light reds

[johnny21220]

My girlfriend and I enjoy the lighter, less tannic, fruity red wines. We have come across a few good merlots and pinot noirs from California. We are still experimenting with the reds. Any suggestions on other wines that fit this catagory?

[Innkeeper]

Hi Johnny and welcome to the Wine Board. You might start with Beaujolais. The '03 Nouveau will be out in a couple of weeks. In the meantime look for Beaujolais Villages and the Cru Beaujolais (Fleurie, Moulin A Vent, etc) from '00 and '01 are excellent. '02s are spotty.

You might also try the lighter barberas from California and Italy (Asti & Alba). The lighter ones are the less expensive ones, which should make you happy. Some of the simplier (again less expensive) Chiantis and Chianti Classicos, e.g. Cecchi should also please you.

[ShortWiner]

You'd probably also like Valpolicella from Italy.