It's brunch season. What will you have on your table?

Easter weekend, for many folks, brings to mind the return of outdoor Sunday brunches with balmy temperatures and sunny days. Whatever Mother Nature has in store for your weekend repasts, PRP Wine has a selection that'll be ideal for your favorite brunch fare. Apparently some of our clients must be on the same page I am, because they've been asking me about some of my brunch-ready faves:

PIEROTH BLUE NV SEKT/DEMI SEC (SPARKLING RIESLING)/GERMANY: $22.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

For some reason I still can't understand, many wine fans shy away from sparkling wine. (No, I'm not going to fall into the trap of referring to all sparklers as Champagnes, especially since I know that authentic Champagne comes from the region, by the same name, in northeastern France.) Some say that bubbly "tastes funny," citing its unusual dryness and acidity (classic characteristics of those from the Loire Valley), or its fullness and opulently rich mouthfeel (Cava, anyone?). At any rate, here's a bubbly that's very different from the zesty Bruts or the ultra-buttery Spanish sparklers most folks know: It's a Sekt, a variation on the sparkling theme that hails from Germany. In the case of the Pieroth Blue -- a bubbly made by the traditional method -- its Riesling grapes are sourced from family-owned vineyards throughout the German wine regions of Rheinhessen, Rheingau, and Nahe. As the first PRP selection I'd tasted, I fell instantly in love with its exuberant aromas of mandarin orange, tangerine, apricot, lime, and pear, with fresh notes of jasmine, candied ginger, and honey adding a grace note. Those same fruit essences carry over onto the bright, lively palate, with engaging acidity keeping things interesting all the way through the cheerful finish of sweet citrus and zippy baking spices. It's a delightful, light-on-its-feet variation of the Riesling grape, just the thing for citrus-based desserts -- think lemon meringue pie, Meyer lemon tarts, ice cream or creme brulee with a hint of citrus -- and it's a must-have for mimosas. Did I forget to add that it should be on the must-buy list for bridal couples planning their wedding receptions?

PUERTA DEL MEDITERRANEO '07 60% BIANCO MALVAR/40% AIREN/LA MANCHA (SPAIN): $16.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

As wine fans the world over know, Spain is emerging as one of the world's hottest wine-producing regions in terms of the ever-elusive combination of quality and value in vino. Although Spain's long renown for noble, age-worthy Rioja riservas -- Tempranillos that frequently see more than two years in oak before bottling -- it's getting much-deserved love for other varietals from other regions, including Albarinos from the northwesternmost region of Rias Biaxas, Monastrell from Jumilla, and this crisp, fresh white blend from La Mancha. (Yes, that's the same region referenced in the 1972 film Man of La Mancha.) It's a region with chilly winters, blisteringly hot summers, and plenty of minerality in the soil, all of which are expressed in our zesty, light-bodied mix of Bianco Malvar and Airen. Lively essences of fresh lemon and lime -- as well as notes of green pepper, dill, and oregano -- dance from the glass, as does its palate with mellow, smoothly integrated minerality. The finish of lemon, dill, and white pepper offers grace to the wine's elegant nature. Pair this ultra-flexible white with the likes of halibut, mahi mahi, swordfish, shark, chicken, or veggies, and you'll have happy guests at your table.

FURST FERENC '07 GRUNER VELTLINER/AUSTRIA: $18.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Folks at the Los Angeles PRP office have heard me rave endlessly about this selection for months, and I'm not about to stop enthusing about this sultry, exotic dry-white selection any time soon. Small wonder: It's far and away the best example of this varietal -- which dates to Roman times, but officially termed Gruner Veltliner by the mid-1800s -- under $35. Austria's terroir allows this classy varietal, with its medium-full body and gripping acidity, to flourish, thanks to its steeply terraced vineyards, its mineral-laden soil, and its cool nights. Although many Gruners take the mineral-and-acid trip much too far, ours is in perfect balance. Look for invigorating scents and flavors of freshly squeezed lime, grapefruit, in addition to compelling hints of snap pea, green pepper, white pepper, and star anise. Pair its well-integrated, zippy minerality with a spicy, back-palate finish, and you'll enjoy a gorgeous white I wish I were sipping now. It's a star with oysters, as well as artichokes and asparagus -- two notoriously tough-to-pair vegetables -- but the Ferenc is a perfect match for them both.

