A group of small family-owned wineries combined their efforts in the early 70's to create this winery with a focus on quality. This is a classic style of Montepulciano that is bright on the palate with notes of blueberry, rosemary, and peppercorn. Pairs well with eggplant and marinara.

Grape • Montepulciano
Place • Abruzzo, Italy
FYI • The cooling wind here is known as "brezza di terra."

"Founded in 1879 by Don Antonio Guerra, Vinos Guerra is one of the most historic wineries in Spain and the oldest winery in the northwestern region of Bierzo. Ripe red and black fruit aromas with mineral and earthy accents." Try with roasted pork or a Reueben sandwich.

Grape • Mencia
Place • Bierzo, Spain
FYI • Bierzo is a mountainous area near the Portuguese border.

The idea behind this wine is counter to the traditional California chardonnay. With a restrained use of oak, it's all about the grape. Well balanced acidity with notes of pear, apple blossom, and lemon curd. A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled chicken.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Lodi, California
FYI • Named after the winemaker's eldest son.

The crumbly soils of the five hectares in Umbria for this wine are difficult to work but well worth it. A special project to owner Riccardo Cotarella, a glassful of this is like walking through an orchard of apples and citrus. Pairs nicely with a bowl of salmon and quinoa.

Grape • Chardonnay
Place • Umbria, Italy
FYI • Tellus is Latin for Earth.

Spain is not synonymous with cabernet franc, its neighbor just to the east is. That hasn't stopped Finca la Estacada from trying something new...and it is a winner! Delicious aromas of raspberry jam and spicy green grass lead to notes of dark red fruit, delicate soft tannins and a long spicy finish. Try with stew.

Grape • Cabernet Franc
Place • Castile-La Mancha, Spain
FYI • The winery was founded in 2001.

The Lafond family purchased 3 hectares in 1966 and have steadily grown their holdings to an impressive 27 hectares today. This well-regarded family produces excellent wines every year. With notes of stone fruit, namely nectarine, as well as papaya, this pairs well with grilled swordfish.

Grape • Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne
Place • Rhone Valley, France
FYI • Corne Loup is named for this part of the Tavel Village.

"Located in the Dolomite Mountains in the foothills of the Alps, Terlano's distinctive location and extraordinary terroir are key to the development of their stunning, world-renowned wines. Winkl has an intense fruity bouquet with nuances of elderblossom. It is gentle on the palate, with well-balanced acidity."

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Alto Adige, Italy
FYI • Cantina Terlano was founded in 1893.

Founded in 1988 by husband and wife duo Spencer Graham and Elizabeth Pressler. This wine is true to the appellation it comes from with decadent notes of blackberry jam and cocoa. Pair with filet mignon and blueberry compote.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Napa Valley, California
FYI • In 2010, Rutherford had a population of just 164.

The unique white clay soil in the vineyards is part of the secret to this delicious wines success. It's an elegant wine that asks permission to enter your palate and then completely takes over. Layers of concentrated dark fruit, this is an exceptional food wine. Pair with veal in red sauce.

Grape • Sangiovese
Place • Tuscany, Italy
FYI • From one of the most famous sub regions for Chianti.