Owned by the Saurel family, this biodynamic operation since 1996, produces memorable wines. The fermentation in this case takes place in cement tanks to maintain it brightness. Great minerality with a hint of jasmine this pairs well with grilled white meats.

Grape • Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Viogner
Place • Rhone, France
FYI • Cigales means cicadas, considered magical in S. France.

Established by Hippolyte Boudau in 1922, Veronique and Pierre Boudau are the third generation to run this estate. A wine-growing area on the Mediterranean coast a few miles from the Spanish border. A ripe core of red fruit this charming red is easy drinking on its own.

Grape • Grenache, Syrah, Carignan
Place • Languedoc-Roussillon, France
FYI • This is the most southernly wine region in France.

While this region is centrally located in Italy, it identifies with southern Italian cuisine and culture. This well structured red has layers of dried cherry and cedar. It pairs well with salami and other cured meats and will put a smile on your face.

Grape • Montepulciano
Place • Abruzzo, Italy
FYI • Over half of Abruzzo is designated as national parks.

"La Mesma is a family business meticulously run by the three Rosina sisters: Paola, Francesca and Anna. The wine has a beautiful, straw-yellow color, fruity scents (apricot), with hints of citrus fruits and meadow flowers; it is a fresh and harmonious taste, with a fruity background." Pair with seafood risotto.

Grape • Cortese
Place • Piedmont, Italy
FYI • La Mesma means "herself" in Italian.

The high elevation Demeter certified vineyards of Chakana Nuna produce outstanding fruit. While Argentina is synonymous with Malbec, it is here that Syrah shines. With notes of black pepper, plum, and cassis, this is 100% certified as delicious! Goes well with grilled meats and pasta with red sauce.

Grape • Syrah
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Nuna means "soul" in Spanish.

"El Recio" brings together the power of youth and the experience of age to express serenity, perseverance and strength, the inspiration of this behind the label. This is a corpulent wine also having a lot of finesse, with an intense nose having notes of chocolate, black fruit and vanilla. Pair with grilled meat."

Grape • Tempranillo
Place • Toro, Spain
FYI • Matsu means "to wait" in Japanese.

Founded by Andre Lurton, Chateau la Louviere has long been famous for its white wines and is now among the finest dry white wines in the Graves. Notes of lemon, gooseberry and grapefruit this pairs well with soft cheeses.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Bordeaux, France
FYI • Bordeaux has grown wine for 700 years.

"Hervé Dubourdieu’s easy charm and modest disposition are complemented by his focus and ferocious perfectionism." His grapes are from Sauternes and Graves appellations. Despite the pedigree of the terroir and quality of the wines they are always approachable. Aromatic and fragrant, enjoy as is or pair with fish.

Grape • Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle
Place • Bordeaux, France
FYI • Semillon is used to make the famous Sauternes.

The Guicciardini family's time at the Castello di Poppiano dates to 1150. Among the ancestors is Francesco Guicciadrini whose pioneering work "La Historia" is one of the great works of the Renaissance. This powerful wine has notes of black cherry and tobacco. Can cellar for several years. Pair with beef or lamb.

Grape • Merlot, Sangiovese
Place • Tuscany, Italy
FYI • A "supertuscan" uses mainly non-indigenous grapes.