Buy Wines By Region
Wine grapes grown in the same area, sharing the same terroir, have many of the same characteristics, so if you like one vineyard's syrah, say, you'll probably like syrahs from that region's other wineries. Also, lesser-known areas with good wines are almost always the best deal — once you discover them. "For lighter summer wines, there's great value to be found in New York's Finger Lakes," Cappiello says. He's fond of Bellwether Wine Cellars, where specialties include pinot noirs and bone-dry Rieslings. Chearno, on the other hand, favors central France's rural, mountainous Auvergne region for summer-friendly bottles. "It's off the main wine route, but there's really amazing stuff being made there," Chearno says, noting that the volcanic soil lends great minerality to its wines. He also recommends France's Loire Valley and the country's Touraine region, known for its lighter, fresher offerings. Simply need a can't-miss contribution for a friend's barbecue? A blended, high-quality red from France's Côtes du Rhône region is a fail-safe option. Also, don't be afraid to solicit advice. "Asking for help is a good thing," Cappiello says.
Buy: Bellwether Wine Cellars A&D Vineyard Dry Riesling 2013, $22; Marie et Vincent Tricot Vin de France Rosé 2013, $25
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