The following will help the beginners

WHITE WINES
C. von Schubert'schen Schlosskellerei, Riesling Kabinett Maximin Grunhäuser Herrenberg 1999, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany ($12.50): This German Riesling has a typically long and unwieldy name, but the wine is simply peachy, with juicy fruit and a balanced finish.
Fetzer Vineyards, Chardonnay 2000, Five Rivers Ranch, Monterey, California ($13): This smooth and creamy Chard is vineyard-designated (made from grapes grown at Five Rivers Ranch) and has lovely vanilla tone and a crisp acid backbone.
Bonterra Vineyards, Viognier 1999, Mendocino, California ($19): A distinctive white varietal (from a grape originating in the Rhône Valley of France that has been organically grown in Mendocino) with bright, fresh fruit and long, smooth flavours.
Domaine Denis Gaudry, Pouilly-Fumé 2000, France ($20): The Pouilly-Fumé appellation in France's Loire Valley is noted for its tangy and explosive Sauvignon Blanc, with bright acidity and juicy fruit.

RED WINES
Kunde Estate, Zinfandel 1999, Sonoma Valley, California ($15): A charming Zinfandel from California's Sonoma Valley appellation, with sweet berry fruit and a long finish.
Louis Jadot, Chorey-Les-Beaune 1999, France ($20): Like this plummy and plump example from the village of Chorey-Les-Beaune, most red Burgundies are made from the Pinot Noir grape.
Hedges Cellars, "Three Vineyards" 2000, Red Mountain, Washington ($22): Blackberry fruit and a long, lively finish characterise this proprietary blended red from Washington State's newest appellation, Red Mountain.
Flora Springs, "Trilogy" 1998, Napa Valley, California ($50): Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc form the trilogy of grapes in this lush and lovely proprietary blend.

SPARKLING AND DESSERT WINES
Laetitia Brut Cuvée, Central Coast, California ($16): A crisp, dry, non-vintage sparkling wine from California's Central Coast appellation.
Dolce 1998, Napa Valley, California (half bottle, $75): A remarkable, creamy, and sweet dessert wine made from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon with gorgeous balance, amazing finesse, and notes of peaches, apricots, and honey.