And away we go...

I'm offering this blog as I experience the world of wines and liquors in the liquor store of my employment: Harper Corner Liquor store, in Lawrence, KS, located at the corner of 23rd Street and Harper. I don't know if anyone will find this resource helpful, but I will attempt to offer tidbits of information to the public at large on food and beverage pairings, local events that are scheduled, and other local news that affects the daily goings-on at Harper Corner, everyone's favorite neighborhood booze source.

TASTINGS
I would recommend having tastings of different wines and beverages with the ones who eat meals with you. These will be the people for whom you cook; your family, friends, or a special somebody. These are the people who will be eating and enjoying beverages with you, so knowing what rings their bells is good to keep in mind when pairing. We regularly have tastings at Harper Corner (sadly, only employees are allowed to attend), and learn the newest cutting edge wines and spirits emerging into the market. With that being said, don't hesitate to ask your friendly booze hound for an outsider's perspective, as well. We do, after all, have our fingers on the pulse of the booze nation. For an example, I will present the 3 wines and 2 beers we sampled at last night's meeting:

PENFOLD'S KOONUNGA HILLS: Australia
shiraz cabernet sauvignon
This wine is very well balanced, a deep rich red wine with moderately pointed dryness. I could see this going well with any beef dish or (perfect for the glorious weather we've been having) barbecue. Sweet berries start this wine off, developing smoothly with the tannins into a well rounded flavor that hits the whole tongue all at once. Overall, this was my favorite.

EGUREN: Spain
tempranillo
Spanish wines are pretty hot right now, and the price is right for this clean and dry red wine from Spain. Traditionally very well balanced, tempranillo can be heavy and full, or, as in this case, clean and precise. The clean grape flavor hits right on the tip with a distinct tartness while the tannins do their work on the sides and back of the tongue. Not as spicy as other tempranillos, but at around $8 a bottle, a very good deal.

ASS KISSER: Australia
fine red wine
I know, I know... It's a funny name. It is. Clever, even. It's wines like this that sell well without having the need for substance. After sampling this shiraz-grenache blend, I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised. I expected something like Mad Housewife or Bitch: a wine full of character, but not much real distinction. I was surprised. This sweet red wine had very fruity undertones, heavy berry flavors, black and red currant, and a faint dryness that didn't overdevelop so far as to ruin the sweetness. The combination is impressive, and would pair with any table setting, particularly as a dessert wine.

It appears I am needed at the shop. So I will have to continue about the beers some other time. I hope these reviews find you doing well, and I hope that they aid you in making the best pairings of foods with beverages. Until then, drink up.