Cheap wine: Cuvee des 3 Messes Basses Ventoux

Baby, it's cold outside, but that doesn't mean we should ignore white wines throughout the bleak midwinter. The Cuvee des 3 Messes Basses Ventoux ($13) has gorgeous aromatics, plenty of citrus and tropical fruit, a clean mouth feel and nice depth on the finish. Emanating from the southeastern part of the Rhone Valley, it's a blend of 40 percent each clairette and grenache blanc and 20 percent bourboulenc. Crank up the heat and sip away while pretending it's summer, or enjoy this with fish tacos, chicken chili or squash salad. Available at Kowalski's, Solo Vino, South Lyndale, Wayzata muni, Tonka Bottle and Stinson Wine & Spirits.