found the wine at Total Wine & More in Virginia Beach for $23, so I can't call it a great buy, but it is definitely a good buy and will look for more Michael Shaps wine on my next trip to Virginia. While in Virginia on vacation, I picked up four bottles of Virginia wines, figuring I would try all four and choose one to review. MORE >>

Mark was smiling widely tasting both the Dr. Frank and the Salmon Run Chardonnay while I could just not believe the 2008 Dr. Konstantin Frank Meritage. Our first time at the Blue Heron and will definitely return when back in the region. Two years ago, I fell in love with their 2007 Cabernet Franc. also enjoyed the 2008 Meritage. MORE >>

Peter generously brought a bottle of Selosse Champagne from France for my birthday in the fall. This bottle comes entirely from 2008 and is a blend of equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. loved this wine too, although it is definitely different from the other Lahaye wines I've had. Well, of the last few months anyway. MORE >>

Mind you, 2008 was the right vintage for its moment and thankfully there are still plenty of 08s available. My own sense is that five to 10 years ago, Riesling was definitely in on the ascent. It was not quite as good as 2008. Is Riesling a hard sell? Has the bubble burst on his Champagnes made by those who grow the grapes? MORE >>

Called the "definitive guide to Argentina's wine country," this is an information-packed book that is also remarkably easy and entertaining reading, and is studded with very dynamic pictures of the country and its people. 2008 Alamos Seleccion Malbec. "Viva, Argentina!" Laura joins the Team. MORE >>