2003 Chateau Pech Rosie Cabardès  $15.50
If you have not heard of the Cabardès region, don’t feel left out: as France’s most recently created AOC, it has only been producing wine under official regional designation since 1999. Yet there have been grapes grown here since the Roman occupation. As part of the huge network of AOCs that make up the Languedoc-Roussillon, the vines of Cabardès are scattered among a group of villages in the hills just north of Carcassone (the Minervois AOC). Being a new designation has a unique advantage: Cabardès is the only region in all of France which is "allowed" (by law) to grow and blend varietals from two very different regions - traditional Southern French varietals such as Grenache, Syrah, and Mouverdre, and the varietals of Bordeaux, like as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The result is wine that is distinct in its qualities, and Chateau Pech Rosie’s blend shows the best of these - plum and blackberry fruit framed by pleasing tannins; it finishes with an alluring licorice note and hints of herbs.

Suggested Pairings: Try this with lamb, or herb seasoned meat; it can also be enjoyed with Mediterranean style pasta and fish dishes, pork tenderloin with roasted fennel; Chicken Marbella.

2007 Black Chook Shiraz/Viognier  $19
The Australians have been doing this for years, but you still might find it surprising: take a well-known fruit-hammer of a grape like Shiraz, and blend in the highly aromatic white Viognier. The outcome of such a blend affects the color of the wine - and of course the nose and body. The Black Chook has been a famous example of the blend for many years running. Big fruit typical for Australian Shiraz dominates the nose and body, with blackberry, currant, and plum flavors boosted by peach aromas and zesty acidity. This is lively and incredibly smooth.

Suggested Pairings: Flank steak with raspberry-chipotle sauce; grilled pork chops with peach-mango chutney. Also makes a great reduction sauce for grilled meats - just a spoonful over grilled meat will thrill your guests.