South America is also a terrific place to look for bargain-priced wines. A couple of examples: the Doña Paula Los Cardos 2008 Sauvignon Blanc (about $9) from Argentina’s Mendoza region. It displays hints of green herb, menthol, and mint on the nose and lime and gooseberry flavors without the strong burst of acidity, leaving it with a soft, almost delicate finish.

And from Chile’s Maipo Valley, try the Santa Ema 2007 Reserve Merlot (pictured at left, about $12). It’s full of dark plum flavors followed by an unmistakable finish of vanilla bean that lingers into a butterscotch twist. Interesting, unique, and great value for the money.