2006 Laboure-Roi Pouilly-Fussé $12.00
Only Chardonnay is allowed to be used for whites made in Pouilly-Fuissé, which is a region within the Maconais, known mainly for its white wines. Chardonnay from this part of the world is unlike most you may have tried - full-bodied, yes, and also sometimes featuring more raucous details like earth, parafin, or grapefruit zest. With possibilities like this, we wanted you to try the more unrestrained version of Chardonnay. This version from well-known house Laboure-Roi boasts some pretty funky flavors, so give it a try: apple and pear mix with earthy mushroom and oak notes, framed by juicy acidity and slightly bitter hazelnut finish. Definitely try with your favorite cheeses to see which ones will produce an explosion of new flavors.

2008 Villa Giarda Barbera Suri $13.60
Barbera is a wonderful grape varietal, and often gets overlooked: part of the reason is that Italy seems to have several more "famous" grapes, such as Sangiovese (used in the Chianti region, for example) or Nebbiolo (Barbaresco and Barolo), and perhaps ironically because Barberas tend to be lower price. One of the most amazing qualities of Barbera is its ability to produce both dark, full berry aromas and flavors along with incredibly present floral tones as well. Well search no more - the Villa Giarda Suri Barbera has long been a superbly made wine at a great price. Featuring the classic berry and dark fruit on the nose, it holds fresh flavors of black cherry, nicely decorated with floral and spice notes. While the fruit is quite full and round, the wine also has good acidity and therefore is delightful to enjoy with a number of foods.
Suggested Pairings: Try traditional Italian fare, such as pasta with red sauce, pizza, or grilled meats and fresh vegetables.

2008 George Skouras St George $10.30
Perhaps the foremost producer of fine wines from Greece, George Skouras is often credited with leading the wave which transformed Greek winemaking from that of merely producing wines to be consumed to wines that are worthy of great enjoyment, collecting, and aging. Skouras studied enology in France before returning to Greece to start his career as a winemaker in the mid 1980s. He was quickly recognized for his talented efforts, and while he used Greek varietals at first he became famous with well-known world grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and the like. But with the momentum of his reputation, he is also credited with bringing back the traditional grape varieties of Greece, such as Agiorgitiko, helping make Greek wines part of the major world wine scene. And sure enough, The Skouras "St George" features Agiorgitiko as the dominant part of the blend (90%); St. George and Nemea are the other names typically used for Agiorgitiko, probably since it is such a mouthful to say! And speaking of a mouthful, the 2008 Skouras St. George is full bodied, dry, and extremely elegant: plum dominates the main body with notes of currant, spice, and chocolate, all held within a nice frame of tannins and velvety mouthfeel.
Suggested Pairings: Well, lamb of course! Also delightful with pizza, pasta, and other hearty fare.