France’s Loire Valley is probably best known for two of its white wines: Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume — both Sauvignon Blanc-based wines, and both often fetching premium prices. But outside those two communes is a host of white wine choices made from Sauvignon as well as Chenin Blanc, Melon de Bourgogne and even some Chardonnay (usually a small percentage in a blend) and Pinot Gris that often offer better value than their showy neighbors. Here are a few to look for:

Marc Bredif 2006 Vouvray ($22). Really delicious, with chestnut honey notes balanced by juicy quince and citrus, with a long, rich, complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

J.M. Monmousseau 2007 Vouvray ($14). Easy-going and refreshing, with juicy pear, soft green apple and citrus that stay light and quaffable through the fresh finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Domaine du Salvard 2007 Cheverny ($16). Rather intense for a Cheverny, with loads of mouthwatering lemon character accented with herbal, dill and capsicum notes, and a broad, lingering finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Sauvion & Fils 2007 Muscadet de Sevre et Maine ($13). Crisp and refreshing, with light lime zest notes accenting green pear and white peach fruit. Fresh finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

And even within the Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume offerings, you can still find some good values. Like:

Bouchie-Chatellier 2006 Pouilly-Fume La Renardiere ($22). Very nice, with pretty citrus and mineral playing off crisp, clean nectarine. Finishing with a subtle zing of acidity. Quite versatile. Delicious! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Pierre Cherrier & Fils 2007 Sancerre Domaine de la Rossignole Cuvee Vieilles Vignes ($20). Fresh, aromatic, tart lime and green pear character is backed up with stony mineral notes, with a long, clean finish. Made a tasty pairing with grilled oysters topped with diced tomatoes and creme fraiche. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online in your area.

All of these wines are great for summer sipping, so enjoy!