We present to you our top picks in the under $20 range in a variety of styles. New wines are rotated in according to availability and worthiness. Wines revised 12/10/08.
07 Esporão Alentejo Reserva White $13.99
Made from a blend of indigenous Portugese white grapes, this is beautifully full, crisp and mineral with well-integrated toasty oak tones. It drinks like a classy, oak-aged Chardonnay for a fraction of the price.
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05 La Solana “Pago Florentino” Tempranillo $13.49
The new edition of this perennial value favorite offers a nose fragrant with blackberry scents and hints of smoke and minerals. On the palate it is balanced and supple with loads of juicy blackberry and cherry flavors. The finish is bright and long, tinged with spice tones. This is a superb everyday red, ideal for pairing with a range of casual fare.
05 Parent Burgundy, Pinot Noir $14.99
The nose of this incredible 2005 bargain begins with notes of pure raspberry and dark cherry, backed by game and earth tones plus hints of charcoal. On the light- to medium-bodied palate, very pure cherry flavors lead the way and are supported by more raspberry notes and tones of strawberry and earthy charcoal. Further notes of soft leather and earth unfurl on the balanced finish. This wine is superbly proportioned works on its on or pairs very well with charcuterie, roast chicken or pork with an earthy side of mushrooms.
03 Los 800 Priorat Grenache Blend $16.99
“Bright red. Fresh raspberry and candied cherry on the nose, plus a jolt of minerals adding energy. Crisp, nervy red berry flavors are underscored by zesty minerality and gain sweetness on the finish. Very fresh and elegant, especially for the price.” IWC 90
04 Condado de Haza Ribera del Duero Spain $18.97
“Condado de Haza is another Alejandro Fernandez (of Pesquera fame) property also located in Ribera del Duero. Like all of his estates, the wines are produced from 100% Tempranillo. The first vintage here was in 1993. The brilliant 2004 Condado de Haza received malolactic fermentation in barrel followed by 15 months in American oak. Purple-colored, it offers up fragrant aromas of cedar, tobacco, black currants and blackberry. There is a supple mouth-feel and generous cherry and black fruit flavors and enough ripe tannins to ensure good longevity. Drink this hedonistic effort now and over the next 10-12 years.” WA 91
