By BARBARA NOWAK
and BEVERLY PITTMAN
The Saucy Sisters, for Brentwood Home Page

How do you go about tasting new wines?  Buying bottles of the unknown can be an expensive proposition.  And if the wine turns out to be a disappointment – or worse – you beat yourself up for being so profligate.  The good news is that, with the change in Tennessee laws last summer, wine stores can now offer you samples of wines before you fork over your hard-earned dollars.

Another opportunity for sampling is the plethora of wine tastings that are held every week.  Some are free, some are relatively cheap, and some are paired with food for higher price tags.  And then there are the wine festivals that are ubiquitous this time of year.  Whatever the format or price level, there are some good reasons to take advantage of these tastings.

First, it’s an opportunity to learn.  Whether you’re looking for general information about varietals and styles or recommendations for specific labels, you’ll likely find what you’re seeking.  Second, wine is a social beverage.  It’s a great way to interact with old friends and make new ones.  The wine itself is the automatic conversation starter.  And, third (at least it’s the excuse we use), you’re helping the community by keeping your money circulating in the local economy.

We keep close tabs on wine tastings in the area.  At www.TennesseeTastings.com you can sign up for their weekly announcements of wine events.  It comes out on Monday so that you can plan your vinous week.  www.LocalWineEvents.com is another resource that you can use to discover wine happenings here – and elsewhere when your plans include travel.  Happy hunting!

Cheers!

Barbara and Beverly

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 new book, The Saucy Sisters Guide to Wine – What Every Girl Should Know Before She Unscrews, is now available at www.SaucySisters.com.