Quick Bite: Crisp & Clean

Hans Wirsching Silvaner 2007 (Germany) $19: Think of silvaner as Germany’s pinot grigio. Light and refreshing, this grape reigns supreme around the historic village of Würzburg. At just 11.5 percent alcohol, this wine is dry with pear and subtle floral notes and light stony minerality. Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (South Africa) $22: South Africa is the world’s oldest “New World” wine region, and Mulderbosch is its premier producer. Treat your palate to this lovely white, a more restrained and elegant version of New Zealand sauvignon blancs’ over-the-top grapefruit and minerality. Boutari Santorini 2007 (Greece) $20: Try any assyrtiko from Santorini! This obscure grape has become a favorite among wine lovers seeking new finds. Grown on the island’s volcanic soil, contemporary assyrtikos are fully dry with acidity and citrus overtones that make them great for pairing with summer foods. Château de Chantegrive 2007 (France) $16: Here’s a delicious white Bordeaux that won’t break the bank. Fifty percent sauvignon blanc, with an equal share of sémillon, this wine has old-world elegance, bright stone-fruit flavors, and a hint of honeysuckle. Drink it well-chilled as an aperitif or enjoy with all types of seafood. Xarmant Txakoli 2008 (Spain) $15: From the Basque region of Spain, this tapas bar favorite (pronounced “chakoli”) has the indigenous hondarribi zuri grape as its backbone and features just a hint of spritz. Just be sure to drink it young. —Richard Peck