CECILE CHASSAGNE '06 COTES DU RHONE/$19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Since any self-respecting brunch will also offer heartier, more robust fare than souffles, waffles, or poached eggs -- think blackened salmon or roast beef, for example -- it's only fair to provide oenophiles a red that'll provide plenty of character without being so ponderous that it'll be out of place during a mid-day repast. That's where this medium-bodied Southern Rhone baby comes into play; its magenta hue accents any brunch table with elegance. But if you want to do more with this wonderful red blend that merely look at it, you'll be rewarded with its succulent scents and flavors of dusty-dry raspberry, cranberry, and blackberry, as well as its classic Southern-Rhone notes of freshly ground black pepper, smoke, and "barnyard" on the nose. Hints of sage, dill, and peppercorn linger on the palate, all the way through its streak of spicy acidity, its remarkable integration and structure, and its satisfying finish of herbs, smoke, and dry red and black berries. Needless to say, this classic and exuberant Cotes du Rhone is a red to order by the case, given its ready affinity with a wide variety of casual/comfort fare: burgers and any grilled meat, stews, meat or turkey loaf, pot pies, casseroles, or classic French country fare -- cassoulet or French onion soup come readily to mind. (Since the Cecile Chassagne Cotes du Rhone has been one of my PRP faves for a while, I was bowled over when my manager gave me a bottle of it as an Easter gift.)

Cheers!

~ Jan

Springtime, and the quaffing is tasty

With sunshine and balmy temperatures on the horizon -- if they're not here already -- it's time to think about planning get-togethers with the favorite folks in your life. (Did I forget to mention that both Mother's and Father's Day, Memorial Day, graduations, weddings, and family reunions are right around the corner?) With the wide array of wines available from PRP Wine International, you'll never be at a loss for scoring a hit with your friends and guests, regardless if they prefer fresh, zesty whites or voluptuous, full-tilt reds. Don't hesitate to contact me, via a reply, if you'd like to pick up some of these beauties for your wine collection, or if you'd like to make a milestone event even more memorable with our custom-designed label that showcases that special day.

CONTE OTTAVIO PICCOLOMINI DUCA D'AMALFI (VENETO): $18.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

PRP clients the world over have bought oceans of this tempting Chardonnay/Pinot Grigio/Trebbiano blend over the last few decades, and it's easy to understand why: It entices with its lovely nose of orange, tangerine, lemon, lemon blossom, and jasmine, captivates with its sassy citrus flavors, candied-ginger notes, and peppy acidity, and delights with its upbeat finish of orange, lemon, and ginger. One of my personal favorites in PRP's collection, it's unbeatable with grilled chicken, halibut, swordfish, or citrus-marinated shellfish. Enjoy!

2008 VICOMTE BERNARD DE ROMANET CHARDONNAY (LANGUEDOC): $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

The Languedoc -- the region in southern France facing the Mediterranean Sea -- is known for its warm, sunny climate similar to that of California's Central Coast; it's small wonder, then, that hot-weather grapes thrive there. This unoaked, fruit-forward Chard is Exhibit "A" of that concept, with its cheerful and inviting aromas of orange blossom, naval orange, and lemon. The same fruit carries over onto the full, mouth-filling palate, accented by lively notes of ginger and white pepper. It's terrific with chicken or white fish with a citrus salsa, or just by itself.

2007 CHEVALIER DE BAYARD VIN DE PAYS D'OC (LANGUEDOC): $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

This cheerful fruit-forward, light-bodied red blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre from Languedoc is a long-time favorite among PRP customers, who affectionately call it "Chevy Red." Small wonder: It bursts with juicy, mid-palate flavors of raspberry, boysenberry, and strawberry, as well as zesty notes of nutmeg and clove. Not only is it absolutely studly with casual fare -- think burgers, ribs, pizza, meat loaf, or pasta with red sauce -- it's a winner to cook with. (Many of our customers put a healthy splash of Chevy Red on burgers while they're cooking on the grill, with the red fruit bringing out the rich flavors of the beef.) Without a doubt, this selection is a must-have for anyone who enjoys cooking.

