Top-notch wines

The Wine Guy shares his favorites

Everywhere I turn it seems I’m being asked for wine recommendations.

Being someone who could - and usually needed to - take a hint, I have come out with the 2008 San Diego Wine Guy “Favorites” Awards.

By favorites, I mean wines that are more than just of the highest quality, but are also generally available and affordable as well. Distinctive stories can make a wine more delightful and were therefore given extra consideration. But mostly, these are the currently available wines I like to drink most.

I hope this list proves helpful in the perpetual quest for great wines, and that you enjoy them as much as I do.

Salut!

2006 Bernardus Chardonnay, Monterey County:

I’ve been drinking this wine for years and the 2006 is the best yet. Pure yellow apple wrapped in caramel up front, with tropical undertones adding to its complexity. Smooth enough to have on its own, but has enough acidity to enjoy with food. The fruit is complimented by the prudent use of only 33 percent new French barrels. 14.1% alcohol, 92 Points. $20 at BevMo and Vintage Wines.

2007 Nobilo Regional Collection Pinot Gris:

The most affordable of the winners was introduced to me after it won “Best of Show - Whites” in the 2008 San Diego International Wine Competition. Stone fruits permeate throughout this fresh and juicy wine. Medium acidity and body. It was made in an off-dry style which accentuates the fruit and softens the texture. The 2008 vintage will be released as Pinot Grigio, the same grape as Pinot Gris. 14% alcohol, 90 points. $10 at major grocery stores.

2006 Bonterra Viognier, Mendocino County:

This wine has won too many gold medals to mention them all, plus it is certified organic. Yellow-gold in color, medium-plus weight and a smooth, rounded texture. Orange blossom and peach on the nose with just enough oak for depth. Aromatic wines such as this pair wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving fare. 13.9% alcohol, 90 points. $17 at Costco, Ralphs and Vons.

2007 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand:

The 2007 version followed in the footsteps of the remarkable 2006. This light to medium bodied wine exhibits grapefruit and lime peel beautifully in concert with the unmistakable grassiness that is the hallmark of the Marlborough region. Its acidity forms the backbone for a fresh, crisp experience with a hint of sweetness on the finish. 13% alcohol, 91 points. $16 at BevMo and major grocery stores.

2005 Blackstone Sonoma Reserve Pinot Noir:

Awarded “Double Gold” at the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition. Rich and opulent. Aromas of black cherry, vanilla, wild mushroom and pine forest. Decant for an hour to reveal the best this modern era pinot noir has to offer. The winery has now released the 2006 vintage, so check the label. 14.3% alcohol, 91 points. $18 at major grocery stores.

2006 J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot:

Awarded “Double Gold” at the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition. Deep ruby in color, medium plus weight. Drinking this wine is like biting into the actual ripe blackberry and cherries themselves. Superbly balanced cedar and fruit blend harmoniously on the finish, all wrapped in a soft blanket of tannin. Merlot offers some of the best value in the current wine market. 13.5% alcohol, 92 points. $15 at BevMo and major grocery stores.

2006 33 Degrees North Estate Syrah:

Grown and made in Fallbrook, this wine is ruby-purple in color, medium weight, with accentuated aromatics. Offers black pepper, grilled filet mignon, followed by raspberry patch and dark cherries, and a backbone of slate minerality. Absolutely one of the most varietally correct and complex productions I tasted in 2008. 13.5% alcohol, 92 Points. Available at Fallbrook Winery for $30 (www.fallbrookwinery.com) and select North County restaurants.

2004 Saxon-Brown Zinfandel, Casa Santinamaria:

Without question, this is my favorite wine of 2008. Shockingly dense raspberry jam and black cherry, a mist of chocolate and some fieldy wildness. Intensely powerful without the soaring alcohol level found in many modern zins. Find it, buy it and drink it alongside a grilled New York steak covered in blue cheese crumbles. I promise you’ll write to give thanks. 14.5% alcohol, 96 Points. $39 at Wine Time, The Wine Loft, San Diego Wine Company or online at www.saxonbrown.com

2005 Powers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Champoux Vineyard:

Champoux (sham-POO) vineyard also is a fruit source for the three-time 100 point scoring cult cabernet made by Quilceda Creek winery. Deep ruby-purple in color. A mash of red fruits, plum, cassis and vanilla, with a hint of spicy green peppercorn. Intensely concentrated and more aromatic than cabernet from Napa. Enjoy now or cellar for many years to come. The 2006 is also now available. 14.5% alcohol, 93 points. Available online at www.badgermtnvineyard.com.

Wine prices are an approximation. Prices may be higher or lower depending on the location and date of purchase.