Good Wine for Under $20
With the holiday season in full swing, entertaining is getting quickly under way. When it comes to wine bottle purchases though, you don’t need to break the bank. Can you still find a good bottle of wine for under $20? Absolutely, says Stephen Phillips, host of Fine Living Network’s Great Cocktails. Here are his suggestions:
1. Many quality wine makers produce more affordable versions of their top-of-the-line wines. Ask at a wine shop for “second label” recommendations.
2. Find a wine by-the-glass that you like in a restaurant. If it sells for $40 a bottle there, you can usually find it in a store for half that.
3. Throw a tasting party. Ask guests to each bring an under-$20 bottle and find what’s best. It’s fun and everyone gets great recommendations.
4. Explore new territories. Australia makes great cabernet and zinfandel, while Washington and Oregon are good for lighter wines like pinots.
5. Don’t turn your nose up at screwtop bottles - some contain great wine. (But they are bad for storage, so drink up after opening.)
Photo from FineLiving.com.
