In part 1 of this series on wine selection, I began in the white wine area. I listed the top four white wine varieties according to industry sales. I listed their characteristics and the foods which go well with that particular vintage. I will now continue that endeavor and list 3 additional varieties which will take us into the heart of full bodied wine country. I hope you enjoy and are able to learn from this short synopsis.

Chenin Blanc

• This wine has been called the solo star and has been hailed by industry insiders as a great backup white wine. It is sweet and has a fruity yet semi-dry flavor. It goes well with dips, appetizers, mild cheese, asian food, pork, veal, light pasta, poultry, seafood, and shellfish. Chenin Blanc has unmistakable aroma of flowers, honey, red apples, and lemon squirt. It packs a bigger acidic punch than most Chardonnays. This white wine is very food friendly. The best versions of this wine come from France's Loire Valley.

Gewurtztraminer

• This wine is called the spicy white white. It is soft yet spicy while also being semi-dry. It has a light-to medium-bodied flavor. It can be paired with dips, mild cheese, asian food, pork, veal, poultry, salmon, and tuna. "Gewurtz" means spice in German. This wine is low in acidity, which sometimes makes it hard to pair with food. When produced in cool enough climates, this wine has adequate acid to partner beautifully with exotic foods like Thai or Asian. This wine is a great partner with rich white meats like turkey. A great Thanksgiving wine! The best versions can be found in France's eastern Alsace region.

Pinot Gris/Grigio

• Pinot Gris is very easy to like. It is crisp, dry, and medium-to full-bodied. It goes well with mild cheese, picnics, sandwiches, asian food, pork, veal, light pasta, poultry, salmon, and tuna. This wine normally does not cost a lot. It is an easy pairing with many foods. Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio in Italian, is very versatile. it has citrus fruits, apples, pears, peaches, and spice. A great wine for Indian food or smoked cheese.

I welcome you to simple wine education. I offer easy tips that will help you navigate the world of wine quickly and with confidence. I urge you to go out and stock your pantry with these wine varieties and use them when the occasion arises. Do not be afraid. Be sure to visit my food web site and send me your beloved recipes so that they can be shared with the world!