1999 Shepherds Ridge Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand.

This fresh, bracing wine has plenty of the minerally flavor I so love in Sauvignon Blanc. Usually you go to Loire Valley wines for that quality; New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs from the cool-climate Marlborough region have a style all their own. But this particular wine combines Loire-like stoniness with appealing overtones of lime and good concentration, and it remains eminently easy-drinking. It should perfectly suit anybody looking for a lighter alternative to Chardonnay. A great wine for the price.

About $10. Available at Topline Wine & Spirits, Glendale, (818) 500-9670; Village Gourmet, Studio City, (818) 487-3807; Wine Club, Santa Ana, (714) 835-6485 and Wine Exchange, Orange, (714) 974-1454. If you can’t find this wine, ask your retailer to call the distributor, Young’s Market, (800) 627-2777.