Good Cheap Wines

Ever since the movie Sideways, the many great and inexpensive wines of Southern California have become very highly regarded. And although the movie may imply that you should avoid Merlot, that is anything but the case! The Kinderwood ‘03 is a great dry red wine, boasting rich flavors of current and just a touch of oak. Pair it with hamburger, steak, or even pizza. Enjoy until 2009.

Company: Kinderwood Winery
Vintage: 2003
Type: Merlot
Region: Paso Robles, California
Ratings: THE WINE MESSENGER: 91 points
Price: $9.75

Like all Rieslings, the Fess Parker 2005 is semi-sweet (3.5% residual sugar), but not to be mistaken for a dessert wine. Floral aromas and hints of orange and lychee nut are followed by crisp flavors of peach and pineapple in the mouth. Serve slightly chilled alongside spicy Asian food, soup and salad, or fruity desserts.

Company: Fess Parker Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Riesling
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Ratings: SILVER MEDAL, 2006 California State Fair Wine Competition
Price: $11.99

This medium-bodied French Pinot Noir opens with delicious aromas of cherry, red berries, and a touch of mint. On the palette it is well-balanced with bright cherry & ripe plum flavors. Pairs brilliantly with grilled veggies and chicken. Drink it now or store up until to 2009.

Company: Puech Cocut (Domaine de Raissac)
Vintage: 2006
Type: Pinot Noir
Region: The Languedoc (Pays d’Oc), Southern France
Ratings: THE WINE MESSENGER: 91 points
Price: $12.50

From the grapes of California’s Russian River Valley, the 2005 Hanna Sauvignon Blanc opens with cool aromas of fresh citrus and melon. With flavors of gooseberries, mown grass and lemon, the wine is reminiscent of a classic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

Company: Hanna Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Sonoma County, California
Ratings: WINE & SPIRITS: 94 points
Price: $15.99

I know it’s April Fools, but this wine is no joke. The $12.99 Hogue Cabernet Sauvignon was actually rated a staggering 94 points by Wine News Magazine. Along with a 90 point rating from the Connoisseurs’ Guide, this full-bodied Cab is a must-try. Perfect for the next time you cook steak or just want to snack on some cheese or chocolate.

Company: The Hogue Cellars
Vintage: 2003
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Ratings: WINE NEWS: 94 points
Price: $12.99