Western Wine Awards 2010: Best Affordable Bottles

Rodney Strong 2008 Chardonnay Citrus dances with apple, pear, pineapple, spice, and a touch of toast. (Sonoma County; $13.50)

Aquinas 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Classic cassis and dark berries mix with black pepper and earth in a great-value Cab. (Napa Valley; $15)

A to Z 2008 Pinot Gris A pretty Gris, with green apple, pear, and quince spiked with lime zest and garnished with blossoms. (Oregon; $13)

Cycles Gladiator 2008 Syrah Blueberries anchor the fruit character, while herbs, black olives, tobacco, and espresso add interest underneath. (Central Coast; $10)

SeaGlass 2009 Sauvignon Blanc A brininess worthy of the name underpins crisp citrus, peach, pear, quince, limestone, and gentle florals. (Santa Barbara County; $10)

Waterbrook 2007 Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon Dark cherries with an earthy hit of leather, then aromatic mint and mocha. (Columbia Valley; $11)