The Penedes region is Spain’s bubble capital. Producing sparkling wine in the same manner as champagne but often at a fraction of the price it is synonymous with great value. This is a lovely example of cava with notes of minerality and Granny Smith apples. Have with Sunday brunch of course.

Grape • Xarello, Macabeo, Parellada
Place • Penedes, Spain
FYI • Spain is the second largest producer of sparkling wine.

Fairvalley started as socio-economic empowerment venture in 1998. The profits are meant to develop FairValley land. Today their wines are found in markets worldwide. With notes of mulberry, coffee, and a hint of smokiness, this wine pairs well with smoked brisket.

Grape • Pinotage
Place • Western Cape, South Africa
FYI • Pinotage is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault.

A lot of bang for the buck as the saying goes. The addition of wine from the wineries reserves dating back to 1999 explains the complexities found in each release. Super easy to drink with hints of strawberry, cherry and a hint of white pepper. Pairs very well with ratatouille.

Grape • Grenache
Place • Rhone, France
FYI • Known as the Wine of Freedom at Saint Cosme.

This small winery is owned by the Janny family and produces a chardonnay in the traditional style of Macon with very little use of oak. While they do grow a little pinot noir, this is "chardonnay country." A light golden hue with notes of citrus. Pairs well with chicken.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Burgundy, France
FYI • Le Clou means nail in French.

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.

The steady hands of winemaker Christophe Peyrus have made this one of, if not the best, winery in the appelation. Hand-harvested, slow fermentation, and indigenous yeasts makes a big difference. This lively showing with layers of blackberry and herbs pairs well with lamb and rosemary.

Grape • Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre
Place • Languedoc, France
FYI • Pic Saint Loup is a mountain that stands over 2,000 ft.

You think you know sauvignon blanc until you try this stunning wine from the Reverdy brothers. From the humble looking village Maimbray comes an unforgettable white with delicate citrus and floral notes. Ideal with oysters or a salad topped with baked chevre.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Loire Valley, France
FYI • The Loire River is the longest in France.

This family owned winery started in 1896 and continues to release excellent wine blended from the three main varietals of Champagne. The fabled chalk soils of the region shine through in this full-bodied style with notes of hazelnuts and almond. Elegant on it's own or serve with duck terrine.

Grape • Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
Place • Champagne, France
FYI • Reims is the capital of Champagne.

This state-of-the-art operation includes everything from gravity-fed vinification to solar power to rainwater harvesting. Modern techniques and top notch south-facing slopes are behind this stellar wine. Full of rich, ripe berry fruit with a hint of tobacco leaf it is amazing with roast chicken.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Willamette Valley, Oregon
FYI • Willamette rhymes with Damn-It! (as they say)