Luberric Rioja Orlegi de Luberri 2020, 14.5 percent, $14.99
The Monje Amestoy family farms approximately 85 hectares in the Rioja Alavesa, the northernmost of the three Rioja regions. Orlegi de Luberri is a light, easy expression of Rioja, made from 95 percent tempranillo with a little viura, a white grape, thrown in. It’s fresh, fruity and well-balanced, perfectly lightly chilled with grilled sausages or other casual dishes. (The Maison Selections, Chapel Hill, NC)
Chateau le Payral Bergerac Blanc Sec 2021, 12 percent, $14.99
Bergerac in the southwest of France will always play against Bordeaux, his cousin on the coast. The regions use the same grapes and make similar wines, but Bordeaux is world famous and Bergerac, well, you’d have to read a few Martin Walker mysteries to develop an urge for Bergerac. Or you can shorten the process by trying this fragrant white, a blend of biodynamically grown sauvignon blanc, sémillon and muscadelle. It is light and lively, earthy and tart, with a taste of honeysuckle. (Savio Soares Selections, New York)
Loxarel Classic Penedès Sàniger Brut Nature Reserva 2016, 12.5 percent, $15
This delicious sparkling wine is also a winner. It is made by the same method as champagne, with the second fermentation in the bottle and with the classic grapes of cava, parellada, macabeu and xarello, of which Loxarel is an anagram. Did I mention that the grapes are grown biodynamically? It’s floral and spicy, dry and salty, and delicious through and through. (Classic Wines, Stamford, Conn.)