When contacted at his cabin in Whitefish, Montana, Drew Bledsoe was in the midst of dog chaos, courtesy of his parents and their pets. This picturesque lodge often served as his retreat during his days as quarterback for the New England Patriots.

The nostalgia of his past simmered as he recounted memories from his football career and his pivot to a life of winemaking. Known for his humor, Bledsoe recently found unexpected success as a comedic roastmaster during Netflix’s "The Roast of Tom Brady," showcasing his sharp wit alongside his wife Maura, who contributed jokes that landed perfectly. One of the highlights was a quip about Tom Brady’s penchant for looking at himself in the mirror, which drew many laughs.

Bledsoe is now inviting locals to join him for a ticketed dinner on October 15 at Davio’s Seaport in Boston, where attendees can enjoy a meal paired with his own wines from the Bledsoe Family Winery. This dinner promises a selection of five courses, ranging from lobster puffs to Australian wagyu ribeye, each complemented by their wines.

His passion for winemaking led him to found Doubleback Winery in Walla Walla, Washington two decades ago. Bledsoe’s enthusiasm for the craft is evident as he explained the region’s unique volcanic soil, which he considers crucial to producing quality grapes. Unlike typical celebrity brands, he initially kept his name off the wine label to combat the stigma associated with "jock wine."

In a conversation that meandered through various topics, Bledsoe reflected on his career and relationships, discussing everything from his connection with former Patriots teammates to the surprising shift of Bill Belichick into coaching college football.

Though he declined a role in the film "There’s Something About Mary," the experience remains a light-hearted anecdote in his life story. As he continues to build a name in the winemaking industry, Bledsoe hinted at future possibilities in entertainment, perhaps bridging the worlds of football and viticulture.

His connection to the Boston area remains strong, particularly his affection for its Italian cuisine, which he misses living in the Northwest.

For more information about the dinner at Davio’s, visit Davio’s Seaport or Bledsoe Family Winery.

Dear Miss Manners: While on a group tour abroad, I invited three travel companions to share a bottle of wine, and they accepted. However, when the waiter poured, one lady opted for a soda instead. Am I required to pay for her drink? I did, but what if she had chosen a cocktail instead?

Gentle Reader: "Obligation" is a strong term. It’s reasonable to assume that you were treating your companions to a round of drinks, not just that particular bottle. Your friend’s deviation from the original plan isn’t as significant as you believe. Paying for her soda, which she might have ordered for various reasons—perhaps she had a pending work call or is sensitive to that type of wine—was a gracious act.

If she had wanted a cocktail, it would have still been considerate to cover it, though she might have felt inclined to contribute to the higher cost. Ultimately, the cost of accommodating her choice is trivial compared to the value of maintaining amicable relations and avoiding grudges. Trust that they will reciprocate your generosity during the next round.

Wine has long been a symbol of joy, artistry, and celebration, and the current vintages continue this rich tradition by showcasing bold flavors and craftsmanship. Ranging from the sunlit vineyards of California to the scenic Andes foothills, a variety of wines have captured the attention of tasters for their quality and character. The following selections represent some of the most prominent choices available today, whether you prefer crisp whites, sophisticated rosés, or rich reds.

Featured Wines for 2026

1. Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon

   • A flagship from Paso Robles, this wine is known for its robust character, featuring ripe blackberry, cherry, and plum with additional flavors of chocolate and spice from oak aging. Its velvety texture makes it a popular choice.

2. 2023 AVIVO White

   • Crafted entirely from Vermentino, this Italian white highlights clean winemaking principles, presenting crisp citrus and herbal notes without added sugar or artificial ingredients. Perfect for seafood or fresh salads, it embodies modern preferences for joyous and authentic wines.

3. Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

   • Renowned in Napa Valley since 1900, Beaulieu Vineyard’s Cabernet Sauvignon balances power and finesse, offering layers of dark fruit, cedar, and complex spices. This elegant yet approachable wine suits both special occasions and everyday enjoyment.

4. 2021 Bogle Reserve Chardonnay

   • Aged in oak, this Chardonnay offers aromas of green apple and pear, accompanied by a creamy finish. Its richness and acidity make it suitable for a variety of dishes, from seafood to creamy pastas.