2007 SATIRANO BARBERA (PIEDMONT): $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

One of our most in-demand Italian selections is this vivacious winner from Piedmont, the northwesternmost region of Italy renown for Nebbiolo, the grape featured in heavyweight stars Barolo and Barbaresco. This intriguing medium-bodied red offers aromas and flavors of black cherry, fig, black licorice, coffee, and cloves. Keeping things fun is that engaging kiss of lemon, which provides zippy acidity to the vibrant essence of the wine. Throw in a zesty finish of lemon, black cherry, and nutmeg, and you've got a wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of fare, including blackened salmon and pasta topped with marinara sauce. Did I mention it's also nifty to enjoy by itself?

2007 SATIRANO DOLCETTO D'ALBA (PIEDMONT): $21.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Another lighter red that calls Piedmont home is Dolcetto, and ours is a classic example of the varietal, with to its appealing nose and palate of black cherry, black licorice, coffee, cloves, and a soft hint of smoke. It's a bit softer than Barbera, thanks to a delicate hint of acidity, but its medium body and easy finish of black cherry and baking spices make it one of the more versatile reds known. Try it with an array of comfort entrees, such as meat loaf, beef stroganoff, stew, or anything grilled.

GOLDEN GRAPE 54% SHIRAZ/40% CABERNET SAUVIGNON/6% MERLOT (AUSTRALIA): $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

When fans of big-bodied, full-flavored reds hear Australia mentioned, it's a sure bet their eyes light up. That's why we at PRP offer this robust, jammy red blend with its outgoing scents and flavors of ripe-to-the-point-of-bursting blackberry, boysenberry, and blueberry, as well as hints of cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, dark chocolate, coffee, and menthol. Add its opulent body, its gentle tannins, its velvet-soft mouthfeel, and its sweet 'n' spicy finish, and it's clear why this big boy has been a PRP favorite for years. Ribs, anyone?

2005 GOLDEN GRAPE CABERNET SAUVIGNON (RUTHERFORD): $39.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

If you're yearning for an opulent Cab from Napa, search no longer. One of my PRP colleagues sampled this plush beauty at a recent event, and was utterly blown away by its layers of rich, intense currant, blackberry, and plum -- as well as essences of dark chocolate, espresso, freshly cracked black pepper, cloves, and smoke -- that unfold one by one on the velvety palate. Add its gorgeous, deep scents of ripe black fruit, sweet spices, smoke, and earth, not to mention its well-integrated tannins and a lush mid-palate finish of fruit and pepper that seems to last for an hour, and you have an absolute stunner. Please introduce it to a thick cut of ribeye with a port-reduction sauce!

Cheers!

~ Jan

Embrace spring with wines for every palate

When you're in the wine business, you're involved in a happy whirlwind of a wide range of activities -- events, promotions, and many others -- with sampling wines you've never tried before as the happiest, of course. And if being introduced to a bevy of distinguished selections isn't enough to make a soul smile, the gorgeous early spring weather that Southern California denizens have enjoyed the last few weeks is sure to do the trick. (Let's hope we're seeing the last of cold and gloomy springs!) With that, let's bring on on a variety of selections that'll appeal to a wide range of wine fans:

RAUENTHALER STEINMACHER 2006 SPATLESE RIESLING/RHEINGAU: $22.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

When I poured this vivacious Spat, my better half was relaxing that afternoon, sprawled out on the couch in front of the tube and flipping channels before settling on "Herbie Fully Loaded," the 2005 Disney vehicle starring the oft-troubled Lindsay Lohan. (Don't worry, folks: He's not a devotee of pre-teen Disney fare.) That's when I realized that the phrase fully loaded describes this Rheingau beauty to a "T," starting with its lovely golden hue and ultra-aromatic noce of ripe pineapple, tangerine, and orange blossom. Add its astonishing mid-palate explosion of pineapple, lemon, tangerine, pear, and dried apricot -- with notes of candied ginger and cinnamon to keep things lively -- as well as that exotic texture of zippy acidity and luscious butter. Add a lengthy finish of butter and pineapple, and you've got a wine that'll be sure to impress your guests at your springtime feasts. May I suggest pairing this loaded Riesling with glazed ham topped with pineapple?

