by John Hoty

Created on: May 22, 2009

For over 30 years now American wines have been taken seriously by consumers the world over, yet the common misconception by so many new wine drinkers is that the more expensive the juice is here in the States the better. True, expensive wine can be very rewarding time and again (Cakebread, Caymus, Mondavi, Alta Mura) but in this day and age of harsh economic times we could all benefit from keeping our cellar stocked with wallet-friendly wines that will keep us just as happy. Don't let snooty local shop owners and wine retailers lead you down the wrong aisle when you're inquiring about a good bottle of vino to pair with dinner or to enjoy on your own... Some of the best American wines on shelves today are under $20, and even more of them are under $15! Check out the list below for some of the most gratifying bottles of wine you're likely to find for the price.

Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet & Merlot - From the powerhouse wine producing region of Washington State comes these bold and delectable reds that harbor more character and nuance in each bottle than most Bordeaux wines in the world. Easily attainable for under $10 a bottle (given you ignore the insulting mark-ups in grocery stores) the CCGE wines are yet another successful branch from the Chateau Saint Michelle Winery vine that will treat your nose and palate to everything that has made the Columbia Valley wines famous: mercurial aromas of vanilla, plum, nuts and oak with an echoing taste of what your imagination has already begun cooking upon those smells. These red wines are top notch values that should not be ignored. Great for parties, dinners and stocking stuffers.

14 Hands Cabernet - Wow, this wine is a show-stopper. Boasting a nose of cherries, chocolate and butterscotch, you'll swear you were inhaling a dessert sauce rather than a cabernet. Another gem from Washington State, the 14 Hands cab is nothing shy of a miracle in a bottle. Fruit forward and long lasting is just the simplest way to describe what awaits you in this bottle. Should be attainable for under $15 and will soon become the one cabernet you find yourself returning to time and again. Truly a killer cab.

Coppola Merlot (Blue Label) - Though it is a common consensus that Francis Coppola makes better movies than he does wine, this varietal from his California vineyard is a knockout. True to form and packed with great flavors, his Merlot is a juicy treat that haunts your palate long after it sinks with soothing

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