The sandstone soils in SW France where this wine comes from play a huge role in the complexity of this wine. The old vine fruit is macerated in stainless steel tank before getting a kiss of French oak. With notes of blackberry and fig this pairs well with bbq.

Grape • Carignan
Place • Languedoc, France
FYI • The Languedoc produces the most wine in France.

“Hello World!” Viognier comes from a ten acre block of the 16 year-old Monte Higueras Vineyard. Finca La Estacada’s vineyards are sustainably farmed and outfitted with drip irrigation. Generous aromas of green apple, mango. and magnolia flowers. Drink on its own or pair with ceviche.

Grape • Viognier
Place • Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
FYI • Elevation here is a surprising 3,000 ft above sea level.

Since 1973 Citra has produced wines that give a sense of place. It is the efforts of a number of local families who pulled together to make this winery a reality which collectively is an impressive 15,000 acres. This delicately refreshing white has hints of Meyer lemon. Pairs well with oysters or a goat cheese salad.

Grape • Trebbiano
Place • Abruzzo, Italy
FYI • Citra is a Latin adverb meaning "beyond."

Andrea Felici is in the heart of the region located about 600m above sea level they experience dramatic shifts between daytime and nighttime temperatures. They make only two wines, both white, from verdicchio. Staying vibrant even in the warmest vintages, look for notes of minerality. Pair with savory tarts.

Grape • Verdicchio
Place • Marche, Italy
FYI • Their first estate bottling was in 2003.

The soil of Asti is particularly well-suited for this varietal. The first vintage from Damilano was a very recent 2008. A lively red meant to enjoy young (so forget about the cellar) it has a gorgeous purple color and tastes of red currant, bing cherry, and vanilla. Try it with charcuterie.

Grape • Barbera
Place • Piedmont, Italy
FYI • The area of Asti is also known for sparkling wine.

A relative newcomer to the wine scene, Herencia Altes was founded in 2013 when Nuria Altes bought his father's property. This delicately stunning rose with floral notes is made with short skin contact. Pairs well with Manchego.

Grape • Grenache
Place • Catalonia, Spain
FYI • Catalonia is also famous for producing Cava.

Made from twenty-to-thirty year-old selected vineyards, this wine can be be enjoyed today, or can easily age for 15 years. Notes of dark chocolate, blackberry, and a hint of oak this pairs well with rack of lamb.

Grape • Tempranillo
Place • Alava, Spain
FYI • Artadi only ages in French oak.

Planted on one of Napa's newest AVA's, Red Hills Lake County district, it is notable for the veins of Obsidian Rock, aka volcanic glass, that is found in the vineyard. A ripe, full-bodied red with notes of brambleberry, coffee, and dark chocolate this is delicious with a grilled steak.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec
Place • Napa Valley, California
FYI • The vineyard elevation is at 2,640 feet.

The wines from the Delorme family are among the most highly rated in the region. Year after year their portfolio is delicious and this rosé is a winner as well. Full of raspberry, cherry, and delicate floral notes, it is an absolutely gorgeous wine that is easy to drink and can accompany a host of dishes.

Grape • Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvedre, Syrah
Place • Rhone, France
FYI • Mordoree means woodcock in French.