As the weather starts to cool down our palate will start yearning for a more robust style of wine. The switch from whites to reds is a natural progression for many wine drinkers and also the types of food we eat seem to become heavier and bolder. Of course I still enjoy whites in the fall, I tend to gravitate towards wine that will match heartier cuisine. With so many great value wines being produced all over the globe its easy to pick a handful out that deliver complexity and drinking enjoyment at prices you can’t ignore. For Syrah and Merlot check out the fabulous wines coming from Washington State and California. If you enjoy red blends seek out producers from Australia and Chile. Argentina is also a great place to find Malbecs at prices you can’t pass up. This famous Bordeaux blending grape keeps flourishing in Argentina and the quality is superb for the money. Bolder styles of Pinot Noir from California are also good in the fall and pair with a wide variety of foods like mushrooms, pork and beef. Italy is also putting out some tasty Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends. Also French red Bordeaux and red Burgundy in the 2002, 2003 and 2004 vintages are showing quite nice now. For domestic Cabs you can’t beat Napa and Sonoma for the quality and be sure not to miss the full-bodied Petite Sirah also from California. The Petite Sirah is a different variety than the Syrah/Shiraz, but still delivers with the blueberry flavors and a touch of spice. Heres a list of producers that over deliver in price and quality and will please the most discerning palates.

1) Concannon Petite Sirah 2004, Calf. – this winery has been producing Petite Sirah for over 40 years and does an exceptional job. Full-bodied with aromas and flavors of blueberry, cherry and toast. $12.99 A must try!

2) Escudo Rojo 2003, Chile – made by the famous Baron Philippe De Rothchild family, this South American jem is reminiscent of a Bordeaux double its price. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Cab Franc and Syrah. Matured in French oak for 12 months and showing aromas and flavors of blackcrrant and cedar. $15.99. Great for the Holidays.

3) Carpineto Dogajolo 2005, Italy – this 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon blend from Tuscany is one of my favorites. The Sangiovese adds the acidity and cherry flavors, while the Cab adds structure and dark fruits. You can’t beat this for the price. $14.99

4) Domaine Du Seuil 2003 Bordeaux, France – this wine was awarded a Gold Medal at the famous Concours Mondial of Bruxelles. Its 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Merlot. Aromas and flavors of black fruits, earth and leather. Decant for two hours before drinking. A steal at this price. $ 21.99

5) d ‘ Arenberg The Stump Jump 2005, Australia – heres a fab wine made out of the Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre grapes. Its kind of like a Southern Rhone wine, except its from down under. This family has been making some of the greatest wine from Australia since 1927. Aromas of cherry, spice, pepper and eucalyptus. Great with pork and beef dishes. $11.99

6) Terrazas Malbec 2006, Argentina – if you need an alternative for a Cab than here you are. This wine delivers complexity and structure way beyond it price. Blackberry, blueberry, spice and a touch of mocha on the finish. South America delivers the goods once again. $11.99