Sports and Wine Clash Again

Once again we find the sports world turning to wine! While the most prevalent pairing in the American summer is baseball and beer, we once again find the folks at Charity Wines mixing America's pastime with fermented grapes. Last year we saw Manny Ramirez, Curt Schilling, and Tim Wakefield work with the Longball Cellars label to produce some charity wines. This year we have none other than Big Papi himself David Ortiz, the captain Jason Varitek, and my boy Kevin Youkilis lending their names to three wines.

Thankfully, my local wine shop procured a large quantity of all three, so I walked out with two Vintage Papi, two SauvignYoouuk Blanc, and one bottle of Captain's Cabernet. Since it was Katie's first night back from her business trip, I cracked open a bottle of the Big Papi. Called a California Blend, I can't seem to pin down an exact varietal composition. It was extremely soft and satin like, so my guess is heavy on the Merlot, a good dose of Cabernet, and some Cabernet Franc. Smooth with nice blackberry flavors and an easily enjoyable palate. I was hoping for a heavier style wine from the Dominican slugger, but was pleased nonetheless.

As with last year's offerings, the net proceeds go to the charity designated by the player. Beneficiaries this year are the David Ortiz Children's Fund, Kevin Youkilis Hits for Kids, and Pitching in for Kids. Last years was extremely successful and this year looks to raise even more for those in need. Of course the Yankees, Mets, Braves, and Reds have similar offerings this year. I am sure they are all going to worthy causes, but we focus on the Sox in these parts. I'll be sure to check in again with reviews of the other wines as they are opened. We'll keep the movie quote trivia going (no cheating Mom!) Have fun with this one! Till next time..."Remember kid, there are heroes and there are legends. Heroes get remembered, but legends never die."--???