2006 Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Grande Reserve
When the Sauvignon Blanc grape is grown in the region of Sancerre (which is only two hours from Paris) it is taken to levels beyond compare. We've wanted a Sancerre to be part of the club for a while, and have come across one that is most worthy. The key to the creation of such fine wine in Sancerre is the limestone - a band that runs all the way from the heart of France, through the Loire Valley region, and eventually emerging on the other side of the English Channel as the "white cliffs of Dover." Since Sancerre's terroir is in the center of the country, the mix of topsoil and limestone underlayers provide a unique mixing of flavors for the resulting wine. Henry Bourgeois has several vineyards to choose from in Sancerre, and the Reserve means just what it says: the best grapes are selected, resulting in a wine with zest, purity, and balance. If you are a fan of Sancerre, you are sure to notice, and if you are a beginner with this region, this will make you a fan (we don't apologize for doing this.) You may find the nose refreshing, as it provides sharp citrus notes, mineral and herbal tones. The wine enlivens the palate with fresh lime, grass, and floral notes which cascade down to the ultra-clean finish, and a final note of flint to remind us of that limestone which provides such character to this region.

Suggested pairings:  Sancerre can go with a wide assortment of foods, including pasta, seafood, or herbed/baked chicken. Despite the crisp acidity of this wine, we don't suggest having it with spicy food, as it could mask the more intricate notes and finish.

2006 Cigliuti Barbera d'Alba "Campass"
The Cigliuti winery has been making wine for four generations. Only in the 1960s did the winery begin to actually make wine to sell for public consumption, and we are a better world for it; truly everything made by this traditional family winery is exceptional. No matter what you are doing, cooking, or eating, this wine will make you sit down and take notice. Barbera is often an overlooked varietal, because it is grown in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, where Niebbiolo makes the most impact under the regions of Barolo and Barberesco. But Barbera is not to underestimated, especially from this single vineyard version. Offering aromas of flower petals and violets, there are hints of berry fruits - this leads to a fresh and beautiful main body of chocolate-tinged tart cherry, with an incredible floral, creamy texture and finish. It's wild stuff to be sure, but also supremely elegant.

Suggested Pairings:  Try with game such as venison or elk; great with sausages, cheeses, and other kinds of hearty appetizers.