Cheap Good White Wine

From the grapes of California’s Russian River Valley, the 2005 Hanna Sauvignon Blanc opens with cool aromas of fresh citrus and melon. With flavors of gooseberries, mown grass and lemon, the wine is reminiscent of a classic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

Winery: Hanna Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Sonoma County, California
Ratings: WINE & SPIRITS: 94 points
Price: $15.99

Chenin Blanc has been South Africa’s best-known white wine for decades. The delicious 2005 Simonsig Chenin Blanc is a medium-bodied wine with a clean, refreshing finish. Pairs well with shellfish, creamy soups, and light pasta.

Winery: Simonsig Wine Estate
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chenin Blanc
Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Ratings: WINE AND SPIRITS: 88 points
Price: $10.99

Previous vintages of the Australian Sticks Chardonnay have rated equally high, but the 2004 vintage is considered by many to be the best. Even those who do not normally appreciate white wine will be drawn to the delicate bouquet of peach, honeydew and light oak. Solid length and intensity. Drink now or cellar up to 2010.

Winery: Sticks Winery
Vintage: 2004
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Yarra Valley, Australia
Ratings: AUSTRALIAN WINE COMPANION: 94 points
Price: $13.99

The Babich Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is an ideal aperitif wine, made with Sauvignon Blanc grapes from two New Zealond vineyards. Pairs beautifully with pasta and seafood such as salmon or scallops. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 2 years.

Winery: Babich
Vintage: 2006
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 90 points
Price: $14.99

This refreshing Chardonnay begins with aromas of ripe green apples and lemon. On the palate, creamy pear and tart peach flavors are followed by a smooth vanilla finish. Try serving with veal chops.

Winery: Greg Norman Estates
Vintage: 2004
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Santa Barbara, California
Ratings: THE WINE NEWS: 89 points
Price: $12.29

Rated 85th in Wine Enthusiast’s Best Values of 2006, this New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc displays aromas of sweet melon, nectarine, light herbs and hints of bell pepper. At this price, you cannot afford not to have at least one bottle of this well-balanced wine in your cellar.

Winery: Brancott Vineyards
Vintage: 2005
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 88 points
Price: $10.99

If you’re the type of person who heads straight to the organics section in the grocery store, you should consider the ’05 Bonterra Chardonnay; one of the world’s top organically grown and farmed white wines. A full, rich Chardonnay with aromas of apricots, peaches and green apples. Rich buttery texture with great length.

Winery: Bonterra Vineyards
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: North Coast, California
Ratings: BRONZE MEDAL, 2006 CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR WINE COMP
Price: $12.99

The 2005 Columbia Winery Gewurztraminer is wonderfully rich, mixing sweet apple, pink grapefruit and hints of pimento. A good balance of acidity; pairs well with spicy asian cuisine.

Winery: Columbia Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Gewurztraminer
Region: Washington State, USA
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 90 points
Price: $9.99