Maricopa, it’s a good day to wine down after a long week.  

And that’s not just because it’s Friday. Today also happens to be National Red Wine Day, and Mandy’s Wine Bar is celebrating by offering all-day discounts on glasses and bottles. 

The Aug. 28 event honors the history, cultural significance and varietals of red wine. It was established in 2014 by writer and holiday creator Jace Shoemaker-Galloway. 

The holiday is designed with community gathering in mind. 

“That’s really what Mandy’s Wine Bar is all about, community and connecting,” said owner Amanda Atler. 

The wine bar is highlighting several reds on her wine list for the occasion: a Piatelli Grand Reserve Malbec, a CaViola Barolo and an Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon. 

The Grand Reserve Malbec is a medium to full-bodied wine featuring a palate of dark fruit flavors. Atler said it pairs well with Mandy’s steak or tagliatelle dishes. The Barolo is full-bodied with strawberry and balsamic vinegar notes and best paired with Mandy’s Family Lasagna. The cabernet has a vibrant black cherry finish and goes well with bold cheese, meat dishes and chocolate. 

The cabernet has become a favorite to share with guests. A golf club comes in weekly after golfing to share a bottle and they always offer Atler a glass to share at their table. 

Atler’s personal favorite red to drink is an old vine zinfandel from Ironstone Winery. 

“You could pour that and pair it with any type of food, or it can stand on its own,” Atler said, adding it is a smooth, light-bodied, fruit-forward wine. 

Atler has curated the bar’s wine list to reflect different regions and varietals, creating “a balance to appeal to different people’s palates.” 

But today, it’s all about her reds. 

As Shoemaker-Galloway said, “Red wine is perfect any time.”