2021 E. Guigal, Côtes du Rhône White
France $18
Hidden treasures, when it comes to white wines, are those from the southern French appellation of Côtes du Rhône. Reds claim most of the fame from this region, but the beautifully blended blancs are among my white wine favorites. This one is worth twice the price. From the heralded producer, Guigal, it’s a blend of grapes including mostly Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne. Swirl the glass and smell notes of white flowers, pears and peaches followed by a sultry, creamy texture. It’s a white to open with roast chicken, sweet potato gratin or mushroom risotto.

2021 J. Lohr ‘South Ridge’ Syrah
Paso Robles, California $15
This wine ranks as my top value on the market today. Hailing from vineyards in rugged Paso Robles, the South Ridge Syrah sports complexity from blending Syrah grapes with splashes of its Rhone brethren including Grenache and Viognier. J. Lohr is celebrating their 50th year in 2024 and they’ve become a benchmark producer for wines from the sunny yet cool Central Coast. This deeply hued red explodes with floral, dark berry and licorice aromas with a plush yet vibrant mouthfeel. You’ll want to stock up for year-long enjoyment. It’s a seasonless sip, pairing as easily with winter stews as summer barbeque.

Kally ‘Golden Sparkler’
California $40
For those who don’t partake in alcohol but still want to indulge their love of bubbly, check out the offerings from a California rising star, Kally. Their products use verjus as a base combined with other ingredients to create delicious wine alternatives. The Golden Sparkler is beautiful to look at and delectable to drink. Verjus is non-alcoholic juice pressed from young, tart grapes and this bottling uses Chardonnay grapes layered with green tea and jasmine extract. This creates a fresh, crisp fizz that sings with citrus and spicy flavors. At a mere 21 calories per glass and no alcohol, it’s a guilt-free pleasure.