2007 Spinifex "Papillon"

This Aussie (Barossa Valley) blend of 66% Grenache, 18% Cinsault and 16% Mataro is not the muscular red we tend to expect from this country. For starters, the light ruby color catches you off guard. Almost flamboyant aromas jump from the glass, showing gingerbread and black olive notes. Other complex aromatics develop as it airs. The supple tannins and the sweet, layered flavors are very satisfying. This wine has its fair share of finesse - even the alcohol is a moderate (for Australia) 14%. I bought this bottle at the Kansas City Lukas store at Metcalf and 119th Street. The cost was $24.

2007 Colosi Nero d'Avola

I gained a appreciation for Sicily's most widely planted red grape when I spent a week on that lovely island five years ago. At $15 retail, this Nero d'Avola delivers a lot of bang for the buck. The deep red-black color and focused ripe black fruit aromas are nicely complemented by ripe tannins and a lengthy finish. This wine should hold well for several years, but I do not think it would benefit from extended ageing. This is the perfect match with BBQ or burgers from your grill. I would love to see this wine appear on restaurant wine lists - it would be the ideal go-to wine when you don't want to spend a lot of money on a pricey cab. I bought this bottle at the Kansas City Lukas store (Missouri side).

2006 Anderson's Conn Valley, "Right Bank"

This Napa Valley producer continues to crank out high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends at prices that make the pricing strategy implicit in many over-$100 bottles seems absurd at best. This wine is a 70/30 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The complex aromas that jump from the glass say "Pomerol" with a California twist. The raspberry and black currant nose has balanced oak support. Full-bodied but not overly tannic, this wine tastes delicious now but will age gracefully for another 10 years. Parker gives it a 95 and I can't argue with that appraisal.
The price was $52 at the Lukas stores in Kansas City. This wine should have wide distribution. Their "reserve" 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is about the same price and it is also lip-smacking delicious.