1)  Zinfandel:  Whether it be from the Amador, Dry Creek Valley of Sonoma County, or Santa Cruz Mountains, you can’t go wrong with a reputable vintner from any of these regions.  This variety yields wines with depth, dense flavors and deep color and pairs outstandingly with everything from your basic burger to grilled meat such as beef, chicken, turkey, pork and lamb.  But it doesn’t stop there.  Pizza, sausage, cheeses (hard or strong) and pasta in a zesty tomato based sauce are great matches, as well.  You can find some choices in our Wine Finder.  Best yet, most of the wines tend to be affordable and accessible.

2)  Pinot Noir:  From the Sonoma’s Russian River Valley to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, this varietal can range from very soft to more full bodied, spicy styles.  As a general rule, pair the full bodied and spiced Pinots with richer dishes such as grilled meat, poultry and of course the classic salmon and even tuna.  Most quality Pinots will run you ~$40-70 but every so often, you’ll stumble upon a real steal such as the Cardwell Hill at ~$25.  Mild cheeses can make a nice pairing, as well.  You’ll find some choices in the Wine Finder.   3)  Cabernet Sauvignon:  For the devoted Cab lover, there’s just no greater gift.  If the recipient is into Cabs, chances are they’re dreaming of a classic steak and Cab match.  While your thoughts may well first turn to Napa Valley names such as Caymus, Altamura, Beaulieu Vineyard, Beringer, Colgin, Harlan Estates, Paul Hobbs, Neyers, Joseph Phelps, Schrader Cellars, and Opus  don’t overlook those from alternative regions.  Washington’s Columbia Valley and Walla Walla regions yields outstanding producers such as Columbia Crest, Betz, Cayuse, Efeste, Leonetti, L’Ecole and Quilceda Creek.  Unfortunately, many of these names will set you back on average at least ~$70 and possibly as much as a few hundred dollars.  On the other hand, if you’re game, try a Cab from Chile (Casa Lapostolle, Concha y Toro), Australia (Mollydooker and Wolf Blass), and South Africa (Ernie Els).  Many of their entry level can be had a more affordable prices.

4)  Chianti:  For those of us old enough to remember, these Tuscan wines were rather dull and sometimes insipid.  Fast forward to today where there are several excellent choices from a group of vintners that have single handedly pushed this varietal’s expressions to new heights.  From pizza to steak, this wine has the personality and versatility to work its magic.  Click here for some Wine Finder choices.