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!

Wente 2016 Riva Ranch Chardonnay

Grape(s): 98% Chardonnay & 2% Gewurztraminer

Region: Monterey, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Aromatics of tropical fruits, vanilla, and buttery oak come together on the nose. With a sip, flavors of pineapple, passion fruit, and Meyer lemon combine with suggestions of vanilla and butter. Solid balance and a flavor profile that’s right on point for Riva lovers, it’s a good buy for about $15.

Rating: 90

Noble Vines 2016 Pinot Grigio

Grape(s): Pinot Grigio

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of citrus and stone fruits combine with whispers of minerals and spring flowers. Notes of melon, lime, and apricot come forth on the palate, along with accents of orange blossoms and honey. A nice body and friendly acidity make this a very approachable Pinot Grigio.

Rating: 90

Domaine De Fontsainte (Kermit Lynch) 2017 Gris de Gris

Grape(s): 50% Grenache Gris, 20% Grenache Noir, 20% Carignan, 5% Cinsault, & 5% Mourvèdre

Region: Rhone Valley, France

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

The nose brings together strawberry, peach, and lemon aromas. Welcoming fruit takes shape on the palate with strawberries and peaches leading the way, followed up by notes of lemon and minerals. A fresh acidity and bright flavors make this a lovely summertime wine.

Rating: 90

Smith & Hook 2014 Proprietary Red Blend

Grape(s):  40% Merlot, 32% Malbec, 26% Petite Sirah, & 2% Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Central Coast, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Aromatics of blackberries and cherries mingle among elements of dark chocolate and cola on the nose. Ripe cherry, blackberry, and currant flavors open up into whispers of toasty oak and cola on the palate. Cocoa tannins and welcoming fruit make this a good wine to pair with your favorite lamb dish.

Rating: 90