The pursuit of the ideal wine remains ongoing, and the possibility of discovering an exceptional bottle at $9.99 continues to entice enthusiasts. In the meantime, we can enjoy the journey and be on the lookout for wines that complement that “special dinner” or just for leisurely “quaffing” on a Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately, to walk into a wine shop and “pluck down” $10 for an unfamiliar bottle can often result in disappointment.
I’ve been busy tasting dozens of wines (and spirits for a later article) and have found 10 that are not only great values but can pair with a multitude of foods and would be a welcome ingredient in many cooking recipes.
Here is my list of suggested wines for you to try.
2022 Corte Vigna “Pinot Grigio,” IGT Provincia di Pavia, Lombardy, Italy. Pale straw with hints of green apple, melon, peach, and some tropical fruit. Notes of almond, watercress, and citrus.
2023 Caiu A Noite (KAY-oo a NOY-ches) [night has fallen] DOC “Vinho Verde” Portugal. Light-yellow citrine color with a slight fizz that leads to a very fresh, fruity aroma of flowers, pears, and plenty of green apple. Notes of tropical fruit, lime, and parsley.
2023 Lindeman’s “Sauvignon Blanc Bin 95,” Southeastern, Australia. Light yellow with an aroma and taste of honeydew melon, lychee, and oranges. Hints of tarragon, anise, pear, and mint. Long aftertaste.
2024 La Vieille Ferme “Rosé,” Ventoux, Rhône Valley. France. (Blend of blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah grapes) Pale salmon with lovely fruity hints of raspberry, red currants, lavender, and peach. Dry with flavors of herbs and tart cherry. Quite smooth with a great finish.
Stock “Lionello” Extra Dry” Italian White Vermouth, Italy. Perfumed with notes of almonds, orange peel, citrus, and herbs. Dry and clean tasting. Perfect for a dry martini or splashed into sautéed mushrooms.
2019 Jacob’s Creek “Shiraz,” Barossa Valley, South Australia. Richly colored with a deep bouquet of black pepper, spices, toasted oak, and black plums. Hints of menthol and cocoa. Serve with grilled lamb chops laced with rosemary.
2020 Coppiere “Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, DOC, Abruzzo. Italy. Light cherry with a nose of herbs, red currants, spicy cherries, and an earthy flavor. Light bodied and easy to drink with an aftertaste of bitter almonds.
2021 Château Bois Redon, “Bordeaux Supérieur,” France. (Blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes) Nose of anise, black currants, black fruit, and a hint of oak. Medium-bodied with some tannin and nicely balanced with a light cedar aftertaste.
2022 Borsao Garnacha ”Selección” DO Campo de Borja, Spain. (Blend of Grenache and Tempranillo grapes) Ruby-colored with a spicy cherry aroma with nuances of violets and anise. Medium-bodied and dry with hints of cinnamon, black plums, mushrooms, and jam.
2023 Double Black Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, California. Deeply colored with a bouquet and taste of plums, menthol, and roasted coffee. Notes of leather, soy sauce, smoke, and black tea with an aftertaste of black cherry.
Bob Lipinski is the author of 10 books, including “101: Everything You Need To Know About Whiskey” and “Italian Wine & Cheese Made Simple” (available on Amazon.com). He consults and conducts training seminars on Wine, Spirits, and Food and is available for speaking engagements. He can be reached at www.boblipinski.com OR bkjm@hotmail.com.
Bob Lipinski, author of 10 books; writes, consults, and conducts training seminars on Wine, Spirits, and Food and is available for speaking engagements.
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