Monday, December 29, 2008

Top Ten Wines Under $20 for 2008 (NW)

In 2008, I've taken tasting notes on nearly 400 wines. I enjoy a wide variety of wines and am especially excited to find good bargains. In fact, my colleagues and I at The Wine Cask Blog are particularly value-oriented. We believe the world of wine delivers tremendous value if you're willing to search out new regions and new varietals.

Many terrific wines are available for $10 or so, but I wanted to share with you my best tastings under $20 in order to capture a few wines that really are special and unique. Here they are:


1. Villa Reale Vigne Nuove Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2005- $11 (Italy)

This might be the best value I've ever found. Incredible stuff for the money!

2. Rosenblum San Francisco Bay Heritage Clones Petite Sirah 2005- $19 (California)

One of the biggest, fruitiest wines on the planet. Make sure you're in the mood for this style!

3. Yangarra McLaren Vale Old Vine Grenache 2004- $19 (Australia)

Here's the incredible balance of ripe fruit and underlying tea notes. Move over Shiraz!

4. Ironstone Vineyards Cabernet Franc Reserve 2003- $19 (California)

Really smooth, rich, and round. Cab Franc in a modern interpretation!

5. Giesen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2007- $11 (New Zealand)

I keep finding New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs that knock my socks off!

6. Frog Hill Pinotage 2006- $19 (South Africa)

A composition of wild berries and other exotic layers!

7. Santa Rita Medalla Real Cabernet Sauvignon 2005- $15 (Chile)

Dark, dense, and totally Cab. One of the new "best values" from Chile!

8. Peter Lehmann Barossa Shiraz 2005- $15

Ripe but also elegant. Don't miss this one!

9. Trapiche Broquel Malbec 2005- $14

A great representation of Malbec at an affordable price!

10. Alamos Torrontes 2007- $10

Exotic and beautifully made- and for only ten bucks!

1 comment:

  1. Definitely agree with your Alamos Torrontes pick. I had the 2006 a few weeks ago and thought it was fantastic!

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