When it comes to red wine, the options can be overwhelming, especially for those on a budget. However, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a high-quality red wine. In this article, we’ll explore the best red wines under $20, covering a range of styles, regions, and grape varieties.
Understanding Red Wine
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to understand the basics of red wine. Red wine is made from red or black grapes that are fermented with the grape skins, which give the wine its color and tannins. The type of grape, region, and winemaking techniques all impact the flavor, aroma, and overall character of the wine.
Popular Red Wine Grape Varieties
Some of the most popular red wine grape varieties include:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its bold flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spice.
- Merlot: A smooth and approachable variety with flavors of plum, blackberry, and chocolate.
- Pinot Noir: A light-bodied variety with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earthy notes.
- Syrah/Shiraz: A full-bodied variety with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice.
Top Red Wines Under $20
Here are some of the best red wines under $20, covering a range of styles and regions:
Cabernet Sauvignon
- Apothic Cabernet Sauvignon (California, USA): A rich and full-bodied Cabernet with flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spice. ($14)
- 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon (Washington State, USA): A smooth and approachable Cabernet with flavors of blackberry, cherry, and subtle spice. ($15)
- Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon (Chile): A classic Chilean Cabernet with flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and a hint of spice. ($18)
Merlot
- Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot (Napa Valley, California, USA): A smooth and approachable Merlot with flavors of plum, blackberry, and chocolate. ($20)
- Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot (Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA): A rich and full-bodied Merlot with flavors of blackberry, cherry, and subtle spice. ($15)
- Brancott Estate Merlot (Marlborough, New Zealand): A smooth and approachable Merlot with flavors of plum, blackberry, and a hint of spice. ($12)
Pinot Noir
- La Crema Pinot Noir (Sonoma County, California, USA): A light-bodied Pinot with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earthy notes. ($18)
- Meiomi Pinot Noir (California, USA): A smooth and approachable Pinot with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of spice. ($15)
- Kim Crawford Pinot Noir (Marlborough, New Zealand): A light-bodied Pinot with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earthy notes. ($12)
Syrah/Shiraz
- Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz (South Australia, Australia): A full-bodied Shiraz with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice. ($18)
- Qupé Syrah (Central Coast, California, USA): A full-bodied Syrah with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice. ($15)
- d’Arenberg The Stump Jump Shiraz (McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia): A full-bodied Shiraz with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice. ($12)
Regional Spotlight: Italy
Italy is home to a diverse range of red wines, from the bold and full-bodied to the light and approachable. Here are a few Italian red wines under $20:
- Ruffino Chianti (Tuscany, Italy): A classic Chianti with flavors of cherry, plum, and a hint of spice. ($15)
- Masi Campofiorin (Veneto, Italy): A smooth and approachable blend of Corvina, Rondinella, and Oseleta grapes. ($18)
- Feudo Maccari Nero d’Avola (Sicily, Italy): A full-bodied Nero d’Avola with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice. ($12)
Regional Spotlight: Spain
Spain is home to a rich and diverse range of red wines, from the bold and full-bodied to the light and approachable. Here are a few Spanish red wines under $20:
- Marqués de Riscal Rioja Reserva (Rioja, Spain): A classic Rioja with flavors of cherry, vanilla, and a hint of spice. ($18)
- Bodegas Borsao Garnacha (Aragon, Spain): A smooth and approachable Grenache with flavors of strawberry, cherry, and a hint of spice. ($12)
- CVNE Viña Real Crianza (Rioja, Spain): A full-bodied Tempranillo with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice. ($15)
Conclusion
When it comes to red wine, there are countless options available, even on a budget. Whether you prefer a bold and full-bodied Cabernet or a smooth and approachable Merlot, there’s a red wine out there for you. By exploring different regions and grape varieties, you can find a high-quality red wine that suits your taste and budget.
Final Tips
- Don’t be afraid to try new things – you might discover a new favorite wine.
- Consider the occasion and the food you’ll be pairing with the wine.
- Look for wines with good acidity and tannins, as these will help the wine age well.
- Don’t be put off by a lower price point – many excellent wines can be found under $20.
By following these tips and exploring the world of red wine, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a wine connoisseur. So why not grab a bottle and start sipping?
What makes a good red wine under $20?
