1916 Jack's Manual by J A Grohusko (4th edition)

be put on the table at about the temperature of the room in which it will be consumed, to preserve the delicate fresh- ness of the wine. The bouquet escapes when the wine is ex- posed to sudden heat or warmed to excess; this bouquet is mainly due to volatile vinous ethers which it is most desir- able to retain. Clarets of medium quality improve with age, whereas the lightest table wines may be drunk fresh bottled, as is the custom in France; a fine, large, thin and white glass being used, and only two-thirds filled. .Sherry and stronger wines are liable to throw a deposit in bottle if kept for any length of time; care should therefore be exercised in decanting them or in fact any wine in which a sediment may be formed. The sound and natural wines of Bordeaux are refreshing and appetizing, and are the best type of a universal beverage for every day use; no other wines which the world produces are capable of yielding such lasting pleasures to the palate. They have also the additional advantage that when mixed with water do not spoil. When taken with food they entice the lanquid palate and are admirably adapted for persons of all ages and condi- tions, whose occupations tax the brain more than the mus- cles, and as they contain only a comparatively small per- centage of alcohol have but little tendency to inebriate. The dietetic value of Claret has not been over-rated. If taken with food it is of service to persons of the gouty temperament, as it stimulates digestion and does not create acidity. The combination of the various saline ingredients with fruit acids, notably the acid tartrate of potash (Cream of Tartar) make for its highest value. The delicate aroma and delicious flavor of the finer sorts of after-dinner Claret give endless delight and satis- faction; and there are so many varieties (differing according to the vineyards from which they emanate) they afford the connoisseur a wide scope for the exercise of judgment in selection. WINES OF ITALY Italy ranks second in the wine production of the world. Its Brolio is one of the best Italian red wines; it resembles Burgundy, but is somewhat drier on the palate. When old it is a highly tonic wine. Barbera is another good wine; it ranks as good table or dinner wine. Also white Corvo Capri, Lacrymae Christi are strong, sweet wines of southern Italy. There are many others, both still and sparkling, amongst which may be named Moscato Spumante (sparkling Moselle flavor). Nebiolo Spumante Valpolicella (sparkling) red wine. There is also sparkling Lacrymae Christi. Italian wines are well known and highly appreciated all over the world.

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