La Merika Chardonnay Central Coast 2013

La Merika Chardonnay Central Coast 2013: Citrus, green apples, lemon, green pear, green melon, pinch of pineapple, hint of honey; nicely sharp acidity bodes well for food pairing, but tasty solo, too; clean, bright on the palate; simple, straight-forward, nice effort. La Merika honors the star that supposedly led early explorers to the Western Hemisphere; it has special meaning in Knights Templar and Freemason history. $13La Merika Chardonnay

Bogle Phantom Red 2011

Bogle Phantom Red 2011: Very smooth, nicely tasty; raspberry, cherry, blackberry, dash of vanilla, suggestion of oak; blend of zin, petite sirah, mourvèdre; full body, restrained acidy makes it more pour to drink solo than with food, but delicious and smooth; a red blend folks who are not into red blends will enjoy. Bogle boogies again; consistently good value. $18Bogle Phantom Red

Casa Contini Biferno Riserva Red Wine 2009

Casa Contini Biferno Riserva Red Wine 2009: Superb, peppery-sweet nose; smoke, black fruits, red cherry, blueberry; smooth, balanced, wonderful complexity for the price; Southern Italian montepulciano (85%) and aglianico (15%) grapes combine for medium body with rustic edges, forest floor, reserved tannins, some acidity, lushness, too, excellent finish. Aged 18 months in large barrels made from Slovakian oak. Great value and delicious experience; this is by no means your everyday $15 red wine. $15Casa Contini Biferno Riserva