Excellent Value at the Right Price
Whites
Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc
La Crema Chardonnay
Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay (hugely popular)
Yalumba Viognier
Cline Viognier
Sparklers
Roederer Estate Sparkling Wine [California] (I prefer it to Roederer Champagne [France], which is twice the price)
Cline Nancy’s Cuvee Sparkling Wine [California]
Mionette Prosecco Treviso Brut [Italy]
Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico [Italy]
Old World Reds
Paul Jaboulet Aine Parallele 45 Cotes du Rhone
E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rouge
Louis Jadot Macon Villages
M. Chapoutier Belleruch Rouge
Chateau Thivin Cote de Brouilly
Legende Medoc
Castello Di Monsanto Chianti Classico
Ruffino Chianti Classico (I’ve consumed gallons of this with Chicago-style deep dish pizza over the years)
New World Reds
David Bruce Pinot Noir
Chateau St. Michelle Merlot
Markham Merlot
The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon
Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon
J. Lohr 7 Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon
Alexander Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
Bota Box Malbec (Bota is one of the most reliable box wine lines)
I can also recommend just about anything from Truchard, Clos Pegase, and Cline, although quite a few of the first two will exceed the $30 ceiling.
Last, but not least, Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon, perhaps the best value in a California Cab you’re going to find. Routinely available for $9 to $12 a bottle, and $32 per four-bottle box, I bought a case just six months ago for $6 a bottle.
Top of page: https://winervana.com/blog/