Port is the perfect post-prandial to sip by the fire with an old friend at your side or an old dog at your feet. If you were fortunate enough to buy some 1977 vintage ports before the prices began to climb, now's the time to give them a try. Or the 1980s, or '75s. There are many well- made, inexpensive Spanish cavas , California sparklers and nonvintage champagnes from France from which to choose.
Wine is the oldest and best social beverage, meant to be shared in good company.
So if you've been saving that bounteous Bordeaux, that sumptuous Sauternes or that collectible California cabernet and just can't wait any longer to pull the cork, get on the horn and call your friends. You're going to have to make an effort to get around the intimidating German labels, but it'll be well worth the effort. The best ones are not that yucky, sweet junk that comes in those funny-shaped bottles, but rather are delightfully crisp wines with a great personality. For Houston's hot weather, they're the perfect aperitif while you fire up the grill. As for wine with green salads, I'm still working on that one.