I do love finding wines for under $20 that I’d rate 89 or higher. Here’s a pair of new releases that easily qualify—a Greek and Chilean white, both of which are quite summer-friendly! Look for them in-store as soon as the LCBO strike concludes, or simply order online and take advantage of the LCBO’s current free home delivery, with no minimums!

Morandé Selección de Viñedos Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2022 — Casablanca Valley, Chile ($14.95)
Combine the zesty citrus you’d look for in a Sauvignon Blanc with the distinct vegetal and slightly saline notes one should expect from this maritime-influenced growing region in Chile. A pleasant surprise, though, is the silky texture that accompanies this aromatic wine despite the low price point. Refreshing but refined. If this were double the cost, the value would still be good. Another exceptional value from Morandé. 13% alc. 5 g/L sugar. Great as an aperitif or with sushi and fresh shellfish. 90

Zacharias Moschofilero 2022 — Peleponnese, Greece ($15.95)
File this in the category of “worth trying for the price.” This Moschofilero—one of Greece’s most popular white wine grapes—is hand-harvested and organically farmed. On the nose, there’s certainly some lemony citrus, but it’s more about the non-fruit aromas—rose petals, pine needles, earth and a flinty minerality. In the glass, it’s a glistening white gold with a slight pink hue that suggests a little skin contact in the winemaking process. On the palate it’s absolutely dripping with acidity—juicy lemon and a hint of sour apple with a lemony mineral finish. Think of Pinot Grigio but with more character. Serve it at 8-10C—any colder and you’ll chill the character right out if it. Not a wine to necessarily break out for a large crowd, but certainly worth the exploration at just $15.95. 13.4% alc. 2g/L sugar. Pair it up with goat cheese salad, Asian fare and light chicken dishes, or just sip it on the patio. 89