Here's one you need to know about: the 2009 Little Italy from Eye of the Needle, a Washington state wine company that specializes in high value. The wine is basically a barbera/sangiovese blend that caught my attention in a recent tasting. Bright aromatics and a hint of wood pave the way for a firm and well-fleshed mouth feel. The high-toned fruit from the barbera is obvious, while the leaner sangiovese cherry shows in the finish. A best buy if ever there was one. Costs about $13.

-- Michael McVittie reviews wines available locally

Wine of the week: 2009 Little Italy, Eye of the Needle