A quick lesson in wine pairing (Win a Bertolli Wine Pairing Kit!)

Winner: Rochelle

About 12 years ago, I lived in Italy as part of a six-week study abroad program for college credits.  I visited small towns, big cities and met some wonderful people that I still keep in touch with today.  It truly was life-changing, and there isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t dream of returning.

When I attended the Bertolli Virtual Wine Pairing event earlier this week, it really brought me back.  I learned so much from Stacie Hunt, a certified Sommelier and vino Italiano expert.  If you missed it, you can watch the recorded video here.  These are a few takeaways that I was happy to learn:

The difference between Italian wine and wines from other countries-
Italian Wine has a sense of place.  When you drink the wine, you really taste the region whether it’s minerals, florals, fruit, etc.  Also, most Italian wines are between 12-14% alcohol content, so it won’t overwhelm the meal.

How to taste wine-
The Five S’s: Sniff, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, Savor. We learned that the scent becomes stronger after swirling.  Who knew?

On wine temperatures-
Never drink white wine too chilled, or red wine too warm.  Don’t be afraid to ask your waiter for an ice bucket if your red wine is too warm.

Pair white wines with fish, and red wines with meat, right?
Not necessarily.  If you need to think fast, you can follow this suggestion however it is not a rule.  A nice pinot cuts the creaminess of an alfredo dish, prosecco goes well with fried chicken or popcorn, a chardonnay can be sipped while enjoying a steak and abruzzo can be enjoyed with fish.

Bertolli frozen meals are wonderful, and a great way to put a delicious meal on the table in no time.  For nights when we can’t find a sitter, this becomes our dinner in.  No dressing up required.  Bertolli sauces are a family favorite too.

WIN IT!
Bertolli has generously offered to give away a Wine Pairing Kit
to one lucky Girl Gone Mom reader!

Includes:
·         Stainless Steel Wine Aerator
·         Rebate for a Bottle of Cavit Italian Wine
·         Wine Foil Cutter
·         Tasting certificate for your favorite Bertolli Frozen Meal
·         Coupon for a free Bertolli Sauce

To Enter: Visit Bertolli and tell me which meal you’d most like to try, and what kind of wine you’d pair it with.

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Great wine pairing advice from @Bertolli and win a Wine Pairing Kit at #GirlGoneMom http://bit.ly/kmQrbP

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Contest closes at Midnight EST on May 23rd, 2011. US residents only. One main entry per household. Thank you to the sponsor for supplying the items for review and giveaway.