Italy

Dolcetto means "little sweet one," and while the wines are never sweet, the nickname does refer to the usual style of this wine: easy acidity, fruity and accessible. This one delivers, with black cherry and plum notes and crisp but not overwhelming acidit

A wine of almost unbelievable quality for the price. If you've wanted to try Amarone but don't want to part with $50 bucks or more, try this one: Medium-full body with intense black tea, blackberry and black cherry flavors and none of the jammy/raisiny no

The Aglianico grape is pretty much grown only in Campania and Basilicata, but the former yields softer, more approachable wines (though still with noticeable tannins). This has medium-body and acidity and is earthy rather than fruity with black cherry plu

Lagrein is typically earthy, with briary notes and hearty tannins. This one is a little gentler than some - even sippable - with forest floor aromas and slightly smoky raspberry, black cherry and tobacco flavors. Pair with braised meats and vegetarian ste

We tasted a whole line up of great grappas from Marolo and chose the Brunello bottling as the most delicate. It has a lovely, light floral note and a touch of peach-apple fruitiness. The pomace for distillation comes from the Star Wineries of the region.

The perfect Pinot Grigio for guzzling - and we use it for cooking too (well, actually we guzzle it while cooking). It has earthy citrus aromas, pear and soft orange flavors with a touch of orange zest as well. Totally dry (no sweetness) and medium - body.

"Mount of Angels" everyone's favorite Italian Pinot Noir is back, with it's typical high acidity (Great food wine) and red cherry flavors. Chicken, turkey, mushrooms, salmon...

From Reggio Emilia Province, the wine is made from Lambrusco grapes. This sparkling dry red wine using natural fermentation has a distinct violet scent, strawberries, cherries and raspberries. On the palate dried plums and mulberries, a touch of licorice

100% Nebbiolo from the Langhe region of Piedmont; aged in large, neutral barrels for mellowness without oaky taste. It's a lovely, approachable wine with blackberry, black cherry and earthy flavors and a long finish. It does have tannins, so plan to have

This is what chicken/veal marsala recipes usually call for (check for sweet; not dry). But it's nice drinking quality too, with caramel and apricot flavors, and only light-ish sugar. Pair with creamy sweets.

Colosi Nero D'Avola

Sweet and lightly fizzy, with that lovely floral and Lychee flavor of the moscato grape. This one isn't the famous Moscato D' Asti, but it, too, is delicious and well-made. Perfect for brunch!