The thing that I think people often miss about huge wine companies is that they have the resources to make outstanding wines. Yes, they make loads of inexpensive, “entry level” stuff, but they also have the twin advantages of outstanding fruit along with economies of scale that allow them to keep prices down on their best bottles.

Kendall-Jackson’s Grand Reserve line is an excellent case in point. If you think you’re above drinking KJ, think again!

Kendall-Jackson 2007 Chardonnay Santa Barbara-Monterey Grand Reserve ($21). Just a lovely wine — and a lot of elegance and structure for this price. Offering pretty pear and melon fruit laced with focused lime oil, lemon curd, toasty vanilla and light cream notes that evolve into a long finish. If you don’t know about KJ’s Grand Reserve line, this is a wine that should make you check it out! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Kendall-Jackson 2006 Merlot Sonoma County Grand Reserve ($28). Nothing wimpy about this Merlot, with its intense black fruit — berry, currant, cherry — accented with cedar and cocoa notes that add depth and a touch of grip to this otherwise smooth wine. Long, complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Kendall-Jackson 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County Grand Reserve ($30). Full-bodied and full-flavored, with impressive structure and a mouthwatering combination of aromatic black currant and berry fruit, layers of dark chocolate, sweet tobacco, licorice and spices, and a long, focused finish. Very nice. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. Locate this wine online or in your area.