Once again, we continue our series focusing on high quality wines, with wide distribution, that can be found for $20 or less. So add them to your shopping list, scoff at those more expensive bottles, and enjoy quality, even on a budget. Happy drinking!
Sebastiani 2015 Sauvignon Blanc
Grape(s): Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Lake County, California
Price: 10-15
Tasting Notes:
Expressions of grapefruits, melons, and peach greet the senses. The palate offers flavors of Meyer lemon, grapefruit, and tangerine that meld with hints of apricot jam and thyme. Good balance and lush fruit make this a nice, crowd-pleasing Sauv blanc.
Rating: 90
Shannon Ridge 2014 “Buck Shack” Red Blend
Grape(s): Syrah, Tempranillo, Cabernet, Barbera and Petite Sirah
Region: Lake County, Ca
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
Lush berry and spice aromas rise up from a glass. The palate is pretty supple with flavors of blackberries, cherries, and pomegranates coming together with elements of barrel spice and minerals. A bit dryer and more complex than a good number of California red blends. If you’re over super forward and fruity, this wine is a breath of fresh air.
Rating: 90
St. Francis “Old Vines” 2014 Zinfandel
Grape(s): Zinfandel
Region: Sonoma County Ca
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of cherries and blackberries blend with expressions of licorice and spice on the nose. Rich, jammy flavors of blackberry, strawberry, and cherry merge with highlights of pepper, all spice, and anise. Lively spice and compelling fruit make this Zin a winner for the price.
Rating: 90
Nielson 2014 Chardonnay
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Monterey County, California
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
The nose offers aromas of pineapples, peaches, and mangoes mingle with suggestions of butterscotch and sweet brown spice on the palate. Peach and tropical fruit notes are in harmony with vanilla and clove on the palate. Nice and round but with enough acidity to balance that richness out, it’s a classic California Chardonnay for the price.
Rating: 90