the bunch- the class actually went almost an hour over schedule and we managed to close the place down!

I picked out the wines and paired them with cheeses and chocolate:

• 2007 Mount Nelson Sauvignon Blanc with Boucheron- the wine's crisp acidity matched perfectly with this French Loire goat cheese.  The lively citrus, gooseberry, and oily texture coated the mouth perfectly. 


• 2005 Beringer Napa Chardonnay with Chatelain Brie- this wine had a buttery, creamy feel to go perfectly with this creamy cheese.  Ripe gold apple and toast flavors exude from it's medium body.


• 2007 O'Reilly's Oregon Pinot Noir with Tomme Savoie- the earth tones and smooth acids paired well with this earthy sheep milk selection.  Bright red fruit, pepper, and cinnamon were a part of the long finish from Oregon's greatest wine value.


• 2006 Bonterra Mendocino Cabernet Sauvignon with Michel Cluizel Mangaro Chocolate Noir- rich dark fruit, firm tannin, and vanilla complemented the dark chocolate well.  Bonterra makes great organic wines for everyday use, value, and enjoyment.

I want to thank Binny's South Loop staff (especially Juan and Elaine) for all the help.  And thanks to all students for the ample participation- I look forward to seeing you all again and putting on more classes and tastings!