Around here, Sauvignon Blanc has become a regular go-to wine for a pre-dinner drink, not to mention the perfect patio wine. So I’m always looking for bottles that don’t break the bank. Here are a few under $20 that I’ve particularly enjoyed lately:

Franciscan 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley ($17). Nice, with pretty, lime, lemon and melon aromas and flavors that have an appealing fresh-cut herbal quality lingering in the background. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Kunde Estate 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma Valley Magnolia Lane ($16). Aromatic tropical citrus flavors are light and bright, with a dose of jalapeno on the juicy, refreshing finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Markham 2006 Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley ($16). This one is all citrus, with layers of pineapple, lime, tangerine and lemon curd, with a long, complex finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Redcliffe 2006 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough ($12). Fresh grapefruit and light straw notes pick up a touch of green peppercorn on the lively finish. Medium- to light-bodied. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Sonoma Vineyards 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma County ($15). Grassy aromas and flavors accent bright grapefruit and lime zest flavors, with a kick of jalapeno that lingers on the fresh finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Sterling Vineyards 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Central Coast Vintner’s Collection ($9) is a decent little wine! With juicy melon, peach and citrus aromas and flavors that stay fresh (and never get flabby!) through the moderate finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-09-23)

Food Pairing Idea: Lemon Garlic Artichoke Spread on toasts.