Medium-bodied Red Wines

Querciabella, Maremma 'Mongrana' 2005
This wine is a sumptuous blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and sangiovese. ($18)

Vincent Girardin, Savigny-Les-Beaune 1er Cru
Unlike so many American pinot noirs these days, this exemplary red Burgundy tastes rich and refined, not sweet or sappy. ($38)

Marques de Caceres, Roja Reserva 2001
This wine offers delicious near-term drinking as well as excellent cellaring potential. ($24)

Merlot,Uco Valley,El Portillo,2005
This delicious value-priced merlot offers full, satisfying flavor in a soft, supple style. ($12)

Dashe Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel 2005
This food-friendly zin hails from what arguably is the finest growing region for zinfandel, Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley. ($22)