Best Wines Under $20

Scouting the Best Wines at the Best Prices

Hewitson Miss Harry G.S.M. 2012 (Australia) $20

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Hewitson Miss Harry GSM

A big, healthy red wine blend from Australia’s heavy-hitting Barossa Valley, the 2012 Hewitson Miss Harry GSM (Grenache, Shiraz, Mouvedre) offers up plenty of palate pep and dense layers of dark fruit. A heady blend of Grenache (61%), Shiraz (20%), Mourvèdre (15%) with a touch of Carignan (for color) and Cinsault (softens the wine) in the mix make for an engaging red showing bright, forward fruit that steers directly towards blackberry and plum with a shake of black pepper spice and a swirl of smoke. Medium-bodied, carrying well-woven tannins and promising food-friendly acidity, Hewitson over-delivers on all fronts with this exciting 2012 vintage release. 

Pairing Picks: Opt for a ribeye, smoked meats, grilled game, pork tenderloin, or rosemary lamb chops. 

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Robert Oatley Signature Chardonnay 2013 (Australia) $15

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Robert Oatley Signature Chardonnay

Situated in Australia’s southwest corner, Margaret River enjoys tremendous growing conditions with warm, sunny days and even-ripening temperatures all buffered by the maritime influence of the Indian Ocean. The ultra-versatile and remarkably picturesque region of Margaret River produces close to 20% of the country’s premium wines, with excellent examples of Chardonnay showing high quality fruit and intense flavor profiles.

The 2013 Robert Oatley Signature Chardonnay offers an affordable example of the dynamic fruit quality and stellar reputation for consistency from vintage to vintage. This Chardonnay begins with the bright aromas of d’Anjou pear, stunning citrus, white peach and a pat of butter. The palate profile follows with exceptional stone fruit character, ripe and juicy, surrounded by the subtle oak influences delivering just a touch of creamy, butter-based integrity on a rich, well-rounded finish. 

Pairing Picks: Must-try with the vibrant (but easy!) flavors of this Tuscan Grilled Chicken recipe or with the simple summer style of grilled salmon, crab cakes or chicken alfredo over pasta. 

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Layer Cake Shiraz 2013 (Australia) $15

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Wildman, Jayson Woodbridge, hits both ends of the winemaking spectrum with his high-end Hundred Acre wines and his immensely affordable, regionally-inspired Layer Cake series. From South Australia’s Shiraz-making central, Layer Cake’s 2013 Shiraz showcases delicious dark berry fruit, spicy Mexican mocha notes and a bit of Bing cherry on the nose.

Big flavors, well concentrated and amped with some power, the layers of blackberry and black pepper spice integrate well with the wines structure and showcase quintessential, extroverted Aussie Shiraz character. Always a favorite in the “everyday” red category, Layer Cake’s Shiraz style functions as an outgoing ambassador for Australia’s best known grape. 

Pairing Picks: A griller’s dream, this wine is made for barbecued anything, but especially spareribs, peppered steak,  brats and burgers. 

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d’Arenberg “High Trellis” Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (South Australia) $15

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d’Arenberg

Named for the estate’s first trellis system that ventured above the knee, the d’Arenberg “High Trellis” Cab is built on the backs of 100 year old vines. A steal of a deal for the dense brooding aromas of dark fruit highlighted by layers of tobacco leaves and smoky character, the High Trellis makes an unforgettable impression in the wines under $20 buying zone. Intense fruit, tannins with an admirable balance of grip and integration, fresh acidity and appealing overall balance give this Cab a top spot for complexity and overall palate impressions. A favorite at gatherings big and small with a versatile food pairing profile, d’Arenberg keeps it real with this one of a kind Cab.

Pairing Picks: Any beef or wild game themes, also handles roasted duck with ease and tremendous palate appeal.

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