5. Bota Box Chardonnay

   • This eco-friendly boxed wine delivers quality at a great value. With flavors of apple and citrus and a medium body, Bota Box provides convenience for gatherings without sacrificing taste.

6. 2024 Crios Torrontés by Susana Balbo

   • An accompaniment to Argentinian heritage, Torrontés delivers floral aromas and a refreshing palate. This wine is perfect for warmer weather and pairs well with spicy cuisine.

7. DAOU Rosé

   • Inspired by Provence styles, DAOU’s rosé is aromatic with strawberry and peach notes and a balanced finish. It works well with light dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.

8. Emeritus Vineyards Hallberg Blanc Pinot Noir

   • This unique offering showcases a fresh take on Pinot Noir, highlighting floral and citrus aromas. Made using sustainable practices, it reflects a celebration of craftsmanship.

9. Gruet Winery NV Rosé

   • A sparkling option from New Mexico, Gruet’s bright rosé combines notes of strawberry and tropical fruit with fresh acidity. Ideal for celebrations, it offers quality with an approachable price tag.

10. Hosmer Cabernet Franc

    • Sourced from New York’s Finger Lakes, this medium-bodied wine exudes herbal and fruity aromas with balanced acidity, making it a versatile match for various dishes.

11. 2022 JUSTIN Isosceles

    • This bold blend from Paso Robles is crafted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing deep fruit flavors complemented by silky tannins, making it a favorite among collectors.

12. Meiomi Pinot Noir

    • Known for its fruit-forward style, Meiomi’s Pinot is approachable with flavors of cherry and mocha, making it a straightforward choice for casual wine drinkers.

13. Star Hill Winery Sexy Beeaches

    • This Moscato-style blend is sweet, fruit-forward, and lightly effervescent, making it an enjoyable option for new wine drinkers or as a dessert pairing.

Other Notables

• 2021 Terragena Carneros Pinot Noir
• 2021 Unánime Malbec

This year’s selections offer a rich tapestry of flavors and styles, perfect for various occasions. Votes for the best overall wine can be cast daily until November 6, 2025, with the winners to be announced shortly thereafter. For more information about casting your vote, refer to the official Readers’ Choice rules.

Opening a bottle of wine does not mean you must finish it immediately; it won’t spoil overnight. With a few simple techniques, you can keep your wine tasting fresh for several days. The key is to seal the bottle tightly, store it upright, and yes—even refrigerate it.

Longevity of Different Wine Types

• Whites and Rosés: These can last about five days in the fridge if properly sealed.
• Reds: Most red wines stay good for around three to five days. Wines with higher tannin levels, like Cabernet Sauvignon, may even last longer than lighter reds like Pinot Noir.
• Sparkling Wines: These have the shortest lifespan, usually only three days before they lose their carbonation.

Storage Tips for Various Wine Styles

1. Red Wine: Best kept in the fridge to slow oxidation. Remove it about 10 minutes before serving to let it warm slightly.
2. Full-bodied White Wine: Should also be refrigerated and can last around 2-3 days.
3. Sparkling Wine: Use a sparkling wine stopper to preserve its fizz. Traditional methods of sparkling wine can last longer than others.
4. Light Whites and Rosés: These can last up to five days if stored correctly.

General Guidelines for Wine Preservation

• Invest in a wine preserver: These tools can remove air from the bottle or refill it with inert gases, extending its lifespan significantly.
• Keep wine in the fridge: Whether it’s red or white, cold storage slows down the oxidation process.
• Avoid sunlight and heat: Try to keep wine away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain its quality.

Ideal Serving Temperatures

• Sparkling Wines: Best served at 40-45°F.
• Light Whites and Rosés: Ideal temperature is 45-50°F.
• Heavier Whites: Should be served between 48-56°F; adjust according to personal preference.
• Medium-bodied Reds: Serve at around 55°F, which also corresponds with ideal cellar temperature.
• Full-bodied Reds: Best enjoyed at 59-68°F.

By following these simple storage practices, you can savor every last drop of your wine rather than letting it go to waste. Cheers!