Adi Badenhorst’s resume reads: awesome dude, making awesome wines. He rescued fruit being used for run-of-the-mill box wine by taking matters into his own hands. Changes in the field and at the winery helped create this gem. A true “every day of the week wine” it is easy to drink and easy to pair with. Enjoy!

Grape • Shiraz, Grenache, Cinsault
Place • Swartland, South Africa
FYI • Swartland is the breadbasket of South Africa.

While many wines in Sicily come from the volcanic soil of Mt. Etna, this wine is produced in the Valle del Belice about 300 meters above sea level. Still heavily influenced by the Mediterranean climate, look for notes of green apple and lemon zest. Serve with green olives and Parmesan.

Grape • Pinot Grigio
Place • Sicily, Italy
FYI • A famous breed of sheep also comes from this region.

The company was founded in 1924 by José Ferreira Tavares and is now owned and operated by the 3rd Generation of the Matos family. The wine boasts a pink salmon color and intense fresh red fruit aromas of strawberry and raspberry. Slight effervescence. Pair with bbq chicken or other picnic fare.

Grape • Baga, Touriga Nacional, Merlot
Place • Bairrada, Portugal
FYI • This wine uses 'no skin contact" maceration.

It says a lot when a winery has produced vino for over 200 years. While the new owner is Francois Martenot, he is still following the time-honored traditions of Maurice Ecard. With hallmark characteristics of cherry and raspberry this is a versatile red. Pairs well with cheese, meet courses or even a barbecue.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Burgundy, France
FYI • The winery was founded in 1789.

Amalaya is a modern facility located in Cafayate which is at the heart of the Calchaquíes Valleys, located in the Northwest of Argentina. Here there is an intense fruity expression such as with this white with notes of lemon zest and green apple. Pairs well with curries as well as Thai cuisine.

Grape • Torrontes, Riesling
Place • Salta, Argentina
FYI • Salta is the capital of the province Salta.

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.

"Our vineyards are located on the northern slope of Mount Etna, in two different districts: Cuba and Pontale Palino. This beautifully elegant wine has aromas of wildflower, fennel, volcanic rock and tangy forest berry. Try with bucatini with tuna."

Grape • Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio
Place • Sicily, Italy
FYI • The winery owns pre-phylloxera vines.

Owned by Véronique Cochran, the Château was one of the very first in Bordeaux to practice organic and biodynamic growing. Known for making a generous style, this wine has notes of plum, leather, and an obvious earthiness that pairs well with hangar steak and pommes frites.

Grape • Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Place • Bordeaux, France
FYI • The Château's heritage dates to the 14th century.

The two families that came together years ago to make port are now one of, if not the, most famous producers in Portugal. This wine has the potential to age for several years but the intent is to enjoy it in the here and now. Approachable red fruit layered with black pepper. Pair with grilled steak.

Grape • Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tina Roriz
Place • Duoro, Portugal
FYI • The estate dates back - incredibly - to 1565.