Welcome to the party season! Normally this time of year is filled with holiday parties every Friday and Saturday night through New Year’s Eve. When one is expected to bring a bottle to each and every one, it can get quite expensive if one sticks to higher end wines. Conversely, it can be rather embarrassing to bring an inexpensive wine that is the talk of the party, but not in a good way.
With that in mind, I have put together my 2020 15 under $15 list. And, for those really nice parties, I’ve tacked on an additional 5 that are less than $20. These are wines you can happily bring with you to a gathering that are sure to please most* attendees without weighing down the credit card too heavily.
*Never try to please everyone – no one will like it…
So, without further ado, here – in no particular order – are my picks for the party season.
REDS
Apothic Red – the original. I have not tried the other varieties.
19 Crimes – All of them
Chateau Pas de Rauzan Bordeaux Supérieur 2016 – See Review
Alamos Malbec
Mark West Pinot Noir
Penfolds – Koonunga Hill Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon
Menage a Trois – the original. The rest are not recommended. CAUTION: Be careful where you take this wine – you may give the wrong impression.
WHITES
19 Crimes – Hard Chard
Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc
Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer
Yalumba Viognier 2019 – See Review
Penfold’s – Koonunga Hill Chardonnay
BUBBLES
La Marca Proseco
Mionetto Il Proseco
Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial – Champagne
BONUS 5 under $20
La Tanza Rioja Tempranillo – See review
J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles
Seven Deadly Zins 2017 Old Vine Zinfandel – See review
Kendall Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay
Marcello Pelleriti Signature Cabernet Franc – NOTE: Though Cab Franc is welcome at my table any time, it is not for everyone.