Like Mother’s Day last month, a Father’s Day wine column is problematic.
For starters, dad prefers beer: 53% of men prefer beer, 22% liquor, and 20% wine. For women, 52% prefer wine, 24% liquor, and 20% beer.
Those numbers, however, are slim solace for brewers. In past decade, beer preference among men is down 11%, wine is up five percent. Whatever, you have read this far so maybe you enjoy fruit of the vine and work of human hands. Thus, suggestions for dad’s day whether you are the dad or the giver.
Buy quality wine dad enjoys and do not buy it on his credit card. If dad loves grilling dogs and burgers paired with greasy fries and ketchup, then win with zin. Many California zinfandels have enough alcohol dad will forget you didn’t buy beer or consult his physician about diet choices.
If dad prefers big, full reds, pull cork on wine that pairs with big beef and diet-busting fare like ribeyes and fully loaded baked potatoes. Fried onion rings, yeah, sure. We’ll get healthy tomorrow. Promise.
If dad is health-conscious—fish, non-fried fowl, salads—pair with sauvignon blanc, pinot noir or a wide range of summertime whites.
What dad likes in food and wine is not so important. He may forget the fare, never the love. Neither will you. If your dad is still around, thank him for being your dad. If he no longer is around, lift a glass to happy pappy memories.
Tasting notes:
• Tom Gore Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, California 2016: Relaxed, easy-drinking style. $12-15 Link to my review
• Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel Sonoma County 2014: Very smooth, round, classic old vine zin. $15-19 Link to my review
• Franciscan Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013: Assertive cab pairs with rich, hearty dishes, smoked or grilled meats. $23-29 Link to my review
• The Prisoner Wine Company Cuttings Cabernet Sauvignon 2015: Really delicious big red wine; pair with rich red meats. $42-55 Link to my review
• Stags’ Leap The Investor Napa Valley Red Wine 2015: Excellent, tasty Bordeaux-style red blend with a California twist (petite sirah). $45-55 Link to my review
• Clark-Claudon Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2010: Refined, elegant pour pairs with steaks. Consistent producer if you can’t find this vintage. $68-82 Link to my review
Last round: Wisdom: If at first you don’t succeed, call dad. If he doesn’t have the answer, he will have enough wine to forget the question or ask mom for the answer.
Email Gus at wine@cwadv.com. Facebook: Gus Clemens on Wine. Twitter: @gusclemens. Website: gusclemensonwine.com.