Good Cheap Wine

I love geese and I love wine, so this cab from the Sylvester Winery in central California had a lot to live up to. I’m glad to say that the smooth blackberry and plum notes, coupled with a hint of oak and cedar did not disappoint.

Winery: Sylvester Winery
Vintage: 2006
Type: Red
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Paso Robles, California
Price: $11.99

This smooth, berry and chocolately cab is great for red meats and poultry. Don’t be afraid to pair it with cheeses as well.

Winery: MWD Vineyards
Vintage: 2008
Type: Red
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Sierra Foothills, California
Price: $14.99

Boasting bright red fruit flavors along with spicy, peppery notes, the 2004 Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect wine to accompany a big barbecued steak this summer.

Winery: Estancia Estates
Vintage: 2004
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Central Coast, California
Ratings: WILFRED WONG: 90 points
Price: $12.99

The grapes used in the 2005 De Martino Organic Cabernet Sauvignon are organically grown in their own “Isla de Maipo” estate. For vinification, they have used only the grapes own yeasts during fermentation and a minimum of sulphur. Pairs well with red meats and pasta.

Winery: De Martino Estate
Vintage: 2005
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Maipo Valley, Chile
Ratings: WINE & SPIRITS: 91 points
Price: $11.99

The Mendoza region is the most important region in Argentina’s wine industry. The 2004 Valentin Bianchi cab is medium-to-full bodied and opens with beautifual aromas of chocolate, pepper, and dark berries. Rich, spicy, berry flavors follow on the mouth and end in a long, smooth finish. Perfect for the next time you barbeque steak or cook lamb.

Winery: Bianchi Vineyards
Vintage: 2004
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Mendoza, Argentina
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 90 points
Price: $16.79

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.

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