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Don Sebastiani & Sons “SKN” Chardonnay 2007 (Napa Valley, California), $15: This “SKN,” short for “Screw Kappa Napa,” is just waiting to be invited on your next fishing trip, as flavors of lemon sorbet, Asian pear, and caramel pair nicely with fish as well as pasta dishes.
d’Arenberg “The Love Grass” Shiraz 2006 (McLaren Vale, Australia), $14: Notes of plum, cinnamon, and boysenberry make this wine a delicious take-along. Ideal for camping, it pairs well with hot dogs or marshmallows roasted over a fire and can be consumed now or aged for up to 10 years.
Joseph Drouhin Laforêt Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2008 (Côte de Beaune, France), $15: Family owned for 130 years, Joseph Drouhin makes a pinot noir that will add zing to a day outdoors. This French delight has light tannins and flavors of wild strawberry and tart red currant. Pour a glass to enjoy with fresh apple pie.
SeaGlass Sauvignon Blanc 2009 (Santa Barbara, California), $10: This wine’s clean, crisp acidity and bright citrus and tropical fruit flavors make it perfect for seaside activities ranging from an oyster roast to a sunset walk on the beach. At home, try it with crab cakes or light pasta dishes.
Ledgewood Creek “PicniQue” Red Cuvee 2008 (Suisun Valley, California), $12: This appropriately named “picnic wine” is ideal for an alfresco afternoon. Full-bodied with smooth tannins and rich flavors of currants, berries, and dark plums, it goes nicely with a spread of pizza and antipasti.
