2003 Floresta

An easygoing red from Spain’s Costa Brava, the 2003 Floresta is the right wine and the right price. A blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha (with Tempranillo having a slight edge), this fresh juicy red has a lot of character and complexity for 10 bucks. Like most Spanish reds, it loves food. Its soft ripe tannins mean it can go with just about anything from a plate of chorizo and jamon serrano to stuffed piquillo peppers, grilled lamb chops or paella and, at the end, cheese.

Quick swirl

Region: Emporda-Costa Brava, Spain

Price: About $10

Style: Fresh and juicy

Food it goes with: Just about anything

Where you find it: Joan’s on Third in Los Angeles, (323) 655-2285; John & Pete’s Fine Wines in West Hollywood, (310) 657-3080; Mel & Rose Liquor & Deli, (323) 655-5557; Vendome Liquors in Studio City, (818) 766-5272; Wine Country in Long Beach, (562) 597-8303.

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2002 Giacomo Conterno Barbera d’Alba

Barbera may be a perfect barbecue wine. It loves fat and pork and char and holds its own against that smoke and sauce.

There are Barberas and there are Barberas. This is one of the greats from one of Barolo’s best producers, Giacomo Conterno. Ruby in color and extravagantly scented with blackberries, it has a firm structure along with beautiful fruit and acidity that sings. It needs food, though, and that’s where the ‘cue comes in. Pour it with baby back ribs, chops and grilled sausages. But go easy on the vinegar-laced sauces. You’ll want to taste every nuance of this Barbera.

Quick swirl

Region: Piedmont

Price: $24

Style: Bright fruit and acidity

Food it goes with: Baby back ribs, grilled chops and sausages

Where you find it: John & Pete’s Fine Wines in West Hollywood, (310) 657-3080; the Wine House in Los Angeles, (310) 479-3731.