Domaine de Pouy Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne 2011

Crisp, easy-drinking white - perfect for the summertime. Light-bodied, with tropical and citrus fruit flavors, the Domaine de Pouy makes a terrific alternative to your favorite Pinot Grigio at a fraction of the cost. Perfect for sipping on the porch, or pairing with light dishes, salads or appetizers.

The 2000 Domaine du Pouy (the vintage is indicated on the back label) is produced from 75% Ugni Blanc and 25% Colombard. There are 8,500 cases of this excellent value. It reveals rich pear and apple-like aromas intermingled with smoke. On the palate, candied lemons, limes, honeydew melons, and grapefruit can be found in its rich, well-ripened, plump personality. It coats the taster's palate with sultry fruit, and possesses a long, fresh finish. A perennial best buy, the 2000 is the finest Domaine du Pouy I have tasted. Enjoy this superb value over the next 6-12 months.

One of my favorite dry, guzzling whites is this tank-fermented and aged cuvée fashioned from primarily Ugni Blanc with a slug of Petit Gros Manseng included in the blend. In the past, it was all citrus/grapefruit notes, but the 2002 exhibits tremendous freshness along with more texture than previous renditions. Layers of flavor are present, most notably lime, lemon, and orange peel. Discounters will have this priced $7 a bottle, making this one of the country's finest values in dry white wine. There's just one hitch - be sure to drink it during its first 8-12 months of life.

This wine is the perfect summer sipper. Clean, fresh and bright with refreshing citrus overtones, Domaine de Pouy Gascogne will knock the thirst out of a hot July evening.

Light and lively, an excellent alternative to Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Great citrus notes, with melon and red apple flavors peeking through. With zesty acidity and a clean, dry finish, this wine drinks well on its own but pairs deliciously with light salads or fish dishes.

This fresh, fruity wine from Gascogne has a floral nose and crisp green apple and citrus flavors. Serve with cream- or cheese-based dishes.

Always one of my favorite inexpensive dry whites, this whole cluster pressed blend of 76% Ugni Blanc, 20% Colombard, and 4% Gros Manseng is all about fruit and freshness. Aromas of grapefruit and flowers jump from the glass of this light-bodied, stainless steel-fermented and aged offering. These wines do not hold up for long in the bottle, but for enjoyment during their first 6-9 months of life they can't be beat. They provide a wonderful accompaniment to fish and shellfish cuisine.