The World of a Novice Oenophile

Growing up with my father was never dull. He liked wine and always had a glass at the dinner table. He actually had friends with whom he spent a weekend stomping grapes to make his own wine. That would be one vintage I did not need to try.

Watching my father sample a new bottle of wine is a real treat. He has passed on some of his knowledge to me. I like to think that I can taste the differences in wines. At least I am pretty sure to serve white with chicken or fish and red with beef or lamb.

But if you struggle with wine choices, the Internet is here to help. An article in the recent issue of Time Magazine reminds us "the world of wine is complex and global in scope. That makes it a perfect match for the Internet." There are wine websites everywhere, including one that evidently will tell you which wine to serve with lamb. Here are the "less famous wine sites that are also worth savoring:"

• jancisrobinson.com -This site features Britain's Jancis Robinson, who has been called the Julia Child of wine. Ms. Robinson is also a member of the Royal Household Wine Committee, which chooses the wine drunk by Her Majesty Elizabeth II.
• wineloverspage.com - According to the article, the highlight of this site is the weekly email sent to subscribers, the 30-Second Wine Advisor, which sends recommendations three times a week.
• wine-searcher.com - This is a neat site. Can't remember what the wine was you had at dinner? Want to know if your favorite liquor store has that Sancerre you like? Check here.
• winezap.com - The solution to all your problems. Need to match a wine with your favorite recipe? This site will also list wines, but region, type, price, and ratings.
• localwineevents.com - Just in case you have a hankering to know when the best time is to tour the great estates of Bordeaux.

A votre sante!