WINE

2009 Carmel Road Chardonnay, California; $18

Carmel Road has always produced terrific wines that stay true to their flavor profiles. This chardonnay starts with aromas of citrus zest and yellow apple notes. The flavors are out of this world, beginning with layers of tropical fruit -- especially melon -- followed by rich, ripe apple notes. These lead into a hint of butter and oak and a touch of mineral notes. This wine has a little of everything. It's a great bottle of wine that is always a crowd-pleaser.

SPIRIT

Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine, Tennessee; $28

As soon as you open this jar you will think you're back at Grandma's house, about to enjoy a slice of homemade apple pie. This treat is made with pure apple juice, ground cinnamon and other classic pie spices. It tastes just like the American classic and at 40 proof, there is no burn going down. It's terrific warm or cold, or over ice cream. And for a fun mix, add some chocolate vodka for a terrific martini. Two words for this moonshine: sweet and yummy.

Lain Bradford is a wine writer and reviewer who has achieved his first level master sommelier certificate and is working toward his Certified Wine Educator degree. He only writes about beverages that are available in South Carolina and Georgia. Follow him on Twitter under the name "winereview."