Wines for Gala at the Nat'l Air & Space Museum

[wondersofwine]

I notice they have a Snoqualmie Sauvignon Blanc on the list. I don't have experience with that but know they do a credible job with their Merlot and Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon blend. I suggest either of those for the turf part of the menu. Much as I love Pinot Noir, it's not the best match for steak.
For white wine an inexpensive German Riesling such as Lingenfelder Bird Label or Leitz Dragonstone would be a better choice
($12-15 range retail but cheaper to restaurants and caterers probably.) Or maybe a Macon Villages wine from France.
I would agree with the Beringer White Zinfandel for a crowd-type rose. And agree with the St. Michelle Brut for the sparkler at the reception. (Domaine Chandon is another West Coast possibility).
Is the surf part of the menu lobster tail with drawn butter? If so, a buttery chardonnay might be a good match although normally I try to avoid fat buttery chardonnays from California (that's why I suggested the Macon Villages or a Riesling).
Clos du Bois Chardonnay might fill the bill for a more buttery Chard ($15-22) while Geyser Peak Chardonnay is another possiblity (about $12?)

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 07-01-2004).]