Readers looking for a terrific value in Southern Rh?ne white need to check out the 2015 C?tes du Rh?ne César Blanc, which is mostly Grenache Blanc raised in a mix of demi-muid and very old barrels. It has straight up classic notes of spiced pear, white peach and citrus, with just a hint of minerality and a touch of oak, to go with a medium-bodied, elegant, lengthy profile on the palate. At 18 bucks it’s a steal!

An up and coming estate that continues to produce a bevy of solid wines, Domaine Roche Audran’s 2014 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Cesar has bright, racy acidity that gives lift and cut to its tropical fruits and butter, grapefruit-like aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, elegant and classy with building richness, it’s a very well made white that will drink nicely for at least 4-5 years.