New Year's wine chioces

(WTNH) - It's time to party like it's almost 2009, and a lot of folks are planning to throw their own New Year's Eve bash. But what wine to serve, and are there good bottles you can still afford after paying your Christmas bills?

We spoke with Brett Clugston, Sommelier of the Litchfield Saltwater Grille, who gave us some tips on finding the best value wines:

1) Look for wineries that specialize in only a few varietals. These wineries know their craft and are focused.

2) Try small boutique wineries rather than larger commercial wineries to be sure you are paying for what is in the bottle, rather than marketing. Family run wineries offer great value.

3) Find wines with a story.

4) Don't worry about vintage. These wines are are meant to be enjoyed young.

2005 Tangent Pinot Gris, Edna Valley
Perfect Pairing: Fried Calamari
Tasting Notes: Mineral, stony, clean, fresh, great acidity and vibrancy
90 points in 2005 Wine Enthusiast magazine.
Tangent focuses on alternative white wines. No Chardonnay
http://www.tangentwines.com/wines_pinot_gris.php

2006 A to Z Oregon Chardonnay, Oregon
Tasting Notes: This chardonnay is unoaked. it is aged in stainless steel and still has a nice toastyness, mineral and fruit flavors (apples). Crisp and rich.
Named "Best wine to bring to a party" by Food & Wine magazine.
90 points by Wine Enthusiast.
What is A to Z winery? The grapes could be from anywhere in Oregon from a to z. The winery has a deal with other Oregon wineries they purchase grapes from that they will not reveal their sources. "Aristocratic wines at Democratic Prices."
http://www.atozwineworks.com/chard.html

2007 Hogue Pinot Grigio, Columbia Valley
http://www.hoguecellars.com/hogue.php

Domaine Ste Michelle Brut, Columbia Valley Sparkling Wine
http://www.domaine-ste-michelle.com/

Ravenswood Petite Sirah
http://www.ravenswood-wine.com/

2006 Mark West Pinot Noir, California
http://www.markwestwines.com/

2007 Laetitia Pinor Noir Estate Arroyo Grande Valley
http://www.laetitiawine.com/

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Litchfield Saltwater Grille
www.litchfieldsaltwatergrille.com

26 Commons Drive
Litchfield, CT 06759
860-567-4900