What to Drink Now

Langmeil, “Three Gardens”, Shiraz, Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre, 2004—I first had this wine at Just a Taste in Ithaca, NY and had a slight obsession with it for a few months. I just finished the last bottle (you usually have to order it), which held up surprisingly well on the 3000 mile car ride we subjected it to. I recommend a big oversized wine globe for drinking so you can really get the nose. It produces a fabulous aroma, but don’t get so caught up in the smell that you forget to drink it too. $18

Francis Coppola Diamond Collection, Zinfandel, 2006 – this CA Zinfandel is very fruity in a black-currants-and-cherry-jam kind of way. It would pair well with a nice big steak or some tangy blue cheese…or steak with blue cheese. $13
America's Original Pumpkin Ale, Buffalo Bill's Brewery

Every year I like to try a new pumpkin beer, because I’m just festive like that. Most of the time they’re disappointing, either lacking character or just too heavy on the spices and “flavoring.” This year I was pleased with the pumpkin ale from Buffalo Bill’s Brewery in Hayward, CA. It’s a sturdy ale with strong hints of clove and a little pumpkin in the aftertaste. It’s one of those beers you may not like right at the first sip, but it grows on you—give it time.