Choosing a favorite red wine is a bit like being forced to choose between two great entrees at a world class restaurant – what every choice you make you are certainly going to look wistfully back and think ‘what if…..’ However, when it comes to red wine favorites both the buying public and experts have provided us with some insight into what they enjoy – and what they regard as great value in the sub $20 range. These wines provide exceptional value and are proof that value for money certainly does not mean sub standard.
If you want to start building a database (even if it is strictly mental) of red wine favorites that fall firmly into the casual drinking category here are some great choices just to start you off on your journey of exploration.
1. The 2005 Ravenswood Vintner’s Blend ‘California Cabernet Sauvignon’.
This Cab walks that fine line between supplying that well renowned tannic ‘oomph’ that is usually the hallmark of Cabernet Sauvignon and providing a mellow black fruit balance that allows the wines well rounded and sweet nature to shine brightly. You can expect to pay in the region of $12 – which is great value for a wine that steps away from the usual – but not too far.
2. The Santa Rita 120 2015.
Another excellent Cab at an unbelievable price. You can pick up this wine from Chile at an astounding price of under $10 per bottle – if you can find it. It avoids the sometimes heavy going nature of some Cabernet Sauvignon’s and provides instead a refreshing experience with plenty and berry and fruit notes. This is without doubt an unpretentious wine – but one that would go down a treat at the barbecue in fact it would pair well with a simple burger.
3. Los Vascos 2015.
Another offering from Chile this from an estate owned by Baron Lafite of Chateau Lafite Rothschild fame. It may not originate at that Bordeaux location but it is still very worthy of attention. A Cabernet with a distinctly complex body. Hints of blackberry and cherry mingle with sage and mint with rosemary highlights to provide a deeply satisfying experience. You can expect to pay in the region of $10 – another bargain price.
4. The 2016 Diviner Cabernet Sauvignon.
A little more pricey than the previous wines on the list but worth every penny. This wine from the Santa Ynez Valley in California could be best described a rich and luxurious – with a velvet mouthfeel. This wine is assertive in a good way. It provides notes of vanilla, rosemary and blackberries. It is a wine that is able to hold its own when paired with meats such as roast pork, barbecued ribs or other proteins prepared over coals. Expect to part with just under $30 a bottle.
Finding a favorite red wine is a labor of love – and a journey that is best shared with those nearest and dearest. It is proof that sometimes the journey is more important the the destination – so take your first steps now.