Wine: A guide for troubled times

Boring wines should be avoided at all times, said Eric Asimov in The New York Times, just like dull food. Sure, there are plenty of palatable wines available for $10 or even less. But for just a few dollars more, it’s possible to find wines that offer “excitement and the sort of pleasure that compels me to drink, drink again, and pour another glass.” Here is a handy guide for “the bon vivant on a budget.”

Domaine des Aubuisières/Bernard Fouquet Vouvray Cuvée de Silex 2007 ($16.99) A rich and lively white.

Clos Roche Blanche Touraine Cuvée Gamay 2007 ($15.99) “My Thanksgiving wine for crowds.” A light, juicy red.Pierre Chermette Domaine du Vissoux Beaujolais 2007 ($14.99) A textbook red Beaujolais. “Pale, pure, absolutely dry, and refreshing.”

Domaine Sainte Barbe Mâcon L’Expression du Chardonnay 2006 ($15.99) A white with a lively taste of citrus.

Thierry Puzelat Touraine KO In Côt We Trust 2006 ($19.99) A delicious red Malbec from the Loire.