With the economy nose-diving and costs rising, what we all really need is a good, cheap, drink. Try an inexpensive white wine. Cool, crisp and refreshing, white wine may be the one thing that gets you through those hot nights when you've cut back on the air conditioning and swapped out steak and sushi for wienies and baked beans.
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  Consumers are buying more wine in the $9 to $12 price bracket, reports the Nielsen Co., a consumer market research firm. Sales in this range are up more than 12% from last year. The only other price range showing that sort of growth is, ironically perhaps, the category of wines costing more than $15.

  What should you expect in an inexpensive wine, especially a white? Freshness, plus a certain sense of liveliness and balance. You also want a wine with high enough acidity to pair well with foods. These whites are nothing you'll want to age; drink them as you buy them.

  How to choose an inexpensive white wine? There are a few strategies you can use:

  • Talk to your wine store owner or clerk about what sort of wine style you want and at what price. They know their stock and can guide you to what they think will work best.

  • Many wineries make wine in various price tiers. If you liked so-and-so's sauvignon blanc at $25, see if they make something similar for $10.

  • Go exploring. Check out whites from less-familiar regions or countries. Spanish wines are often affordable, as are many from Eastern Europe and South America.

  • Just as you do with groceries, look for advertised specials on wine. Do use caution before buying. Some wine merchants reduce prices sharply to get rid of old stock. You don't want to buy a wine that's over the hill. Generally choose an inexpensive white wine that's only 1 or 2 years old.