The Little Black Dress of Wines

Riesling--the little black dress of wines. Balanced acidity, versatile flavors. Pairs well with foods from Asian cuisine to Russian Baklava.

Of course, like any woman knows, there are many types of little black dresses for many different occasions. Here are their Riesling equivalents:

Modern jersey--clean and structured: Chateau Ste. Michelle 2006 Eroica Riesling, Washington. Crisp green apple and apricot flavors with a hint of petrol. Food friendly, but excellent on its own. At a slightly higher price point than most domestic Rieslings, this is an excellent option as a hostess gift for a cocktail party.

Vintage chiffon--frothy: King Frosh Sparkling Riesling, Germany. In both brut and sec styles (dry and sweet), this is a fun wine, perfect for celebrations.

Mod, sequined shift--clean lines with a sparkle: Poet's Leap 2006 Riesling, Washington. Lively acidity, this wine has the fruit forwardness of a classic New World wine, but with an Old World touch of minerality.

Lace overlay--girly and fun: Columbia Winery 2006 Ice Wine, Washington. A very sweet wine, a perfect pair for fruit based desserts (peach cobbler, pear tart, etc.)--a great way to end an evening.

Cotton shirt dress--clean and classic: Pacific Rim 2006 Riesling, Washington. A great wine for a summer picnic: an easy drinking wine with stone fruit (peach, apricot) and citrus notes.