Author Frances Mayes's new hit: Tuscan wines

Tuscan Sun's Auguri is a red blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Tuscan Sun’s Auguri is a red blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Under the Tuscan Sun author Frances Mayes is now endorsing a line of seven Italian wines under her own label. While I haven’t tasted the wines, the classy artistic bottle designs (what marketing!) are sure to make these big sellers.
Mayes will be signing books and bottles on Saturday, May 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Tuscan Market, Main Street, Salem, N.H.
Fans willing to pay $125 can also enjoy a special, intimate dinner with Mayes on Friday, May 16, at Tuscan Kitchen. The dinner includes wine pairings, a signed bottle of Tuscan Sun Wines, and a signed Mayes cookbook. Call the restaurant to make a reservation.
One of the wines, Auguri (which means “My best to you”) won a gold medal at the Denver International Wine Competition. It is a Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blend.
Mayes’ wines include: Permesso, a Cabernet Sauvignon; Pensiero, a Pinot Grigio; Tondo Tondo, a 100 percent Sangiovese; Abbraccio, a white blend of Trebbiano and Chardonnay; and Sentiero alla Casa, a red Italian blend.
The wines are moderately priced in the $13.99 to $25 range.
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If you’re in Chestnut Hill on Saturday, stop by Winestone which is having its Spring Grand Tasting. The store is located at 1160 Boylston St. There’ll be dozens of wines on display for your perusal and tasting from three major distributors — Classic Wines, MS Walker and Winebow. Complimentary food will be served; you must be 21 or over to participate.    — JIM CAMPANINI