When a moment calls for something special, try one of these bottles, which range from $41 to $60
written by Sara Schneider
1 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Whites: Winner
Woodward Canyon 2010 Chardonnay Elegant white flowers over creamy Meyer lemon, pear, quince, and litchi, touched with brioche and crushed rock. (Washington State; $44)
2 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Whites: Runner-up
Suacci Carciere 2008 Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay Spiced apple, quince, hazelnut, and vanilla, punched up a notch with lovely minerality. (Russian River Valley; $42)
3 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Whites: Runner-up
Shafer 2009 Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay Fresh acidity backs golden apple, melon, pear, preserved lemon, and florals. (Carneros, Napa Valley; $48)
4 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Reds: Winner
Villa Creek 2009 "Willow Creek Cuvée" Another top Grenache blend offers up lush red fruit—baskets of strawberries—with lively acidity. (Paso Robles; $42)
5 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Reds: Runner-up
Chehalem 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir A Pinot that's found it feminine side with fresh raspberries, roses, and bright acidity. (Ribbon Ridge, Willamette Valley; $59)
6 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Reds: Runner-up
Peay 2008 "Les Titans" Syrah The dark side of Syrah-olive tapenade, black pepper, bacon, and thyme over blueberry. (Sonoma Coast; $47)