When you think of barbecue and outdoor entertaining, what comes to mind? Perhaps grilled meats, vegetables and crisp summer salads. While delicious, this diverse mix of flavors can create a beverage pairing challenge for the host regarding what to offer guests that will both complement the heavy main course and not overwhelm the lighter sides.

Instead of picking up a generic Chardonnay or six-pack of beer, opt for a unique, easy-drinking wine that is both affordable and very food friendly. Dow's 2005 Vale do Bomfim DOC ($12), a dry red wine from Portugal's Douro Valley, offers red and black fruits with hints of black pepper, soft tannins and good acidity. Try it with dishes like Memphis Sweet-Smoked Pork, Smoked Turkey Breast, Grilled Chicken and Cajun Andouille Sausage. And sides like potato salad, braised greens, and even barbecue seasoned fries!

While Portugal's historic Douro Valley is widely acclaimed for its Port production (in fact, it was the first demarcated wine region designated in 1756), fewer people know about the incredible value found in its dry red DOC wines. The 2005 Vale do Bomfim is the second release from the House of Dow's. The 2004 received 88 points and "Best Buy" ratings from the nation's leading wine magazines including Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast and Wine Advocate.

So impress your friends by introducing them to a "new" old wine region in Portugal. Pick up a bottle, roll up your sleeves, and don't worry about eating with your fingers! "Bone" Appetit!

The grapes for Vale do Bomfim are hand selected from Dow's primary vineyards including Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira and vinified at the Quinta do Sol winery, one of the most modern winemaking facilities in the Douro. The wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks before being aged for six months in second year American oak barrels. Dow's has been producing top wines for over two centuries. In 1912, Andrew James Symington became a partner in Dow's and today, six members of the fourth generation Symington family own and manage this historic house. For more information including market availability, visit http://www.premiumport.com/.

Source: Dow's Port