The softly undulating mountains here are known as "Het Zwarte Land" or The Black Land because of the color they take on after rain. The fertile soils are home to vast numbers of wheat fields and vineyards. This incredibly easy sipper is full of tropical fruit flavors and pairs nicely with salads.

Grape • Chenin Blanc
Place • Swartland, South Africa
FYI • This area was settled by the Dutch in the 1600's.

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.

Founded by Croatian born Josip Babich in the 1910's, this acclaimed winery boasts some of the oldest vineyards in New Zealand. A classic style full of tropical notes as well as some citrus. Pairs well with shellfish...try with Oysters Rockefeller.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Marlborough, New Zealand
FYI • New Zealand is made up of two islands.

This Demeter certified bio-dynamic wine comes from the Nuna vineyard at over 3000 ft. Meaning "soul" in Quecha, this is a deliciously well structured wine with blueberry flavors and touch of bacon on the finish. Will pair nicely with a t-bone off the grill.

Grape • Malbec
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Chakana is also known as the Inca Cross.

When the Lombards settled this area in the Dark Ages they brought with them the knowledge of curing meats with salt. Fast forward a bit and "Salame di Varzi DOP" is born. It is an ideal pairing with this wine that is also "of" this region. Crunchy tanins with a hint of fresh herbs on the back palate.

Grape • Croatina
Place • Lombardy, Italy
FYI • Croatina means "Croatian girl."

Juan Carlos left Andalusia (southern Spain) for Mendoza and began experimenting with vine cultivation. Years later his sons took the next step to make premier wines in this now well known region. With notes of lemon peel and apple blossom. Serve as an aperitif or pair with seafood.

Grape • Pinot Grigio
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • The winery was founded in 2004.

Bright, fruit driven, and rewarding from a place that has the know-how on making a full-bodied red. Regularly a favorite in Australia this french-oaked red is full of dark fruit, black pepper, and cassis. Pairs nicely with a quality steak...try it with a peppercorn sauce too!

Grape • Syrah
Place • Victoria, Australia
FYI • Established in 1858 by an English immigrant.

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.

This fourth generation family estate is nestled upon clayey limestone in the village of Mercurey, That is part of the reason for it's delicious quality. The other reason of course is due to the attentive hands of father and son duo, Michel and Laurent. Rounded and supple, pairs well with white meat dishes.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Burgundy, France
FYI • Mercurey, the most important village in Cote Challonaise.