Top Red Wines Values

1) Querceto L’Aura Chianti Classico

Full of black cherry and black plum, this wine has a great backbone. A wonderful accompaniment to red meat, which really brings out the wine’s earthy notes. As the wine opens up it becomes considerably more generous and supple. Finding a great Chianti Classico for this price is nearly impossible, especialy considering the falling dollar. Here’s a great one, just make sure to gie it time to open up by decanting it and then it a few minutes before serving.

Get it for $21 at Jackson’s.

2) 2005 Falesco Vitiano, Italy

I cannot believe that this wine is only $10. The nose is rich with young cassis, bell peppers and a hint of dried dill. On the palate it exhibits a hint of dill, dried mint flakes, light tea, a subtle muskiness and an aftertaste of tart, black cherry. It has a small bit of tingle in it from carbon dioxide. This is considered a flaw, but at this level I consider it a very minor one, even interesting, and it may have only been the couple of bottles I drank. It is a successful mix of Sangiovese, Cabernet and Merlot.

Pick one up for $10 at BevMo.

3) 2006 Fontanafredda Briccotondo Barbera, Piemonte

Forget all the inexpenisve and good Barbera d’Albas on the market, because this Barbera from Piedmont is a great deal. Black plums, brambleberries and the lightest bit of allspice. This is a great wine, well-priced in general, but this is the best price you’ll find it available for. The tannins are soft and there is enough acid that this wine is great for cheese pairings, but I’d love to try it with simply prepared rabbit, pasta or just a simple pizza with red pepper flakes and basil.

Wine Thieves carries it for only $11.

4) 2004 Tapestry Cabernet Sauvignon McLaren Vale, Australia

Rich in blackberry, cassis, leather and cherries, this wine also has woody notes that do well with the firmly-structured backbone. This guy will age wonderfully, but a well-marbled steak would also be a good way to put its tannins to work while they’re still young.

At Wine Thieves for $17.

Top White Wine Values

1) 2006 Dancing Coyote Albarino

This is an amazing wine for the price. Though it is full-bodied, it is also very crisp, with fresh acidity and a fruity aroma. Like a bowl of lemons and passionflower. The interesting duality of being crisp enough to go with seafood, yet full-bodied makes it ideal for scallops, lightly sauteed in butter; buttered swordfish steaks. It is also versatil enough to pair with both oysters and heavy cheeses.

Find it at Chow for $10

2) 2006 Domaine Pichot Vouvray Domaine le Peu de la Moriette

This offering at Wine Thieves is below the typical cost of this outstanding bottle. If you have never experienced the magical and unique version of chenin blanc that is Vouvray, this is a great and inexpensive introduction. Spiced, baked quince and a white peach acidity that offset the light honey-like sweetness of this wine. It should also age well, if you like it.

Available at Wine Thieves for $12.

3) 2004 Chateau Grillon Sauternes

Chateau Grillon has the best cost-to-price ratio of any Sauternes I’ve tasted. For only $19, you get to experience the honeysuckle decadence of one of the world’s most amazing dessert wines. This one is a bit citrus-y, too. This price is as low as you will find. Be decadent and pair this with the best Roquefort that you can find.

Available at Wine Thieves for $19per 375mL bottle.

4) 2006 Whitehaven Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

Medium-bodied, white currants, pineapple and gooseberry with a clean finish that leaves your mouth full of aromas. Great for slightly spicy Asian foods.

Get it at Jackson’s or Wine Thieves for $13.

5) 2006 Picpoul de Pinet Coteaux du Languedoc

Many great wines are coming out of the Languedoc and this is one of them. I actually did not make note of the producer, but Jackson’s only has one Picpoul and it is great. This wine has a fresh nose, reminiscent of a spring breeze and wonderful acids, accompanied by good structure. Great with shellfish and grilled anchovies and sardines. This wine will not taste good served too warm, or two cold. About 5 minutes in the bottle out of a 35 degree refrigerator is perfect.

Get it for $8 at Jackson’s.

5) 2006 Ramspeck Pinot Noir, Napa Valley

This is probably the best pinot noir I’ve had for under $20 retail. It is supposed to be like a Burgundy and is, really earthy, full of barnyard and dirt aromas that are so strong they go a bit into the realm of tar or fresh-laid asphalt. It may not be for everyone, but I really enjoy this wine and certainly recommend trying it. Though it’s a pinot, this wine should pair well with many meat dishes, too, especially cured meats and pates, so consider using it to accompany a charcuterie-style spread.

At Wine Thieves for $16.

Posted under Uncategorized