Wines under $20
Each year a favorite go-to summer sipper at a great price. 79% Chenin Blanc provides crisp acidity while 21% Viognier adds structure and depth. Opens with a nose of lemon creme pie combined with flavors of pineapple, tropicals, Meyer lemon, stone fruit, light spice, floral herbal notes and a hint of flintiness with a touch of sweetness. Try with spicy Thai food.
A super-value blend at $18 but can be found for as little as $12. A great go-to wine blended of 50% Petite Sirah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Syrah and 10% Zinfandel.. Very drinkable upon opening. Expect a nose of spicy black cherry pie. The flavor profile pulls from the best of the varietals used with flavors of black cherry, blackberries, black fruit, a hint of sweetness, pipe tobacco, spice box with silky tannins. Have plenty on hand for that BBQ patio party.
A good value for an organic Chardonnay. Opens with a nose of citrus, lemon zest with notes of vanilla. Flavors of citrus, tangy pineapple, crisp green apples and tropicals with hints of banana are highlighted with enough zippy acidity to pair well with lighter fare.
This Sangiovese from Story Winery really ticked my palate. Opening with bright nose of spicy cherry pie, the wine sports full-fruit flavors of red cherry, strawberry and red berries with notes of plum, spice and espresso. The round mouth-feel is complimented by supple tannins and enough zippy acidity to pair beautifully with the pepper-spiced steak and grilled salad we served.
The first word that came to mind was simply delicious. This blend of 30% each Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah with 10% Zinfandel has a nose of cherry chocolate. Rich fruit and soft tannins offer up those same cherry and dark cocoa powder flavors with spicy notes and hints of vanilla and smoke. A great red wine at the price from Lava Cap.
