If you're a fan of Nebbiolo, then don't pass up on the wines from Valtellina. In the town of Ponte, in Lombardy, Italy, they grow a grape they call "Chiavennasca," but it's the same Nebbiolo grape used in Piedmont. The wines drink a bit differently than their Piemontese cousins. One such shining example is the Rainoldi Rosso di Valtellina "San Gregorio." It shows that Nebbiolo, like Pinot Noir, can run a full gamut of expressions. It shows bright and fresh red fruits like cherry and raspberry, with only a hint of Nebbiolo's signature tarry and rosy aromas. It's a bit less aggressive than its Piemontese relatives, making this a great pairing wine: it can hold up to pizza and is delicate enough for fruits and vegetables. The Black Truffle Gouda from the Cheese Shop makes an incredible match. If you're looking for a "baller on a budget" red wine, look no further - this is it. -Dale Johnson, Surdyk's Consultant