It occurred to us as we’ve been watching golf on TV this summer (because it’s just too hot to actually play) that professional golfers like their wine. So much so that they’re making their own. OK, maybe they’re not doing the stomping. But there are plenty of wines to be had with golf connections.

Ernie Els Big Easy 2009
Ernie’s nickname “The Big Easy” suits his wine too. He earned the moniker because of his big size yet easy swing and gentle character. This full-bodied red from South Africa is powerful yet comfortable to drink. It’s mainly Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. $23

Nick Faldo Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2008
When Nick was asked what kind of wine he wanted his name attached to, he said, “I'd just like a wine to open now — nothing to lay down, really. Nothing stuffy about it, just very drinkable right now.” Nick first thought about producing a wine during a 2002 trip to Australia. And that’s where his wines come from. $14

Greg Norman Estates Sparkling Wine NV
“The Shark” is big into wine with production in both Australia and California. His enthusiasm must have rubbed off on his daughter because she’s both a chef and wine professional. They have a new cookbook out that offers recipes that pair well with their wines. This non-vintage bubbly is from South Australia. $17

David Frost Estate Par Excellence 2003
Unlike other golfers who lend their names to a brand, David’s family has been in the wine business in South Africa for over 60 years. In fact, his father's vineyard was the first place David hit golf balls. This cleverly named wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. $35

Arnold Palmer Chardonnay 2009
This legendary golfer who made the game what it is today got officially connected to wine while playing tournaments at the Silverado Resort in Napa in the 1980s and 1990s. So it should come as no surprise that the grapes for this Chardonnay come from Napa Valley and Santa Barbara County. $15

Luke Donald Claret 2006
“Claret Jug” is the nickname of the trophy given to the winner of the British Open. The world’s No. 1 golfer is surely hoping to win it this weekend. But if he doesn’t, he still has his personal claret – a Bordeaux-style blended red wine – to comfort him. $40

We can’t say that our golf swings have ever improved with wine out on the course. Then again, they never got any worse. Here’s to great scores . . . wine or golf or both.

Cheers!

Barbara and Beverly
The Saucy Sisters

The Saucy Sisters are wine and spirits experts with a twist. A twist of humor, that is, that they use in their books and in their live performances.  Their next Brentwood appearance is “Wine Tasting for Floozies” at Durego on Friday, July 22. For more information, call 615-925-9586. You can email them at Saucies@SaucySisters.com or find them at www.SaucySisters.com.