• ADELSHEIM 2011 PINOT GRIS OREGON:

Adelsheim 2011 Pinot Gris Oregon

Elegant and refreshing, this classic pinot gris is grown and produced in Oregon. Not only is this delicious white a great buy from the Pacific Northwest, Adelsheim makes wonderful pinot noirs, too. This white pinot is rich and tasty, layered with flavors of apples and pears, nicely offset by notes of tropical fruits and citrus. Dry and crisp, it’s the perfect accompaniment to spicy Mexican cuisine, ceviche, or poultry-based casseroles and salads. It’s usually found in specialty wine shops and grocery stores, or get it online at Adelsheim.com for $20 retail.

• MERIDIAN 2011 CHARDONNAY CALIFORNIA:

Meridian 2011 Chardonnay California

This tasty chardonnay is my idea of an ideal bargain wine. Pleasantly balanced, it offers simple but tasty notes of apple, pear, and spice with only honey-like nuances of oak. Suitable for quaffing on the patio, or enjoyed with roast chicken or cheesy pizza, you can’t go wrong with this chard at only $10 retail at the Paso Robles tasting room. And it’s often found on sale at the big chain stores and grocers for much less.