The Central Coast AVA extends about 250 miles along the state's coastline. Some of the best value in California comes from this region. With a velvety texture this red has pleasing notes of herbs, cherries, and plums. Great with pasta carbonara or chunks of parmesan cheese.

Grape • Merlot
Place • Central Coast, California
FYI • Castle Rock is a fictional fort in "Lord of the Flies."

Finca Antigua translates to "Old Estate" and refers to the long-lived nature of the vines here. As they saying goes "this is a lot of bang for the buck." A full-bodied red with the obvious dark fruit but also an intriguing array of wild herbs. This pairs well with lamb shank or lamb stew.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • La Mancha, Spain
FYI • This region is featured in the famed novel Don Quixote.

Viña Siegel is a family owned operation that started in the 1980’s. With plantings throughout the expansive 250-mile long central valley they look to take advantage of its many microclimates. This chardonnay with its straw color and exotic overtones is perfect for any cocktail reception.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Colchagua Valley, Chile
FYI • Colchagua Valley is south of Santiago, the capital.

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

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.

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.

For over forty years the Trione family has worked the land in Sonoma. In 2005 they established their winery and in 2014 offered this wine, their first Syrah. Aged in French oak for 18 months this full-bodied red has notes of blackberry and blueberry pie. Can easily age for 5 years.

Grape • Syrah
Place • Sonoma, California
FYI • Winery is located next to a 1908 landmark.

In 1987 visionary Rollin Soles recognized the potential of Oregon's climate to grow great grapes. Today Argyle is famous for it's sparkling wines and this is among their very best. Made from 100% Dijon Chardonnay clone, look for Bosc pear and toasted hazelnut on the palate. Truly a world class wine.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Willamette Valley, Oregon
FYI • Willamette is on the same parallel as Burgundy.

With over 130 years of experience La Rioja Alta is synonymous with not just outstanding wines but being consistent year in and year out - not something other wineries in Rioja can claim. Enjoy now or cellar for another decade this will continue to evolve. Truffle, leather, tobacco notes - pair with NY strip.

Grape • Tempranillo
Place • Rioja, Spain
FYI • Earliest record of grapes in this region dates to 873.