Thank goodness for Monterey which provides among the best value to quality ratio in California. Lots of bang for the buck in this wine with tropical notes of pineapple and banana. Goes great with tuna and mango salsa!

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Monterey, California
FYI • Monterey was named after the viceroy of New Spain.

Founded in 1856 this winery, with the Andes acting as a stunning backdrop to the property, is still family owned and operated. The elegant use of oak on this charddonay elevates it's notes of pear, pineapple, and vanilla. Pairs very well with tuna tartare, smoked salmon, and other fish dishes.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Maipo Valley, Chile
FYI • In addition to grapes, Chile is also known for copper.

The climate here is moderated by nearby Garda Lake, the largest in Italy. In 1968 the family began to cultivate their vineyards and today produce a range of wines including this blend. With hints of melon and stone fruit this white pairs well with prosciutto and melon, fish, or even served as a brunch wine.

Grape • Garganega, Cortese, Trebbiano, Chardonnay
Place • Veneto, Italy
FYI • The famous dessert tiramisu originates from Veneto.

Expressive color, expressive nose, expressive flavor. EXPRESSIVE! This explosive rose comes from a relatively obscure appellation: Coteaux du Giennois. A young estate, built in 1983, the family approaches wine making with a youthful spirit. Delicious notes of cherry and watermelon. Pairs well with sushi.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Loire Valley, France
FYI • Coteaux du Giennois is just north of famed Pouilly Fume.

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.

This winery, in the family since 1861, is managed by the lovely couple Paul and Betty Jambon. In addition to the burst of fruitiness one expects from this classic-Beaujolais, there is also a pronounced minerality influenced by the region's blue granite. Serve with grilled tuna or bean and ham stew.

Grape • Gamay
Place • Beaujolais, France
FYI • This wine is served in French embassies worldwide.

Carlos Falcó is considered the father of Spanish wine and has always pushed the boundaries of wine making. This blend is from just south of Madrid where the granite soil contributes to its elegance. Made exclusively for the U.S. market, look for hints of ripe plum and violet. Pairs well with pork tenderloin.

Grape • Syrah, Garnacha
Place • Aldea del Freso, Spain
FYI • This winery is one of the most advanced in the world.

There's a reason Burgundy is pricey. Exceptional quality, and not much to go around. Tucked away in the famed Cote Chalonnaise on a 4th generation estate with the best exposure. Grapes are hand-harvested, selective picking on sorting table. Tight energy with solid minerality. Can age 2-4 years.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Burgundy, France
FYI • This village is allowed to produce both red and white.

A larger than life character, Pierre Guillemot and his family have worked Savigny-lès-Beaune vines for eight generations. Their wines epitomize the local terroir. The finesse of this wine is captivating with aromas of black cherry and bramble. Serve with fish and red wine sauce.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Burgundy, France
FYI • Savigny is often written without the "lès-Beaune"