7 Sips for '07

Happy 2007!

Add these sips to your to-do list for 2007. I am guessing these are slightly easier to keep than your 'other' New Year's resolutions.

1. Alexander Valley Vineyards 'New Gewürz' Gewürztraminer 2006, North Coast, California--spicy, fruity, yummy! An explosion of rose petal and lychee aromas followed by grapefruit and ginger flavors. Clean, zesty finish. A hint of residual sweetness.

2. M. Lawrence 'Sex' Sparkling Rosé NV, North Coast, California--made in Michigan from California wine. A provacative blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with strawberry and raspberry aromas, yeasty accents on the finish.

3. R. Winery 'Bitch' Grenache 2004, Barossa Valley, Australia--a sassy little number from our friends downunder. Luscious black cherry and plum notes, loads of spice, velvety texture and a hint of smoke on the finish.

4. Goosecross Cellars Chardonnay 2005, Napa Valley, California--you might be over Napa Chardonnay by now, but this one deserves some attention. Small production--just 1200 cases--and you dont need a knife to slice it. Grapefruit and pear aromas with a hint of vanilla. Full and complex with a crisp citrus finish.

5. Cristom 'Mt. Jefferson Cuvée' Pinot Noir 2004, Willamette Valley, Oregon--one whif of this and you might think its Red Burgundy. Elegant cherry and spice aromas with mushroom and wet earth on the finish.

6. Wild Earth Pinot Noir 2004, Central Otago, New Zealand--the name says it all. Dark plum, black currant and wild gamey aromas, rich and elegant mouthfeel with a spicy and persistent finish.

7. Camaraderie Cellars Malbec 2004, Yakima Valley, Washington--unlike its Argentine cousins, this Malbec is not an over-the-top fruit bomb. Think bright and spicy with black cherry, raspberry and a hint of cedar. Medium bodied. Great food wine.

And feel free to send over feedback on any of these suggestions once you taste them.

Drink up!