Wine

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 2 hr

Boeuf bourguignon may be made 1 day ahead. Cool, uncovered, then chill, covered (it tastes even better made ahead because it gives the flavors time to develop). If making ahead, it's easier to remove fat from surface after chilling.

Serve this zesty pasta with a salad of tossed winter greens sprinkled with shaved Parmesan or Asiago cheese, and a basket of seeded country Italian bread. Finish with orange sorbet and chocolate biscotti.

Italian Chicken with Mushroom-and-Wine Sauce The Creamy Polenta with Parmesan is a nice accompaniment to the chicken.

From the Williamsburg Inn's Regency Room.

A beautiful and elegant dessert that has lots of great berry flavor.

You may have to ask your butcher to reserve the marrow bones for this luxurious main course , but the result is well worth the effort. Roasted potatoes and steamed spinach make perfect accompaniments. Begin preparing this a day ahead.