$15 & Under / Domestic / Champagne & Sparkling / Collectibles / French /

Germany & Austria / Italian / Rose / Port, Sherry & Madeira /

Sake / Slovenia & Croatia / Southern Hemisphere / Spain & Portugal

Almondo Roero Rosso Piedmont 2007

Nebbiolo is the grape here, grown in Piedmont's Roero region. Lots of flavor for the dollar. You get the rose petal, tar and bright red fruit components found in Barolo and Barbaresco but you don't have to wait 10 years to drink it. Soft tannins and moderate acidity make this an affordable stand in for Piedmont's big boys.

$17

Hofstatter “Meczan” Pinot Nero Alto Adige 2007

Call it Pinot Nero or Blaubergunder, it's really just Pinot Noir, done up beautifully in classic Italian style. Not as heavy as our domestic versions and less tart than Burgundy, the Meczan is light and fruity but well structured. An ideal summer red. If it's hot outside, throw it in an ice bucket for 10 minutes.

$19.50

La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino Tuscany 2004

La Gerla is one of Montalcino's most consistent producers. The '04 gives up concentrated black cherry, and dried herb aromas. It's medium bodied and has the structure to age but with some air and hearty food it can be enjoyed now.

$46.50

Groppolo Vermentino "il Montecello" 2008

Dry and minerally, this very special white has a fascinating, creamy texture. The aroma is pear like, with a pinch of white pepper. This is produced in tiny quantities so get it while you can.

$30

Villa di Geggiano Chianti CLassico 2006

This is nice earthy, traditionally made Chianti. Not mean and sharp, not sweet and over crafted. Just right. This is the Chianti that Mama Bear would drink.

$21.50

Tenuta delle Terre Nere Etna Rosso "Calderara Sottana" 2007

High on the slopes of Mt. Etna, there is growing number of dedicated  producers that are showing the world what can be done with Sicily's indigenous Nerello Mascelese and, in this case, a splash of Nerello Cappuccio. Terre Nere produces several variations from different vineyards, all of which demonstrate a degree of subtlety not commonly expected from the island. This is the weight of Pinot Noir. Nuanced and complex.

$47

Sant'Andrea "Preludio" Rosso Circeo 2006

A great gift. for red wine lovers. A new wave supply of extravaganat red from Italy. May increase the birth rate.

$17