Being a parent is the most amazing, rewarding opportunity I've ever had the good fortune to experience, but it doesn't come without its share of challenges.  As I once read, when it comes to raising a child, the days are long but the years are short.  I couldn't agree more, and on those days that seem particularly long I'm not above indulging in a glass (or two) of wine once the kids have been snugly tucked into bed.  So of course I was thrilled when the folks at Simply Naked Wines sent me a selection of their wines for review (not surprisingly, this was one product review my husband welcomed with open arms). 

Simply Naked offers a complete lineup of unoaked wines, all of which I thoroughly enjoyed.  By not aging the wine in oak barrels, Simply Naked allows the crisp fruit flavor and true varietal characteristics of each wine to shine through.  The wines are clean, fresh and straightforward and the grapes for each wine are sourced from the best regions of California.  As a California native, I feel like I'm getting a taste of home any time I break open a bottle of California wine, and Simply Naked's selection was no exception.  Just like their home state, these wines are bright, diverse and full of spirit.

Simply Naked's crisp Pinot Grigio was refreshing on a hot summer day, and the bold and juicy Cabernet Sauvignon paired perfectly with the marinated flank steak I made one evening.  And when we were just relaxing after a long day of taking care of a baby and a preschooler, my husband and I shared a bottle of Simply Naked Merlot while blissfully vegging out in front of the TV.  Fancy schmancy wines these are not, but they are perfect for everyday drinking, either with or without food.  They're also reasonably priced, at less than $10 a bottle.  For more information, visit www.simplynakedwines.com.