Wine Bargains

Filed in archive Cheap Wines on August 20, 2007

A small price tag doesn't always mean that you're getting a lesser-quality wine. Heck, just talk to the fans of the acclaimed "Two Buck Chuck." I'm a big believer in the $10 bottle of wine. Of course I enjoy splurging on the higher-end bottles, too, but if it's Tuesday night and I'm making spaghetti and meatballs, you bet I'll be opening something a bit more reasonably priced.

Business Week has a few reccomendations in the $10-$15 range. I'll be looking to try a couple of these myself:

Panarroz 2006 Jumilla
90 points. An amazing bargain from Spain, this blend of mourvèdre, Grenache, and syrah bursts with plum, blackberry, and licorice-infused fruit. There is a bit of pepper as well, and the wine is silky, soft, and opulent. Serve it at a barbecue. $10

Domaine la Noble 2005 Chardonnay Vin de Pays
87 points. I first tasted this 2005 when it was selling for $5, and even at twice the price it remains a great value. From vineyards in Languedoc, this cuvée exhibits plenty of honeysuckle, white peach, and tropical fruit along with good acidity. $10

Château des Tourtes Blanc 2006 Côtes de Blaye
89 points. Sauvignon blanc and semillon combine to make a dry, crisp, medium-bodied wine with notes of honeydew melon and lemon oil. It's a perfect pairing for salmon or any other fatty fish. $12

Pierre Boniface 2006 Vin Savoie Apremont
89 points. This light, crisp, dry white from the French Alps is pure and vibrant. It brings to mind a Granny Smith apple with a touch of honeysuckle. Serve as an aperitif or an accompaniment to lighter fish and poultry dishes. $14

Haut Beysac 2004 Haut-Médoc
87 points. This well-priced Bordeaux exhibits excellent cedary, black currant, and licorice characteristics along with hints of tobacco leaf and spice. Medium-bodied, with silky tannin as well as surprising flavor complexity and depth, it should evolve for another five to six years. $15