Drinks: Look to where it's warm

The first jolts of winter this year are more than enough to make you fantasize about warmer places, and the beverages that go with them.

Fresh from a 16-degree wake-up call, I'm drifting toward a sunny day along the Amalfi Coast and a glass of Molinari Limoncello di Capri, a delight made with lemons from Capri and Sorrento. Nothing like an infusion of lemon peels to brighten you up. It charms you, either on the rocks or straight. A bottle of the high-octane sunshine is about $22.

Heading south to the Sicilian coast, enjoy Cantine Florio Marsala, either sweet or dry. It's the fortified wine that brings life to zabaglione and does a fine job either before or after dinner on its own. These flavors of Trapani also are good company with cheese. Both are about $14.

A light, floral quality defines the 2011 Colomé Torrontés, a refreshing white wine that has citrus notes. The fragrant, inviting Argentine production is a match for seviche, sushi and, yes, tacos. You'll like it with spicy Asian dishes, too. A bottle is about $15.

And for red evocations of Spain: the 2008 Torres Celeste, from Ribera del Duero; and 2009 Salmos, from Priorat. The full-bodied, fruity Celeste delivers lots of spice and more than a hint of blackberry. Very good with red meat and with cheese. Celeste goes for about $24. Salmos, a ripe blend that adds syrah and cabernet sauvignon to garnacha and cariñena grapes, is smooth, toasty and lush, leading to a long finish. Try it with a steak. About $38.