Originally Posted by dhammer53

Here's what I do (after reading the responses below)... Walk into your local boutique wine store. Tell them what you told us. Giving a retailer a challenge may pay dividends. They'll want to please you (hopefully), instead of blowing you off.

That said, I'd go with 8 red and 4 white. That number would vary if you're doing a summer BBQ vs a steak dinner.

White
Instead of a boring chard, try a viognier or a marsanne. Totally different taste, and a crowd pleaser. I'd also do a pinot gris from Oregon. Chenin Blanc is a nice wine. If the crowd is a non-geek wine group, try a dry riesling. It's a little sweet and not over the top.

Red
From the Central Coast of California, try a Syrah.
From Paso Robles in CA, try a Zinfandel.
From Napa/Sonoma try a Cab/Zin/Pinot Noir
From Oregon try a Pinot Noir.
Try a Rhone blend from California.
Try a Meritage (this is a blend and can be fun).

Don't forget a bottle of champagne or Sparkling Wine or Cava. Everyone loves a taste to start off the meal.

I think this list, rather than a specific wine list will be useful. Although when in doubt, Columbia Crest from the Northwest is sure to please at a price.

dh