Pairfect
Where Cheese Meets Wine and Falls in Love
Shipping wine it not a crime, or is it? In 2010, America became the world's largest consumer of wine, surpassing France for the first time. We consumed nearly 330 million cases: 200 million from California, 105 million from other countries and the remaining 25 million from other US states.
In other words, shipping is fundamental to the enjoyment of wine. Yet, nearly 80 years after the repeal of prohibition, access to wine remains severely restricted. Under the current regulated system, consumers pay 18-25 percent more for their wine than they would otherwise.
In 2005, the Supreme Court ruled that states lacked the authority to discriminate against out-of-state goods, including wine shipments, as doing so violated the Commerce clause. And yet, 37 states continue to restrict residents from ordering wine from online retailers and auction houses or joining wine-of-the-month clubs.
In the past decade, the National Beer Wholesalers Association spent $5.6 million on lobbying and the Wine and Spirit Wholesalers of America spent another $9.3 million in an effort to keep wine from being shipped.
It is time for wine lovers to say enough is enough. We should be able to order wine from any US state, or worldwide, if this is the true, free American system we all believe in. Cheers!
Wine of the Month
Mecer Sauvignon Blanc
Mecer Estates is a family-owned, Washington State winery devoted to producing premium wines through a partnership of the Mecer and Hogue families. Winemaker David Forsyth grew up in the Columbia Valley and spent 23 years making wine and building the Hogue cellars before taking over winemaking responsibilities at Mecer Estates. This Sauvignon Blanc showcases the cooler climate and the purity of Yakima Valley fruit. It expresses aromas of ripe melon, peach and honeysuckle with subtle hints of fresh herbs, which add acid complexity. Fresh peach and melon continue on the palate supported by minerals and lively acidity. The finish is dry but rich and fruit laden. A great summer wine. Drink now.
Cheese of the Month
Mini Babybel Original Cheese
Bel Brands USA is a subsidiary of Fromageries Bel, a family-owned cheese maker headquartered in Paris, France. Fromageries Bel produces more than 30 local and international cheese brands that are sold in more than 120 countries around the globe. Mini Babybel Original is mild, but not weak, and is made from cow's milk; basically, strong, yet not overbearing. The rennet used in Mini Babybel is derived from dairy yeast and is appropriate for vegetarian diets. With only 70 calories per cheese wheel, Original makes for a great tasting, calorie saving, on-the-go snack.
Recipe of the Month
Rocking Guacamole and Turkey Sandwich
6 whole rounds of Mini
Babybel Original Semisoft cheese
4 whole tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bunch Basil leaves
2 bunches Arugula
8 slices ofsandwich bread
8oz guacamole
4 slices oven roasted
turkey breast lunch meat
Yields: 4 servings
Slice the Mini Babybel cheese and tomatoes. Add a dash of salt and pepper and put aside. Cut the arugula and basil leaves. Spread the guacamole on the bread. Lay some of the tomato slices, arugula, basil leaves, the Mini Babybel slices and turkey lunch meat on top of the guacamole. Finish up with another slice of bread. Cut the sandwich in half at a diagonal for presentation.
I trust you have enjoyed part 37 of our journey. Please feel free to email me with any comments or queries at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or drop by in person at Piggly Wiggly Shelter Cove. I can be found in the wine, cheese or deli departments. A native of South Africa and the Deli, Cheese and Wine Manager of the Piggly Wiggly at Shelter Cove on HHI, Kent Zimmerman is a Licensed Sommelier and Fromager Master.