Who doesn’t like an affordable bottle of wine? Well, I certainly do if it ticks the boxes that include flavor, an ability to pair with food, balance, and a lovely finish. Just in time for the holidays and beyond are five wines (sent as samples) all under $25 that are worthy of another pour, if not another bottle or two! Easy drinking and budget friendly, find these widely distributed wines, invite a few friends to stop by, and enjoy every moment.
Pale gold in the glass, 2022 Prescription Vineyards Chardonnay ($20) is from premium vineyards in California’s Clarksburg AVA. This approachable wine is a welcome addition to any palate thanks to aromas of lemon peel, tangy green apple, and white flowers. Notes of citrus, juicy stone, raw almonds, and grilled pineapple on the palate were delightful. Crisp and dry, minerality was this wine’s signature finish. Complement shrimp, roasted salmon, glazed scallops, or soft cheeses with this nicely balanced wine.
Pretty in pink, The Pale Rose ($17.99) is a gentle, Provencal style rose of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah cultivated in sundrenched vineyards located along the Mediterranean coast. You will be whisked away to the South of France during the first sip! Refreshing and aromatic, snappy fruit forward notes and hints of rosemary on both nose and palate were lifted with vibrant acidity. Enjoy with quiche Lorraine, pan bagnat, your favorite omelette, or a sunny afternoon outside with a good book.
Photo Credit: BBC Food
Imagine sitting by the fire with a bowl of your go-to comfort food dish such as slow cooked beef stew or cassoulet and lively conversation. What’s in the glass? 2022 Primus The Red Blend ($20.99), of course. From regenerative, organic, and biodynamic vineyards surrounded by native forests in Colchagua, Chile, I found intense aromas of spice, white pepper, cola, juicy plums, and minerality. On the palate, concentrated dark fruit and bright spice were framed with moderate tannins and food friendly acidity. This was an expressive, elegant wine for an incredible price.
Ready for game day? 2021 Beronia Tempranillo ($24.99) is a guaranteed win. Off 100% Tempranillo from Rioja DOCa, I found gorgeous spice notes, anise, ripe red berries, milk chocolate and slightest hint of plums on the nose. Balanced with moderate tannins and acidity, bright red fruit led the way to a lingering, ever-so-satisfying finish. Perfect with juicy burgers, tapas, or a cheese and charcuterie plate, let the games begin!
When I see a wine from Veramonte, I know that it will be a solid choice. 2023 Veramonte Cabernet Sauvignon ($13.99) from organic vineyards in Colchagua, Chile was no exception; it is well priced and flavorful. Wafting from the glass were aromas of red and black fruit, leather, and baking spices. More spice, blackberries and black currants shone on the balanced palate that featured integrated tannins and just-right acidity. Grill a rib eye steak or enjoy with meat lasagna for a luscious pairing.
Grilled ribeye beef steak with red wine, herbs and spices. (Photo credit: Millesima)
Cheers! ~ Cindy
