Chianti

Definition: Chianti is a major DOCG that extends through most of Tuscany. It is also the name of Italy's most popular and widely available red wines.

Chianti is a dry red wine, made from the sangiovese grape, that only improves when consumed with food.

Flavor Profile: It can range from light to full bodied and displays aromas and flavors of cherry, often roses and violets mingle with fairly high acidity.

Food Pairings: Italian foods, beef, chicken, tomato based sauces over noodles

Pinot Grigio

Definition: Italy's most popular white wine is produced from the pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris grape varietal. This wine hails from the northeast region of Veneto and Friull. A light, crisp white wine that is intended to be consumed early one.

Flavor Profile: Pinot Grigio flavors can range from melon to pear and some even offer a subtle tropical or citrus fruit, often there is a honey or smoky flavor component as well. As for color, Pinot Grigio is typically a pale, straw like yellow with some golden hues thrown in. The texture of a Pinot Grigio is worth noting, as it has a very smooth, almost silk like overtones that leave an impression on the palate.

Food Pairing: Pinot Grigio pairs nicely with seafood, light pastas and cheese cracker combinations, since this wine is fairly acidic itself, avoid paring with foods that have high acid contents like citrus fruits or tomato based recipes.

Malbec

Definition: Originating from the Bordeaux region of France, this grape is among the big six for red wine grapes. However, with the exception of Cahors, its family and fortune in France often end there, as Malbec is generally a grape used for blending, with very little vine being devoted to its improvement or success. The story in Argentina is quite the opposite. Malbec has found both fame and glory in the sun drenched climate of Argentina. This is Argentina's signature grape and it is quickly making a new name for itself with red wine lovers.

Flavor Profile: Malbec is typically a medium to full bodied red wine. Ripe fruit flavors of plums and blackberry give it a jammy characteristic. The tannins are typically a bit tight and the earthy, wood like appeal makes for a fairly rustic yet versatile wine.