Holiday hangovers are an occupational hazard of being social, but after doing a little research this weekend I've come to realize that what you're drinking is going to have a profound affect on how you feel the next day. The farther on the spectrum your booze is from, say, ether, the better you are going to feel.
As civilized adults, we know that we do not come to a party empty-handed, especially during the holidays. Someone has cleaned their home and invited you in to have your way with it. The least you can do is bring something acceptable to add to the arsenal.
This weekend I spent part of a party with another guy picking through the assorted bottles that had been brought to a party. True, everyone brought one, but the selections of red wine left a lot to be desired. While California wines can be great, you can't just pick one based on the label or because it was less than $10. Remember, the host is going to put out good stuff in the beginning, but sooner or later you're going to have to drink the crap you brought.
That said, put down the Yellow Tail and try, perhaps, a nice Bordeaux. I recommend anything by Chateu D'Arcins or Châteauneuf-du-Pape. If you insist on being trendy, an Argentinian Malbec, circa 2003 maybe, is always a good choice. I have also been known to like an Italian Super Tuscan. If you're really stumped, grab a bottle of chilled Veuve Cliquot and you're golden.
One Does Not Bring to a Party:
Georgi Vodka
Boxed wine
Wine that comes in a bottle so large it could be considered a jug.
Beer that comes in bottles larger than 8 ounces. (I'm looking at you, 40 ounce.)
Champagne that is from anywhere other than France.
Champagne that is warm
A Pucker product
For Camp Value, The Following Items Are Always Welcome:
Wine coolers, especially Bartles & James
Malibu
Pabst Blue Ribbon
...and to all a good night!
