All too often, I think, we wine geeks tend to focus on the obscure, random, hard-to-get, or otherwise not particularly available wines. It’s an occupational hazard — the irresistible nature of the hidden gem. But what about those times you need to buy a bunch of cheap but good wines? Here are three whites and three reds that fit the bill:

Clos du Bois 2007 Chardonnay North Coast ($15). A ripe, creamy style, with full-bodied apple and pear fruit, apple pie spices, and a buttery finish enlivened with a hint of lemon curd. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Pacific Rim 2008 Riesling Columbia Valley ($14). Pretty orange blossom and jasmine aromas introduce off-dry pear and juicy citrus flavors that linger nicely on the mouthwatering finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Twisted 2007 Pinot Grigio California ($8). Off dry, but with enough zesty green apple and juicy citrus to balance. A fresh, easy to drink “patio” wine — also works with crab cakes! Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Ravenswood 2007 Zinfandel California Vintners Blend ($10). Bright and juicy, with easy-quaffing black cherry and blueberry fruit that stays fresh and appealing through the lightly spicy finish. Ready to drink now. A great burger wine! Locate this wine online or in your area.

Ruffino 2007 Chianti ($10). Excellent value on this eminently drinkable everyday red — with juicy red berry aromas and flavors laced with a light kick of pepper spice and toast. Not especially complex but oh-so-tasty. Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-12)

Symington Family 2006 Vale do Bomfim Douro Valley ($12). Okay, this one is not quite as available as the others, but it’s such an incredible bargain, that it’s worth tracking down! Seems like I always love this wine, and this vintage is no exception. Loads of blackberry and plum fruit with a slightly rustic edge, along with fresh tobacco and spice accents that linger on the fresh finish. Versatile with food. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.