Thought I would start this past weekend with a nice, almost pretty red wine from Lake County, California: Playtime Red.  Men love the label because of the pin-up girl; ladies love the label because the woman has the man on her strings…any way you look at it, the bottle pleases everyone—both inside and out!

As it says on the ABC website:

A blend of Zinfandel with small amounts of Grenache, Petite Sirah and Barbera; the wine shows bright ruby color leading to notes of blackberry, plum, spices and a touch of vanilla carried on a medium framework with bright acidity. This is a ripe and juicy Zinfandel blend from Clay Shannon, with soft tannins and a smooth palate, great for barbecue and burgers.

This wine is a great beginner wine for those looking to get into reds for the fall but doesn’t do well with heavy tannin.  If you have tasted Menage a Trois, and I know most of you have, this is your next great buy for you and your friends.  Besides being great for barbecue and burgers, try it with a nice cheese plate or with a tasting menu.  With the blend being vibrant fruit, you can pair it with about anything!  If you are home one night with your significant other, I would recommend picking up this great bottle (under $10) and even just popping some popcorn to watch your favorite movie. 

So just remember as the season and the weather begin to change, you may want to try something new. Come into an ABC near you and ask for a bottle of Playtime Red.  I don’t think you will be disappointed.

Kathleen Anderson, Northwest Florida wine supervisor

Follow me on Twitter @abcwinekat