American Winery Blog

I am an admitted “Cab Girl” – with Syrah as a trusted second fave. Recently I’ve committed to getting myself out of my comfort zone, trying unique wines or varietals to develop “My Pal” (Gary Vee’s affectionate term for the palate).

But an exploration of new varietals brings with it an exploration of my savings account – I’m all about trying new things, but I also am resolved to save more money in 2009.

Fortunately for me (and for many palate adventurers out there), your exploration doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. I was able to find three new favorite wines under $20 that impressed the staunchest of Cab Girls and are sure to impress you too.

Roussanne – You don’t have to wear that red dress tonight!

Rousanne (roo-SAHN) is a white wine grape that is normally grown in the Rhone region of France. However, many American wineries are adopting this grape as their own, with stunning results. When you’re in the mood for an elegant white wine, look no further.

Roussanne under $20 that you gotta try:

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Albarino – The green fairy that won’t leave you trippin’!

Albarino or Alvarinho [ahl-vah-REE-nyoh] is grown in Portugal’s “Vinho Verde” and in Spain’s Galicia Region. Talk about a zesty little grape! While the grape remains the “New Kid on the (American) Block”, the wineries producing this great wine in the states have done amazing things.

Albarino under $20 that you gotta try:

This tasty wine from Wine Smith is produced in the style of Spain’s Galicia Region. Here’s a little backstory on Albarino “Coming to America” – courtesy of Wine Smith: When Spanish-born Marcus Bokisch decided to leave his position as viticulturalist for Joseph Phelps in order to pursue his personal dream of organic viticulture in the Sierra foothills, he included in his plantings a small plot of this prized varietal from Northwestern Spain. To do so, he gathered cuttings from Spain and provided them to the USDA virus certification program to undergo a three-year clean-up process by virtue of which this variety has now become available to California wineries.

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Tempranillo – “Tempranillo Tempranillo Tempranillo!”

Pardon the repetition, but this Spanish varietal brings the fever and I mean that in a good way. Tempranillo [tem-prah-NEE-yoh] is an amazing grape that more and more wineries across the United States are starting to include in their line up.

Tempranillo under $20 that you gotta try:

Nada Wines are Wines with Attitude – and this Tempranillo is bringing plenty of ‘tude to the table. Winemaker Stephen Kroener’s tasting notes say it all: A noble grape of Spain, Tempranillo embodies the kick ass attitude of a bull running the streets of Pamplona that has gone through anger management. This wine, part tough guy, part mama’s boy has black licorice and cherry aromas that blast your senses, while supple tannins and fruit flavors give your mouth a velvety orgasm. Drink with friends over great conversation and it will surely leave you asking for more!

Whatever your budget, its always a good idea to expand your palate and try new wines. What are some unique varietals that you’ve tried recently? I’ve gotta know.

During the holiday season, there are a myriad of events and get-togethers, all of which call for a delicious glass of wine. It’s about that time – time to stock up on holiday wine.

Alas, your holiday gift-giving list just keeps growing and you’re on a budget. Don’t despair! You can find amazing holiday wines under $20 a bottle, keeping your holidays jolly without cutting the naughtier folks off your list!

Here are some suggestions of great holiday wines under $20 for any occasion – and I’ve even included some of my favorite holiday wine traditions.

First, there’s the holiday open house.

When I was younger, my mother would pay me $5 an hour to play Christmas songs on the piano while church members, family and friends would descend on our heavily-decorated home and eat all of our cookies. My little brother was responsible for delivering me an assortment of cookies throughout the course of the evening so that I wouldn’t miss out.

Now that I’m a bit older, I’m off the piano keys and in the role of hostess. Tasty appetizers and delicious wine pairings are served at my holiday open house – and here are few favorites that fit the bill without breaking the bank.

Tasty appetizers and delicious wine pairings

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Trimming the tree
Last year was the first year I had my own Christmas tree in my very own house – and I’ll admit, I listened to the RatPack Christmas album at full volume and sipped the bubbly while decorating. I am a whirlwind of arms, legs and tinsel when I get into it, so this year I’m helping to spill-proof myself with sparkling wine… in a can!

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Wrapping gifts
Every year, our family commits to “keeping it small this Christmas.” Then Christmas morning rolls around and there are a zillion gifts under the tree. I myself am guilty of going a little over-board, which makes for a full evening of wrapping gifts when everyone’s out of the house. A sweet gift-giver deserves a sweet bottle of vino – and Solis Winery is just the ticket!

What are your holiday wine traditions? What will you be sipping this holiday season?

Your Thanksgiving celebration wouldn’t be complete without family and friends, decadent dishes, and that perfect bottle of wine. Personally, I find that the whole thing goes down a bit better after a few glasses of wine… I’m talking to you, close-talking Uncle Bob, and to you, shrieking-laugh Aunt Susie.

Whatever Thanksgiving traditions you hold dear, the flavors of Thanksgiving are complimented by Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Rosé.

It just so happens, however, that the flavors of Thanksgiving are EXPENSIVE! Add up that turkey, the potatoes, the gravy and fixin’s, the homemade apple pies and pumpkin pies, and the last thing you want to add to the shopping list is a pricey bottle of wine.

But get ready to BE THANKFUL… there are hundreds of good wines under $20 that will enhance your Thanksgiving feast without breaking the bank.

We’ll start with Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir’s berry and spice flavors and structure make it a perfect accompaniment to your savory dishes.

Some of my favorite Pinots for Thanksgiving under $20:

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On to Riesling – a crowd-pleaser with a variety of finishes from dry to sweet. Riesling is amazingly versatile, just like the American Thanksgiving table. Serve Riesling with a flavorful salad to start your Thanksgiving dinner off right!

Here are just a few of my favorite Rieslings under $20:

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Lastly, we come to Rosé. I have fallen in love with Rosé as not just a great summer sippin’ wine, but as a year-rounder that makes a perfect semi-dry counterpart to even the richest Thanksgiving dishes. Rose is also a fantastic base for mulled wine – just add cranberry juice, a mulling spice packet (available at many wineries and specialty stores) and a stick of cinnamon for a warm, comforting delight after your pumpkin pie!

The Best Rosés under $20:

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This just skims the surface of the amazing wine selections available under $20 to accompany any family gathering. I know I’ll be sipping on some of the wines I list above along with a few new discoveries… no matter what you serve this Thanksgiving, give thanks this year with those you love.