2005 Circle K Ranch Three Thieves Pinot Noir, $11

The Label: Wanting to give the wine industry “a good kick in the teeth,” owner Charles Bieler and his partners sell their wine (shown, left) in the most unpretentious bottle possible: a screw-cap jug adorned with gunslingers on horseback, blasting away at tradition.
The Taste: Light bodied, with touches of berries and spices.
Drink It With: Duck, turkey, pork, or hearty fish, such as tuna and salmon.

2006 Toad Hollow Eye of the Toad Dry Pinot Noir Rosé, $9

The Label: Inspired by the beloved story The Wind in the Willows, the owners of Toad Hollow Vineyards gave themselves nicknames — Dr. Toad and the Dancing Badger — and put their namesakes on the label (shown, top right).
The Taste: Dry, elegant, and loaded with the flavor of strawberries.
Drink It With: Light dishes, such as grilled shrimp and vegetable salad.

2005 The Magnificent Wine Co. House Wine, $10

The Label: The cheeky “homemade” design (shown, bottom right) is a flip expression of the belief of winemaker Charles Smith that people should concentrate more on what goes in a bottle than what goes on it.
The Taste: An easy-drinking, medium-bodied red with hints of cherry, plum, and currant.
Drink It With: Substantial meat dishes, such as spice-rubbed flank steak.