Get to Know Your Local Wine Guy

By Carrie Becker in Food on Jul 30, 2010 3:20PM

Who to Know
Jim Bube, sales representative at Heritage Wine Cellars

What's in your glass?
2007 Brundelmayer Langeloiser Berg-Vogelsang Gruner Veltliner (Second day open). A sexy, athletic Austrian wine that nearly sizzles with acidity. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc drinkers should give Gruner a spin - she's exhilarating.

Wine Rack Staple
2009 Xarmant Txakoli is quintessential summertime drinking. Andre Tamers of DeMaison Selections ships this spritzy, low-alcohol wine from the Basque Country of Spain. It has more character and verve than many hip, estate-bottled Champagnes at a fraction of the price.

We love bubbles. What are some of your favorite Champagne/Sparkling wine pairings (and why do they work)?
I'd be remiss to not champion the inherent synergy of crispy fried chicken and bubbles. Short on dough and need a legit gastronomic fix? Cheap Cava (Segura Viudas, etc.) and a bucket O' chicken. Or, you could high brow it at Lush Wine and Spirits who host an annual Fried Chicken and Champagne dinner.

Most Memorable/Enjoyable Wine and Food Experience
Domaine Sigalas Santorini white wine from Greece and a citrus/herb stuffed whitefish
from the now burned to the ground Costa's restaurant. One of the most pronounced terroir wines on earth, the pungently acidic, mineral salinity of Santorini island was a perfect foil to a delicate, citrus and herb flecked fish. Simple but sublime.

Favorite Chicago BYOB and What are you bringing?
Bonsoiree is a great joint for high-end BYOB. I bring primarily funky whites, bubbles and a bottle of sake, as their dishes usually have a delicate, Japanese flourish. Love that place.