We met on Thursday Feb. 22 at Pam's for Champagne, or should I say "sparkling wines." The buffet, laden with tasty treats, was a focal point as the men lingered near sampling the chocolate-covered strawberries (compliments of Bridget and J.R.) and indulging in
Anna's colorful bean dip. We got to hear about Dave and Marci's recent trip, celebrate Matt's tenure, and joke around, as usual. We missed Margaret and Jon, who were unable to attend due to a work obligation.
Throughout the evening, Pam played DJ and we started out listening to
Sade Lovers Live and but later as the requests poured in Matt and Anna even got up to dance. A moment to remember... "
Paradise by the Dashboard Lights" sung at the top of our lungs. God bless Meatloaf!
Dave, our wine-master, is getting very good at the tasting pour. We each had our sample drinks of the various sparkling wines and I learned that some are much drier than others. I guess I prefer mine sweet.
For those of us eager to learn more, Pam provided an article called "Champagne's Best Buy: Non-Vintage Bruts" by Ed McCarthy and Mary Ewing-Mulligan. I didn't find the exact article online but I did find a link to another similar one by Ed McCarthy on the subject. Check it out
here. There are a number of interesting topics available on
Wine Review Online.
Here's what we drank:Pam brought:
Asti Castello del PoggioItalian Sparkling Wine
She also provided the cassis
for those of us who wanted
to try a Kir Royale--champagne cocktail.
Matt and Anna brought:
Korbel Chardonnay ChampagneCalifornia Champagne
Carmyn brought:
Ballatore Gran SpumanteCalifornia Sparkling Wine
Dave and Marci brought:
Chandon Blanc de' NoirCalifornia Sparkling Wine
Bridget and J.R. brought:
Tosti Brachetto d' AcquiItalian Sparkling Wine