Australia’s Little
Boomey wines are
a great value

These days, finding a good bottle of wine in your local wine store is like a visit to a zoo. You've got your Yellowtail kangaroo, Papio (a species of monkey, not the Hawaiian fish), "Little Penguin" and "Jackaroo." Yes, the bright colors and cute labels are all part of the fun -- and they all taste good with jammy fruit and residual sweetness.

"Little Boomey," one of the newest Aussies, manages to keep it balanced better in that over-the-top fruity style. This super value (only $5.79) originates from the region of Orange (not to be confused with Orange County, Calif.) in Southern Australia.

The cabernet-merlot blend 2003 is tasty and elegant, with flavors of plum and black currant, and a soft, ripe finish. Excellent with roasted or barbecued meats and robust pasta dishes.

The merlot 2003 has a plush, velvety mouthfeel with cherry and plum flavors. Ideal for braised pork dishes, veal or roasted poultry.

Lastly, the classic Australian shiraz 2003 reveals the vibrant spice and black cherry flavors we've all come to love. It's great with ribs, sausage and barbecue flavors.

With the holidays only a few months away, start filling your shopping list early with the best wines -- they'll go fast. Watch for the highly anticipated 2001 reds from California, the best since 1997.

Sonoma chardonnay and pinot noir from the 2002 vintage are hot! Bordeaux from the outstanding 2000 vintage is still around. And the same for the incredibly rich 2003 rieslings from Germany -- the ripest vintage in the last 100 years!