The Best Wines for Every Budget
There are few pleasures in life that can compare to enjoying a great glass of wine. Whether it’s with a meal, as a toast to a celebration, or simply to unwind after a long day, wine has the ability to bring people together and enhance any moment. However, with so many different wines available at varying price points, it can be difficult to know where to begin when making a selection.
The Basics of Wine
Before diving into the best wines for every budget, it’s important to understand some of the basics of wine. Wine is made from grapes that have been fermented, but not all grapes can be used to make wine. Specifically, wine is made from the Vitis vinifera species of grape, which is native to Europe but is now grown all over the world.
Wines can be classified as either red, white, or rosé. Red wine is made by fermenting the juice of red grapes with their skins, which gives the wine its characteristic color and tannins. White wine is made by fermenting the juice of white grapes, but can also be made from red grapes with the skins removed. Rosé is made by allowing the skins of red grapes to remain in contact with the juice for a short period of time.
Wine can also be classified by its sweetness, which can range from bone dry to dessert-sweet. The sweetness of wine is determined by the amount of residual sugar left in the wine after fermentation. Generally, wines that are lower in alcohol are also higher in residual sugar, which gives them a sweeter taste.
Under $10
- Trader Joe’s Charles Shaw (aka “Two Buck Chuck”)
- Bota Box Cabernet Sauvignon
- Yellow Tail Shiraz
While there are many cheap wines on the market, not all of them are created equal. However, there are a few options that offer a good value without compromising on flavor. Trader Joe’s Charles Shaw – famously known as “Two Buck Chuck” – can often be found for under $3 and offers a variety of varietals. Bota Box’s Cabernet Sauvignon is also a good choice for those on a budget, as it can be found for under $10 and comes in a convenient box. Finally, Yellow Tail Shiraz is a well-known budget-friendly wine that can be found in most supermarkets for under $10.
$10-$20
- Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling
- Columbia Crest “H3” Cabernet Sauvignon
- Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc
For those willing to spend a little more, there are plenty of great options in the $10-$20 range. Chateau Ste. Michelle’s Riesling is a great choice for white wine drinkers, while Columbia Crest’s “H3” Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich, full-bodied red. Kim Crawford’s Sauvignon Blanc is another popular choice in this price range, offering bright citrus flavors and a crisp finish.
$20-$50
- Justin Cabernet Sauvignon
- La Crema Pinot Noir
- Cakebread Chardonnay
Wines in the $20-$50 range offer a higher level of complexity and flavor than their less expensive counterparts. Justin’s Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout in this price range, offering black cherry and cocoa notes with a smooth finish. La Crema’s Pinot Noir is another great option, with a silky texture and flavors of red fruit and spices. Finally, Cakebread’s Chardonnay is a California classic with a rich, buttery flavor and notes of vanilla and oak.
Above $50
- Opus One Red Blend
- Dom Perignon Champagne
- Chateau Margaux Bordeaux
For those looking to splurge on a bottle, there are plenty of options in the $50+ range. Opus One’s Red Blend is a California cult classic, with flavors of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla. Dom Perignon Champagne is, of course, a classic choice for celebrations and special occasions. Finally, Chateau Margaux’s Bordeaux is a rich, full-bodied red with notes of black currant and leather.
When it comes to wine, there is truly something for everyone at every price point. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splurge, there are countless options to choose from that will enhance any meal or occasion.