Tell me what to drink

Wine questions, answered

What wine should I drink with steak?

Steak loves a red with enough tannin and structure to cut through the fat — Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah/Shiraz, Malbec, or a Barolo when you want something special. A marbled ribeye can take a bolder wine than a lean fillet. For a straight answer on the specific bottle (and budget) in front of you, snap it or ask Paco and he'll tell you exactly what he'd pour.

What wine should I drink with sushi?

Sushi and sashimi shine with crisp, high-acid whites and dry sparkling — Champagne, Riesling, Albariño, or a clean Sauvignon Blanc; chilled sake works too. Skip big oaky reds, which bury the fish. Not sure which bottle on the list fits? Ask Paco and he'll point you to the right one.

What wine should I bring as a gift?

When in doubt, Champagne is rarely the wrong answer — it suits almost any occasion and feels generous. Otherwise match the host: a well-reviewed Barolo or Napa Cabernet for a red lover, a grower Champagne for someone who has everything. Send Paco the shop shelf or your budget and he'll tell you what to grab and what to avoid.

How do I choose wine from a restaurant wine list?

Look past the cheapest and second-cheapest bottles (often the worst value) and the trophy names up top — the smart move is the bottle that overdelivers for its price. That's exactly what Paco does: photograph the wine list and he'll tell you the best overall, the best value, and the one to skip.