Love your number 18...my husband came up with something similar after having the Chianti braised short ribs at Olive Garden. He adds about 1/4 c. of Chianti to the drippings, and uses a little beef broth (if he has it on hand) instead of the water.
Sometimes he uses short ribs, but they are a little expensive around here...so it’s perfect for a less costly cut of meat. I will second your opinion that it is an excellent flavor combo, and perfect to put in the crock pot on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Olive Garden charges like $18 per plate for it!
Three cheese Rice-a-Roni is just AWESOME with it...how horrible is that? Take all of the time to make this lovely beef, and serve it with Rice-a-Roni...but it’s really a good combo...LOL!
Glad you liked the combination.
I seldom have wine in the house that is usable for cooking. I like a sparkling Bellini (made with grape wine and white peaches from Italy).