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.

The impressive expanse of the Burgo vineyards runs through a large diversity of soils and microclimates. This allows the ideal grapes to provide the perfect expression, in this case, of Rioja. The use of aged American oak gives backbone to a wine that offers red fruit and a touch of coconut. A great summer bbq wine.

Grape • Tempranillo, Graciano
Place • Rioja, France
FYI • Burgo means "hamlet" or "fortified town" in Spanish.

The Loire valley is home to a diverse number of wines that stretch along the twisting 600 mile-long Loire River. The Lieubeau family works with chardonnay here, not usually found in Muscadet. Their attentiveness coaxes expressions of melon, spice and minerality from it. Pairs marvelously with shellfish.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Loire, France
FYI • This vineyard is composed mostly of granite.

The beautiful setting where this wine comes from is reflected in the bottle. Produced by the Pala family from a varietal found almost entirely on Sardinia it is made using stainless steel and concrete tanks. It has an attractive violet color with notes of licorice. Pairs well with meaty dishes and fatty fish.

Grape • Monica
Place • Serdiana, Sardinia
FYI • Sardinia is the Mediterranean's second largest island.

Owned by two childhood friends from Burgundy, they set out to make wine in an environment where land is less expensive. They found it in Limoux. They have crafted a host of wines since 1997. This rose is a powerhouse and hits well outside of it's class. Pair with pan-seared scallops or with goat cheese.

Grape • Syrah, Cinsault, Grenache
Place • Languedoc, France
FYI • This southwestern region borders with Spain.

In a region famous for its whites there are also, in fact, a few standout reds. Marco Felluga produces this aromatically expressive merlot from two villages near the sea. In its unoaked state this wine shows off the beautifully fragrant qualities of plum, cherry and tobacco.

Grape • Merlot
Place • Friuli, Italy
FYI • Perfectly paired with the famed San Daniele prosciutto.

There is a rugged beauty to the land worked on by the Le Calvez family. Situated at the highest point in the Minervois appelation, this wine represents the best the family has to offer. Does wine have a soul? Herein lies your answer. Deep flavors of black fruit along with kitchen spice - and a cunning earthiness - await.

Grape • Syrah, Grenache
Place • Languedoc, France
FYI • Le Calvez is a common name in Brittany.

Considered one of the finest producers in Italy, this white, even within their portfolio, is famous. Although we don't normally tout wines with awards, this one is worth mentioning having won more Tre Bicchieri than any other wine. Complex with great minerality and gooseberry. Can age 10 years.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Alto Adige, Italy
FYI • The winemaker Hanz Terser has been here since 1977!

Hélène Jaeger took the reigns in 2005 and transitioned to organic farming just four years later. Her meticulous ways help bring out the best in her wines. With plenty of peppy acidity there is also a gracious mouthfeel of peach & apricot. Pair with fried river fish or a hard cheese such as Comté.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Burgundy, France
FYI • Rully wines are among the best "deals" in Burgundy.