Wine gives pleasure both sensually and intellectually. It gives us most when these two factors are in balance and the full character of the wine matches the food and the occasion.

For some, wine tasting becomes a study in itself; there are those who make notes about every wine they taste. But for most of us, a mental note suffices: It is made in those few seconds when the sense of smell, sight and taste combine to release the pleasure of anticipation rewarded.

Add the food, the occasion and the company, and you must agree that here is plenty to give us pleasure.

Today, there is an enormous variety of wines from around the world, and we continuously search the market for the good value, the novel, and above all, the excellent wines. There is a plethora of choices, and with it comes new and sometimes unfamiliar ways of describing, and even labeling the wine.

Wines differ according to the grape variety, place of origin, and vintage. The grape variety has assumed major importance since the emergence of California as a wine producing giant. In Europe, the place of origin has always had more prominence, although we now see varietal wines from France and Italy as well as regional distinctions among domestic wines.

Of course, the vintage year is a prime consideration; some years may produce better wines than other years because of varying climate conditions, among other things.

When choosing a bottle of wine to accompany your meal, consider the occasion: an informal get-together with family for example, or an important celebration.

The variety of wines available may make the choice seem daunting, but with a little help from our knowledgeable staff, the right wine is sure to be found, adding greatly to the enjoyment of the occasion.