Chenin blanc is something of an underdog, with a growing following thanks to its great quality for the price—especially for those from France’s Loire Valley. These dry wines have a pleasing complexity: An oaked chenin blanc could be mistaken for a pricey Burgundy. (Try Château de Brézé and you’ll be shocked.) Because of its high acidity, it is often used for sparkling wine production. An inexpensive bottle of sparkling Vouvray, Saumur, or Montlouis will remind you that you don’t always have to spring for Champagne.
