California Zinfandel occupies a unique niche on the world's roster of fine wines and is an especially versatile companion to foods ranging from barbecued meats to flavorful red-sauced pastas, and it shares the stage this month with a raft of refreshing, very tasty Rosés that are perfectly suited for drinking with summery cuisine.

Zinfandel has always been a go-to source for fine value in red wine, but, as its appreciative, long-time fans are well aware, it is a variety that can produce wines of exceptional quality and interest as well, and July's collection of exciting new releases includes a bevy of bottlings that show just how good, well-made Zin can be.

Rosé can be far more than an innocuous, light-hearted quaff, and the ongoing craze for pink has resulted in countless local versions made from a wide range of varieties that rank with the most satisfying examples to be found anywhere in the world.

Our latest line-up of wines that deserve special mention for delivering outstanding value features selections that run fromfrothy meal-starters to those that complement the heartiest fare, and budget-pleasing, Méthode Champenoise bubblies, Chardonnays and Petite Sirahs once again prove that quality and affordability are not mutually exclusive.