Wines that "Wow" for Under $20

All too often consumers feel that they need to spend in upwards of $35 to find an impressive bottle of wine, or at least, a bottle that impresses their friends.  This is not the case.  With so many wonderful international labels in our prized collection at Vine & Olive, we are proud to showcase some of the most impressive wines you’ll find in the area – for under $20!  As we dive into the warmer months and welcome back outdoor tasting events, patio parties, and friendly get-togethers, be sure to check out the following wines at V&O that are sure to wow(!) at your next gathering.

Anares Reserva (Rioja):  This dynamite Spanish varietal scored a 92 from Wine Spectator critics and promises to deliver one of the most memorable wines of the season.  Rioja is renown in Spain as “everyday wine” and this beauty is packed with coffee and plum notes on the nose, the Anares Reserva is a balanced Tempranillo with deep cherry red hues, flavors of berries, licorice and smoke, culminating gloriously with a long, haunting finish.  Pair this lovely wine with beef chili, venison, ribeye steaks, or pasta Bolognese.

Quieto Reserva:  Another 90+ pointer, this powerful wine is a bold reminder of Argentina’s presence in the world of wine.  A seductive blend of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the Quieto Reserva unleashes a bouquet of cigar box, Asian spices, and blackberries that most thing they would only find in a $40+ wine…  however, this majestic red wine opens up on the palate with ripe, savory fruit flavors that reveal impressive depth and concentration.  (For best results, open this wine and let it breathe for 20 minutes before your first glass.)  The Quieto will pair best with chargrilled lamb, chorizo pastas, stir-fry beef tenderloin, and pizza.

Leonard Kreusch Gewurtzraminer:  sunshine and Gewurtztraminer go together like bees and honey, so there’s really no better time of year to enjoy this precious varietal than Summertime.  Garnering an impressive 89 points from Wine Enthusiast Magazine, this midsummer night’s dream of a wine bursts from the glass with ripe, rich potpourri aromatics that flower into big-bodied flavors of caramelized sugar, peaches, and dried apricots.  Try this wine with spicy Chinese or Thai food, or even homestyle barbecue with friends and neighbors.

~ John Thomas Hoty, V&O wine buyer