Value Vino
A local expert picks satisfying wines for $15 or less
When Donnie Woodham moved to New Jersey to take over Rumson Wine + Spirits from his wife’s family in 2007, he had prepared by getting experience in the business. “I worked at another wine store, learning the ropes, and I was fortunate enough to have a boss there who pushed me to take classes and become knowledgeable,” he recalls.
Woodham says the biggest mistake shoppers make is getting stuck in a rut. “Most people tend to have one brand they really like, and it’s all they ever buy. But going off the beaten path can be more fun and easier on the wallet than they might think. There are so many unique bottles out there—for $10 to $15—that shoppers shouldn’t be scared to try something new and shouldn’t have to pay $60 to do it.” He offers six choices for times when you’ve got the urge but don’t want to splurge.
WHITES
* MARK WEST CHARDONNAY 2010
CENTRAL COAST, CALIFORNIA · $10
“This is good for someone new to w ine. It’s a ‘training wheels’ bottle. Very light and refreshing, with a simple taste.”
BEST PAIRING: “Thinking about linguini, tilapia or pork for dinner? Grab a bottle of this.”
* HESS SELECT CHARDONNAY 2010
MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA · $11
“If you’re buying in bulk for a party, you’ll want to stock up on Hess. It is a serious crowd pleaser at a budget price.”
BEST PAIRING: “Lobster, a chicken salad sandwich or a fresh salad.”
* JOEL GOTT SAUVIGNON BLANC 2011
NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA · $14
“This is an appetizer wine all the way. If you have a long evening’s part y or dinner ahead, open this one first.”
BEST PAIRING: “It’s an acidic wine with passion fruit and honeysuckle that goes great with hors d ’oeuvres.”
REDS
*MA REMMALTA MICANTE
MAREMMA TOSCANA (SANGIOVESECABERNET SAUVIGNON BLEND) 2008
TUSCANY, ITALY · $12
“The strawberries and cherries in this blend give it a very sweet taste.”
BEST PAIRING: “Though people tend to pair white wine with seafood, I recommend trying this with sushi one night.”
* CHARLES AND CHARLES RED BLEND
(CABERNET SAUVIGNON-SYRAH BLEND) 2010
COLUMBIA VALLEY, WASHINGTON · $11
“This is my pick for when the sun is setting and you want to take the chill off on a cool night. It is a mild red, the kind that’s good without any food pairing.”
BEST PAIRING: “This bottle can hold its own against hearty food like short ribs or fried chicken.”
* THE PINOT PROJECT PINOT NOIR 2011
NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA · $12
“This wine can blend well with any food, at any gathering. Looking for a dessert wine to finish a meal or something to start it off? This works for both.”
BEST PAIRING: “If you want to be adventurous, try this with a bag of chips.”
Related Read: Tempting Tequila
