Pouilly-Fumé, Didier Dagueneau, Silex, 2002 ($165) “Not a thin wine,” Sherer says. “Very dense and concentrated pear, green apple, grapefruit flavors, yet refreshing.”

Riesling, Breuer, “Montosa Charta,” Rheingau, Germany, 1997 ($20) “Designed to be aged. Ripping acid, more lemony rather than the typical apricot-peach German Riesling.”

Gruner Veltliner, Huber, “Berg,” Traisental, Austria, 2004 ($30) “Subdued medley of nectarine and white-flower components with minerals more front and center.”

Cabernet Sauvignon, Martin Estates, Reserve, Napa, 2001 ($99) “So much flavor up front—you get hit with dense cassis, black olive, roasted bell pepper. Would pair with any meat.”

Brachetto d’Acqui, Giacomo Bologna, Piemonte, Italy, 2007 ($25) “A half-sparkling red with a sense of place, an earthy tone, a little rose, pomegranate and just a touch of sweetness.”