The monks from this southern portion of Portugal were known as Loios, and this wine is named for them. Arguably the country's most famous winemaker, J Ramos produces this wine from indigenous varietals. Supple and easy with notes of blackberry, this pairs well with BBQ fare.

Grape • Aragones, Trincadeira, Castelao
Place • Alentejo, Portugal
FYI • Vila Santa is named after a 15th century priesthood.

The Bousquet family, orginally from Carcassonne, France, set out to make a wine with European elegance. Since 1990 they have produced wines such as this refreshing sauvignon blanc that is full of lime citrus and bright acidity. Makes for a great aperitif.

Grape • Sauvignon Blanc
Place • Mendoza, Argentina
FYI • Mendoza is home to more than 1000 vineyards.

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.

Just north of Venice is one of the most stunning places to find vineyards. Bordering Austria with the Dolomite Mountains and Adriatic Sea nearby, the wines here are equally mesmerizing. Toh! is an expression of surprise and this wine delivers with classic apricot and honeysuckle notes. Pair with Parmigiano-Regiano.

Grape • Friulano
Place • Friuli, Italy
FYI • Friulano was previously known as Tocai Friulano.

Produced from gnarley vines grown in the arid lands of south-eastern Spain is this red which serves as an homage to the winemaker's father. Mostly monastrell with a bit of cab, the 40 year-old vines produce a hearty wine full of notes of blackberry. Pair with stew or chili.

Grape • Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon
Place • Yecla, Spain
FYI • Gordo was a nickname for the winemaker's father.

All hand harvested grapes are used to produce this fun and refreshing white. Delicate aromas of white flowers and citrus fruits on the nose with a subtle spicy component. Traces of salt and minerals on the finish. Seafood appetizers, fried fish, and young cheeses.

Grape • Malvasia, Bellone, Chardonnay, Verdicchio
Place • Lazio, Italy
FYI • "Capoccia" is someone who poses as a boss,

Made as an homage to ancient times, Garganega is a historic varietal linked to the Romans 2,000 years ago. Balsaltic-volcanic soil is a huge reason for the wine's complexity. Honeysuckle, wildflowers, acacia with a touch of lemon zest shine through. Great with baccala or clams with lemon and capers.

Grape • Garganega
Place • Veneto, Italy
FYI • Garganega is the 6th most planted grape in Italy.

"Ron Donati grew up in South San Francisco, the son of a first-generation Italian-American family. Today it is run by Matt Donati whose primary efforts are directed at sustainable farming, Aromas of cherry berry and red fruit with a hint of tootsie roll. " Pair with grilled steak.

Grape • Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
Place • Paso Robles, California
FYI • Located within the fog-influenced area of Paicines.

Produced by the Occhipinti's using native varietals. On first smell it seems almost Beaujolais-esque. On the palate it's much different. A noticeable wet stone and mineral quality up front with a finish of currant, violet, and rose. Pair with grilled tuna or Sicilian caponata.

Grape • Frappato, Nero d'Avola
Place • Sicily, Italy
FYI • Sabbie is the name of the redish sand terroir.