CONTE OTTAVIO PICCOLOMINI 2007 SICILIA SANGIOVESE: $12.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Here's a classy, balanced Sangiovese (yep, folks, that's the grape that's featured in Chianti, Tuscany's oenological claim to fame) priced for fans of the varietal to enjoy every night, yet noteworthy enough for a dinner party or a gift. Despite the fact that this Sangiovese is grown in a region better known for the brooding Nero d'Avola, everything about this Piccolomini selection showcases the varietal at its brightest and food-worthy best: its subtle nose of Bing cherries, strawberries, lemon, and a hint of rose petals; its mouthwatering flavors of tangy red and black cherries, strawberries, green peppers, dill, oregano, and peppercorns that dance all over the palate; its fun squirt of lemony acidity, and its laid-back finish of green pepper and oregano. While it's a natural match with herb-loaded marinara sauce, don't be shy about introducing it to spicy blackened salmon (a favorite at home), chili, Tex-Mex dishes, or meat/turkey loaf.

DEEPWOOD CELLARS 2007 CHARDONNAY/MONTEREY: $21.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

As most wine fans already know, there's been a relatively serious backlash during the last few years among the public regarding heavily oaked, over-extracted Chards with finishes so heavy that they resemble gasoline. I tend to agree with the dissenters of this type. To paraphrase the title of that 005 Disney trifle I'd mentioned earlier, the Chardonnay grape is, by its own merits, so fully loaded that it doesn't need much -- if any -- interference from anyone else than Mother Nature. If any wine makes this case perfectly, it's this deceptively voluptuous offering from Monterey, which offers a seductive bouquet of succulent melon and butter; a rich mid-palate deluge of melon, lemon, and lime, with intriguing hints of eucalyptus, menthol, and dill; and a caressing finish of butter, lemon, and dill. This wine is an obvious pick to click with chicken, halibut, swordfish, or mahi mahi with lemon-dill sauce -- as well as souffles -- but its full body and dynamic flavors can make it a great match with a wide variety of fare.

CHATEAU BERTIN 2005 BORDEAUX/ST. EMILION: $30.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Stop me if you've hear or read this before, but 2005 has been hailed as one of the finest vintages for Bordeaux in years. (When I'd been the owner-manager of a wine shop in northeastern Orange County, I was briefly in the lucky position of having both an '00 and an '05 -- two vintage winners -- in stock at the same time. How good was that?) Anyway, to paraphrase one of my PRP collegues in describing that landmark '05 vintage, winemakers in Bordeaux were blessed with such good fortune from the oenological gods that year that they pretty much sat back and let the terroir take care of the grapes. As a result, everyone who has the savvy to pick up the '05 will experience the opulence and complexity this vintage offers in abundance. Truly, the Bertin is a don't miss, as well as one of my all-time favorites. It's a show-stopper, from its rich nose of dry currant, blackberry, earth, smoke, and understated floral notes; its flavors of dusty blackberry, currant, plum, cedar, earth, and gravel that unfold on the mid-palate; its gorgeous structure and balance; its mellow, faintly minerally acidity, and its lingering, smoky finish. While balanced Bordeaux such as this one are ideal with aged beef or rack of lamb, don't hesitate to pair this one with grilled steaks -- its smoky flavors and finish are a natural with anything with a bit of char -- or with your favorite stews, cassoulet, or French onion soup.

DEEPWOOD CELLARS NV BLACK MUSCAT/LODI: $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Still wondering what to serve with that can't-resist creme brulee, dessert souffle, Meyer lemon tart, or favorite fruit dessert you've prepared so carefully for your spring desserts? Ponder no more: This sweetie from Lodi -- the hot-weather region known best as a top source of high-octane Zinfandels -- befriends all of those postprandial treats, and more. Not only is it pretty to look at (how can you turn away from its enchanting ruby color?), it's a charmer to enjoy, with its nose of ultra-ripe raspberries and boysenberries, its flavors of massively ripe red berries that explode all over the middle palate, and its soft, gentle finish that subtly accents your chosen dessert. Now that I think of it, this Black Muscat would also be ideal with French vanilla ice cream, strudel, white chocolate ... and a host of other opulent goodies.

Cheers!

