Good Cheap Wine

This chardonnay is not oak-aged, allowing the underlying fruity, almost tropical flavors of the grape to shine through. Great with light pasta, chicken and pork.

Winery: Marmesa Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: White
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Edna Valley, California
Price: $9.99

Thought to be a Merlot until the mid-nineties, Chilean Carménère grapes are actually an ancient Bordeaux that was wiped out in France. Casa Donoso’s Carmenère Reserva 2005 was a gold medalist at the Catad’Or Hyatt wine awards, and goes great with cheese and red meats.
Act now! – It’s available only in limited quantities.

Winery: Casa Donoso
Vintage: 2005
Type: Red
Variety: Carménère
Region: Maule Valley, Chile
Ratings: Wine Messenger: 92 points
Price: $14.00

You’ll lick your lips after trying this food friendly, fruity wine, with an almost creamy taste. This Verdelho is a perfect pairing with seafood, chicken or turkey on a cold winter’s night.

Winery: Peel Estate
Vintage: 2005
Type: White
Variety: Verdelho
Region: Australia
Ratings: Wine Messenger: 91 points
Price: $14.75

Martin Zahn’s 2005 Pinot Blanc, in the sleek green bottle, is a light and fruity treat, great with spicy ethnic cuisine. Soft fruit flavors play on the tongue before making way for a smooth, dry finish.

Winery: Martin Zahn
Vintage: 2005
Type: White
Variety: Pinot Blanc
Region: Ribeauvillé, France
Ratings: Wine Messenger: 91 points
Price: $13.75

The dry, medium bodied 2005 Bernardus Chardonnay opens with aromas of peach and tropical fruit, followed by flavors of ripe pineapple, apple notes, and a long, creamy finish. It’s not often you’ll find a wine rated at 95 points for less than $20. Try a bottle while you still can!

Winery: Bernardus
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Monterey, California
Ratings: WINE NEWS: 95 points
Price: $16.99

Full of ripe fruit flavors, the stand-up 2005 Beringer Napa Valley Chardonnay is a well-focused wine; nice weight on the palate with a bright finish. Perfect alongside grilled chicken.

Winery: Beringer Vineyards
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Napa Valley, CA, USA
Ratings: THE WINE NEWS: 89 points
Price: $16.49