Greetings from New Orleans! i'm having an amazing visit here as I research and educate myself on the booming luxury cocktail business. A future Drinks Blog will be dedicated to this trip and the amazing things going on in The Big Easy.

When I discuss French wine with people throughout our Valley there are oftern two major hurdles to get over: Lack of understanding and price. Here's a look at four really nice French wines from three of France's greatest regions. All of these wines are highly affordable at under $20 retail.

1. 2010 Sauvion Muscadet Sevre-Et-Maine - ADOP Loire Valley
100% Melon de Bourgnone grapes. Pales straw color with exotic fruits and slightly toasted notes. Pleasant and well rounded with excellent balance. Orchard fruits and hazelnuts on the finish.

2.. 2013 Sauvion Vouvray - ADOP Loire Valley
100% Chenin Blanc grapes. Floral and green gardens notes on the nose with sweet whites fruits and a crsip malic acid. Very clean with a great mouth feel.

3. 2011 Clos de l'Hermitage Cote du Rhone - ACC Cotes Du Rhone (Rhone Valley)
A blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mouvedre. Jammy and juicy with rich / bold berry flavors and moderate tannins on the finsh.

4. 2010 Chateau Bonet Bordeaux - Appelation Bordeaux Controlee'
50% Cabernet and 50% Merlot. Winemaker Andre' Lurton's family has presided over thsese prime Bordeaux vineyards for over a century. Incredibly well developed with dark fruits and refined structure for a Bordeaux at this price.

I'm hositng a wonderul event Friday night at Avalon Buhl Park showcasing these wines and a specially paired Tapas dinner menu. If you are interested in attending, please contact me through our web site:

www.myvalleyvino.com

Cheers!