This one’s a bargain. Good ratings. Budget priced. Buy it by the case. I pay about $10.99/bottle for this best buy.

The 2004 Penfolds Koonunga Hills Shiraz Cabernet (Australia) is a dense purple color and hints of spice, chocolate and pepper on the nose. Plenty of berry and a hint of chocolate on the palate with a distinct earthy quality. It finishes rich and smooth. At times, this wine has a definite cab character, but at other times the shiraz definitely comes through. In the end, it is a well done blend and I think the taste profile is really dependent upon the food pairing. Currently, I am only finding the 2005 where I do most of my wine shopping - not as complex or smooth but it remains well worth the price.

Some of my favorite pairings are a buffalo ribeye, grilled lamb chops or any game meat - or - you may want to try roasted duck. With the steak or lamb try escargot, sauteed in olive oil and a little garlic and served with a bleu cheese sauce and wilted spinach (you may even want to try this right on top of your steak). The combination of red meat, earthy bleu cheese, spinach, and cream no less, will either blow you away or send you home from my house early with whatever excuse you can create on short notice. For the less adventuresome, substitute portabello mushrooms for the escargot.

Given its modest price, this is a great choice for a dinner party —plenty of wine, without breaking the budget. I have purchased various Penfolds wines for a good many years now, and I have never been dissappointed.

Have FUN this summer!

Wilson Creek Winery and Vineyards almond champagne is a great way to add good cheer to any special occassion.

I like to start a party or casual get-together with this champagne served with a warmed brie topped with toasted slivered almonds and a good chewy French bread.

Visit Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyard .

Fritz 2004 Russian River Pinot Noir was a wonderful pairing with both a planked and grilled wild salmon and a roast duck served with a port/fig sauce. Ask Kelly!

…plenty of black cherry, plum, and a hint of spice, with a long finish.

Unfortunately, the 2004 is sold out and no longer available at the liquor store I most frequent in Durango, CO. But, if you can find it, I highly recommend this pinot noir. Look for other Fritz wines at your local store and visit their website.