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!

 

Peachy Canyon 2014 Zinfandel

Grape(s): 98% Zinfandel & 2% Petite Sirah

Region: Paso Robles, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

A wealth of blackberries, blueberries, and cherries combine with notes of cedar and brown spice on the nose. Lush dark fruit comes forth on the palate, weaving in allusions of clove, cedar, and anise on the palate. A smooth Zin with plush tannins, pulled pork would make a nice pairing.

Rating: 90

Acacia “Barrel Select” 2014 Chardonnay

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Region: Napa Valley, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of apples, pears, buttery oak, and sweet spice greets one on the nose. Rich on the palate with tropical fruit, pear, and golden apple flavors among highlights of buttery oak, clove, and creamy vanilla. Fans of buttery Chardonnays will find a lot to love here.

Rating: 90

OVR Lot 66 Red Blend

Grape(s): Zinfandel with some Syrah, Petite Sirah and Carignane

Region: California

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

An abundance of dark fruit is accented by spicy, smoky, and meaty expressions on the nose. The palate echos the nose as blackberries, cherries, pepper, and bacon come forth. Not for those who prefer light and fruity, but fans of heartier reds should give this a try.

Rating: 90

Dry Creek Vineyards 2015 Heritage Zinfandel

Grape(s): 99% Zinfandel & 1% Petite Sirah

Region: Dry Creek Valley, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Blackberries, cherries, pepper and clove interplay together on the nose. Lush, jammy fruit, like blackberry, boysenberry, and cherry move into suggestions of pepper, clove, and coffee on the palate. Refined tannins and a balanced acidity make this wine a good match for your favorite BBQ.

Rating: 90