Welcome to unravel’s newest recurring feature: Pairing News & Booze. The concept’s simple: We pick a trending news topic and ask a wine expert to pair it with the perfect adult grape juice. Our wine expert in this case is Jeremy Osment, general manager and owner of Selva, an upscale Peruvian eatery in downtown Sarasota.
Here we go …
FIRST, THE NEWS: Failed presidential candidate and first-term U.S. Senator Marco Rubio reversed his decision to leave politics and announced Wednesday he will seek a second term in office.
Rubio told reporters the Senate needs strong leaders (like him, apparently) to counter the effects of whoever will become the next president; the Latin lawmaker dislikes both Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and Republican hopeful Donald Trump.
Love him or loathe him, you’re likely surprised by Rubio’s 180 and wrestle with the complexity it brings to the race. At least three candidates dropped out as a result of his decision. More could follow.
But let’s face it; you’re also probably rolling your eyes. Rubio took it on the nose during the presidential primaries. Some speculate his poor performance will thwart his chances at the polls. Others say the experience has matured him into a full-bodied politician who will easily cinch the seat.
Either way, you deserve a drink.
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Basa is a Spanish white wine blended with Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc. This melange gives it a striking, complex duality on the palate. Basa also is known for its wonderful, aromatic bouquet on the nose. Much like Rubio himself, Verdejo is often soft out of the gate, but surprisingly full-bodied for a Latin white (wine).
One thing’s for sure, with the elections heating up this summer, keeping stock of cold, white wine with a little complexity will keep you cool and calm while you banter politics with family around the kitchen table.
Look for Basa on your local wine menu and in area grocery stores and liquor depots.
Happy boozing!