Every now and then I’m sent wine samples that are under $15. Some are approachable, relaxed wines, not complex but good; others many term “plonk” (and I don’t write about them). Reviewed below are four easy drinking wines from South America that fall in a budget friendly price range and are delicious enough to bring to a party, to drink while cooking dinner, while reading a good book on your patio, or to share with friends while dining al fresco. Never let anyone tell you all wines in this price range are from the “bottom of the barrel”…especially when they are from Argentina or Chile, two regions that are consistently offering the wine lover very good value for the price. Enjoy!
Olé to the whites!
Decopas Sauvignon Blanc 2014 (sample) – The label itself is enough to make you think that this 100% Sauvignon Blanc from Bodega Trivento in Mendoza, Argentina will add a fun factor to any activity… planned or spontaneous! Juicy stone fruit and grapefruit were fresh aromas gently wafting from the glass. On the palate, mild flavors of more stone fruit, sweet spice, and minerality led to a pleasant finish. Pair with seafood, light salads, and spicy Latin dishes. Cost is $12.
Casillero del Diablo Reserva Chardonnay 2014 (
sample) – From the Limari Valley in Chile comes this well priced 100% Chardonnay from
Concha Y Toro. I loved the aromas and tastes of pear, tropical citrus, green apple, vanilla, hint of herbs, and a touch of floral. Balanced with fresh, eye-opening acidity, the finish was lingering as was the expression on my friend’s face when I told her that this Chardonnay was only $12.
Trivento Amador Sur Chardonnay 2014 (
sample) – Calling all book club members – this wine is for you! A blend of 70% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Grigio, and 10% Viognier, the Amador Sur 2014 has just the palate profile you’re looking for. Gentle aromas of tropical fruit and white flowers led to smooth and creamy notes of juicy pineapple, ripe pear, and sweet apricots. Dry with bracing acidity and a zesty finish, this food friendly wine will make your club members switch the conversation from the hot protagonist in the book to how quickly they can refill the glass! Cost is $15.
Fire up the grill!
Trumpeter Malbec 2012 (sample) – You’ll want to open this Malbec and give it plenty of swirl before the intense aromas of cherries and sweet spice leap from the glass. I found notes of baking spice (cinnamon?) and more cherries, blackberries, and plums on the palate. Well integrated tannins with a satisfying finish were mine…for only $12. Sip this Malbec while those burgers are sizzling on the grill!
Casillero del Diablo Reserva Malbec 2013 (
sample) – Who’s ready for a slab of ribs? This 100% Malbec from the Rapel Valley in Chile will complement those juicy, right off the bone, slathered in sauce grilled creations. Another wine from Concha Y Toro, aromas of sweet spice, black cherries, and plums opened the gate to rich flavors of more dark fruits, hint of pepper, and spice. The lingering finish was tangy and zesty on this dry, balanced wine that will only set you back $15.
Decopas Malbec 2014 (
sample) – Fun and approachable, Malbec grapes grown in alluvial soil are from Mendoza, Argentina. Aromas of cherries, spice, and pepper were enticing and you’ll appreciate the flavors of earth, more red fruit, touch of spice and herbs with a juicy rib eye steak or favorite beef shish kabob. Cost is $12.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
