The Autumn Sampler

In the pantheon of great Italian grapes, Fiano is very nearly in its own category. Exceptionally mineral and savory, this example from Casa di Baal also entices with bright floral and white fruit aromas, while the palate is mouth-coating and medium-bodied.

A great match for substantial shellfish preparations like lobster thermidore, shrimp scampi or spaghetti alle vongole, the Fiano will do well beside flavorful cheeses and other vegetarian antipasti.

There's a freshness to the Natural Orange that really sets it apart. Aged in locally-made acacia barrels, the wine opens with a nose of freshly-picked orange, along with floral orange blossoms, moving to a palate with both a richness, and enough acidity to clean everything up on the back end.

A milder orange like this can play well with just about everything, although it's going to be especially delicious with salty, savory dishes like schnitzel or seared salmon with fresh herbs in a cream sauce. There isn't a vegetable out there that won't agree with the natural orange, go wild.

Although Cabernet Franc is celebrated all over the Loire Valley, there's something really special about the supple-fruited, mineral reds from Chinon, perhaps the most food-friendly red anywhere. This Chinon from two of our favorites in the region opens with notes of freshly struck match, milk chocolate, and plums while the palate is tense and nuanced, with a soft texture, and long, well-integrated tannins.

If you love French bistro fare, this wine may be your new best friend - equally welcome beside steak tartare, ratatouille, poulet or steak frites, if you really want to do this wine justice, break out the Julia Child!