Value Wines for the Times
We have all settled in to the new “normal”- we are practicing safe distances and staying at home, and finding new ways of working and doing things, including communicating and shopping. If you’re budget has taken a hit, or if your wine consumption has gone up significantly (whose hasn’t?!) don’t raid all of your good stuff out of the wine cellar. We have some great wines all under $10 a bottle that won’t disappoint. Don’t forget, you can call us or e-mail and we will pull your order for you. Here’s some popular varietals that are budget friendly- all around $10 a bottle or less.
Washington Hills Riesling This wine is grown in Columbia Valley, in Washington State. It’s light and fruity with flavors of orange zest and dried apricot, with a hint of red roses on the nose. A touch of Gewurztraminer blended in gives a ripe pineapple and sweet tart finish. The winery is owned by the largest wine company in the Northwest, Precept Brands. Lots of fruit sources and quality. I give it two bones!
Chateau St Jean Crisp Chardonnay Part of the Treasury Wine Group, St Jean has a long history of quality in Sonoma, California. Founded in 1973, the current winemaker Margo Van Staaveren has over 35 years of viticulture and winemaking experience. This “crisp” Chardonnay is aged in stainless steel – hints of lemon, fresh pear, and apple blossom. This wine shows the true expression of the grape grown on their vineyards in Kenwood, Sonoma. I give it three bones!
Day Owl Rose’ This wine radiates floral red fruit and vibrant orange zest. The lively acidity makes the wine great just for sipping on a hot day, or with light seafood or chicken dishes. The grape is Barbera- an Italian varietal that grows well in California. The fruit is sourced from Central Coast and Paso Robles and it is slightly lower in alcohol, 12% so we love it for “day drinking”! I give it three bones!
Cycles Gladiator Pinot Noir Another value from California that is owned by a wine group that contracts out for the fruit. This practice is common in Europe and a growing theme in California, as quality wines can be produced affordably. Wine Hooligans purchased the Cycles Gladiator brand and the grapes are sourced from up and down North and Central Coast areas of California, within ten miles of the Pacific Ocean. Aromas of cherries with soft, toasty oak. Flavors of Pomegranate and strawberry, with tobacco and raspberry on the finish. I give it two bones!
Sterling Vintner’s Collection Merlot Another treasured wine from the Treasury Estate folks- this Merlot has ripe dark fruit flavors and a touch of spicy oak. Blackberry fruit up front with a hint of chocolate on the finish. The winery is located in Calistoga, California and is famous for their aerial tram that takes visitors up the mountain with amazing views of the vineyards and countryside. The Vintner’s Collection is their entry level tier of wines and grapes are sourced from vineyards throughout CA. I give this Merlot three bones!
Line 39 Cabernet Sauvignon This wine is a pleasure to drink at this price point! The 39th Parallel runs through the heart of California wine country and this is the inspiration behind this label. Grapes are sourced throughout the best regions: North Coast, Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino for this wine. Aromas of blackberry, plum and vanilla- medium bodied with a smooth palate. I give it three bones!
19 Crimes Shiraz Named for the English convicts that were sent to Australia via boats for committing any of 19 Crimes. These convicts eventually became colonists and settled the land, became farmers and viticulturists. Intense aromas of vanilla, ripe raspberry and plum fruits. A great value, I give it two bones!
Piatelli Malbec Over 50 years ago, an Italian family settled in Mendoza, Argentina and planted wine grapes. The current winemaker, Valeria Antolin is a second-generation viticulturist following in the footsteps of her father and uncle. She grew up in the industry and has consistently garnered 90+ ratings on these wines. Intensely aromatic blueberries on the nose, flavors of plum and raspberries. Medium to heavy weight with a smooth finish. This is a super- premium wine at a bargain price point. I give it three bones!
There’s something for everyone to enjoy here at Ed’s. We offer curb side service; we will gather your order and have it ready for you when you pull up in your car. Stay safe and stay sane, and remember you can’t walk your dog too many times!
By Brunello Giancola as told to CRBrown
