Duck Dinner

[vickiruzicka]

I'm invited to dinner tomorrow night. The hosts were in the food & beverage business for years (daunting!). I'm asked to bring a nice wine to pair with duck, which is being served with a raspberry/mild jalapeno sauce. What's a good choice under $30?

On the inexpensive side, I also wanted to bring a Glen Ellyn Merlot. I have no idea if this choice is borne of ignorance, but we drink it at home as our everyday wine.

[Innkeeper]

Hi Vicki, and welcome to the wine board. The varietal Cabernet Franc was made for duck in my humble opinion. Look for offerings from the Loire Valley of France such as Chinon or Saumur-Champigny. You can find excellent examples of both for well under $30. If you can find an '03 it will have an overabundance of fruit that will handle the sauce.

I don't think the Glen Ellen Merlot would contribute much to the event. Enjoy it at home.