Red wines and appetizers

[minnrob]

We are having a Christmas open house. Individuals will be bringing various desserts and some appetizers, meats and cheesed, etc. I have already selected some white wines but I am at a loss regarding reds. Any suggestions on reasonably priced red? We anticipate about 40 wine drinking friends to attend. Thanks

[Innkeeper]

Hi Rob, and welcome to the Wine Board. As just posted on the Wines In Other Categories thread, Marietta Old Vine Red is a great wine for a mixed batch of food. It runs around $10 per bottle.

[hotwine]

Second the welcome, and also recommend Cline Syrah (Cal), Fat Bastard Shiraz (French), Blackstone Merlot (Cal), A Mano Primitivo (Italian), Masi Ripasso (Italian), Count Placido Chianti Classico (Italian), Maison Nicolas Pinot Noir (French), Wolf Blass Cabernet Sauvignon (Australia).... each for $7-$11. There are many more.

[minnrob]

Thank you for your responses. I found the Blackstone Merlot, the Cline Syrah, the Marietta Old Vine Red and the Chiante Classico. All were judged excellent by the attendees and the party was a huge success. Thank you again

[Innkeeper]

We aim to please. Next time try to find the Masi. Although it is a Vino di Ripasso, it and others are sometimes labeled Valpolicella Classico Superiore. These are not to be confused with journeyman Valpolicellas, some of which sell for around the same price. The Masi is very widely distributed.

[hotwine]

Picked up some more Cline Syrah and Masi Ripasso this morning. They don't last long around here.