What Are You Drinking?

Stuart Smith, Smith-Madrone Vineyards

“A 1996 Mystal Vineyards Merlot. A friend of mine makes it and brought it to lunch. It’s real nice--a lovely red with lots of flavor and character, yet soft and smooth on the palate. It has nice balance and a long finish. We had it with barbecued chicken that I’d let soak in a saltwater brine overnight, and I made a red wine risotto. The wine was a wonderful accompaniment. It was the perfect wine for two guys having an alfresco lunch.”