I love to entertain, whether it’s for a planned dinner or an impromptu gathering of friends. Here are my rules and some go-to wines that make this really easy.
Always have something ready. I keep a bottle of good sparkling wine in the fridge—just in case. (Consider: Louis Bouillot sparkling rosé)
I also like to keep good inexpensive wine on hand—just some good under $15 a bottle reds and whites. (Consider: Louis Martini cabernet sauvignon, Fog Mountain cabernet; Fortant chardonnay; or Folie a Duex chardonnay)
Keep the food simple, too. Think: chips and hummus, cheese and bread, fruit and maybe chocolate. Enjoy the company, and don’t let the wine or food be in the way! Simple is always better.
John F. Farrell III is vice president; sales and merchandising with Haskell’s The Wine People.
