Recommendations for inexpensive wines

[Tiki Tom]

There is a lot of good advice in this thread. I especially agree with the advice to seek out lesser known wine regions. One thing to keep in mind is that there has been a quiet wine revolution over the last 20 years or so that has seen quality improve almost everywhere. Also (IMHO) the quality jump between a $1.99 bottle and a $8 bottle is usually far greater than the quality jump from a $8 bottle to a $200 bottle. Cote du Rhone and Beaujolais and Languedoc are generally affordable and good for someone just setting out to explore French reds. Spanish wines are a true value. Pinot Grigio is an easy drinking affordable Italian white. I also watch alcohol content. Back in the day, 12% was normal. These days, many producers are building monster wines of 13.5 or 14% or even higher. Not my style. Ultimately, though, it all comes down to what you like and can afford. I think I must be dyslexic, because I can hardly tell the difference between the words "snob" and "bore".

 

[Harp]

Lancers, a cheap red or white Portuguese vino poured from a clay bottle that sustained college, grad school, and law school impoverishment.
Still prefer it today to more expensive wines but I have an admittedly plebian palette.

 

[dnjan]

I am currently sipping Bolla's Valpolicella (2014). $6.20 a bottle if you buy at least six from TotalWine.
Not a religious experience, but quite nice.
I will be purchasing more tomorrow.

 

[Warlord of The Weejuns]

I love Malbecs, especially Trapiche Broquel Malbec, but recently discovered Super Tuscan wines. Aia Vecchia Lagone is in the $15 -20 range and has an after taste that reminds me of bourbon. I don't know, but maybe it is aged in bourbon barrels. Another one I have tried and liked is Fattoria di Piazzano same price range. I am anxoius to try more of them.

 

[VVS]

Justin Cab
DAOU Cab
Both from Paso Robles, CA
Super nice and very reasonable price for what they are