Wednesday, 28 February, 2018
vinepair.com, Adam Teeter
The problem is, for the most part wines under $10 tend to be over oaked, over sugared or simply taste like something that was mass-produced – which it probably was if it ended up in the under $10 section of the store. But there are diamonds in the rough. Great bottles that exist for under $10 that are wonderful to drink, and made with care and quality. Here’s how you find them.
AVOID EXPENSIVE REGIONS
If you’ve come across a bottle for under $10 from a region that is known for good bottles that cost an average of over $20, put the bottle down and slowly walk away. It’s highly unlikely that the $10 Napa Cab you’re holding is going to be that diamond in the rough. In fact, it’s probably full of sugar and the minimum grapes from Napa required to place the name Napa on the label in the first place. Don’t waste your time.
LOOK FOR WHITE WINES
Because many white wines never see oak and spend very little time from grape to glass – compared to reds that can age for years – you’re much more likely to find a quality white wine for under $10. Especially if you’re looking for something light, bright and refreshing. The wine is cheaper because you aren’t paying the cost of the time it took to make the wine – because someone has to help cover the cost of that cellar.
GO TO LESSER-KNOWN REGIONS
Looking for a California Cab? Then try something from Paso Robles. If you’re after a delicious French red, head to southern France and the Languedoc. Go for regions that aren’t the big names and you’ll get more bang for your buck.
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