Moet & Chandon Imperial Champagne: one for a special occasion

Normally I won't spend much money on a bottle of bubbles, but every once in awhile I think it's worth it to spring for the real deal. It is actually illegal to call a sparkling wine "champagne" unless it is from the French region Champagne. Moet & Chandon easily justifies its place on the list of best-selling non-vintage champagnes in the world. Well-balanced with hints of ripe pear, this champagne is just off-dry with a lovely clean finish. Save it for a special occasion that demands just the right toast. $32 at Costco.

Drunken Fig Crostini with Prosciutto and Roquefort

Decadent in the extreme, this is a perfect appetizer for a fancy winter meal or holiday party. Spread a little bleu cheese on freshly toasted crostini, add a bit of prosciutto, and crown with wine-soaked figs. These delectable little treats disappeared in minutes when I made them for my in-laws. Fortunately I was smart enough to reserve a couple for myself in the kitchen - they were gone before I even made it to the dinner table! Garnish with walnuts for a nice counterpoint to the sweet-savory flavors of this delicious finger food. Serves 8-10 (assuming each person has two).

Chateau Haut-Sorillon Bordeaux Superieur: an old-vine French red

2009 is being heralded as a fantastic year for the Bordeaux region. I have yet to try many '09s, but found this affordable Chateau Haut-Sorillon Bordeaux quite drinkable. Like all wines that receive the Bordeaux Superieur designation, this is an old vine wine. Subtle fruit adds a bit of complexity, but does not overwhelm. The dusky floral bouquet is dominated by lavender with a note of cinnamon. Full-bodied and well-balanced, it is an appropriate pair for steak, lamb, strong cheese, or smoked meats. $9 at Trader Joe's.

14 Hands Chardonnay: a mellow Washington white

I'm not normally a big fan of domestic Chardonnays. They often taste like wood chips due to overzealous use of oak barrels during the fermentation process. The 14 Hands winery avoids this sin, and has a lovely result to show for their efforts. Pleasing aromatic notes of pear and apple combined with a soft, mellow finish make this a perfect pick for the beginning of autumn. Enjoy this Washington white with chicken or seafood. $10 at World Market.

A Stellar Sauvignon Blanc: sunshine in a bottle

Hats off to Chateau Ste. Michelle for this lovely Sauvignon Blanc from Washington's Columbia River Valley. Refreshing and vibrant with a clean citrus finish, this white wine is an excellent pair for cream sauces, fish, chicken, and salads. My cook's mind considered lemon, cucumber, and herbs as I breathed in its light, summery bouquet. Galileo said, "Wine is sunlight, held together by water." In the case of this wine, I couldn't agree more.

A Bargain for Bordeaux

I love French wine, and was pleased by this stellar yet affordable Mouton Cadet 2008 Bordeaux. Deeply fruity with a slightly spicy finish, this is a winner from Baron Philippe de Rothschild.  We paired it with New York strip steaks.

The best part?  It was only $5 at our local Trader Joe's.