2010 WOLFTRAP WHITE WO Western Cape South Africa, $14.95 #263608

It’s nice to think of heart-wrenchingly beautiful, sunny South Africa at this time of year, so allow yourself to get carried away with this flavourful and stylish blend of Viognier, Chenin Blanc and Grenache Blanc. The palate is full and fleshy, with plenty of ripe orchard and tropical fruit, and with a nice dose of minerality. It has excellent intensity and depth for the price. Serve with bouillabaisse, seafood risotto, or scallops. Best 2012-2013.

2009 DOMAINE DU GRAND MONTMIRAIL VACQUEYRAS AC Rhne Valley, France $24.95 #251579

Here’s a southern Rhne red that drinks like a $40 Chteauneuf-du-Pape – a relative value to be sure. It’s a ripe, dense, ambitious example of Vacqueyras (named for the eponymous village around which the vineyards are located), with intense, fleshy black fruit flavours, firm structure and markedly spicy character. Tannins are velvety and broad and the finish is long – a serious wine for the price. Leave another 2-4 years in the cellars to integrate. Serve with braised lamb shank. Best 2014-2020.

John Szabo is a master sommelier and wine writer for Toronto Standard. Follow him on Twitter at @johnszabo.