This article is all about winemakers from around the world that consistently make good to
excellent wines every year. In order to be listed here, there are two simple qualifications:
the winemakers must make at least three different varietals and they must be somewhat easy
to find in liquor stores or wine shops. Wouldn't make much sense if we pointed out a bunch
of dependable wines that you'll never be able to find or buy.
Learning these labels will help you when you're shopping for a bottle for yourself or for
a gift, or if you're at a restaurant looking for something to order. If you're on your own
and aren't sure what to choose, look to the dependables and you'll be OK.
Without further ado, let's get to the dependable labels (count at 8 with more to come...):
d'Arenberg (McLaren Vale, Australia)
Not only does this Aussie winemaker make amazing reds and whites , but they give them extremely
cool names. Our favorites include the Dead Arm (world-class Shiraz), the Ironstone Pressings
(a red blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre), and a fantastic white blend that everybody
we've served it to loves, the Hermit Crab (Viognier and Marsanne). You can buy great d'Arenberg
wines online such as their Lucky Lizard Chardonnay , Dry Dam Riesling , Stump Jump White Blend and Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon.
Gary Farrell Wines (Russian River Valley, CA)
Nestled in the gorgeous hills of the Russian River Valley is a winemaker that constantly produces
wines that just sing. Gary Farrell wines will be a bit more challenging to find in a store or
restaurant, but their excellence across both red and white wines must be mentioned. They are
best known for making magnificent Pinot Noir , but Gary Farrell also produces top-notch
Chardonnay , Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel .
Kim Crawford Wines (Marlborough, New Zealand )
These winemakers create amazingly affordable and drinkable wines, and their roster is truly
immense. But we're big fans of her vibrant Unoaked Chardonnay , her fruity Pinot Noir and her
classic New Zealand style Sauvignon Blanc . Great gift wines: an unusual label to most and all
under $20 at the store.
Chateau Ste. Michelle (Columbia Valley, WA)
The most acclaimed winemaker in the state of Washington for a reason. We always start with
their Eroica Riesling , made in partnership with the renowned German Riesling master Dr. Loosen.
From there, you can't go wrong with Ste. Michelle's fantastic Columbia Valley Merlot ,
Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer. Consistently good wines at excellent prices.
Purchase their Reserve Merlot and
Chardonnay online today.
Domaine Serene (Willamette Valley, OR)
Oregon is producing some absolutely beautiful wines, both red and white, and Domaine Serene
is at the forefront. The Pinot Noirs made here are sublime, fruit-filled masterpieces of
drinkability. In addition, the Chardonnay is clean and crisp, and under the label Rockblock
they make a stunning Syrah . Unfortunately, their wines cannot be purchased online, but you should
absolutely consider joining their
wine club.
Concha y Toro (Chile)
Founded in 1883, these Chilean masters produce fantastic wines starting with their rich,
expressive Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon , a wine that always brings in their highest ratings.
You'll find additional Chilean quality in the Casillero Del Diablo Chardonnay and their huge flagship CarmÃn de Peumo,
a heavy, luxurious red made from the grape Carmenere. Here's another great wine from Concha y Toro, the
Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay.
Penfolds (Australia)
Although their most famous and expensive wine is the indulgent, masterful Grange, Penfolds
produces a wide range of delightful, easy drinkers at great prices. Start with their
Kalimna Bin 28 Shiraz , a zesty cousin to Grange which you buy online or find pretty much anywhere. Other Penfold gems include the Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon and the
Thomas Hyland Chardonnay.
Trimbach (Alsace, France)
So, these guys and gals have been making seriously dry and succulent white wines in Eastern
France since 1626; needless to say, they known what they're doing. Some of the best white wines
in the world are produced here, so if you're struggling a white wine on a menu that you can
trust, look no further than Trimbach Riesling , Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris . They even
make a fantastic Pinot Noir, though this is a difficult bottle to find.
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