An ABC-Chardonnay
Those of you searching for anything but Chardonnay, might be surprised by what you find in the Chilean Los Vascos 2005 Chardonnay Colchagua. It is a dry, Chard, in the style of a white Burgundy with nary a touch of oak. Of course, this is not surprising since Domaine Baron de Rothschild (Lafite) has a 50% stake in Los Vascos. The wine is light straw in color with a pleasant bouquet of pears. It is crisp, delicate and drinks like a Sauvignon Blanc. The price point, under $10, makes this an excellent value and in our opinion a triple star weekday or entertaining wine.

ABR? Anything But Riesling?
What is it with Riesling and me? I am having a hard time embracing this varietal. One day I was searching for Rieslings, but fell upon a Gewurztraminer. It was delightful. From Alsace, Trimbach?s 2002 Gewurz ($20) is a light, lemon yellow. The bouquet was full of melon and pear. As for the taste, it was dry, crisp and interesting- slightly smoky and fruity with pears and stone fruit. I would serve this wine an aperitif instead of Champagne or with spicy Indian or Asian food. You will not be disappointed.