Ask Dr. Vinny

Dear Dr. Vinny,

I'm not a wine person, but years ago I had a glass of wine that tasted just like a grape that I picked from my aunt’s yard. It was a sweet red wine that tastes like grapes. It was also chilled. Can you recommend one like that?

—Shirley, West Point, Kentucky

Dear Shirley,

You may not be a wine person, but you just did a lovely job describing a wine! Well done. You could certainly walk into a wine shop and tell them what you told me and they should be able to find something for you.

But you’ve walked into Dr. Vinny’s imaginary wine shop, so let me see what I can think of that would fall into that “fruity” or “grapey” profile you’re describing. Beaujolais comes to mind, particularly the Beaujolais Nouveaus, which are made quickly and released soon after harvest, and retain a fresh, fruity profile, sometimes with a hint of bubblegum. You might also have some luck with Lambrusco, an Italian wine that can be slightly sweet and typically fizzy (and thus served chilled).

Not to overwhelm you, but there are many different affordable red blends that are made in a slightly-sweet, fruity style too. I’m hopeful you’ll find some wines to match your memory!

—Dr. Vinny