March Madness wines

What do you drink to toast your favorite college hoops team? Well for some of us that may depend on who that favorite team is. Me, i'd always pair bubbles with basketball but that's because I'd pair bubbles with anything, but I'm a loner in our household on that point. Given that we'll be eating some barbecue in honor of my husband's Tennessee-based alma mater Vanderbilt, I'd make it a rose Champagne or sparkling wine, for sure. Codorniu Pinot Noir Rose Cave from Spain is a deal at 14 bucks. Or splurge - a little for Iron Horse California Rose, or a lot for Moet et Chandon Rose Champagne from France, which is tasting better than ever. And if bubbly and barbecue is not your speed, go for an Aussie Shiraz. The Wolf-Blass Yellow Label is the best Shiraz at the value price point that I've had all year - it's one of the few under $15 that still has real varietal character - spiciness and raspberry fruit. For a worthy tradeup, check out Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz - lots of cinnamon-clove spice and lush blueberry-fig fruit. Hope your team wins (unless they're a Vandy opponent!). Enjoy.