DiFronzo 2008 Pinot Noir Arroyo Grande Valley 

I loved this winner of a gold medal from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, a tasty Pinot Noir that’s so characteristic of the region where it’s grown. Tasting it on several occasions, I found it consistently outstanding. It offers ripe plum, black cherry, blackberries, and mineral aromas and flavors, ending with lingering fruit and spice notes. Wonderful with such Italian dishes as lamb chops or rich fish entrées, it’s also a great choice with filet mignon, grilled quail, salmon, or ahi. For vegetarians, choose a mushroom-based dish for a perfect pairing with it. Available at the retail price of $30 at Giuseppe’s Express in Pismo Beach, it’s also on the wine list and by the glass at Giuseppe’s restaurants in SLO and Pismo.