Since 1851 the Bryson family has worked the red tinged soils in the Padthaway Valley. This is a great example of where wines from the country are headed. Balanced with attractive berry flavors and hints of violets on the nose, this will pair great with most items off the grill.

Grape • Shiraz
Place • South Australia, Australia
FYI • South Australia is among the most arid in the country.

The darling grape of California is brilliant here with layers of flavors ranging from blackberry to tea to cedar. No need to worry about this being an over-the-top style. This red, from Gregory Ahn, is a medium bodied delight that pairs well with lasagna.

Grape • Zinfandel
Place • Lodi, California
FYI • Lodi is also famous for it's huge raisin production.

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.

The two brothers behind this dynamic estate make some delicious wines. You'll notice how beautifully aromatic this wine is immediately with floral qualities like lily of the valley and honeysuckle. Makes for a perfect aperitif or pairing with ceviche or the always satisfying fruit de mer.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Loire Valley, France
FYI • The Loire River is the longest river in France.

While the Johnson family has grown grapes since the early 90's, it wasn't until 2000 they released their first vintage of Spy Valley, named after a nearby U.S. Govt. listening station. Truly delicious, this is the style that made New Zealand's SB world-famous. Aromatic with notes of grapefruit, pair with oysters.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Marlborough, New Zealand
FYI • S.V. is a certified sustainable producer.

Founded in 1879 by two brothers the winery is still under family control to this day. This wine is what started it all and has been made every year since 1879. Produced from winery owned grapes (50%) from Rioja Alta, it is designed to enjoy now and requires no bottle aging. It pairs well with a variety of foods.

Grape • Tempranillo
Place • Rioja, Spain
FYI • Remaining 50% of grapes come from local farmers.

This storied region with its poor schist soil in a remote part of Catalonia is notorious for its difficult conditions - but those who persevere are rewarded. Thirty years after Robert Parker wrote of this region it is now quite famous. A big wine with notes of dark fruit and rosemary. Pair with meat.

Grape • Grenache, Carignan, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Catalonia, Spain
FYI • AKA Priory, home to Carthusian monks in the Middle Ages.

Inspired by the historical winemaking techniques of Erni Loosen’s great-grandfather, this is made in the same way as the Dr. Loosen Grosses Gewächs. A grape often misunderstood in the U.S., this remarkabley dry wine has notes of flint, petrol, apricot, and herbs. Can easily cellar for 5-10 years.

Grape • Riesling
Place • Willamette Valley, Oregon
FYI • Grosses Gewachs is a special vineyard designation.

Julie Bott was born in the Northern Rhône Valley and Graeme Bott is from New Zealand. They met while working for Stephane Ogier. Hand picked grapes from a densely planted parcel. Notes of black fruit and spicy black pepper. Delicious with smoked and grilled meats and savory couscous dishes.

Grape • Syrah
Place • Rhone Valley, France
FYI • First three vintages were made in their garage.