~ Jan

Whenever you're craving winter-ready comfort fare, be sure to have this on hand

Whether "winter weather" means highs in the 30s (as it does for my brother, a resident of Denver since June) or in the 60s (as it does for me in Placentia, a town eight miles north of Disneyland), it's likely that many of us have a big-time hankering for comfort fare at this time of the year. If you're craving the likes of meat loaf, pot roast, stew, chili, chicken and dumplings, pork chops, cheesy casseroles, mac 'n' cheese, or mashed potatoes these days, take heart: There's a wide array of hearty, savory, and affordable wines that pair effortlessly with your homespun culinary favorites. Here's one that my husband and I especially enjoy:

VICOMTE BERNARD DE ROMANET '06 CABERNET SAUVIGNON/RHONE: $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

It's no secret: I love unpretentious reds with plenty of easy-going, peppery rusticity -- in other words, anything with that appealing Cotes du Rhone vibe. Similar to the recently reviewed Cabrini Cabernet Sauvignon from Mendoza in its warmth and spice is this approachable Cab. Even though this red's grapes are sourced from Saint-Jean-d'Ardieres, a village that straddles northern and southern Rhone, its casual and spunky soul are undeniably southern. Its lovely tawny-garnet color and intense nose of ripe currants, plums, grilled meat, and peppercorns entice, while flavors of dry blackberries and currants join essences of cloves, nutmeg, pepper, and smoke. Firm but nicely integrated tannins add structure to the wine's supple, medium-sized body, as well as a mellow, peppery finish that lingers for minutes. And even though the Romanet Cab would be a slam dunk with any time-honored comfort-food entree, don't even think of wasting a wine of this caliber on a bowl of SpaghettiO's.

A Cotes du Rhone from Mendoza? That's right

The last time I rambled on about Southern California's weather, it was about six weeks ago in mid-November. That was when triple-digit heat and bone-dry gusts teamed up to produce some scary firestorms throughout the region. Since then, the weather here has pulled a U-turn for the holidays, with the mecury barely touching 55 during the day and in the low 30s at night. But no matter whether you regard this weather as invigorating (I do) or nasty (the view of about 70 percent of locals), you're probably going to crave a hearty, earthy, rustic red with your winter dinners. Here's one that'll pair wonderfully with your comfort-food favorites and warm your innards:

CABRINI 2005 CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MENDOZA: ABOUT $12

I tend to agree with the leading lights of the wine world who refer to Argentina -- more specifically, the regions of Mendoza and Salta -- as home to some of the world's finest and most appealing "new old world" wines. Mother Nature has blessed those two regions with some of the most remarkable conditions on Earth for cultivating wine: exceedingly high altitudes (Mendoza's vineyards are rarely below 3,000 feet above sea level, while many of Salta's range from 5,000 to 10,000 above the ocean); skies almost totally free of air pollution; a wide daily temperature range (summer highs frequently pass 100 degrees Fahrenheit); annual rainfall totals of about four inches; irrigation provided by snowmelt from the Andes; and barren, sandy soil. It's no wonder, then, that grapes from Mendoza's and Salta's vineyards feature stunning degrees of complexity and character. While the terroir is decidedly new world, the subtlety and elegance that's the aim of the regions' winemakers is European through and through. The Cabrini family, owners of their winery since 1918, showcases these "new old world" elements in each of their wines, and their unoaked Cabernet Sauvignon is proof of that. Grapes sourced from an 84-year-old vineyard on Bodega Cabrini, 3,100 feet above sea level, provide nuance and intrigue without any interference from oak ageing. This undeniably European approach shows up in the wine's potent "barnyard" aroma -- a trademark of a classic Cotes du Rhone -- and rustic, satisfying flavors of plums, currants, mushrooms, coffee, earth, smoke, and freshly ground black pepper. Its medium body with mellow tannins and a peppery finish make it a natural with any of your favorite cool-weather comfort entrees. Stews? Check. Chili? Check. Cassoulet? Check. Braised or grilled meats? Check. Mac 'n' cheese? Check. Meat loaf? Double check. With a retail price tag hovering around $12, this is a red offering class and comfort; it's definitely worth a search.

Opulence meets elegance: a lovely, full-bodied South African Chardonnay

As many wine fans know well, the move away from aggressive "oaking" in New World regions is well underway -- and not a moment too soon. Over the last few decades, varietals that had the potential to benefit with ageing in oak barrels had become unbalanced, heavy-handed brutes that conflict with the very entrees they were intended to complement. Is it any wonder why I agree with the European winemaking credo of leaving Mother Nature alone while she creates wine?

