wines for pate and pheasant

[sponghead]

I need a red and a white wine for the above foods. I would like the same make if possible. The white will be for the pate and the red for the pheasant. Thanks Craig

[Innkeeper]

Really don't know why you want the white. Would go for a syrah with both. A 1997 or earlier Cornas would be fine. If you have to have the white try a Hermitage Blanc. You should be able to find respectable offerings of both from Paul Jaboulet Aine.

[jock]

I have a different take. Actually, the Pheasant is likely to be more delicate than the pate, depending on how it is prepared. Syrah is too heavy for Pheasant no matter how it is prepared. Suggest a pinot noir or light burgundy depening on your budget. The 97 burgundies are well balanced and drinking well now. Pate calls for a big white with some richness and even a bit of residual sugar. Try a Pinot Gris or Riesling from Alsace.

[winoweenie]

Sponghead, Welcome to the board. Agree with Jock on the pinot or burgandy with the peasant, but the only time I can`t help myself drinking a SW is when I eat pate. Love a Sauternes, Barsac, or any Late harvest Reisling with seared pate. Use it After the pheasant and you have dessert! winoweenie

[Innkeeper]

Jock and WW, normally would agree with you here. However, you have to remember that this guy's from England. In fact he's a steward at an RAF Club, serving a large party; which is why he wanted a single producer. You have to remember that the English hang game until it practically rots, so that is why we recommended the Cornas. Incidentally it is a blend and not 100% syrah. Also think a Cotes-Du-Rhone Villages would go too.

[Botafogo]

Try a Sforsato from Valtellina, these are made from the same variety (nebbiolo) as Barolo and Barbaresco so the flavors are spot on but they have the silkiness of Pinot or Amarone because the grapes are dried before pressing. Producers include Nino Negri, Sandro Fay, Sertoli Salis, Triacca, Balgera, Pellegrini.

Yummy stuff at half to one third the cost of comparable wines from other zones.

Roberto (WINE EXPO)