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Battle of the Bobs – Metro US

Battle of the Bobs

I’d hoped that after Sideways hit theatres in 2004 (with its blend of grapes, gripes and full frontal male nudity) we’d see more flicks about wine. No such luck. There was nary a glass on screen until last year’s release of Bottle Shock.

Now out on DVD it’s the feel-good tale of a mid-’70s tasting that pitted the best chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon from France against their perceived equivalents from California’s Napa Valley. It ends (spoiler alert!) with the American’s kicking the cork out of the French.

What makes it even more fun to watch at home is that you can taste along with the movie’s theme of New World vs. Old World (and not break the bank) by focusing on the grapes rather than the specific (and very expensive) wines competing in the film.

Try this red option. Screen it while you have a battle of the Bobs: California’s Robert Mondavi’s 2006 Private Selection Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.95 – $19.99) against France’s Robert Giraud’s 2006 Château Timberlay ($15.75 – $19.20) merlot and cabernet blend.

Both are all about ripe fruit, broad flavours, balanced tannins and a love for grilled meats. Play the disc, taste them side by side and see which turns your corkscrew.

Prices reflect the range across the country. Some products may not be available in all provinces.

– Peter Rockwell is the everyman’s wine writer, working in the liquor industry for more than 25 years and travelling the globe looking for something to fill his glass and put into words.