Sunday, October 5, 2008

Great Wine Values Under $12

Everyone is looking for a great value these days, especially when it comes to everyday indulgences. What makes a great value wine? For us, it means a well-priced wine that absolutely over delivers in quality. We look for a wine that you can enjoy at home but also a wine you want to share with friends and serve at your next dinner party. This week, we searched for a few of our favorite California wines under $12 that are truly outstanding wines for the price. Here’s our list. We’d also love to hear about your favorite California wines under $12. Share a comment with your favorites.


Pomelo 2007 Sauvignon Blanc

This wine is loaded with lots of citrusy goodness! Winemaker Randy Mason makes this second label and although it’s very different in style than his higher priced Mason Sauvignon Blanc, the same quality can be found in the bottle. With loads of grapefruit and pineapple, this is a lively and refreshing wine that is sure to please any palate. $10


Bonterra 2007 Sauvignon Blanc

The fruit for this wine comes from Lake County and Mendocino County. Fresh flavors of tropical fruit, lemon and even a hint of kiwi make for a well-rounded and easy drinking Sauvignon Blanc. We also love the fact that Bonterra sources its wines from organic vineyards. $12


TuTu 2006 Pinot Grigio

Winemaker Rob Lawson makes this 100% California Pinot Grigio in the Italian style. This crisp, fruity wine has great aromas of pear, apricot and nectarine with bright flavors of lemon, melons and fig. As they like to say, “Tu Tu is a serious wine that does not take itself too seriously.” $12


Clif Bar Family Winery 2007 The Climber White Wine

Winemaker Sarah Gott blends Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Chenin Blanc and a touch of Muscat to make this highly aromatic white wine blend. The result is a full-flavored, crisp white wine with just a touch of tropical fruit sweetness from the Muscat. A good portion of the fruit for this wine is sourced from organic or sustainably farmed vineyards. $12


Cellar No. 8 2005 Zinfandel

Cellar No. 8 is known for its big and enticing red wines. The majority of the grapes for this juicy Zinfandel come from Lodi and Lake County. With loads of blackberry, spice and other jammy fruits, this zin has good structure and a long finish. We agree this one definitely over delivers for the price! $10


Cline Cellars 2006 Zinfandel

Cline wines are always a good value for what’s in the bottle. With lots of dark berry fruit flavors and hints of spice, this yummy Zinfandel is no exception. Based in the Carneros region, Cline Cellars has a strong focus on sourcing from organic grapes and the Cline family has been a pioneer in sustainable farming practices. $12


Red Truck 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon

A fun wine that’s perfect for a night in or to bring to any party. This lush, berry-loaded Cabernet is a power-house of blackberries, blueberries and a touch of vanilla. We also recommend Red Truck’s Santa Barbara County Chardonnay. $11


Written by Linzi


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