It is safe to say that price and value are especially important during these times. Many of us are asking ourselves, “How much should I pay for a bottle of wine?” While that question may generate a wide range of answers, it is important to consider the value of wine.
Value wine does not at all mean cheap and substandard. There are two important factors in finding a value wine: price and quality. Truly it is not hard to find inexpensive wine. The challenge is to find inexpensive quality wines, thus finding a “value wine.”
Wines priced between $10 and $20 give wine drinkers the best opportunities to find value wine. Of course good bottles under $10 are out there, but the task of finding them is often more challenging. Wines in the $10 to $20 price range are often produced on a smaller scale, giving them greater chances for success to those of us looking for an above-average wine.
While finding the ultimate value wine may take some time, it can be fun. One way is to have a blind tasting with wine-loving friends. When the perception of name recognition, vintage year, and price are taken out of the equation, it is easier to let your taste buds do the work in determining if the wine is pleasing to the palate. Two other alternatives to saving money on wine are to buy locally and/or in batches. Buying wine that you can taste before you invest in the bottle is also a way to ensure that the wine is of value to you.
It is also important to consider the purpose of your wine and how you plan to drink it. Generally, white wines are priced lower than reds and summertime is a great time to experiment with new whites. In other words, does a hostess need to serve a $30 bottle of white wine at a summer picnic or barbeque? Absolutely not!
So, how much should I pay for a glass of wine? The answer may come more easily than you think. Consider this: Is the $100 bottle of wine really ten times better than the $10 bottle? Is the $50 bottle even five times better? Remember, lower priced wine does not mean poor quality wine. These days great wines under $20 are abundantly available. The fun is in the finding. Cheers!
For more information on value wines or to experience quality wines by the glass, bottle or batch, visit Vintner’s Cellar at 23121 Lyons Avenue, Newhall or call 255-WINE (9463).