Ten Sisters Sauvignon Blanc 2010 - $15.99

Ten Sisters is named for the ten daughters and one brother of the King family, who are fourth-generation New Zealanders. Born on the south end of the south island and their parents eventually established this vineyard in Marlborough at the north end of the south island. Of Elizabeth, Janet, Margaret, Robyn, Judy, Ruth, Sandy, Joanna, Jackie, and Helen-and brother Bob, only one has a home in Charlottesville. This delightful white showcases the classic lime and green bell pepper aromas that makes Marlborough Sauvignons so compelling. Add a silky texture & you’ve got this remarkable bargain.

Rio Madre Rioja Graciano 2011 - $10.99

Rioja typically derives its character from the Tempranillo grape, usually 80 to 100% of the blend, but a wine can still be called Rioja even when made with no Tempranillo at all, like this 100% Graciano. Some might liken this to performing Hamlet without the prince, others will ask, “What's in a name?” Regardless, this dark, robust red shows real Rioja character. Graciano gives it deep color with violet and blackfruit aromas and flavors, and a liberal use of new oak adds vanilla notes. This smashing, boldly-fruited Rioja will taste great no matter which grape or Shakespeare play is involved.

Di Lenardo Unoaked Chardonnay 2011 - $12.99

Chardonnays can be big and bold (California) or subtle and ethereal (Chablis and Blanc de Blancs Champagne); this one from larger-than-life Italian Massimo di Lenardo reflects both styles. By using the Musque clone of Chardonnay and selecting full malolactic fermentation, he maximizes both color and flavor; by using no oak and choosing a bit of aging on the lees, he maximizes freshness and finesse. Golden-colored with yellow apple flavors, moderate acidity and a plush mouthfeel, it strikes a fine balance between bold flavor and elegance.

Priore Campotino Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2011 - $9.99

On the opposite side of the Italian peninsula from Tuscany lies Abruzzo, home to one of Italy's greatest red wine bargains: Montepulciano. Eric Asimov of the New York Times called it a “solid, dependable, moderately priced wine that is content in its supporting role for food.” Dependability and affordability; these are virtues you need not experience to appreciate, but the lush, dark fruit of this wine is something you’ll want to try for yourself.

White Knight Viognier 2011 - $11.99

McManis Petite Sirah 2011 - $11.99

Petite Sirah is not Syrah, it’s a different grape, known as Durif in France. Decades ago California wineries started calling it Petite Sirah, which sounded better rolling off the tongue. California is well-known for its rich, fruit-forward Petite Sirahs like this. It shows a deep, dark purple color with ripe blackberry, cassis, and plum aromas and flavors. The richness and length are quite remarkable for a wine of this price. Smooth, full and balanced, it goes well with a hearty stew, braised short ribs, or ribeye steak. And Thanksgiving!

Hillinger Pinot Grigio 2011 - $11.99

Do not think of Austrian wines as German, but rather as extreme northern Italian; their wines are dry, not sweet. Leo Hillinger is one of Austria’s most dynamic and innovative winemakers. A tall, muscular blond who looks like a stereotypical surfer dude, Leo speaks English with an Australian-German accent—a remnant of his three years "down under" honing his winemaking skills. This is a great Pinot Grigio made in a Pinot Gris style—fresh and smooth with great balance and ripe fruit on the palate.

Casas Patronales Carmenere 2011 - $7.99

Every Harry Potter fan knows the Patronus charm, but for those of you not up on your British wizardry, it's a pretty powerful spell, capable of protecting you from the worst evil creatures. To cast the spell, all you have to do is think of your happiest memory and then say, Expecto Patronum! We tried it the other day at the wine shop, but only managed to turn Robert into a newt (he got better.) Legally, we can't recommend trying magic at home, but buying this rich, velvety Carmenere from Chile's Maule Valley should provide all the happy memories you need for success, and at $5.96, it won't be too hard to conjure up another bottle when the first one magically disappears.

Avantis Viognier Evia 2011 - $9.99

Alika, Spyros and Apostolos Mountrichas are part of the new wave of Greek wines. Located in central Greece, in the heart of Evia approximately 70 km from Athens, their wines merit serious attention. The importer relates: “With fish grilling alongside fermenters and a long table set in the courtyard, a tradition as old as wine itself played out. Grilled fish, fresh salads and stunning traditional pitas provided the perfect vehicle for a long, relaxing look at the Avantis wines.” Did they then loosen their belts and dance on the beach? Pear and white peach dominate this flavorful blend of Viognier, Assyrtiko, & Muscat.

Château les Paruades Bordeaux Supérieur 2009 - $10.99

This château, built by Emmanuel Tessandier in 1875 in Macau, is located at the beginning of the Haut-Médoc on the edge of the renowned Margaux appellation. A proper claret, as the Brits say, it is elegantly balanced with a seamless, silky palate. Blackberry and black cherry fruits play off its fine, ripe tannins. Great Bordeaux vintage, classic Médoc style. Brilliant!

(60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc)