This deliciously fun red is made with a grape associated with France and California more than it is Spain however it does surprisingly well in Spain's "cooler" climate in the north. Full-bodied and expansive this has layers of fig, cherry preserves, and leather. Pair with cottage pie.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Navarra, Spain
FYI • Navarra borders France in Spain's NE corner.

Maison Nicolas strives for an honest expression of each of the single varietals they work with, rarely blending. This is a classic pinot noir from southern France with rounded cherry notes that pairs perfectly with brie and a baguette.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Languedoc, France
FYI • Pinot Noir is one of the most delicate red grapes.

A light wine that is marked by its beautiful citric colors and incredible freshness. Its aromatic splendor is revealed through soft hints of tropical fruits and citric aromas. A very balanced wine that leaves a harmonious and citric aftertaste.

Grape • Trajadura, Loureiro, Arinto, Azal
Place • Vinho Verde, Portugal
FYI • Vinho Verde translates to "the green wine."

"Boccadiagabbia was once part of a vast agricultural estate that for over a century was an influential example of modern, rational agriculture. This ruby red offers classic varietal spice, along with lovely scents of vanilla, chocolate, and wild red berries. Pair with hard cheeses."

Grape • Montepulciano, Sangiovese
Place • Marche, Italy
FYI • This winery was once one of the “one hundred poderi"

There is a way to use a touch of oak on chardonnay that enhances the wine. The use of French and American oak in this offering by Leopoldo Kuschnaroff brings to market a medium bodied white that pairs perfectly with a host of seafood dishes and, in particular, creamy pasta sauces.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Tilia is a Linden Tree

Miguel is a fourth-generation grape grower who tends to parcels that have been producing Verdejo for more than 100 years. Historically the region raised cattle and wine making was for employee consumption. Today that is not the case and this vibrant white pairs well with goat cheese and beet salad.

Grape • Verdejo
Place • Rueda, Spain
FYI • Winery's debut vintage was 2010.

This malbec comes from high-altitude vineyards in the foothills of the Andes and is sourced from pre-Phylloxera vines. Aged in French oak this wine exudes a confidence of rich black fruit and minerality. An elegant wine that pairs well with bison and a red wine sauce.

Grape • Malbec
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Only 1800 cases of this wine was produced.

Two Paddocks started in 1993 with modest ambitions at their original little vineyard at Gibbston, Central Otago in the deep south of New Zealand. Named after an adjoining vineyard, this wine has aromas of tart apple, nectarine, citrus and white flowers. Pair with Epoisses (stinky cheese).

Grape • Riesling
Place • Central Otago, New Zealand
FYI • This wine is sustainable and vegan.

Located in one of the states warmest appellations, this windswept region is now synonymous with outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon. Named for two ravines that run through the property this is big-wine country. Powerful notes of tobacco, licorice, and kitchen spice pair nicely with beef ribs.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot
Place • Horse Heaven Hills, Washington
FYI • H.H.H. is also the location of numerous wind farms.