Michel Redde Sancerre 2007

Lots of people don't know much about Sancerre. It's the French Savignon Blanc, but with nothing of the typical citrus flavor of a New Zealand Savignon Blanc. I really don't love a strong grapefruit taste that is common with many NZ wines, but I still prefer the pop of flavor that those wines give. The French ones are a bit too light with food, but good for drinking while watching VH1 reality TV with friends.

Domaine Chandon Pinot Noir 2006

My in-laws introduced me to this wine this past summer and brought it over last night for dinner. I first had in the summer - for those who know me well this will seem strange. I usually prefer white to red, and usually exclusively drink white in the summertime. But this wine is something else. It's very light and smooth - perfect for any season.

Ménage à trois Red Wine 2008

Yes, it's "table" wine. Yes, it's $9.99. But it has a cool name, so when my friend Lisa bought it, I had to try it. I've bought it a ton of times since and have been happy with it since. It's a great gift wine with the fun name. I promise you, it's yummy - no flavors come out too strongly but it's also not a "taste your hangover" kind of wine.

Sterling Reserve Merlot 2002

mmmmmmmmmmmmm!

I received this as an engagement gift from all my business school friends and was told to open it on a special occasion. I felt the 5 year anniversary of my 1st date with TK fit the bill.

What great friends I have! I'm not usually a fan of Merlot (no sideways jokes, please), but this is a bit older and "Reserve", and was so smooth and fun. No crazy flavors, just rich, smooth, red happiness!

Vina Alarba d.o. calatayud Granacha/Syrah

Yep, it's got the fruitness of a granache and the spiciness of a syrah. And the appeal of going to stores the day after Thanksgiving. I tend to not like wines from Spain and this was no exception.

Dona Paula Shiraz Malbec 2006

Why, why, why would you muddle a wonderful wine like Malbec by blending it with Shiraz? I'm sorry Dona Paula and Shiraz lovers, no offense - I like Shiraz, really. I love Shiraz by itself or blended with a Cab or Merlot because of the strong spiciness and the richness it adds to other stronger wines. But not my soft, sweet, light Malbec. It takes over like a weed. So, Shiraz + Malbec = not for me.

Babich Savignon Blanc 2008

Classic, low-priced NZ Savignon Blanc. It was $32 at the restaurant, so probably retails around $15. It's VERY drinkable... as evidenced by the number of bottles my friends and I went through as we watched the Yankees clinch their 27th World Series win!