After handing off the car at the Times Square Hilton in New York City, we were ready to check into our room and then head out for an early evening dinner. Just a few feet away from the Hilton, Ruby Tuesday offered casual dining. At 5:15 PM we had no trouble getting seated and catching up with our daughter, Erin. As I peered at the wine list, a white and red flight caught my eye.  The White Flight featured a Simi Sauvignon Blanc, Frei Brothers Chardonnay and Estancia Pinot Grigio. The red wine flight offered a Neyers Ranch Merlot, Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel and a Sterling Vintner’s Cabernet Sauvignon. I opted for the red flight and paired  it with a hamburger.

The three wines were brought to the table with a three wine glass holder. The nice thing about flights is the ability to compare and contrast the wines since all three wines are in different glasses at the same time. I liked the aroma of the Neyers Ranch Merlot. The wine had black fruit aroma and taste. The fruit lingered on the aftertaste and the wine had a perceived sweetness. The Sterling Vintner’s Cabernet Sauvignon paired well with the hamburger. The blackberry fruit and peppery aroma and taste added to the taste of the hamburger. The Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel offered a spicy and blueberry aroma and taste. The crispy finish was palate cleansing.

Ruby Tuesday’s wine flights offers people the ability to experiment with food and wine in a relaxed casual atmosphere. All three red wines added to the dining experience. Offering flights like this gives customers the opportunity to enjoy and learn about what wines they like and to learn more about wines.