In case you're not familiar with Jenny & Francois , they import natural wines from all over France, from heavy hitters like Burgundy to unsung heroes like the Côtes de Duras (just northeast of Bordeaux, and considered Southwest France). This is 100% gamay and it looks like fresh pressed grape juice, cloudy and pink. MORE >>

If you're in France, for example, and you exchange $100, you walk away with only 65 Euro, and that's before commissions and fees. 2005 Kuentz-Bas Alsace Blanc, $12, Kermit Lynch Imports (Blend of, in order, Sylvaner, Riesling and Pinot Blanc, Muscat). Reds: 2005 Chateau la Rame, $13, Rosenthal Imports (Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot). MORE >>

Most are from 2005, a wonderful vintage. One thing I should mention - I did not include red grapes other than Cabernet Franc - no Pinot Noir from Menetou Salon or Sancerre, no Gamay from Anjou.I White: 2005 Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet Sevre et Maine , $10 (so far, my case is the same as Lyle's). That's pretty intense. MORE >>

went with a Gamay from the Loire Valley, a glass of 2006 O. 2005 Chidaine Montlouis-sur-Loire Les Tuffeaux (about $23, Dressner stuff again, might be sold out at this point but there are other Chidaine wines on the shelf - try one). loved the "regular" version of this Southwest France gem, so tasting the reserve was a no-brainer. MORE >>

They use Malbec, Gamay, and even Cabernet Sauvignon in Muscadet, Anjou, and Saumur. But the dominant red grape in the Loire Valley, the grape that is used to craft the finest of its red wines is Cabernet Franc, known there as Breton. 2005 Chateau de Hureau Saumur-Champigny , $13. And at a fraction of the price. in his notes. MORE >>