Given the astounding support we received with our 20%-off sale, our first email back-in-the-saddle had to be a great value.

To reward everyone that came by the store last week, we found an unheralded wine of exceptional quality in the virtual treasure trove of Southwestern France.

Gone are the days when one could pick up top-notch Chateauneuf-du-Pape for under $30. Even Côtes du Rhônes, what can amount to the bargain-bin category of the region, are fast pushing $20-$25.For those who thrill to the berry and fig-packed flavors, loamy minerality and dried herbs so associated with the wines of this arid rolling landscape, there is relief. Turn up the Quality-to-Price Ratio by turning to one of France's undiscovered and undervalued territories: The Languedoc.

Domaine des Grecaux's 2003 "Terra Solis" drinks like a slender, sleeker, fresher version of the Southern Rhône's great wines...

Since Crush opened, I've had the hardest time finding a great Pinot Noir for under $20.

California has pretty much priced itself out of the market; same with Oregon.

And you can forget Burgundy.

The New Zealand Pinots are often good but have never inspired me the way a truly excellent Pinot should.

After months of patiently tasting lesser bottlings, I have finally found the greatest Pinot Noir for under $20 on the market today: the 2004 Vignoble Guillaume.

Guillaume's Pinot Noir has the lightness of body and briskness to be perfect for the warmer weather ahead of us - whether it's an inspired pairing with spring's bounty of vegetables or with a slight chill in the summer.

You're strongly advised to stock up - you'll notice the special 6-pack pricing for that very reason.