Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon

Looking for the ultimate bargain Cab to go with that big, fat, juicy steak? My recommendation is Carnivor, which is available at Total Wine for $9.47 and Trader Joe’s for $10.99. Bold and smooth with hints dark cherry, blackberry jam and toasted oak, it’s a California wine from the Modesto area.

Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc

This New Zealand wine is high on my list when I want a fresh, crisp, vibrant Sauvignon Blanc. If you like tropical flavors like pineapple, Cantaloupe and citrus, you’ll love this wine. It goes great with grilled seafood or chicken. I buy it at Total wine for $8.97. I’ve also bought it at Trader Joe’s for $10.99.

Landshut Riesling

I lived in Germany for a year and sampled lots of great rieslings. I can’t believe how good this German riesling (from the Mosel region) is and for the unbelievably low price of $5.49 at Aldi. Back in the late 1980s I shopped at Aldi in Germany long before this discount grocery chain put stores in the U.S. I gotta feeling they have a great connection to get this quality of wine for so cheap. It has a delightful fruity bouquet with hints of apricot and peach.

Radius Cabernet Sauvignon

This Washington State wine with hints of black cherry and toasty oaks is my go-to vino with apps like flat breads and bruschetta. It’s medium-bodied and is available at Total Wine for $10.99.

Pasqua Valpolicella Ripasso (Superiore)

If I’m having Italian, this wonderful full-bodied Italian red is a can’t miss. The winemakers use the “Ripasso” technique, which is a secondary fermentation of the wine on the dried skins of the grapes already used to make appasimento wines. It’s then aged in oak barrels for 8 months before being bottled. I get it at Trader Joe’s for the amazing low price of $9.99.