Pour Decisions

It was one of those easygoing Tuesday nights when the to-do list finally waved a white flag. We grabbed takeout, queued up a feel-good playlist, and opened a bottle with a name that felt like a hug: Friendship School Red. Sometimes the best wines are the ones that lean into comfort, and this one turned out to be exactly that—friendly, unfussy, and downright companionable. Wine basics - Name: Friendship School Red - Producer: St. James Winery - Region: St. James, Missouri, USA - Type: Red blend (varietals not listed) - Vintage: Not listed on our bottle - Style: Semi-dry red wine - Price: Noted as everyday-friendly; check local shops or the winery The tasting journey - Appearance: Pours a cheerful ruby red—bright and inviting, like a cherry drop in a glass. - Aroma: Fresh and welcoming. Think red cherries and sun-warmed strawberries, with a whisper of spice and a soft, grapey lift that makes it feel playful rather than serious. - Flavor: True to its “semi-dry” promise, the fruit lead...

Some weeknights just call for a cozy couch, a good playlist, and a bottle you’ve been eyeing for ages. This was one of those nights. I’ve been wanting to try 19 Crimes’ Cali Smooth forever, and Diana—angel that she is—surprised me with a bottle. We lit a candle, queued up a chill mix, and finally popped it open. Wine basics - Name: Cali Smooth - Producer: 19 Crimes - Region: Sonoma, California - Type: Red wine (red blend) - Vintage: Not listed on our bottle - Varietal: Proprietary blend (unspecified) - Price: Widely available; often in the budget-friendly, low-teens range depending on your shop The tasting journey - In the glass: Deep ruby with a glossy edge—one of those “this is going to be plush” colors. - On the nose: A swirl brings ripe dark fruit first—think blackberry compote and black cherry—then a gentle whiff of toasted oak, like the last crackle from a campfire. There’s a little vanilla warmth tucked in, too. - On the palate: True to its name, this is smooth and easygoing...