1. Is Malbec an Argentinian grape?
No, Malbec is originally from France. It does well when blended in Bordeaux reds but really shines on its own in the South East region of Cahors. And, please put the accent on the “ec,” not the initial “Ma”.The soils and climates of Argentina are perfect for rendering a softer, more fruit-forward Malbec.
2. Does a wine bottled with a screw cap mean it’s cheap?
No, not at all. In fact, more wineries, including high end ones, are releasing wines closed with a screw cap. Please remember that cork was a primitive solution. Today is 2009 and it’s perfectly acceptable to move on.
3. What wine should I pair with salads?
It depends on what’s in the salad. Also, if the dressing has vinegar, I would hold off on the wine. Vinegar is essentially spoiled wine so it would cause a mismatch with whatever you are drinking. I only recommend wine with salad if the dressing does not have vinegar.
4. I am looking for something dry and not oaky, like a California Chardonnay can be. Which wine should I get?
For the most part, California wine tends to be over oaked, giving it less of a “dry” taste and a more sweet, vanilla note. It would benefit you to understand that most wines are dry but have varying degrees of fruitiness. Try Italy's Terredora Falanghina for $16, it is citrusy with nutty notes and can be paired with anything from seafood to white meats. It also is a great party favorite, that stands well alone.
5. I am looking for a good champagne around $10. What do you recommend?
Unfortunately, they do not exist. You are better off getting another sparkling wine from a different region and paying half the price of champagne. And, sometimes you will get the same quality. Remember that champagne is sparkling wine that comes from the French region of the same name. The name is just that, and does not in any way make it better. Try Charles de Fere also from France for only $12 Frozza Prosecco from Italy for $16 or so.
Gianluca Rottura is the owner of a wine store on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
