We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—our wine stewards are some of the best. With years of experience and true passion for the field, these guys and gals know their stuff.

This month, our stores are highlighting some of our wine stewards’ top picks to help celebrate their remarkable expertise. Drop by our adult beverage department to see the featured wines on display, chat with our friendly wine stewards and find some new favorites.

 To help whet your whistle, check out a few wines hand-picked by Curtis S., wine steward at Nugget Markets in West Sacramento:

 Muddy Boot Wines: Three farmers who have been growing grapes in Clarksburg for decades teamed up to make three great new wines: Muddy Boot Red Blend (composed mostly of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon), unoaked Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc. These big, complex wines represent the hard work of local grape farmers at a great price.

Clayhouse Adobe Red Blend: This massive blend is comprised of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Tempranillo and Malbec. The bold, fruit-forward wine comes from Paso Robles, is a great value and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Mayu Pedro Ximenez: This stylish wine offers appealing floral and tropical fruit aromas, with flavors of lime zest, honey and melon balanced by fresh acidity, minerality and a long finish. It complements a wide range of foods and will appeal to anyone who loves Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris. 

Honig Sauvignon Blanc: Honig (German for "honey") Vineyard and Winery uses many biodynamic and sustainable practices in its growing and has beehives all over the property. Their Sauvignon Blanc is very citrus-driven, with grassy undertones and refreshing acidity. It’s a true favorite for this wine steward and a staple in his home.

Hedges Red Mountain Syrah: Hailing from Washington, this domestic red wine is reminiscent of far more expensive Northern Rhone Syrahs. Very mineralic with hints of dark fruit and smoke, it is restrained but earthy, with a little of that Northern Rhone "funk" on the nose. This wine is a great value and drinks like a bottle twice its price.