This "workhorse" of a wine - because it is such a crowd pleaser - is summer trapped in a bottle. Light and refreshing it has notes of fresh lemon and honeydew. Pairs well with seafood or on its own.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Central Valley, Chile
FYI • Vines for wine were brought to Chile in the 1500's.

A rather young winery by Spanish standards, Borsao was founded in 1958 and works primarily with the region’s important varietal, garnacha. This spirited red is one of the best values on the market. Full of black raspberry, plum, and black cherry this wine pairs nicely with most things off the grill and even paella.

Grape • Garnacha, Tempranillo
Place • Campo d Borja, Spain
FYI • Garnacha originated in Aragon, an area in northern Spain.

Every morning since 1949, the song of the rooster over their vineyards has marked the beginning of every day which is why it is featured on the label. With elegant notes of strawberries, blueberries, and violets this pairs well a brie sandwich.

Grape • Pinot Noir
Place • Cental Valley, Chile
FYI • Cantoalba means the "dawn or morning song."

These hand-picked grapes are from the prestigious wine region that borders northern Italy along Slovenia's western border. The rounded style of this wine owes this to the malolactic fermentation it goes through just before bottling. Pairs well with light roast meats and fish.

Grape • Ribolla Gialla, Sauvignonasse, Chardonnay
Place • Goriska Brda, Slovenia
FYI • Over 75% of Slovenian wines are white.

"Boccadigabbia was once one of the “one hundred poderi,” or individual farms, that made up the Amministrazione Bonaparte of Civitanova, a vast agricultural estate. This red offers classic varietal spice, along with lovely scents of vanilla, chocolate, and wild red berries. Pairs well with Central Italian cuisine."

Grape • Montepulciano, Sangiovese
Place • Marche, Italy
FYI • Until 1960 most grapes at the vineyard were French.

This family operation started in 1880. Their organic practices shine through with notes of dark fruits and black pepper. The long finish on this wine will leave you pondering the final days of winter, or if you hold onto it a bit, the beginning of autumn. Versatile with many dishes.

Grape • Grenache, Syrah
Place • Rhone, France
FYI • Grenache must make up at least 40% of CDR wines.

Not all Rioja are made equally, in fact this delight has nearly 25% Garnacha which is considered this wines "soul." Only made about every other year from old vines, this wine exudes warmth and harmony. Notes of cherry, plum, cedar, and leather. Steak makes a good bedfellow.

Grape • Tempranillo. Garnacha
Place • Rioja, Spain
FYI • Reserva wines must age 1 yr in oak, and 2 yrs in bottle.

These childhood friends started their wine venture in 2001. Over the past decade they successfully created the perfect "California meets Northern Rhone" syrah. Made from nine different vineyards, the result is a complex wine that gives of black currant, black cherry and peppercorn. Delightful with game bird.

Grape • Syrah
Place • Sonoma Coast, California
FYI • When they first started out they made their own barrels.

Manfredi is considered one of the most talented winemakers in Sicily. His lively approach is immediately recognized here in the beautiful aromatics. Notes of acacia and orange blossom. Pair with roast white meats, white sauce, or fresh seafood.

Grape • Grillo, Catarratto, Zibibbo
Place • Sicily, Italy
FYI • This is on the opposite side of the island from Mt. Etna.