2006 Ross Andrew Syrah Boushey Vineyard  $28
From the moment we first tried this Syrah, we immediately knew it should be in this month's club! It is just a fantastic wine, and a steal at this price. We are admittedly critical of many Washington Syrahs, which are generally quite good but often taste very similar. However, wines produced from Boushey vineyards consistently get national and even international attention, and for good reason. Dick Boushey is a well-known grower with a select group of vineyards in the Yakima valley; the vines he cultivates are always under his watchful eye. Andrew Ross takes these already beautiful grapes and makes them into art in the bottle . . . in this Syrah there are gorgeous spice and smoke notes which waft around the core of blueberry and dark fruit flavors, lasting through the fine finish. This wine has the tannins to last. Haj and Dave both vote this one to enjoy now as well as an excellent choice for some cellaring. If you have been considering adding to a collection or starting one, this wine is an outstanding cellar choice. We think this stands up to and even beats a number of Washington Syrahs that are offered at much higher prices.

Suggested Pairing: Don't overwhelm the complexity of this hearty red - so grilled meat would be perfect, but try it "Florentine" style: lightly coat the steaks with olive oil, grill, and then add freshly ground pepper and salt just as you remove them from the heat.

2004 Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis 1er cru Vacoupin  $21
One of our favorite things to find is a Premier Cru at a great price, and this closeout from Brocard, from the great 2004 vintage, just could not be a better find! A bright core of fruit is followed by lively acidity, hints of earth and nut flavors. Though its' main body has a minerally flavor and texture, it delivers a slightly creamy finish. Keep this well chilled or the acidity will present too much on the palate. (Note - there can be white crystals at the bottom of these bottles - this is not a flaw, but merely a sign that the wine has not been overly manipulated at the winery, preserving its bright, complex taste.)

Suggested Pairings: White, "dense" fish such as sea bass, halibut, or salmon; also a famous accompaniment for lobster. Pasta with light cream sauces; lentil stew, or Italian sausage stew with Cannellini beans. Herb roasted chicken would be a hit.

2005 Chateau Val Joanis Cotes du Luberon  $14
Cotes du Luberon is a large region just down the river from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Tavel, and Lirac - and not surprisingly Luberon produces deep, strong, and harmonious reds. This selection from Chateau Val Joanis is an incredible value for the complexity and depth.This blend of Syrah and Grenache delivers bold dark berry flavors, which lead to hints of coffee and cocoa; notes of dates and nutmeg echo on the smooth finish.

Suggested Pairings: Gamey meats such as duck, quail, or venison. Dishes with oregano will compliment nicely; robust cheeses would also be excellent.