I started off last year by saying the New Year always brings a sense of renewal and optimism. Of course, that is if you're an optimist. This year we start out with our economy in the toilet and for some, our head as well. However, please don't be discouraged. Call me an optimist if you will, but there is still plenty of wine; many at bargain prices. It promises to be a good year for smart wine buyers. As the economy slows down, producers will have to become more competitive in a shrinking market if they are to survive. Of course, don't be surprised if they, too, don't appeal to congress for a bailout.

This year has started off moving entirely too fast. One of my resolutions is to get ahead on my monthly articles, so my webmaster can post them sooner. As you can see, it's not going well, but I pledge to keep trying. Also, I am often reminded how short life can be for some of our friends and encourage you to celebrate with your friends every chance you get. Speaking of which, if you missed the I'm Dreamin' of a Light Christmas Wine Event on December 6, 2008, in Houston , you missed some great wine, food, and fellowship. Keep a watch on my website for upcoming events.

As we get into the New Year, the same forces affecting the US economy will affect world markets and I predict that wine supplies will rise and prices fall. Generally, good for the consumer, but if the recession lasts for very long, it could prove to be bad for the industry and drive many producers out of business. If that happens, we will all suffer because it will deprive us of some really great wines. However, as enlightened consumers, we can watch the changing markets and take advantage of the incredible buys that I expect are coming.

Of course, there are many great buys out there now, so why wait? One is this month's recommendation. Actually, my recommendation is for the entire Oak Leaf Vineyards label. Oak Leaf Vineyards is a new producer from Ripon , California and is available through Wal-Mart. They produce a Chardonnay, which won a gold medal at the 2008 Florida State International Wine Competition, a Merlot, which won a silver medal at the 2008 Hilton Head Wine Fest, and a Cabernet Sauvignon, which is also very good.

They are all great table wines and an incredible buy at under $3.00 a bottle ($1.97 in California and $2.97 in most other states). I found all three varieties at a Wal-Mart in Houston for $2.89 a bottle. Even if you don't regularly shop at Wal-Mart, it's worth the trip just for the wine. Just think a whole case of wine for under $38.00, including tax. Incredible!

If you come across any exceptional values that you would like to pass along, email me the information and I will pass it along to my other friends.

Until next month, Cheers!