La Fleur de Bouard 2004

My friend wanted to get my husband wine for his birthday and asked me what kind of wines he liked. I responded: Old World. Earthy. This wine was right on the money and he loved it. Thanks, Lisa!

It's a dry red wine - very spicy and earthy, but I liked my husband's description more: like chicken that's been char-grilled too much.

I'm not sure whether I'd like it alone or with food. It's pretty strong for food - except for a nice, big, fatty steak. But, it's too spicy to NOT eat anything... Definitely not good with soup and grilled cheese which is what I happen to have for dinner the night I drank it.

Andeluna Winemaker's Selection Torrontes 2007

So, let me first say that the jury is still out for me regarding Torrontes. I love most South American wines, so I'm bummed that I'm not enamoured with all of them.

I bought this bottle on sale from a grocery store for $8.99, and it's worth the price. It's very nice and full bodied, so a great fall wine. The taste is honey with a touch of lemon peel.

But, it's definitely on the sweet side, so a deal killer for me and most - unless you like that sort of thing or pair it with a nice chocolate cake!