I would try to mix a case of wine - 12 bottles. I would do maybe six reds, five whites and one dry rose. I would also try to buy from different countries. So for the reds, Spain, Italy, France, Australia and the U.S. The whites from New Zealand, France, Spain, Oregon and California. The Rose from France. Come in the store and I can pick you out the case.   « less

Have you contacted Vinotemp? Try calling 800.777.8466 or go online to vinotemp.com.

That is the $64 question. Most people believe that it's the sulphites in the wine that cause headaches. Others believe that the tannins in red wine can cause headaches. And some people might be allergic to wine. There is no specific answer to your question. I think the best answer is to start by keeping a list of the wines that you drink. See if there is a pattern. Ashe's carries non-added sulphite wines and we also carry Organic wines. But, start with the list to see if it reveals a pattern.   « less

Box wines selections are getting better and better. For us, the 3 liter Bota Box line has several grape varities to choose fro, including Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Grigio and red Zinfandel. Another good line that I like is Black Box. The quality of wines going into the box has gotten much better and in the next few years I bet we see more and more selections.   « less

For true appraisals, you need someone who could actually view the cellar to see the conditions of the bottles. You can go online to sites like wine.com to get an idea of current values, but for true valuations, look for someone locally in Hilton Head that might be able to help. When I go to Hilton Head, there is a small little store behind the Exxon staion called Rollers. There is a lady there (I do not know her name) that has done a good job with the selections. See if she can give you any advice.   « less

1993 Dom Perignon, if stored properly, is worth around $150 - $250. For me, this time of year champgane works quite well with seafood courses. Or, a simple fruit dessert of fresh berries with cream.   « less

If a winery is located in Sonoma, than usually they make most of their wines from different areas of Sonoma. The same with wineries from Napa. But there are wineries that do produce from both regions. Two that come to mind are Paul Hobbs and David Ramey. Both are located in the Sonoma region but produce Napa Valley Cabernets.   « less

The wines from Sebastiani,Dry Creek Winery, MacMurray Ranch,Mauritson are a few of my favorites. Most of their wines sell for under $25 a bottle and are excellent values.   « less

In white wines, I would try a nice German Spatlese or a French Vouvray. In reds, look for a wine called Marietta Old Vine Red. Good wine.

Melissa, That is a pretty open-ended question! The old rule of thumb was to drink white wines with white meats and fish and red wines with red meats and game. But today, there are no rules when it comes to drinking wine with food. Drink what you like. If it's Chardonnay with a grilled steak, that's fine. Red wine with Halibut. Go for it. The key is balance. Try lighter wines with lighter dishes and bolder wines with more full-flavored dishes. Go to your local wine shop and ask questions. Or, come to Ashe's and we'll be glad to help you with your wine and food pairings.   « less