Enjoying Wines at La Fondue: Nice Wine List for Pairing with Cheese, Meat and Vegetable Fondue

La Fondue in Incline Village  concentrates on fondue of all kinds:  cheese, meat and vegetables, chocolate with fruit.  A leisurely meal is guaranteed when you go to La Fondue, so enjoy a glass of wine while the cheese or the oil comes to temperature before the on-table-with-fondue-sticks cooking can begin. 

2010 White Zinfandel, Beringer, Napa.  From the Beringer White Zinfandel bottle: “Since 1876, Beringer has crafted award-winning wines in Napa Valley and this White Zinfandel is no exception. Crisp and refreshing, bursting with the aromas and flavors of fresh fruit, America’s favorite White Zinfandel is well suited on its own or as the perfect complement to a meal.”  Light rose in color, with a light and bright aroma, and a sweet taste, this wine is good for summer sipping.  $6/glass.

2010 Pinot Grigio, Columbia Crest, Washington State.  Very golden in color, the aroma is fruity and floral, and the taste is crisp and light with some apple notes.  $8/glass.

2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Nobilo, New Zealand.  The winemaker notes:  “Pale yellow with brilliant clarity. Very evident aromas of pineapple, passion fruit and melon. Fresh, crisp and clean with zesty flavors of ripe tropical fruits and zingy acidity. A beautifully balanced wine with great presence and mouthfeel.”   This mouthwatering classic from New Zealand  has hints of herbs and flowers.  14 percent alcohol.  $9/glass.

2010 Chardonnay, Columbia Crest, Washington State.  This is a light chardonnay, with a bit of semillon and Sauvignon Blanc blended in to add to the freshness and vibrancy.  Aroma of apple and pear, a touch of coconut too,  and flavor of orchard fruits with citrus and a bit of oakiness.  It is juicy and crisp.  13 percent alcohol.  $8/glass.

2010 Pinot Noir, Byron, Santa Barbara.   This wine features flavors of  black cherry, plum, and cola, and is bright and intense.  2010 was a cool vintage in Santa Barbara, and the Byron Pinot Noir reflects that with a fruity finish.  Spice and vanilla are also nice flavor notes.  $10/glass.

And last but not least, one of my favorites, sold here by the bottle:  The Prisoner, 2010, Napa, is primarily a blend featuring Zinfandel (44 percent) and Cabernet Sauvignon (26 percent) and several other red grapes. Aroma of cherry and cedar, and taste of dark fruits and currant.  Nicely tannic, and still high alcohol, but so yummy!  $65/bottle.

La Fondue is located at 120 Country Club Dr Incline Village, NV 89451. 
(775) 831-6104.   http://www.lafonduetahoe.com/

This information first appeared in The Tahoe Weekly newspaper, where I write the Wine Time column, on July 25, 2013