From the $16 to $25, these bottles offer the best bang for your buck
written by Sara Schneider
1 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Whites: Winner
Navarro 2010 Estate Dry Gewürz-Traminer Racy citrus with a touch of tropical litchi takes an elegant turn with pretty rose petals. (Anderson Valley, Medocino; $19)
2 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Whites: Runner-up
King Estate 2009 Domaine Pinot Gris The state's signature white comes here with flashy peach and nectarine and mouth-watering acidity. (Oregon; $25)
3 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Whites: Runner-up
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2009 "Eroica" Riesling Zesty lemon-lime, green apple, and pineapple plus a gorgeous honeyed finish. (Columbia Valley; $20)
4 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Reds: Winner
Qupé 2009 Syrah Rustic, briary berries wrapped with the gamut this grape can offer: white pepper, dried herbs, fresh violets, minerality ... (Central Coast; $17)
5 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Reds: Runner-up
Porter Creek 2009 Old Vine Carignane Chocolate fudge-coated raspberries and blackberries with hints of allspice on a long finish. (Medocino County; $24)
6 /6Photo by Jeffery Cross
Reds: Runner-up
Beckmen 2009 "Cuvée le Bec A Grenache blend with ripe black fruit balanced seamlessly with notes of licorice, white pepper, and firm tannins. (Santa Ynez Valley; $18)