Top 10 Red Wines Under $20
Hi, I’m Emily and I love a good glass of red wine. However, I don’t always want to break the bank to enjoy it. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 red wines under $20 that you can enjoy without feeling guilty about your wallet.
Interesting Facts About Red Wines
- Red wine is made from dark-colored grapes.
- The color of red wine comes from the skin of the grapes.
- Red wine is rich in antioxidants, which can provide several health benefits.
- Red wine is best served at room temperature, around 60-65°F.
- Red wine should be decanted before serving to allow it to breathe and enhance its flavor.
Top 10 Red Wines Under $20
- Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir – This Chilean wine has a smooth and fruity taste with notes of cherry and raspberry. It’s perfect for pairing with chicken or pasta dishes.
- Yellow Tail Shiraz – This Australian wine has a bold and spicy taste with hints of blackberry and vanilla. It’s great for pairing with red meat or a cheese platter.
- 14 Hands Hot to Trot Red Blend – This Washington State wine has a bold and rich taste with notes of cherry and mocha. It’s perfect for pairing with grilled meats or pizza.
- Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon – This Washington State wine has a rich and full-bodied taste with notes of black cherry and vanilla. It pairs well with steak or hearty stews.
- Bogle Vineyards Essential Red – This California wine has a smooth and fruity taste with notes of raspberry and blackberry. It’s great for pairing with burgers or pizza.
- Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon – This California wine has a rich and full-bodied taste with notes of blackberry and vanilla. It’s perfect for pairing with red meat or a cheese platter.
- Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet – This California wine has a smooth and velvety taste with notes of chocolate and red berries. It’s great for pairing with chocolate desserts or as a dessert wine on its own.
- Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel – This California wine has a bold and spicy taste with notes of black cherry and black pepper. It pairs well with barbecue or spicy foods.
- Norton Malbec Reserva – This Argentine wine has a rich and full-bodied taste with notes of blackberry and vanilla. It’s perfect for pairing with steak or hearty stews.
- The Crusher Petite Sirah – This California wine has a bold and fruity taste with notes of blueberry and blackberry. It’s great for pairing with grilled meats or pizza.
Expert Opinions
I’m not the only one who loves these wines. According to a survey of wine experts conducted by Wine Enthusiast, several of these wines have received high ratings:
- Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir – 90 points
- Yellow Tail Shiraz – 88 points
- Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon – 87 points
- Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel – 87 points
- The Crusher Petite Sirah – 87 points
Personal Experiences
I’ve had the pleasure of trying each of these wines myself, and I have to say that my personal favorite is the Yellow Tail Shiraz. It has a bold and spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with a juicy steak.
However, I also enjoy the Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir for a lighter option with pasta dishes, and the Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet for a delicious dessert wine.
FAQs
Here are some common questions that people have when it comes to choosing the perfect red wine:
What should I look for when choosing a red wine?
It depends on your personal taste and what you’re planning to pair it with. Some people prefer bold and spicy wines, while others prefer smoother and fruitier options. You should also consider the occasion and the food that you’ll be serving.
How should I store my red wine?
Red wine should be stored in a cool and dark place, away from sunlight and heat. It’s best to store it on its side to keep the cork moist and prevent air from entering the bottle.
What’s the best temperature to serve red wine?
Red wine is best served at room temperature, around 60-65°F. However, you can also chill certain red wines for a refreshing summer drink.
Do I need to decant my red wine?
It’s not necessary, but it can enhance the flavor of certain red wines. Decanting allows the wine to breathe and open up, releasing its full flavor and aroma. It’s especially recommended for older red wines or those that are high in tannins.