Since the USDA debuted its National Organic Program in 2002, which sets standards for organic wine, among other foods, only a small number of wineries have proved to meet the criteria to put the words "organic wine" on the label. The biggest stumbling block, many agree, is the USDA's prohibition against added sulfites. An organic wine is defined by the USDA as "a wine made from organically grown grapes and without any added sulfites." However this does not mean that sulfites are not in the "Organic" wine. Sulfites are a natural byproduct of fermentation and thus are in all wines, despite the misconceptions. Wines that are grown organically but that are bottled with added sulfites must legally be called "wines made from organic grapes" (or organically grown grapes). These wines too have less sulfites than nonorganically grown wines but still have added sulfites.

Both "organic wines" and "wines made with organically grown grapes" are made with grapes grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides or fungicides for a certain period of time with third-party inspection.

Many wineries today farm organically but don't go through the rigorous processes to obtain the organic labeling. Therefore it may be hard to detemine if a wine is farmed organically if it doesn't tell you on the label. And some wineries using organic grapes don't want their wine positioned as organic for fear that consumers will perceive the wine negatively. Well that's why we are here - to understand all our wines and know the intricacies about each one, despite what's not on the label, so we can guide you in selecting the best wine for you.

2005 Yorkville Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino. Yorkville Cellars, throughout the last five years, is the most awarded California winery using certified organic grapes, and the attention to detail in growing and winemaking shows in the quality of all Yorkville wines. Of small production, across all its wines, the Sauvignon Blanc is refreshing and full of soft, yet bright citrus, pear and green apple. It has a lovely acidity that is refreshing, not biting, and will last lusciously on the palate. A perfect pair for summer salads, grilled fish with mango salsa or chicken skewers. ($15.99)

2003 Yorkville Cellars Cabernet Franc, Mendocino. Yorkville's Cabernet Franc is somewhat similar to Cabernet Sauvignon but with just a little lighter body. On the nose, aromas of flowers - violets and roses - are exhibited, but the palate reveals a much different flavor profile. In the mouth, deep, rich concentrated flavors of ripe black cherry, black berry and vanilla are noted, all encompassing the entire palate. The mouth feel is silky smooth with a deep, long finish. ($19.99)

Friday, May 18 ( 5pm to 8 pm) Organic Selections

• 2005 Sergio Mottura Orvieto, Italy. Orvieto is a small region within Umbria, Italy that without doubt has produced one of the Italian white wines best known and appreciated throughout the world. This Orvieto is dry with a lovely pale yellow color and good clarity. There's a nose and palate that are full of herbal aromatics, citrus and a light minerality. A great quaffing wine for summer! ($12.99)

• 2005 La Fortuna Pinot Noir,Chile. La Fortuna is a great value brand that produces organically grown wines. Its Pinot Noir is a soft, elegant, selection at a nice price. Reminiscent of an old-world, style French Burgundy (aka Pinot Noir), it has elegant strawberry aromas and flavors with a touch of tea leaf. The mouth feel is velvety and it offers a dry finish. This is a nice red selection for the upcoming warmer weather. ($10.49)

• 2005 Yorkville Cellars Sauvignon Blanc. Please see tasting notes above. ($15.99)

• 2003 Yorkville Cellars Cabernet Franc, Mendocino. Please see tasting notes above. ($19.99)

Saturday, May 19 (3 pm to 7 pm) Spring and Summer Surprises

email: jessica@thesavorygrape.com

phone: 401.886.9463

web: http://www.thesavorygrape.com