This clean straightforward delight is fresh and fruity. Look for notes of granny smith apple and bosc pear with a hint of lime zest. Refreshing in the mouth with a light finish, this is a classic "porch pounder."

Grape • Macabeo
Place • Catalonia, Spain
FYI • Macabeo, aka Viura, is an important grape in Cava.

Founded in the early 70's this relatively new winery is famous for sparkling wine made out of a grape often found in SW France. Nestled along the border with Germany comes this "happy" wine with lively notes of pear and apple. Makes for a great aperitif or for Sunday brunch.

Grape • Ugni Blanc
Place • Wissembourg, France
FYI • Baden-Baden is only 25 miles away.

This very popular grape from southern sun-drenched France is always a crowd pleaser. The garrigue is peppered with low growing dwarfy bushes that influence the vineyards. Balanced with a delightful zestiness, this is great as an aperitif or paired with fish.

Grape • Picpoul
Place • Languedoc-Rousillon, France
FYI • L-R is one of the world's largest wine producing regions.

As James E. Wilson wrote about the soil here: "the complexity and variety of soil types in the Languedoc is attributed to the geological phenomenon known as the “Languedoc-Roussillon Symphony.” The earthiness of this wine pairs well at cellar temperature with a beef stew.

Grape • Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache, Cinsault
Place • Languedoc, France
FYI • Named after the limestone "peak" aka "pic" above the vyd.

This classic showing of chianti is from this well recognized producer which was purchased by the Stucchi Prinetti family in the 1930's. Organically grown look for dusty flavors of cherry and an herbal quality, mainly thyme. Perfect with your next pasta dish!

Grape • Sangiovese, Canaiolo
Place • Tuscany, Italy
FYI • Monks founded the winery in the 11th century

Winemaker Larry Levin is known for his meticulous work. Here he has produced a rich and opulent wine with a sexy dark garnet color. This blend is jammed full of black cherry, black pepper and a hint of smokiness. Try with your next baby-back ribs.

Grape • Syrah, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel
Place • Lodi, California
FYI • Lodi is known as the "Zin Capital of the World."

Before drinking this you might think that "Textbook" means an over-the-top Cali-Cab. Not so! With beautifully integrated french oak and perfectly harvested grapes from several key vineyards this is a classic Napa Cab in the best way possible with notes of dark fruit. Pairs well with grilled t-bone steak.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Napa Valley, California
FYI • Napa produces only 5% of California's wines.

Owned by Véronique Cochran, the Château was one of the very first in Bordeaux to practice organic and biodynamic growing. Known for making a generous style, this wine has notes of plum, leather, and an obvious earthiness that pairs well with hangar steak and pommes frites.

Grape • Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Place • Bordeaux, France
FYI • The Château's heritage dates to the 14th century.

Produced from grapes grown at altitude, this is considered the world's first extreme high-altitude parcel of Pinot Noir. Made with an unmistakable nod to France, this elegant red has notes of thyme and kitchen spice. The minerality allows it to pair with a number of dishes such as duck or pheasant.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Named after Nicola, the winemakers daughter.