by Linda Argue

Created on: May 31, 2008

In todays economy, finding inexpensive wines that are good is becoming harder but it can still be done. It will take some research and tasting but their are many fine wines available at your local wine shop.

Reading wine reviews may help and their are many good web sites and magazines which can guide you. Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast are very good publications which rate wines on scales from 100 to 50. Sections included will be best buys which can help you find inexpensive wines.

In my years of working at a liquor store which has a large wine section, I have found that customers may search the racks looking for something that sparks their interest but the majority will just ask us. We love to be involved in our customers selections. This gives us an opportunity to point out wines we love and give you additional information on varietals and countries or origin.

Every part of the world produces good wines that are inexpensive. Currently I'm recommending wines from Spain such as Red Guitar. This wine is a blend of tempranio and granacha. Medium bodied, smooth and easy to drink, this wine pairs well with those foods which require a nice red. From South Africa, Simonsig chenin blanc is the white wine I really like right now. This wine is bright and vibrant and perfect for summer meals. New Age White and Rose were last summers hot wines for us last year and remain a hot seller. These blends from Argentina are served with a slice of lime or lemon in the glass and may be served over ice.
The best thing about these wines is that they are all around ten dollars.

Blended wines are also a good choice for those who want something inexpensive. Try Lady Bug Red, Joe Blow Red, Red Truck and Menage a Trois. Blended wines are wines which have numerous varietals in them. You may find merlot, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot and numerous other grapes listed on the labels but don't be overwhelmed. Blended wines are usually inexpensive and can be a good choice for those who are just starting in drinking wines.

Wine tastings are a fun way to try new wines and if they are offered in your area I definitely recommend attending. The tables will be attended by representatives who can guide you. Tastings can give you the opportunity to taste before you buy and often the wines will range in price from expensive to inexpensive. Several different varietals are usually included and you may find one which you haven't tryed before but that you love.

If you attend gatherings at friends or neighbors and they serve a wine you like by all means ask them. Wine drinkers love to share and will not only tell you the name of the wine but will also tell you where to buy it. They will also suggest other wines which you might like.

Explore the states of Washington and Oregon, the countries of Australia,Chile, Argentina and South Africa and do it in the comfort of your home. Try upcoming wine areas and ask a lot of questions of your wine clerk. We're always their to help you.

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