Pey-Wen Ting, Wine Consultant

NV Baumard Cremant de Loire Carte Turquoise, France ($11.99)

For those of you who love a good Champagne but can't always afford the price tag, here is a great alternative. Made from Chennin Blanc grapes using the traditional method, this wine is dry, crisp, and medium bodied with a fresh, pear nose and a pear, apple and orange peel palate. While it may not be able to compete with the real McCoy, at this price point, you don't have to wait till a special occasion to pop open a bottle!!

2002 Leitz Rudesheimer Drachenstein "Dragonstone"  Germany ($10.99)

After the huge success of his 2001 vintage, Joseph Leitz returned in 2002

with yet another great offering. Bright citrus nose with hints of tropical

fruit, crisp and tangy on the palate, this wine is medium bodied with hint

of sweetness that's beautifully balanced by mouth watering acidity in the

finish. At only 8% alcohol, this is the perfect wine for sitting out on the

deck in a hot summer afternoon.

2001 Castano Solanera Spain ($12.99)

One of my favorite wines for the last few vintages, the 2001 Solanera is

better than ever. Deep purple color with blackberry, smoky and spicy nose,

this wine is full bodied with moderate acidity and good, sweet tannin.

Drinking beautifully young but can definitely age for at least another 5

years, this is an incredible QPR wine. Supply is limited so get it while it

lasts.

2001 Patricia Green Four Winds  Oregon ($26.99)

Lovely earthy and red fruit nose, a raspberry and spice filled palate, this

is a medium to full bodied wine with good acidity and a long finish. An

elegant pinot noir that does not lack power, it is hard to believe the price

tag. If you love a good Pinot Noir, then you should definitely give this a

try.

Ardbeg 10 year Scotch, Scotland ($37.99)

If you are a malt drinker and love the island malts (Lagavulin, Laphroaig,

Talisker), this is one not to be missed. The distillery went through hiatus

in the 1990's but is now under new ownership, back in production and is

gaining a following again. Peaty, smoky, with a slight hint of sweetness and a long finish, it is a full bodied malt that is perfect for a quiet evening at home.