The father Jean-Pierre was, brilliantly, an early adopter of planting sauvignon blanc in Touraine. Years later his son Samuel took it a step further by leaving the co-op and improving vineyard practices. As good as some Sancerre but not as pricey, this has lovely citrus notes and is great with chevre!

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Loire, France
FYI • This vineyard was certified organic in 2012.

The winery was founded in 1976 by two families who are well respected in the region. This classic Italian white is known for it's freshness and ability to pair with foods that range from citrus to fish. Of course it also makes for a great aperitif wine.

Grape • Grechetto, Procanico, Malvasia
Place • Umbria, Italy
FYI • Grechetto is also used to make dessert wines.

The only downside to this wine is not much makes it to the U.S. This is a declassified Vacqueyras, a fancy way of saying you get a lot of bang for the buck. The Bouletin family makes this wine with great care and it shows. With lots of depth this meaty wine pairs best with food. Try with veal or veggie stew.

Grape • Grenache, Syrah, Carignan
Place • Rhone, France
FYI • Roucas Toumba are the fallen stones around the vineyard.

The exact blend of this Rhone-inspired red changes from vintage to vintage but always contains the same combination of varietals. A touch of "California-rustic" shines through this full-bodied wine with supple notes of dark fruit, vanilla, and caramel. Pairs well with lamb, cassoulet, or polenta and mushrooms.

Grape • Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache
Place • Paso Robles, California
FYI • Paso Robles means "The Pass of the Oaks."

Made from the younger grapes in the vineyard, this extremely approachable red is an example of what this house is capable of. The wife and husband duo behind this 1984 founded winery are brilliant. Notes of cola, kitchen spice, plum, and licorice allow this to pair well with spice rubbed chicken or Bolognese.

Grape • Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Tuscany, Italy
FYI • Their wines enjoy cult like status.

From 1 hectare in 1990 to 90 hectare in 2018 the Heinrich's have steadily grown their outstanding operation. Biodyanamic and on the cutting edge of innovation their wines are simply tops. With plenty of ripe fruit this pairs well with everything from Middle Eastern eats to your fresh-from-the-lake catch.

Grape • Zweigelt, Blaufrankisch, St. Laurent
Place • Burgenland, Austria
FYI • Zweigelt is Austria's most planted red varietal.

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.

George Hendry started his career developing medical equipment for imaging but was unable to avoid the siren of winemaking on his family's property. This stunning wine made from the famed Galician grape is full of racy acidity that pairs well with shellfish.

Grape • Albarino
Place • Napa Valley, California
FYI • Hendry's property is famously "blocked" into parcels.

This wine comes from the only American Viticulture Area dedicated exclusively to syrah and Stolpman is a syrah specialist. With lots of finesse and structure this wine can easily age for the next five years but it's rich plum flavors underpinned with hints of chocolate will win you over now. Pair with roasted pork loin.

Grape • Syrah
Place • Santa Ynez, California
FYI • The Ballard AVA was officially recognized in 2013.