As it turns out, the many vignerons of South Africa subscribe to this theory as well. The area -- home of its first wine estate, Constantia, in 1685 -- is enjoying a re-birth as a reknown region following decades of mediocrity. Pinotage (read: Pinot Noir and Cinsault) and Chenin Blanc (a.k.a. "Steen") remain South Africa's vinous calling cards, but an array of warm-weather varietals are strutting their stuff, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Semillon, and Chardonnay. With peak summer temperatures frequently passing 100 degrees Fahrenheit, grapes easily attain intense ripeness once harvestation occurs in early February. Here's a must-try from Paarl, Stellenbosch's neighbor region that's the former headquarters of South Africa's wine industry, Co-operative Wine Growers (KWV in Afrikaans).

BOLAND CELLAR '08 CHARDONNAY/PAARL: $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)

Kudos have been poured onto Boland at prestigious wine competitions the last few years, especially the the awards for Best International Winemaker of the Year and Best South African Producer at the 2001 International Wine and Spirit Competition in London. It's clear why the team of cellar master/viticulturalist Jurie Germishuys and winemakers Naudé Bruwer and Bernard Smuts have garnered such notice, especially with their lovely Chardonnay. Grapes from 10- to 15-year-old vines are harvested by hand from early to mid-Februrary; following the harvest, 70% of the grapes are aged in French oak for three months. The result is special indeed, starting with the wine's delicate straw color and its rich, appealing scents and flavors of banana, cantaloupe, canary melon, vanilla, and a hint of lemon. Notes of white pepper, ginger, and dill add intrigue to the wine's opulently buttery mouthfeel and lingering finish. While Boland's Chardonnay is undeniably voluptuous, its elegance and balance set it far apart from its gaudier brethren drowning in toasted oak. It's a must for rich shellfish entrees -- think crab cakes, as well as lobster or scallops in butter sauce -- not to mention corn or clam chowder.

There's no better time for this elegant red for all seasons

The sense of dislocation of middle autumn in southern California can only be described as mind-boggling. Where else in the greater 48 can you experience 90-degree November days, with Santa Ana winds arid enough to make you crave a Calamine bath? (To the unintiated, this is what meteorologists call "fire weather," the combination of intense heat and dryness that causes entire communities to burst into flames at this time every year.) Now imagine what it's like to park your car, cross the parking lot with that heat and those high winds leaving you sweaty and tousled, wander into your neighborhood grocery store, and walk right into an end-cap display brimming with decorative horns o' plenty and Santas.

Welcome to the traditional start of southern California's holiday season.

Yes, I'm very aware that this country's weather is as variable as any on the planet. While locals here roast and endure 58-mph gusts (that's what I've just read on a local news source), the Midwest is getting hammered by an early snowstorm, and residents in the Northeast are just digging out from several days of heavy rain. Yet no matter where American oenophiles live, most of them still want a glass of Pinot Noir, Beaujolais, Grenache, Sangiovese, or another light red with their dinner. That preference is easy to understand, since they've probably quaffed easy-drinking whites, roses, and bubblies for the last six months to beat the heat and humidity.

So what'll satisfy wine fans not yet ready to plunge into heavyweights Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, or Bordeaux for the next five months ... and, come to think of it, be a star on Turkey Day?

REGNARD HAUT COTES DE BEAUNE PINOT NOIR 2005/CHABLIS: ABOUT $15

100% Pinot Noir. In 1860, Zephir Regnard founded his winemaking business, a house that would later become of the most prestigious in the Chablis sub-region. Baron Patrick de Ladoucette bought Regnaud in 1984, ensuring its dedication to producing wines of classic style and tradition. The essence of a classic red Burgundy is a haunting, unforgettable melding of purity, delicacy, and earthiness, and this ethereal beauty from Baron de Ladoucette has those qualities in abundance: a gossamer-light bouquet and palate of Bing cherries, lilacs, roses, mushrooms, black pepper, and freshly tilled earth. With its pale ruby hue, fragile body, surprising grip on the mid-palate, and an ever-lasting finish with subtle spices. It summarizes everything that this varietal from this famed region should be. It acts like a premier cru with a price tag of at least $50, yet numerous retailers have it on their shelves in the $15 neighborhood. If you haven't had the chance to sample a quality Burgundy, take the plunge. (Dare we suggest that its elegance and balance would make it a hit on your Thanksgiving table?)