Completely new, but want to impress

[mikku]

I've never been one much for wine, but recently taken an interest into it further. Specifically, one of my friends has recently returned from living in Rome and Italy and is much more of a connoisseur in it then I am, but I'd like some tips to be able to impress this person.

Ive picked up a book mentioned in another thread "Great Wine Made Simple." but would still like some assistance if you're willing.

I cant exactly remember what she said her favorite wine was, but I'm sure it began with a C, I want to say Cognac, but I'm not even sure if thats a wine or liquor.

What I do know is that she greatly enjoys a glass with either cheese, or nice chocolate, so I'm really looking for suggestions on a wine that goes good with one, or both. (Suggestions on what to have with the wine are fine too, haha) We can just sit down with and enjoy together.

I'm in the Seattle area also if anyone knows of places there.

sorry, I'm sure this reads poorly and is very roundabout, English is not my forté

[This message has been edited by mikku (edited 06-18-2007).]

[winoweenie]

Hi Mikku and welcome to the board. Having lived in Rome I'd guess the wine she's talking about is Chianti. Go down to the thread below and you'll find many postings and tasting notes on this varietal. Yhere are literally hundreds of fine wine shops in the Seattle area so finding one that can help you should be no problem. Good Luck. WW

[mikku]

ah yes, that was it, thank you I will do that.

hmm, the next thread or forum? I dont see what exactly you mean to point me towards.

[This message has been edited by mikku (edited 06-19-2007).]

[Innkeeper]

If you exit this Novice thread and scroll down the Board, you will find a section called Specific Wine Forums. In this section you will find a thread named Italian Wine Varieties. Click on this and use the "Go" button on the upper right to check back as far as you want for information on Italian Wines.

[wondersofwine]

Many wines go with various cheeses. You can find pairing notes at
http://www.wineintro.com/food/cheese/
and
http://winemonger.com/catalog/winemonger-talk/wine-and-cheese-pairing/2006/07/15/
(The principal grape in Chianti is Sangiovese. In the WineMonger website you can find a listing of cheeses to pair with Sangiovese-based wines.)

Some wines that do well with chocolate are the sparkling red wines from Italy, Brachetto d'Acqui (Banfi makes one that is readily found), Banyuls, and Port.