Maybe it's on account of the upcoming weekend, or perhaps I woke up feeling nostalgic, but I'm inclined to offer a recommendation for a bottle of reasonably priced Italian wine. This bottle brings back memories of a bicycle touring trip I made to Italy a few years ago. Occasionally we'd meet local cyclists in the long empty stretches of countryside. With a sharp "Andiamo Americanos" an impromptu race would begin, proving the Italians' love of sport and competition in intermittent bursts of fiercely passionate cadence.

Perhaps it was a few isolated groups of cyclists, or maybe the countryside itself is steeped in that special joi de vivé. Whatever the case, the excitement, camaraderie, and joy of those bursts of pedaling are brought back every time I open a bottle of Da Vinci Chianti.

The rich history, lush flora, and old-world charm of the Tuscan countryside is embodied in every sip. Invoking my inner Sommelier: If you like a full bodied, ruby wine with notes of cherry and blackberry, this Chianti won't disappoint.

Da Vinci is one of only 24 wines allowed to carry the DOCG certification label awarded by the Italian Government. Speaking of awards: their traditional Chianti routinely scores above an 86 from Wine Spectator. (the 2005 was an 87)

When it was released, you could pick up a bottle well bellow the $10 mark. These days, expect to find it hovering closer to still very appropriate $15. Drink it tonight; saving it too long will ruin the bottle.

For more offerings visit Da Vinci. Find it at your local adult beverage specialty store.