Cheap Good White Wine

The dry, medium bodied 2005 Bernardus Chardonnay opens with aromas of peach and tropical fruit, followed by flavors of ripe pineapple, apple notes, and a long, creamy finish. It’s not often you’ll find a wine rated at 95 points for less than $20. Try a bottle while you still can!

Winery: Bernardus
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Monterey, California
Ratings: WINE NEWS: 95 points
Price: $16.99

Full of ripe fruit flavors, the stand-up 2005 Beringer Napa Valley Chardonnay is a well-focused wine; nice weight on the palate with a bright finish. Perfect alongside grilled chicken.

Winery: Beringer Vineyards
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Napa Valley, CA, USA
Ratings: THE WINE NEWS: 89 points
Price: $16.49

The 2006 Drylands Sauvignon Blanc opens with beautiful tropical and herbal aromas, and fills the mouth with flavors of gooseberry, grapefruit, and fresh grass. Drink now, and try pairing with grilled prawns in a lemon garlic marinade.

Winery: Drylands Winery
Vintage: 2006
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Ratings: THE WINE SPECTATOR: 91 points
Price: $15.29

The 2004 Ledgewood Creek ‘Picnique’ is a pleasantly light, medium-bodied Chardonnay. The wine opens with fresh tropical fruit aromas and has dominant citrus flavors. Pair this wine with light dishes like pizza, seafood, or any Asian cuisine.

Winery: Ledgewood Creek
Vintage: 2004
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Napa Valley, California
Ratings: BRONZE MEDAL, 2006 San Diego International Wine Competition
Price: $9.99

Even those who are not typically fond of whites will enjoy this beautiful unoaked French Chardonnay. With a palate rich in ripe apples and subtle pineapple flavors, this fresh white wine pairs perfectly with crustaceans and fish, as well as chicken and light cheese.

Winery: Macon-Lugny
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Burgundy, France
Ratings: WILFRED WONG: 90 points
Price: $10.49

Rated #27 on the Wine Enthusiast’s Top Values of 2006, the Brassfield Sauvignon Blanc is 89% Sauvignon Blanc and 11% Semillon. The Semillon adds a touch more body, resulting in a somewhat dry wine with a surprisingly smooth finish.

Winery: Brassfield Estate
Vintage: 2005
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Clear Lake, California
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 91 points
Price: $13.79

The 2005 Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc is Sauvignon Blanc blended with a small amount of Semillon and Viognier. On the nose, expect fresh aromas of grapefruit and lemongrass. On the palette the Semillon adds a touch of sweet apple to a crisp citrus base. A great summer wine, serve it chilled with salad and light white fish.

Winery: Chateau St Jean Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Fume Blanc
Region: Sonoma County, California
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 91 points
Price: $10.99

Matua Valley Wines was the first winery in New Zealand to produce Sauvignon Blanc. This crisp and refreshing wine opens with aromas of lime, gooseberry and a brush of green apple. The finish is long, with a touch of residual sugar follow on the palette. Try pairing it with seafood, shellfish, or cheese.

Winery: Matua Valley
Vintage: 2006
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 89 points
Price: $10.29