A good red wine under $20 is one that offers a balance of quality, flavor, and value. When evaluating red wines in this price range, look for wines made from high-quality grapes, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah. These wines should have good acidity, moderate tannins, and flavors that are well-integrated and balanced. A good red wine under $20 should also have a smooth, velvety texture and a finish that lingers on the palate.
In addition to the wine’s technical characteristics, consider the winemaker’s reputation, the region in which the wine was produced, and the vintage. A good red wine under $20 may not have all the complexity and nuance of a more expensive wine, but it should still be enjoyable to drink and offer good value for the price. Some examples of good red wines under $20 include Apothic Red Blend, Ménage à Trois Red Blend, and 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon.
What are some popular red wine varieties under $20?
Some popular red wine varieties under $20 include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah/Shiraz, Malbec, and Pinot Noir. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spice, while Merlot is often described as smooth and approachable, with flavors of plum, blackberry, and chocolate. Syrah/Shiraz is a full-bodied wine with dark fruit flavors and spicy undertones, while Malbec is known for its plum and blackberry flavors and smooth texture. Pinot Noir is a lighter-bodied wine with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earth.
These varieties are widely available and can be found in many different regions, including California, France, Italy, and Argentina. Some popular red wine blends under $20 include Apothic Red Blend, Ménage à Trois Red Blend, and Red Diamond Merlot. These blends often combine different grape varieties to create a smooth and approachable wine with a balance of flavors.
What is the best way to store red wine under $20?
The best way to store red wine under $20 is in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 55°F and 65°F (13°C and 18°C). This will help to slow down the aging process and preserve the wine’s flavors and aromas. Avoid storing red wine in direct sunlight, near a heat source, or in a humid environment, as this can cause the wine to spoil or become over-oxidized.
It’s also important to store red wine on its side, rather than standing it upright. This will help to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out, which can cause the wine to become over-oxidized. If you don’t plan to drink the wine within a few months, consider storing it in a wine fridge or a temperature-controlled environment. This will help to preserve the wine’s quality and ensure that it remains drinkable for a longer period.
How long can I age red wine under $20?
The aging potential of red wine under $20 varies depending on the grape variety, region, and winemaking style. Generally, most red wines under $20 are designed to be consumed within 2-5 years of release. However, some wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah/Shiraz, may benefit from longer aging, typically up to 7-10 years.
Aging red wine can help to soften the tannins, integrate the flavors, and develop a more complex character. However, over-aging can cause the wine to become over-oxidized and lose its fruit flavors. If you plan to age red wine under $20, make sure to store it in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature, and check on it regularly to ensure that it’s developing as expected.
Can I pair red wine under $20 with food?
Red wine under $20 can be paired with a variety of foods, depending on the grape variety and winemaking style. Generally, red wines pair well with red meat, game, and robust cheeses. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with grilled steak, while Merlot pairs well with pasta and tomato sauce. Syrah/Shiraz pairs well with spicy food, while Malbec pairs well with grilled chicken and vegetables.
When pairing red wine under $20 with food, consider the weight and flavor intensity of the dish. A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir pairs well with delicate flavors, while a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with rich and robust flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite pairings – the most important thing is to enjoy the wine and the food together.
Is red wine under $20 suitable for special occasions?
Red wine under $20 can be suitable for special occasions, depending on the occasion and the wine. While it may not have the same level of complexity and nuance as a more expensive wine, a good red wine under $20 can still be a great choice for a special occasion. Consider the occasion and the guests – if you’re hosting a casual dinner party or a birthday celebration, a red wine under $20 can be a great choice.
However, if you’re hosting a formal dinner party or a wedding, you may want to consider a more expensive wine. Some popular red wines under $20 that are suitable for special occasions include Apothic Red Blend, Ménage à Trois Red Blend, and 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines offer a balance of quality, flavor, and value, and are sure to impress your guests.
Can I find red wine under $20 at my local wine shop?
Yes, you can find red wine under $20 at your local wine shop. Most wine shops carry a selection of red wines in this price range, including popular brands and lesser-known labels. If you’re having trouble finding a specific wine, ask the wine shop staff for recommendations – they can help you find a great red wine under $20 that suits your taste and budget.
You can also check online wine retailers, such as Total Wine and Wine.com, which often carry a wide selection of red wines under $20. Some popular online wine retailers also offer wine clubs and subscription services, which can be a great way to discover new wines and have them delivered to your doorstep.