THESE GOLDEN STATE WINES ARE A STEAL

California makes some fabulous, sun-drenched wines — but they can be pricey. So I thought I’d taste a slew of bottles from that Golden State to find some terrific wines at reasonable prices — including a killer $13 Pinot Grigio — all of which are availabl

Chardonnay 2015 Sterling Vintner’s Collection Chardonnay, California (LCBO 669242, $16.15 in stores and online)

It’s hard to get a California Chardonnay that’s as pure, balanced and judiciously oaked as this one for about $16, making it a standout buy. Apricot, pear and toasted pastry aromas lead to a fresh burst of cool, lively fruit. Think glossy flavours of buttered apple, wet stones and apricot Danish pastry shot through with crisp acidity to create great tension. Drink this dry, mediumbodied white with smoked salmon and cream cheese on bagels. Score: 90

Pinot Grigio 2015 Pepperwood Grove Pinot Grigio, California (LCBO 483305, $13.00 in stores and online)

Although Pinot Grigio isn’t exactly California’s flagship wine style, this unassuming little bottle is a knockout buy. It starts with Granny Smith apple and crushed chalk aromas then rushes over the palate all vibrant, bone dry and brisk. Expect flavours of apple and lime zest edged by a bit of stony minerality. Definitely worth knowing about this groovy green bottle that goes well with just about anything. Score: 90+

Merlot 2014 Ghost Pines Merlot, California (LCBO 454876, $19.20 in stores and online)

If you like cherries dipped in chocolate, this lush, dry red is for you. Flavours of red sweet cherries, tart pie cherries and black cherries, as well as melting milk chocolate and dark cocoa powder swirl around in this velvety-textured Merlot. Meanwhile, a hint of toasty oak frames the fruit and resonates on the finish. Worth every cent and a perfect match for roasted pork. Score: 91

Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Gnarly Head Cabernet Sauvignon, California (LCBO 68924, $15.65 in stores and online)

Although California makes world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find a delicious bottle of it at a low price. So I was thrilled to find this $16 wonder. With inviting scents of tobacco leaf and cassis flavours of sun-warmed black and red berries and sweet licorice, and powdery cocoa-like tannins on the finish, this classic California Cabernet offers outstanding value for money. Just the thing to pair with hotdogs, hamburgers and friends. Score: 89

Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California (Vintages Essential 232371, $33.95 in stores and online)

Fine Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley — the most esteemed and expensive land for growing this variety in California — now sells for stratospheric prices. So this bottle is a relative bargain. Magnetic aromas and tightly wound flavours of cassis, cigar box, warm earth, clove, cedar, licorice, poached black cherries and dried plums rise and fall in a perfect arc before tapering to a long granite and burnt-almond finish. Incredibly compelling wine for the money to decant and pour with aplomb. Score: 94