2007 BRAMOSIA CHIANTI CLASSICO

I often hear from customers, the reason why they don't drink Italian wines is because they tend to be too dry. Indeed, many may seem to fit that category but for those ready to venture into some of these European classics, here is a Tuscan beauty that may change your opinion. Ruby red in color, it features fresh cherry, a bit of spice, cedar, and a touch of soft earthiness. Very fruit forward and not too dry, a touch of Merlot added to this Sangiovese based wine lends to it's added softness. This will pair well with any Italian dish you may desire, which translated, means Bramosia.

2008 CLOS la COUTALE CAHORS

The French just can't get it through their heads that new wine lovers want to know what grape varietal they are drinking, not the region it came from. They truly are missing out on the sector that lusts after Malbec where Argentina leads the pack. Those willing to try a Cahors (the region in France where the Malbec grape reigns) may never return to the wines south of the Equator. Inky dark in color, almost black perhaps, an explosion of silky blackberry, raspberry and cherry fruit integrate perfectly with vanilla, licorice and leathery notes. Chewy and meaty, it exhibits a velvety texture and a long elegant finish.

2009 O'REILLY PINOT GRIS

Washington State winemaker Owen Roe produces a stellar lineup of incredible wines, and a long list of rabid followers who seek out his cult classics. Add his new Pinot Gris project to the list, as it is one of the best I've ever tasted. Full throttle fruit of pear, lime and green apple shine brightly on this dry style white. Crisp and citrusy, it is the perfect match for your favorite Asian cuisine, from hot and spicy, to noodle dishes, General Tao's chicken or roasted duck.

2008 THREE SAINTS PINOT NOIR

Hard to believe the Dierberg family of wines considers this their second tier Pinot Noir. It may be half the price of their spectacular regular bottling but it doesn't take a back seat when it comes to quality and excitement. Rich in blackberry, raspberry, strawberry and cherry fruit, it's extracted dense flavors come from an extended fermentation of 20 days on the skins. The seductive nuance of tea leaf, violets and spice bring back fond memories of traveling through it's Santa MariaValley home. There are few, if any, Pinot Noir's that are of this quality and in this price range on the market today.