Web-exclusive pick:
• 2003 Domaines Perrin "Nature" Côtes-du-Rhône (France, $16) This wine – with lots of ripe berries and cedar – is a great value from a consistent producer. In June 2005, it was listed as one of the "Top Ten Organic Wines" by The Independent newspaper in London, England.
Don't forget these picks from Chatelaine's May 2006 issue:
• 2004 Gray Monk Gewürztraminer (B.C., $15) An off-dry, exotically perfumed white with aromas of lychee and grapefruit.
• 2004 House of Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand, $19) A zippy white with tangy aromas of gooseberry, grapefruit and peach.
• 2002 Palandri Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (Australia, $24) A big red with plump fruit. Good acidity makes it great with a wide range of dishes, from hearty meat fare to tomato-sauce pasta.
Natalie MacLean was named World's Best Drink Journalist at the most recent World Food Media Awards for her free wine newsletter, available at www.nataliemaclean.com. Look for her column in every issue of Chatelaine.