Built as a hostel for pilgrims making their way to Rome, a thorough modernization has made this one of the most famous producers in Umbria. A little extra time on the skins gives this wine it's famous copper color. A fragrant wine that pairs nicely with a margherita pizza.

Grape • Pinot Grigio
Place • Umbria, Italy
FYI • Umbria, a landlocked part of Italy that borders Tuscany.

Nestled on the left bank of the Alto Douro, Quinta Mafalda grapes bask in the hot sunshine this region is known for. After fermentation this wine ages for 7 months in French oak giving it structure. Notes of blackberry, ripe black cherry, and spice. Pairs well with goat dishes.

Grape • Alicante Bouschet
Place • Douro, Portugal
FYI • The Alto Douro is an UNESCO World Heritage site.

Isaac Fernandez is famous for his wines and this generous red crafted from vines that are over 40 years old exemplifies his golden touch. The high elevation helps maintain the grapes freshness. Notes of black cherry and minerality. Pairs well with regional specialty blood pudding and garlic soup.

Grape • Garnacha
Place • Camp de Borja, Spain
FYI • Aurelio Cabestrero also collaborated on this wine.

"Structured and long-lived wine with intense garnet red color and alive with slight violet hues. Intense nose with notes of plum, vanilla, and cherry jam, full-bodied, harmonious, with pleasant tannins and a lingering finish." Great with lasagna!

Grape • Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetta
Place • Piedmont, Italy
FYI • Vineyards were planted between 1970 and 1995.

A great expression of France meets Argentina. French wine making skills and excellent vineyard site in Argentina - located at 4000 feet above sea level in Tupungato. Organic practices only adds to the drinking experience. Full of dark fruits, consider pairing with red meats, red sauces, and chocolate.

Grape • Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Tupungato is one of the highest mtns. in the Americas.

This producer is synonymous with excellence in Portugal. Having studied indigenous grapes their careful research has led to this complex blend of seven varietals. With intense tropical and citrus notes this goes well with salmon and tuna based dishes.

Grape • Viosinho, Malvasia Fina, Gouveio, Arinto, Codega
Place • Douro, Portugal
FYI • Winemaking began here about the 3rd century.

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.

Located near Monts Damnes, the most iconic vineyard in Sancerre, the grapes for this wine are grown mostly on chalk, one of the three key soil types in the Loire. Lots of personality with various fruity notes competing for attention: "blood orange, peach, pear, and banana." Pairs well with fish.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Loire, France
FYI • Le Roi des Pierres means "the king of stones."

This region in southern France really packs a punch, from beautiful beaches to tremendous wines. La Begude is cellared in the 7th century chapel "Conil" seigneury. A strong red that needs a few hours to open before drinking. Loads of black fruit, wood, and kitchen spice it is best served with southern French cuisine.

Grape • Mourvedre, Grenache
Place • Provence, France
FYI • Wines from Bandol must contain at least 50% Mourvedre.