I, Locavore--Awesome Deal on Local Chardonnay

As a wine enthusiast, you're no doubt familar with the reasonably priced and often good wines of the North Fork of Long Island, and the pricier product of New York's pristine Finger Lakes region. But a lesser known wine region centers on the Hudson River Valley running from north of Nyack to south of Albany, on both the east and west sides of the great river.

One of the distinguished winemakers of this region is Millbrook Vineyards and Winery, which is east of the river northeast of Poughkeepsie, just outside the town of MIllbrook, in real Rip Van Winkle country. This chardonnay contrasts nicely with the specimens found in California--crisper, drier, and slightly less complex, with a pale straw color, a perfect wine for picnics that doesn't overwhelm the food.

The usual price at Astor Wines and Spirits is $11.99, but a current sale (with your Astor discount card--sign up for one now, it's free) delivers the bottle to you for $10.49, which is an excellent deal, and a chance to drink locally. 399 Lafayette Street, 212-674-7500