Founded in 2004, this wine is from Bodegas Volver and is a blend of Merlot and touch of Alicante Bouschet. The result is a well structured wine with notes of plum that pairs well with picnic fare, especially hamburgers.

Grape • Merlot, Alicante
Place • Valencia, Spain
FYI • Juntos means together in Spanish.

Navarra is in northern Spain, brushes alongside the French border, and is dotted with remarkable medieval villages. This family run operation took off only about 20 years ago and is now producing this easily approachable wine full of bright red raspberry and strawberry notes. Pairs well with anything chorizo.

Grape • Garnacha
Place • Navarra, Spain
FYI • Pamplona is the capital, famous bulls and running.

Picturesque hilltop villages dot Luberon, the most southern portion of the Rhone Valley, Its idyllic landscape has long lured artists such as Picasso. This wine features aromatics of Bosc pear and goes nicely with a salad Nicoise.

Grape • Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Vermentino
Place • Rhone Valley, France
FYI • Luberon is composed of three mountain ranges.

Another of Mary Taylor's projects, this Sicilian red has her teaming up with the Sala sisters. Often nero d'avola is associated with massive tannins but this is not that! Translucent with a vivaciousness that dances on the palate this elegant red pairs well with soft cheeses.

Grape • Nero d'Avola
Place • Mazara del Vallo, Sicily
FYI • The winery is next to "Gorghi Tondi" - "3 rounded lakes."

A great expression of France meets Argentina. French wine making skills and excellent vineyard site in Argentina - located at 4000 feet above sea level in Tupungato. Organic practices only adds to the drinking experience. Full of dark fruits, consider pairing with red meats, red sauces, and chocolate.

Grape • Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Tupungato is one of the highest mtns. in the Americas.

Stunning vistas of the valley with Montserrat as a backdrop will great you at this historic, yet very modern house. Four siblings currently operate Llopart turning out refreshingly delicious cavas. A classic aperitif wine with bright acidity and a hint of lemon zest.

Grape • Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada
Place • Penedes, Spain
FYI • Remarkably, this house is run by the 25th generation.

This wine comes from a small parcel next to 'Les Damnes' the Grand Cru of Chavignol. Already being called a legendary vintage by many, this exudes brilliant aromatics and quintessential minerality. Outstanding wine with many fish dishes.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Loire Valley, France
FYI • Outcrop of chalk in Sancerre is the same as in Dover, UK.

Germany's answer to Burgundy pinot noir is this excellent example of the varietal. the Dautel family has a grape growing history going back 500 years. With layers of complexity that include cassis, smokiness, and blackberry this is a wine that is versatile at the dinner table.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Wurttemberg, Germany
FYI • The German name for pinot noir is Spatburgunder.

Founded in 2004 and named after their important vineyard, Ambassador looks to become Washington States top producing winery. This is rich and velvety. Look for a jammy nose and luscious notes of vanilla, blueberry reduction, and cedar. Enjoy by a fire or with big protein.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache
Place • Red Mountain, Washington
FYI • The state's finest wines come from the Red Mountain AVA.