With a seemingly limitless selection of bottles available it’s easier than ever to explore new regions, or varietals. To save some time at the store we’re rounding up the best finds $20 and under!
Hoopla California Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
From: California
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Price: $20
I had this while out at a restaurant and promptly looked it up. This wine is well balanced. It opens up with blackberry and cherry and oak. I had this with a burger and it was quite good! An easy drinking, fruit forward, food friendly wine this would be a crowd pleaser.
Cupcake Sauvignon Blanc
From: Malborough, New Zealand
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Price: $9
Drank this a little too quickly before snapping a shot of it… it’s a bargain deal for the quality! Bright Citrus notes with a nice grapefruit flavor carried throughout, typical of your New Zealand sauv blancs. We really enjoyed this wine, especially at its low price point! Definitely worth the buy now that the weather is starting to warm up 😊
Michael David Winery Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
From: California
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Price: $20
I’ve had Michael David Wineries Earthquake Zinfandel (more details here, add link to Zin post) and loved it, so naturally I had to try their Cab as well. This paired so well with beef tenderloin! It’s a bold, medium body wine with big juicy fruit flavors.
Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau 2019
From: Beaujolais, Burgundy, France
Varietal: Gamay
Price: $10
Beaujolais is one of those wines that’s great to always have on hand. You never know when you’re going to need to open a bottle! Made from the gamay grape it’s light, fruity, and very affordable. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature. It also pairs so well with a variety of foods. Do you need more convincing?
This specific Beaujolais was fresh, smooth, and filled with ripe berry flavors!
Substance Chardonnay 2018
From: Columbia Valley, Washington
Varietal: Chardonnay
Price: $15
I’ve tasted a few wines from Washington, but need to continue exploring. This bottle was a great entry into chardonnay from Washington. When exploring a new (to you) region $20 or under bottles are a great way to figure out what you like (or dislike) about a region.
This chardonnay was smooth, with a little oak in the beginning and ending with a long citrus finish. Making it a great daily drinker!
What’s your favorite go-to wine? Let us know in the comments, we’re always looking for an excuse to try something new!