Frei Brothers Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Most of the time, I find that Sauvignon Blanc wines don't have much of a nose, regardless of how nice they taste. So I was surprised by the perfumey quality of this lovely number. Fresh grass, lemon, and melon scents carry through on the bright palate with a surprising hit of citrus and mineral. The finish is smooth, acidic and just sweet enough to balance the flavors.

William Hill Napa Valley Chardonnay 2007

This wine offers pleasant scents of honeysuckle, new oak, citrus and a bit of mineral. The palate, however, moves beyond pleasant and into something like bliss. A creamy wash of honeydew, peach and vanilla is quickly followed by hints of floral, yeasty and nutty oak that mellows into a soft, velvety finish while retaining its slate structure.

This Chardonnay is a class act and is just delicious. At a price range of $20-25, it's a great buy for everyday or slightly more special drinking. Like when you're thirsty for really good white wine.

Gallo Family Vineyards Laguna Vineyard Chardonnay 2006

This perfectly golden yellow chardonnay gives off intense, bright aromas of stone fruits and sweet pear with fresh-baked bread, sawdust, ginger and citrus. The underlying creaminess is well-balanced on the palate with the delicate acidity of ripe peach, green apple and hints of grilled pineapple. The complex, bright finish includes fruit and toasty oak with hints of gingerbread.

This rich, balanced white would be the perfect accompaniment to meaty white fish, scallops, creamy pasta and grilled veggies.

Rancho Zabaco Monte Rosso Toreador Zinfandel 2008

From the world renowned Monte Rosso Vineyard in Sonoma, this Old Vine Zinfandel is powerful yet very elegant. With a nose comprised of deep wood, black fruit, plum jam, sweet tobacco and hints of cedar and white pepper spice, the initial racy tones on the palate are balanced nicely with candied fruit and hints of fig. This velvety red rolls across the tongue with flavors of intense plum and jammy raisin, followed by subtle smoke. The flavors linger with black tea, cocoa, and black cherry. If you're looking for that perfect, rich California red to pair with peppercorn grilled beef fillet, this is a top contender for the job!

Retail is around $55-60