Good Cheap Wines

The 2004 Veramonte Primus is a dry, medium bodied blend of Carmenère, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Casablanca Valley in Chile. Dark cherry notes are backed by hints of chocolate and oak.

Winery: Veramonte Vineyards
Vintage: 2004
Type: Red
Region: Casablanca Valley, Chile
Ratings: WINE & SPIRITS: 90 points
Price: $12.99

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 2004 Ledgewood Creek ‘Picnique’ is a pleasantly light, medium-bodied Chardonnay. The wine opens with fresh tropical fruit aromas and has dominant citrus flavors. Pair this wine with light dishes like pizza, seafood, or any Asian cuisine.

Winery: Ledgewood Creek
Vintage: 2004
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Napa Valley, California
Ratings: BRONZE MEDAL, 2006 San Diego International Wine Competition
Price: $9.99

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

Previous vintages of the Australian Sticks Chardonnay have rated equally high, but the 2004 vintage is considered by many to be the best. Even those who do not normally appreciate white wine will be drawn to the delicate bouquet of peach, honeydew and light oak. Solid length and intensity. Drink now or cellar up to 2010.

Winery: Sticks Winery
Vintage: 2004
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Yarra Valley, Australia
Ratings: AUSTRALIAN WINE COMPANION: 94 points
Price: $13.99